Historic Turbocharger Collaboration Resurfaces
Japanese manufacturer IHI, which supplied turbochargers for legendary Ferrari models like the F40 and 288 GTO, has once again been selected by an Italian automaker for a groundbreaking project. Lamborghini has partnered with IHI to develop specialized turbochargers for its forthcoming Temerario plug-in hybrid supercar.
Engineering for Extreme Performance
Lamborghini presented IHI with an extraordinary challenge: create turbochargers capable of supporting a 10,000-rpm redline in a production vehicle. This requirement demanded extensive reengineering of existing turbocharger technology, as conventional designs struggle with the extreme heat and mechanical stress generated at such high rotational speeds.
IHI engineers dedicated approximately five years to redesigning their RHZ-series turbocharger. They implemented multiple innovations including thinner compressor blades and a refined bearing housing to reduce internal resistance. The bearing housing utilizes an aerospace-derived aluminum-copper-magnesium-silicon alloy selected for exceptional thermal stability and durability under extreme conditions.
Development involved testing over 100 prototypes, with engineers making millimeter-level adjustments to optimize vibration control and responsiveness. This meticulous refinement process was essential to achieve the performance targets set by Lamborghini.
Powering Lamborghini's Hybrid Future
The resulting turbochargers support Lamborghini's new 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which operates alongside three electric motors in the Temerario's hybrid powertrain. The combustion engine alone generates approximately 789 horsepower, while the complete hybrid system delivers nearly 907 horsepower combined.
Power reaches all four wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, with Lamborghini projecting acceleration from 0-60 mph in about 2.7 seconds and a maximum speed exceeding 210 mph.
Technical Legacy and Future Deliveries
While the Temerario represents Lamborghini's transition toward electrification, its engineering maintains a technical lineage connecting it to iconic turbocharged Ferraris from decades past. The vehicle demonstrates how modern supercars can incorporate advanced hybrid technology while preserving mechanical heritage from historically significant automobiles.
Initial customer deliveries of the Temerario are scheduled to begin in early 2026.
