Lotus is set to give the Emira a longer life with a new hybrid V6 engine from Horse Powertrain, replacing both the current Toyota-sourced V6 and Mercedes-AMG four-cylinder units.
UK’s Autocar reported that Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng confirmed the revised Emira would use Horse’s new 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 as its sole powertrain.
The engine develops up to 400 kW (544 PS) and 700 Nm, while Horse claims a weight of 160 kg, making it around 10 kg lighter than the next-lightest V6 on the market.
The engine is expected to be paired with an automatic hybrid transmission with an integrated electric motor, giving the Emira extra electric assistance while helping Lotus meet tighter emissions rules.
Horse’s own technical material said the W30 V6 is designed for mild- and full-hybrid vehicles and can be used in transverse or longitudinal layouts. It is paired with the 4LDHT four-speed hybrid transmission in a P1+P3 motor layout.
The change follows Lotus’ decision to drop the planned electric Emira successor, after deciding demand was not there. Feng said US buyers had strongly backed the V6 Emira, which remains the model’s best-seller in that market.
The revised Emira also helps keep Lotus’ Hethel plant in Britain busy. Autocar said the factory is expected to build both the updated Emira and a new V8 hybrid supercar, likely using the Esprit name, from 2028.
