Lamborghini’s First Hybrid Powertrain Revealed
Lamborghini has released the first powertrain details of its forthcoming first self-charging hybrid sportscar claiming more than 1,000hp.
Naturally, the hybrid system on the new LB744 features a beefy 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 internal combustion engine coupled to three electric motors and an unique double clutch gearbox not seen before on one of the brands cars. This is mounted transversely and placed for the first time behind the combustion engine.
In what has been the transmission tunnel since the days of the Countach, there is a lithium-ion battery instead, which powers the electric motors. The electric motors boost power delivery at low revs and can also turn the new LB744 into a purely electric car, reducing overall CO2 emissions by 30% compared to the Aventador Ultimae.
The new L545 ICE is the lightest and most powerful 12-cylinder engine ever made by Lamborghini. In total it weighs just 480lbs, some 37lbs less than the Aventador unit. The LB744 features the engine rotated through 180 degrees compared to the Aventador layout. The superquadro V12 puts out 825hp, the highest output in the history of Lamborghini’s 12-cylinder engines, at 9,250rpm thanks to the redesigned distribution system that supports a maximum rev range of 9,500 rpm. Maximum torque is 550ft-lbs at 6,750 rpm.
The air intake ducts to the cylinders have been re-engineered to increase the supply of air and improve airflow in the combustion chamber. The combustion has also been optimized, thanks to the regulation of ionization in the chamber with two control units: a solution already used in the Aventador and now transferred to the new model. The new combustion system is also characterized by an increased compression ratio (12.6:1 compared to 11.8:1 for the Aventador Ultimae). The fluid dynamics of the exhaust have also been improved to reduce counter-pressure at high revs and increase the specific power output.
The LB744 retains four-wheel drive with ICE providing power to the rear wheels and a pair of electric motors now make their debut on the front axle, each supplying traction to one of the front wheels. There’s also a third electric motor positioned above the eight-speed double-clutch gearbox that can supply power to the rear wheels, depending on the selected driving mode and the conditions. In total, the power unit delivers a combined maximum output of 1,001hp.
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
