Lamborghini’s maiden plug-in hybrid supercar, the Revuelto
The long-awaited Aventador's replacement marks Lamborghini's entry into the electric age
Quick facts
- 814bhp from a new 6.5-litre V12 powerplant
- a trio of 147bhp electric motors
- all-new eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox
- 0 to 100 km/h in 2,5s acceleration
The Revuelto, which had the original codename LB744, is the most potent Lamborghini in the company's history and boasts some jaw-dropping performance figures, including 2.5 seconds to reach 100 km/h, a time of under 7.0 seconds to reach 200 km/h, and a top speed of more than 350 km/h. This is because the 814 horsepower V12 is accompanied by three 147 horsepower electric motors, one built inside the transmission and two at the front, one driving each wheel.
According to Maurizio Reggiani, who oversaw the initial development of the Revuelto and was formerly Lamborghini's senior technical officer, maintaining this V12 was difficult given the VW Group's widespread shift towards downsizing and turbocharging. Nonetheless, Lamborghini was able to prevail because of the fervent backing of its current clientele as well as the application of hybridization to reduce emissions.
The new engine, which is turned 180 degrees in relation to the Aventador's, is 17kg lighter than the one it replaces but produces more power, delivering 814bhp at a searing 9250rpm, with the limiter not calling time until 250rpm later. It is coupled to a brand-new eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox that is mounted behind it.
The battery pack, which houses a modest 3.8kWh of charge and can travel around ten kilometres on electricity alone, is located in what was formerly thought of as the transmission tube. The charging port's location inside the front luggage compartment suggests that it is not meant to be plugged in very frequently.
Although it is said to take just six minutes, the V12 can instantly recharge the battery pack through the rear motor.
Moreover, the Revuelto will have active aerodynamic components and standard rear-axle steering. Peak downforce is not yet known, but apparently it will be similar to what the Aventador SVJ produced when its adjustable wing was in its lowest-drag mode.
The design of the vehicle incorporates several well-known Lamborghini elements and maintains the Countach's iconic wedgy proportions. But, there is also a lot of innovation, from the small LED headlamps hidden beneath the overhang of the bonnet to the radar sensors built into the front grille that are made purposefully obvious.
According to Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Lamborghini, the first two years of production of the Revuelto have already been sold, ensuring its early success. Even in its initial form, the Revuelto will be more expensive than the Aventador SVJ, according to information that hasn't yet been confirmed on pricing.
