Lamborghini Caught Hiding Something Very Special

With the Lamborghini Aventador Ultimae relegated to the automotive retirement home, fans of the Raging Bull are eagerly awaiting the arrival of its replacement. The company has remained very secretive about its upcoming halo car, save for the fact that it will, thankfully, retain its V12 configuration.

We first caught a glimpse of the Aventador replacement back in 2021 but the test car was heavily camouflaged. Now, thanks to some crafty camerawork, we're getting an even better glimpse. As you can see below, the matte black-painted mule appears to be wearing racy-looking aerodynamic enhancements. The rear-mounted spoiler and extended side sills bare a striking resemblance to the Aventador SVJ 63.

Lamborghini clearly doesn't want anybody to see it: the Aventador replacement and its Urus escort car reversed back down the road after spotting the videographer with a camera. The SVJ-aping bodywork could just be a mule to conceal the new trickery that will make the newcomer a spirited performer.

As mentioned, the V12 will live on for the next generation. However, Lamborghini has had to make a few concessions. The naturally-aspirated configuration will make way for a plug-in hybrid setup that will provide even more power and performance. Earlier reports have suggested the new powertrain could have as much as 1,000 horsepower at its disposal, which would be more than a match for Maranello's PHEV, the SF90.

Interestingly, Lamborghini has been spied benchmarking the Ferrari as it finishes up development on its first-ever plug-in hybrid model.

1,000 hp is a lofty figure to aim for but, as a reminder, the unassisted V12 in the Ultimae produces a hefty 769 horses. Hybrid technology will undoubtedly boost these already-strong performance figures into the absurd. So, when will the Aventador's replacement arrive? Previously, CEO Stephan Winkelmann has said we can expect it to debut next year.

"In 2023, we will have the follow-up for the Aventador, which will be the first plug-in hybrid, complete with a new V12 engine," he remarked.

As the electric era fast approaches, Lamborghini has said embracing electrification is necessary for its survival. Not only will the Urus and Huracan successor also receive the hybrid treatment, but the Raging Bull has promised a fully-electric model by the end of the decade.

The company's first EV will be styled as a 2+2 grand tourer with "increased ground clearance." All we know is it will undoubtedly bolster the automaker's already strong sales.