Just last year, Italian supercar builder Lamborghini launched its first plug-in hybrid. The Reveulto’s system combines a new V12 gas-powered engine and three electric motors for an impressive 1,001 horsepower and more than 800 pound-feet of torque, claiming the title of “most powerful plug-in hybrid on the market.”
Now the brand is taking its hybrid experience to the motorsport circuit with the SC63 hypercar, an electrified race car that harnesses the power of a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V8 and pairs it with a 50-kilowatt Bosch electric motor. Lamborghini is no stranger to the motorsport circuit, enjoying 15 years of success with its Huracan GT3 race car, but 2024 is the first time it is entering the FIA World Endurance Championship and International Motor Sports Association prototype categories.
Historically, founder Ferruccio Lamborghini thought racing was a waste of time and money; he believed he didn’t need motorsports to prove his cars’ worth. It’s a different game today, Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann told Car and Driver.
“The trends are changing, and there is a technical reason too,” Winklemann said. “We’re in the midst of transition from ICE to plug-in hybrid. Endurance racing gives us a chance to test materials.”
Plus, he said, seeing electrified systems in motorsports helps customers accustomed to V8 and V12 engines to accept electrified production cars.
A “cold V” and eight radiators
With the completion of the 12 Hours of Sebring Race earlier this month, the Raging Bull has added a big checkmark to its inaugural year of prototype racing. Aerodynamically focused and swoopy, the SC63 hints at its Lamborghini lineage but it doesn’t look like its road-going cars. Per racing rules, the car had to meet size requirements, but chief designer Mitja Borkert incorporated the brand’s unique…
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