TL;DR: Lotus is gearing up to bring back the Esprit name for its all-new Type 135 supercar, arriving in 2028. Expect a mid-engined hybrid V8 with over 1,000PS, sleek “classic” styling, and strong ties to the UK’s Hethel plant. It’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting performance cars of the decade.
Lotus Esprit set for comeback in 2028
Big news for performance car fans: Lotus has confirmed a brand-new supercar is on the way, and all signs point to the legendary Esprit name making a return.
The upcoming Type 135, due in 2028, won’t just be another halo car. It’s set to redefine what a modern Lotus looks and feels like, blending serious power with a more refined, elegant design direction.
And yes, it’s going to be properly quick.
Key Facts
- Launch year: 2028
- Power: 1,000PS+ hybrid V8
- Layout: Mid-engined supercar
- Name: Strong hints at Esprit revival
- UK impact: Engineering rooted in Hethel
- Strategy: Part of Lotus ‘Focus 2030’ plan
A new era for Lotus performance
This isn’t just about adding another fast car to the lineup. The Type 135 signals a shift in how Lotus approaches performance.
Instead of going all-in on aggressive aero like the Evija, this new model is expected to lean into a more timeless, almost understated design. Think less track weapon, more road-focused supercar with real presence.
For UK drivers, that means something a bit different - still blisteringly fast, but with a touch more elegance.
Backed by serious firepower
Let’s be honest, projects like this don’t happen without proper backing.
Lotus now sits within a huge global group that shifted over three million cars in 2025. That kind of scale matters. It means the Type 135 isn’t just a concept or a “maybe”, it’s happening.
The brand has already confirmed a new V8 hybrid setup, over 1,000PS, and production planned in Europe. That’s a strong foundation for a car aiming to take on the world’s best.
What it means for the UK
There’s a big win here closer to home, too.
Lotus has made it clear that design and engineering will remain rooted in the UK, with Hethel at the heart of it all. That’s great news for British manufacturing and could bring fresh investment and jobs.
In short, this isn’t just a new car, it’s a boost for the UK automotive industry.
What’s powering the Type 135?
Lotus building its own V8 from scratch? Unlikely.
Instead, there are two realistic options:
- Horse Powertrain (Geely-Renault JV): A modular twin-turbo setup designed for hybrid use, potentially scalable to a V8.
- AMG-sourced V8: A proven, high-performance option already used in cars like the Aston Martin Valhalla.
Either way, expect serious performance paired with modern hybrid tech.
First look: Clean, not crazy
Early teaser images give us a glimpse of what’s coming, and it’s surprisingly restrained.
The rear design looks wide, low, and clean, with slim horizontal lights and subtle branding. No massive wings, no over-the-top aero - just a more refined approach.
That said, don’t mistake subtle for slow. There’s likely plenty of clever aero hidden beneath the surface, including a large diffuser and advanced airflow management.
Inspired by the future
If you’ve seen the Lotus Theory 1 concept, you’ll spot the influence straight away.
From the sculpted rear haunches to the glass engine cover, the Type 135 looks like a toned-down, road-ready evolution of that futuristic design.
It’s a clear move towards a more sophisticated Lotus that's less shouty and more timeless.
Who’s it up against?
Lotus is stepping into serious territory here.
Potential rivals include:
- Aston Martin Valhalla
- Ferrari 296 GTB
- Lamborghini Temerario
The big question is where it’ll sit on price and exclusivity, but either way, it’s entering a very competitive space.
So… Is it really the Esprit?
All signs point to yes.
While “Type 135” is just a development name, a leaked file name referencing “Esprit” has fuelled speculation, and it makes perfect sense.
Bringing back the Esprit would tap into decades of heritage while giving Lotus a strong identity in the modern supercar market.
The return of the Esprit isn’t just nostalgia; it’s Lotus showing it can evolve without losing its roots.
A 1,000PS hybrid V8, UK engineering, and a fresh design direction? That’s a serious statement. Roll on 2028...