Lotus Emira to Receive New 536bhp Hybrid V6 Powertrain

The Lotus Emira sports car is scheduled for a significant update in 2027, which will introduce a new hybrid powertrain. Lotus has confirmed that this new system will replace both the current Toyota-sourced V6 and the AMG-supplied four-cylinder engines, consolidating the lineup with a single, more powerful option.

A New Heart for the Emira

The upcoming Emira will be powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged hybrid engine. This unit is developed by Horse, a powertrain company jointly owned by Geely and Renault. The new engine is rated for up to 536 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. A key technical highlight is its weight; at just 160kg, it is reported to be lighter than other V6 engines on the market and only marginally heavier than many 2.0-litre four-cylinder units.

Powertrain and Performance

The engine is paired with a four-speed automatic transmission that includes an integrated electric motor. This “hybrid” setup means the electric motor works with the gasoline engine to provide an additional power boost. This technology also helps in reducing the vehicle's overall emissions, addressing modern environmental standards while enhancing performance. This move streamlines the Emira's engine offerings into one advanced package.

Market Strategy and Production

This change is part of a larger strategic shift at Lotus. The company decided to extend the life of the combustion-engine Emira after plans for an all-electric replacement were shelved. Feedback from the United States, a key market where the V6 model is a bestseller, heavily influenced this decision to retain a six-cylinder engine. The updated Emira will continue to be built at Lotus's historic plant in Hethel, UK. This decision was supported by a revised 10% US import tariff on UK-manufactured cars, which the company finds acceptable, making UK production for the American market cost-effective.