Stricter regulations forced Lamborghini to rethink its powertrain strategy.
Lamborghini has officially bid farewell to its iconic V10 engine, a powertrain that enthusiasts have celebrated for years in models like the Huracan and Audi R8. The move comes as the company adapts to stricter emissions regulations and shifts toward electrification. While the V10 could have stayed, Lamborghini’s Chief Technical Officer Rouven Mohr revealed it would have required a significant compromise: reducing its power output by 20%. That would have dropped the engine’s performance to around 500 horsepower, roughly equivalent to the first Gallardo from two decades ago.
In the early stages of planning for the Huracan’s successor, Lamborghini explored the possibility of downsizing even further to a V6 engine. However, the brand ultimately decided against it, believing that a six-cylinder engine didn’t fit Lamborghini’s image. This decision sets it apart from rivals like McLaren, Ferrari, and even Aston Martin, which have embraced V6 engines in their supercars. Mohr explained that while a V6 could have matched the performance of a V8, it simply didn’t align with the identity of Lamborghini.
Instead, Lamborghini invested heavily in developing a brand-new 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. This powertrain, which will debut in the Huracan’s successor, the Temerario, generates an impressive 789 horsepower. Mohr added that the V8 has the potential for even greater output, with possible upgrades pushing it to 869 horsepower. Combined with hybrid technology, the total power could exceed 1,000 horsepower in future iterations, doubling the original Gallardo’s performance.
Developing the new V8 was no small task. Lamborghini reportedly spent “high tens of millions” over five years to create the engine, beginning the project in 2019 while still rolling out special editions of the Huracan. Although sticking with the V10 might have been cheaper, Lamborghini chose to invest in a new engine to ensure compliance with regulations while delivering cutting-edge performance.
The new powertrain will serve as the foundation for the Temerario, which has already received a positive reception since orders opened in September. Although deliveries haven’t started yet, Lamborghini is optimistic about the model’s future. As with previous models like the Gallardo and Huracan, the Temerario is expected to have a long lifecycle, with plenty of time for high-performance variants and special editions.
Lamborghini’s transition to a V8 hybrid marks a significant shift, reflecting the brand’s effort to stay competitive while maintaining its signature style and performance. Despite saying goodbye to the beloved V10, Lamborghini has set its sights on a future filled with powerful, innovative vehicles that still capture the essence of the raging bull. For now, the company is focused on ensuring the Temerario lives up to its ambitious promises.
