671-horsepower V8 unveiled for Lotus Type 135, likely the new Esprit

The engine was developed by the joint venture between Geely and Renault. The V8 features two turbochargers mounted between the cylinder banks in a 'hot-V' configuration. This solution shortens the intake and exhaust tracts and makes the unit more compact. The weight has been reduced to approximately 200 kg thanks to direct injection and lightweight materials.

The engine was primarily designed for high-performance hybrid vehicles. On its own, it delivers 671 hp and 800 Nm, while as part of a hybrid system, the future supercar is expected to achieve over 1,000 hp. Horse Powertrain describes the W40 as 'hybrid from the outset': the powertrain was originally designed to work with electric motors, rather than being adapted for a hybrid setup later.

Alongside the V8, an eight-speed automatic transmission with two wet clutches was developed. It is rated for torque up to 1,050 Nm, shifts gears in less than 20 milliseconds, and pre-fills the clutch in under 50 milliseconds. In the Lotus Type 135, the transmission will work in conjunction with the V8.

Lotus plans to use a conventional hybrid system without external charging. If electric motors drive the front wheels, the car will feature all-wheel drive, with the V8 powering the rear wheels. The model will also be available in an entry-level version with a less powerful V6, developed by the same joint venture. The name Esprit for the production version has not yet been confirmed: the source links it to the Type 135 based on indirect evidence.