Report: Lotus developing its own range of V6, V8 engines after all

Rumors have bounced suggestions that Lotus would develop its own engines since it revealed its upcoming models, but some suggested Lotus would shop at Toyota.

Now, the latest information coming out of Europe regarding the sourcing of the engines that will power Lotus' future lineup seem to suggest the iconic automaker will turn to its in-house engineers to develop multiple engines.

While there had been a period in which the accepted thought was Lotus would develop its own engines, rumors then suggested the automaker would actually go back to Toyota for V8, V8 and the V10 engine from the LFA. It seems however, that Lotus has now decided to develop its own engines in order to reduce both weight and fuel consumption, according to Automobile Magazine.

The report suggests that Lotus is developing two closely related V6 and V8 engines, with the V6 coming in somewhere between 3.0 and 3.5 liters, and the V8 coming in at 4.8 liters. The same report suggests both naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants in development, and a sky-high redline of 9,250 rpm.

Insiders speaking with AM suggested Lotus would shave about 130 crucial lbs of weight by utilizing their own V8, rather than the 5.0-liter V8 sourced from the Lexus IS-F. The same insiders suggested a power rating of 550 horsepower for the Esprit, and 600 horsepower for the Esprit R, with the 3.2-liter V6 putting out 350 horsepower in naturally aspirated form and 500 horsepower when turbocharged.

The sources did specify that these numbers are far from final, but it appears evidence is pointing towards Lotus continuing to establish itself as its own, stronger brand than it has in recent years when relying on outside automakers for aspects of its drivetrains.

References
1.'Deep dive: Lotus...' view