Lamborghini has revealed its first PHEV – a super sports car codenamed LB744. The model is based on an all-new architecture with a powertrain that delivers a combined 1000 hp in total, leveraging the power of a brand new 12-cylinder combustion engine and three electric motors to do so.
Internally, a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12 engine is complemented by three electric motors, one of which is integrated into a new double-clutch eight-speed gearbox. This new L545 engine outputs 813 horsepower while offering a maximum torque of 534 lb-ft (725 Nm). Replacing the transmission tunnel is the PHEV’s lithium-ion battery, which powers its electric motors. These motors enhance power delivery while reducing CO2 emissions by 30% against the Aventador Ultimae.
The LB744 retains Lamborghini’s four-wheel drive system, with a pair of electric motors debuting on the front axle. Each of these motors supplies traction to one of the front wheels, while a third can supply power to the rear wheels, depending on the selected driving mode and road conditions. The two electric motors at the front are oil-cooled axial flux units, with each offering a maximum power of 147 hp (110 kW). These motors also provide a torque vectoring function, to optimize driving dynamics, and can recuperate energy produced when braking. In its all-electric mode, the LB744’s powertrain switches to front-wheel drive only to optimize energy consumption, while electric drive to the rear axle is activated on demand when needed.
Powering the new PHEV’s performance is a lithium-ion high specific power (4500 W/kg) battery pack situated within the central tunnel, ensuring a low center of gravity and optimal weight distribution. The battery is protected by a lower structural layer and is connected to the front electric motors, the rear electric motor, and an integrated recharging unit. When depleted, this battery can be recharged on AC at up to 7.0 kW, with a full recharge taking 30 minutes, or six minutes under regenerative braking from the front wheels or V12 engine.
Located above the gearbox, the supercar’s rear electric motor doubles as the starter motor and generator, while also supplying energy to the front electric motors through the battery. In full electric mode, it can also provide power to the rear wheels that allows for zero-emission four-wheel drive as the e-motors drive the front wheels. The precise functionality of this system changes based on which driving mode the user engages.
When providing additional power to the V12 engine, the electric motor is in P3 position – separated from the gearbox – while moving into the P2 position to recharge the battery at low speeds and when parked. In P3, the LB744 can effectively become an electric four-wheel drive car, depending on the drive mode selected.
