Lamborghini Unveils New Hybrid V8 Engine for Upcoming Supercars
In a bittersweet development for car enthusiasts, Lamborghini is bidding farewell to its renowned 5.2-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine, considered one of the finest in its class. The Italian automaker will replace it with a new engine configuration that features two fewer cylinders, introduces turbocharging, and incorporates hybrid technology for its next line of supercars. However, there’s no need for alarm; the new V8 is expected to deliver even greater power and achieve higher revs than its predecessor.
As reported by Car and Driver, Lamborghini’s new engine is a 4.0-liter V8, akin to the one found in the Urus SUV and various models from the Volkswagen Group. This engine distinguishes itself by utilizing a flat-plane crankshaft, a departure from the cross-plane crank used in the previous V8. While the outgoing V10 reached a peak of 8,500 rpm, the new V8 is designed to scream all the way to an exhilarating 10,000 rpm. Lamborghini claims this engine will surpass the previous model’s output, delivering 739 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and a torque of 538 lb-ft between 4,000 and 7,000 rpm.
But the appeal of this new powertrain, dubbed "Lamborghini 634," extends beyond just the engine. It integrates hybrid technology and features three electric motors. One motor will be positioned between the engine and the newly developed eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the other two will power the front axle, enabling torque vectoring at the front. This setup is reminiscent of the Lamborghini Revuelto, but with a V8 instead of a V12. Although the total combined output remains undisclosed, it is anticipated to approach the Revuelto’s impressive 1,001 horsepower.
What will be the first model to benefit from this advanced powertrain? While Lamborghini has not confirmed the specifics, it is expected to debut in a mid-engine replacement for the Huracan.
The advantages of hybridizing supercars have already been showcased by models like the Acura NSX, demonstrating that the addition of electric motors allows manufacturers to reduce engine size without compromising power or performance. Nevertheless, hybrid powertrains sometimes fall short in terms of excitement compared to traditional internal combustion engines. With a lofty 10,000-rpm redline, Lamborghini aims to address this concern and maintain the exhilarating experience its fans have come to love.
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