Lotus teases new mid-term strategy, and a V8

"Protecting what makes Lotus, Lotus," is a poignant tagline from today's announcement of the brand's 'Focus 2030' plan. Among this is a focus on increased competitiveness and financial discipline, but also a 'multi-powertrain strategy' that includes a new car with a hybrid V8 unit on board. 

It is very much a teaser for now, but the star of the release is indeed word of the Type 135 supercar touted to come with 1,000bhp and is due in 2028 for an as-yet-unknown price tag. It will join the Emira sportscar, which will remain in production and receive its own updates soon as "the most powerful and lightweight" variant of the model yet. 

Electric models remain central to the portfolio, leaning on owner Geely's expertise and shared technology, with the Eletre, Emeya and Evija considered a lighthouse for bringing new customers to the brand alongside those with existing fondness for its heritage work. 

All we know of the Type 135 so far is the hero image. There are clear similarities to the Theory 1 concept revealed in September 2024, at least from the rear, both in proportions and key details. The glaring difference is that the Type 135 sports two large exhaust pipes from that central galley in the rear mask. The light signature flanks a central Lotus motif but each of those thin tail lamps is now split into two. 

The lower diffuser is less pronounced but sits below a similar textured surround as with the Theory 1. Its squat proportions and overall stance are very similar to that concept car in general. The tapered rear window ties in with Lotus' existing design language, as evidenced with the much earlier Emira. 

The Theory 1 was never framed as a future ICE supercar, of course, and the Type 135 is not listed as a direct evolution of that concept. But the similarities and natural progression from concept to future production car are obvious. 

More to follow, no doubt.