Lamborghini unveils the new Temerario, a 907-hp plug-in hybrid

17/08/2024

The unveiling of the Temerario is nothing short of a landmark moment for Lamborghini, representing a daring departure from the beloved Huracan. This exciting new model embarks on a journey from the iconic V10 engine to a groundbreaking era of turbocharging and hybrid technology. At its heart lies a formidable twin-turbocharged V8 engine that boasts an innovative flat-plane crankshaft design. With this setup, the Temerario doesn’t just keep pace with the astonishing performance of the Urus SUV; it takes the competition to a whole new level, featuring a higher redline and an aggressive soundtrack that will send shivers down the spine of any driving enthusiast. With a staggering output of 789bhp at an exhilarating range of 9,000rpm to 9,750rpm and an impressive 730Nm of torque peaking between 4,000rpm and 7,000rpm, this 4.0-liter ‘hot V’ engine can soar to an impressive 10,000rpm, promising an electrifying thrill ride that will leave supercar fans breathless. According to Lamborghini’s chief technical officer Rouven Mohr, the sound generated when pushing this supercar to its limit is sure to ignite passion and excitement.

Stepping into the realm of plug-in hybrid supercars, the Temerario asserts itself as Lamborghini’s second High Performance Electrified Vehicle (HPEV) after the stunning Revuelto. This model is equipped with three robust electric motors, each contributing 148bhp to the grand total. The first motor is ingeniously integrated into the V8 engine housing, delivering 300Nm of torque and effectively mitigating turbo lag. Meanwhile, the remaining two motors on the front e-axle unleash a combined force of 295bhp and an astonishing 2,150Nm of torque. This integration creates an exhilarating four-wheel-drive system with advanced torque vectoring capability for razor-sharp handling. All told, this sophisticated drivetrain generates a blistering 907hp, enabling the car to achieve a jaw-dropping top speed of over 338km/h while rocketing from 0-100km/h in just 2.7 seconds. The gearbox, smartly positioned behind the V8, accommodates a compact 3.8kWh battery designed to enhance performance instead of solely facilitating electric-only driving. Notably, the vehicle can operate in zero-emission mode, boasting CO2 emissions that are up to 50% lower than its predecessor, the Huracan. Charging can be effortlessly accomplished either through the V8 engine or a 7kW domestic charger.

The revamped gearbox is a masterstroke of engineering, presenting a lighter, more adaptable design than the Huracan’s traditional seven-speed unit, courtesy of its e-motor integration. With lightning-fast shift times and the capability for sequential downshifting, drivers can engage in exhilarating maneuvers simply by holding the left steering wheel paddle and pressing the brake simultaneously. To add to the excitement, Lamborghini has introduced 13 distinct driving modes, allowing drivers to finely tune hybrid energy management and unleash the full might of the 907bhp in the aggressive ‘Corsa’ mode. The exterior design reflects an evolution of Lamborghini’s mid-engine aesthetics, highlighted by an eye-catching daytime-running light signature and stylistic hexagonal motifs. Inside the cabin, drivers are treated to a trio of displays: a 12.3-inch instrument panel, an 8.4-inch infotainment screen for the driver, and an additional 9.1-inch unit for the passenger. Enhancing safety and track performance, the software seamlessly integrates with the optional Lamborghini Vision Unit (LVU) camera system.

A remarkable transformation awaits within the Temerario’s cabin, offering greater space and practicality compared to the Huracan. Enhanced headroom, legroom, and visibility create an inviting atmosphere, complemented by thoughtful storage solutions, including a front boot with 112 liters of space, surpassing the Huracan by 12 liters. The customization options are nearly limitless, featuring two debut colors and an extensive palette of over 400 shades, alongside unique liveries and a variety of wheel designs. A plethora of carbon-fiber components, such as front splitters and side-mirror caps, elevate aesthetics and performance. For those seeking a further weight reduction, the lightweight Alleggerita package reduces overall weight by over 12kg, with possibilities to exceed 25kg by integrating specific interior trim and carbon-fiber wheel rims. Although final pricing for the Temerario remains under wraps, it is anticipated to surpass the Huracan due to its cutting-edge technology, with initial estimates placing it between €320,000 to €350,000. The design lead of the Temerario shares insights on the exhilarating journey from concept sketches to the final production model of this supercar marvel.

Crafting a new mid-engined Lamborghini is a meticulous endeavor, particularly when contrasted with something like the Urus SUV. The focus remains steadfast on ensuring that every model holds a distinct persona. With the Temerario, every design element—both interior and exterior—was meticulously crafted to heighten the driving experience. The unmistakable silhouette captures the essence of Lamborghini’s design identity, stirring the adrenaline of anyone who glimpses it. It is paramount that these exquisite vehicles stand out from afar, achieved through iconic features such as a daring side profile and a futuristic rear end resembling something out of a sci-fi dream. Inspiration drew from the legendary 1974 Lamborghini Bravo concept, particularly its striking block-like taillights. Collaborating closely with engineering challenges posed by the intricacies of the powertrain built a rewarding experience, especially in the pursuit of creating one of Lamborghini's speediest machines to date. Despite the difficulties encountered in maintaining a compact design, especially essential for managing heat from the twin-turbocharged V8, the team adeptly harmonized functional requirements with pure, unadulterated style.

The design process thrives on innovation, with constant sketching remaining a crucial task, even for a design director. Elements such as the elegant hexagonal motifs began as sketches, evolving through collaborative brainstorming to manifest as integral aspects of the Temerario’s striking design. This journey mirrors a masterful fusion of engineering prowess and artistic vision, culminating in a supercar that seamlessly intertwines breathtaking aesthetics with extraordinary performance.