Lotus Esprit VI (Type 135) photos

The sixth generation of the Lotus Esprit, codenamed Type 135, is a clean-sheet factory-engineered mid-engine hybrid supercar. Built on an advanced platform utilizing an 800-volt electrical architecture, it revives the iconic nameplate within the Lotus lineup. Compared to the fifth-generation Type 114 that ceased production in 2004, the Type 135 transitions the model into the hybrid era, serving as a vital strategic bridge between the combustion-powered Emira and pure electric models like the Evija and Emeya.

The powertrain lineup features a flagship hybrid V8 targeting an output in excess of 1,000 horsepower, alongside a planned V6 variant. The combustion engine components and V6 unit are developed with hardware from Horse, the joint venture between Geely and Renault. Power is sent through a dual-clutch transmission engineered for high torque loads. To achieve a curb weight under 1,500 kg (3,307 lbs), Lotus implements Formula 1-derived electric motor technology that cuts the weight of a 150 kW unit from around 95 kg down to roughly 20 kg.