Lotus Unveils 1,000 HP Hybrid V-8 Supercar Type 135 for 2028 Launch

Lotus has announced plans to launch a high-performance V-8 hybrid supercar, the Type 135, as its new flagship model. The vehicle will embody the brand’s performance DNA and serve as the cornerstone of the company’s Focus 2030 strategic roadmap.

The Focus 2030 program outlines a multi-faceted approach to growth, emphasizing brand reinforcement, a diversified powertrain strategy, close partnerships, and financial discipline. Lotus Group CEO Feng Qingfeng highlighted the brand’s enduring rebellious spirit, stating:

"Lotus was born from the rebellious spirit of Colin Chapman, and that is not lost today. Focus 2030 will reset both the brand and the business, keeping us true to our DNA. We are obsessed with engineering, performance, and building drivers’ cars, and that is what will grow this business."

The Type 135 will join Lotus’ existing lineup, which includes the Emira (internal combustion), Eletre, Emeya, and Evija (all-electric). It will utilize the Lotus X-Hybrid system, a 900V architecture that delivers 952 hp in the Eletre X.

For the Type 135, Lotus will deploy a V-8 engine paired with the X-Hybrid system, targeting output of over 1,000 hp. The supercar is set to be revealed in 2028 and will be manufactured in Europe to avoid tariffs. In North America, Lotus will focus its strategy on sports cars.

Lotus has released a teaser image of the Type 135, revealing its rear design. The styling closely resembles the Theory One concept car, unveiled in 2024, which drew inspiration from the classic Esprit. The Theory One concept featured a McLaren F1-style central driving position and a three-seat cockpit canopy. At the time, Lotus design boss Ben Payne described the car as "a blueprint for all future Lotus cars," a statement that now appears prophetic.