A New Breed of Raging Bull
Lamborghini has officially pulled the covers off the Urus SE Performante, the most powerful and track-focused version of its plug-in hybrid SUV. This isn't just an engine tune-up; it represents a significant step in the brand's evolution, merging its high-octane
heritage with the demands of an electric future. The 'SE' signifies its Superveloce-inspired hybrid nature, while 'Performante' is Lamborghini's designation for its lighter, sharper, and more aerodynamically aggressive models. Following the launch of the standard Urus SE, the Performante version pushes the envelope even further, boasting more power, less weight, and a chassis honed for maximum driving engagement.
The Dual-Heart Powertrain
At its core, the Urus SE Performante combines a formidable 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a permanent-magnet electric motor integrated into its eight-speed automatic transmission. Together, they produce a staggering 801 horsepower (812 CV) and a massive 1000 Nm of torque. This makes it the most powerful Urus ever built. The electric motor is powered by a 25.9 kWh lithium-ion battery located under the floor, which allows for an all-electric driving range of over 60 kilometres (around 37 miles). This means the super SUV can handle daily city commutes in complete silence, operating as a pure electric vehicle at speeds up to 130 km/h before the V8 awakens.
Performance Without Compromise
The hybrid system isn't just for efficiency; it’s a massive performance booster. The instant torque from the electric motor helps launch the SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 3.3 seconds, a tenth of a second quicker than the standard SE. It will reach 200 km/h in 10.8 seconds and continue to a top speed of 312 km/h. To ensure the Performante handles as sharply as it accelerates, Lamborghini has introduced a new AURA dual-chamber air suspension system. This technology significantly reduces body roll during aggressive cornering and improves comfort during relaxed driving. The extensive use of carbon fibre for parts like the hood and bumpers helps shave off weight, further enhancing agility.
A Smarter, Sharper Drive
Beyond the raw power, the Urus SE Performante features sophisticated technology to manage its performance. An all-new electric torque vectoring system provides seamless power distribution between the front and rear axles and to each individual wheel, improving traction and cornering agility. For the first time on a Urus, a Rally mode is included, calibrated specifically for exhilarating driving on loose surfaces. This joins the existing Strada, Sport, Corsa, and EV drive modes, allowing the driver to tailor the vehicle’s character to any situation. The braking system has also been upgraded, providing more power and better response to haul the formidable SUV down from speed.
Lamborghini's Electric Strategy
The Urus SE Performante is a cornerstone of Lamborghini's 'Direzione Cor Tauri' (Toward Cor Tauri) strategy, a roadmap for the company's shift towards electrification. This plan, backed by the largest investment in the company's history, aims to hybridize the entire model range before introducing a fully electric fourth model line later in the decade. The goal is to reduce the fleet's CO2 emissions by 50% by 2025 and 80% by 2030, a target the plug-in hybrid Urus helps to meet. By integrating hybrid technology, Lamborghini is future-proofing its lineup against tightening emissions regulations while using electrification to elevate performance to new heights.
