Lotus Type 135 (Esprit)

Lotus Puts a V8 Back at the Center

The Type 135 is Lotus's planned hybrid-V8 supercar for 2028, and it may revive the Esprit name after more than two decades. That alone changes the direction of a company that had been moving toward an all-electric range. Rather than abandoning electrification, Lotus is using it to support the engine at the heart of a new flagship.

Nearly 1,000 Horsepower, About 1.5 Tons

The target is close to 1,000 horsepower from Lotus's proprietary X-Hybrid system. Company leadership has also discussed a roughly 1.5-ton target for the V8 model, an ambitious figure when batteries, motors, and a large combustion engine all have to fit into one car. A V6 version is also planned, giving the project a second route below the full hybrid-V8 specification.

Type 135 Becomes the Esprit's Spiritual Successor

The original Esprit ended production in 2004 and remains one of Lotus's defining shapes. The new car has not been shown in production form, but the Theory 1 concept points toward the low seating position and sharp proportions Lotus is exploring. On the company's August 27 earnings call, CEO Feng Qingfeng reaffirmed the 2028 schedule.

For Lotus, this is more than another expensive halo car. Type 135 is meant to prove that the brand can add electric assistance and immense power while keeping weight, driver involvement, and the rebellious character associated with its best sports cars.