Given this week’s rumor of Audi fast-tracking a third-generation based on the Lamborghini Temerario, it’s worth taking a closer look at key advancements in technology that would carry over to a Temerario-derived Audi R8. Specifically, the hybrid power based ona 4.0-liter twin turbocharged V8 and the latest advancements in aluminum spaceframe construction.
Let’s Start with the Engine
10,000 rpm. That’s right, the all-new twin-turbocharged flat-plane crank V8 designed by Lamborghini in Sant’Agata Bolognese is capable of revving to 10,000 rpm. On its own, it’s good for 789 hp between 9000 and 9750 rpm, not to mention 538 pound-feet between 4000 and 7000 rpm.
Of course, that engine isn’t the only source of power. The Temerario is a hybrid design, adding in three more electric motors for a combined output of 907 hp and 590 pound-feet. In the Lamborghini Temerario, that power is enough for a 0-62 mph run of 2.7 seconds, not to mention a top speed of 211 mph.
As for configuration, the first electric motor is located in “P1 position” between the engine and the 8-speed DSG gearbox, offering immediate torque that continues consistently through gear shifts. The electric power also works to fill gaps in torque, bestowing the car with continuous progression up to 10,000 rpm. This torque fill also allows for fitment of two large turbochargers located in the V of the V8 for a so-called “hot V” design that optimizes packaging and thermal management.
Advancements from motorsport including the flat-late crankshaft design ensures optimal fluid dynamics thanks to an even firing order between the two banks. It all makes for a captivating sound and helps the engine hit its advertised 10,000 rpm. Other racing-derived components include titanium connecting rods reducing weight and rotating mass, in addition to finger followers coated in Diamond Like Carbon (DLC) that increases hardness allowing for engine speeds up to 11,000 rpm.
The goal here was to bestow this powerplant with the characteristics of a naturally aspirated engine, yet with the augmented power and efficiency of a turbocharged engine. How it works in conjunction with the electric power delivery makes for a truly unique way it drives and sounds.
Next Generation Aluminum Space Frame
Following in the tradition of the first-generation Gallardo / R8 and then the second generation Huracán / R8, the new Lamborghini Temerario continues to utilize an aluminum space frame (ASF) design. However, many technical improvements have been implemented to increase efficiency of production while also creating a more rigid chassis.
Improvements here were paramount. With the addition of the hybrid drive system, the Temerario would be subject to higher loads of power being put to the ground, while weight reduction for this heavier drivetrain was also highly desirable.
This latest ASF is constructed entirely of aluminum, specifically a high-strength alloy for high-pressure castings, high-strength hydroformed extrusions and an increased number of hollow castings with thin closed inertia sections that were achieved through the use of internal cores.
These advancements created the opportunity for weight savings and the minimization of complexity of the design. This means 50% less combined chassis components and fewer heat welds with 80% less total weld bead length as compared to the Huracán it replaces.
At the same time, torsional stiffness is up over 20%, meaning increased occupant safety while dropping weight for improved driving dynamics.
