Automobili Lamborghini introduces a new era with the Urus SE, the first plug-in hybrid version of the Lamborghini Super SUV. It was unveiled at the Volkswagen Group Media Night before its public debut at Auto China Beijing 2024 on April 25 at 11 AM local time. This PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) version features a fresh design, enhanced aerodynamics, cutting-edge onboard technology, and an 800 CV hybrid powertrain. The SE surpasses the Urus S in terms of comfort, performance, efficiency, emissions, and driving enjoyment. With both thermal and electric “hearts,” it achieves the highest torque and power values ever seen, securing a distinctive position in its category and boasting an 80% reduction in emissions.
“With the Urus, we transformed the SUV landscape, paving the way for a new segment,” stated Stephan Winkelmann, Lamborghini Chairman & CEO. “In a short span, the Urus has emerged as our brand’s bestseller, attracting new clientele and solidifying Lamborghini’s presence in key markets. The Urus SE represents another stride towards the future in alignment with our Direzione Cor Tauri strategy, progressing with the electrification of the lineup following the introduction of the Revuelto super sports car in March 2023.”
The Lamborghini Urus SE is designed to provide an exceptional driving experience with its plug-in hybrid system that enhances performance and handling on any type of terrain and in any weather conditions. The vehicle boasts more torque and power across all rev ranges through innovative features like the electric torque vectoring system between the front and rear axles, as well as the electronic rear differential.
According to Dr. Ing. Rouven Mohr, the Chief Technical Officer, the goal of the project was to deliver cutting-edge performance while staying true to Lamborghini’s signature style. The Urus SE stands out in its class for its driving pleasure and dynamic capabilities, striking a perfect balance between luxury comfort and high performance. It promises a unique and unparalleled driving experience unlike any other vehicle in its category.The Lamborghini Urus SE features a twin-turbo 4.0 V8 engine that has been redesigned to work with an electric powertrain. This results in a total power output of 800 CV and 800 Nm of driving torque, with the electric motor contributing 192 CV and 483 Nm of torque. The vehicle is equipped with a 25.9-kWh lithium-ion battery positioned below the load floor and above the electronically controlled rear differential.
Additionally, the Urus SE boasts a permanent-magnet synchronous electric motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission, which can provide a boost to the V8 engine and function as a traction component. This setup enables the Urus SE to operate as a 100% electric 4WD vehicle, capable of traveling over 60 km in EV mode. A new electric torque vectoring system and electronic limited-slip differential enhance the vehicle’s handling, offering variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles for improved agility and performance reminiscent of a high-performance sports car.The Urus SE is equipped with advanced systems designed to optimize traction and performance in various driving conditions. It boasts a powerful engine that delivers 800 CV at 6000 rpm and 950 Nm of torque from 1750 to 5750 rpm. This results in impressive acceleration, with the Urus SE going from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and reaching a top speed of 312 km/h. These performance figures make the Urus SE the most powerful and fastest production car in its category, setting a new standard for Super SUVs.
The Urus SE has reimagined the established standards of SUV design, updating its lines to enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The design showcases the vehicle’s sportiness and muscular appearance by emphasizing the dynamics of its form. Notable changes include a new hood with a floating design that enhances the vehicle’s athletic style, along with revamped headlight clusters featuring matrix LED technology inspired by the Lamborghini brand’s bull and a redesigned bumper and front grill.
“Mitja Borkert, the Lamborghini Design Director, expressed that the Urus design maintains the distinctive Lamborghini style while introducing a sophisticated evolution consistent with the brand’s new design philosophy. The design elements such as the floating engine bonnet and advanced front-light system aim to provide a clean and muscular front design. The rear of the Urus SE showcases a wider stance with new diffuser and rear mesh inspired by Lamborghini’s super sports cars like the Gallardo. The interior design focuses on enhancing the driver’s interaction with the digital system, following the ‘feel like a pilot’ philosophy,” stated Borkert.
The rear cargo compartment hatch of the vehicle has been redesigned to create a smoother look and enhance aerodynamics. The taillight clusters are now connected with “Y” lights and a new rear diffuser, reminiscent of the Gallardo design, giving the car a more athletic appearance. Additionally, a new spoiler and diffuser increase rear downforce by 35% at high speeds compared to the Urus S, improving stability.
Improvements in aerodynamic efficiency are achieved through new under-body air vents and redesigned air ducts that enhance cooling for mechanical and engine components by 15% compared to the original Urus. The frontal design modifications, together with optimized aerodynamics underneath, have also enhanced airflow management for the braking system, resulting in a 30% improvement in air cooling over the previous setup.The image above showcases the updated Lamborghini Urus SE model, emphasizing the brand’s “feel like a pilot” design theme in the cabin. The dashboard now features a larger 12.3-inch screen with a new version of the Human Machine Interface (HMI), which is more user-friendly and shares design elements with the Revuelto model.
Lamborghini Centro Stile designers have focused on enhancing the air vents, anodized aluminum trim with a distinctive Y shape, and new coverings for panels, seats, and dashboard. The mechanical pushbutton panel provides a more tactile experience for the driver.
In addition to the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, the Lamborghini Infotainment System (LIS) is also incorporated within the dashboard, offering a complete and modern vehicle interface.A specialized telemetry system and new display enhancements for the driving assistance mechanism have been developed to improve the perception of the vehicle’s surroundings.
The Lamborghini Urus SE offers an extensive range of customization choices that are unparalleled in its class. The alloy wheels have been upgraded to include 23” Galanthus rims, which come standard with new Pirelli P Zero tires. Customers have the option of three distinct P Zero tire variations ranging from 21″ to 23″ to cater to varying preferences for comfort and performance. Additionally, Scorpion Winter 2 tires are available for colder seasons, all featuring Pirelli Elect technology designed to optimize the characteristics of the first electrified Urus.
These advancements provide an enhanced driving experience by offering superior control and visibility while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. The introduction of these improvements elevates the driving experience for enthusiasts looking for top-tier performance and style in a luxury vehicle.The Lamborghini Urus SE now offers over 100 body color options, including two new options available at launch: Arancio Egon (orange) with an interior in Arancio Apodis (orange) and Bianco Sapphirus (white) with an interior in Terra Kedros (terracotta). There are a total of 47 interior color combinations and four types of embroidery available, with customization options through the Ad Personam program to create a unique Urus SE of their own.
In the middle of the console, the selector unit called “tamburo” is used to select different driving modes. With the addition of the hybrid powertrain, the Urus now offers a total of eleven driving options, combining the six existing modes with four new Electric Performance Strategies (EPS). The traditional Strada, Sport, and Corsa modes (for road and track) are now accompanied by Neve, Sabbia, and Terra modes (for surfaces other than asphalt), as well as the new EV Drive, Hybrid, Performance, and Recharge options.
Stefano Cossalter, Lanzador and Urus Product Line Director, stated, “The Urus SE represents a significant step forward, not only in terms of reducing CO2 emissions but also in terms of performance and sportiness, thanks to the cutting-edge hybrid powertrain. This Super SUV features two hearts: one traditional, reflecting our heritage, and the other electric, representing the future. Working together, they offer a fresh take on the distinctive Lamborghini personality, elevated to a new level.”
The EV Drive mode enhances the electric driving experience, tailored for urban use by providing over 60 km of electric range and a top speed exceeding 130 km/h. Beyond this speed, the V8 engine automatically kicks in.The electric motor, as well as when the torque demands surpass the maximum available from the electric motor.
The Hybrid mode, which is available in Strada mode, offers maximum efficiency and comfort by balancing the combustion engine and electric motor, making it a versatile choice for everyday driving. The Recharge mode, available in Strada, Sport, Corsa, and Neve modes, recharges up to 80% of the battery while maintaining performance. The Performance mode provides a dynamic driving experience in Strada, Sport, Corsa, Sabbia, and Terra modes, showcasing the Urus SE’s full potential beyond regular roads.
The vehicle’s air springs adjust ground clearance based on the selected driving mode, ranging from 15 mm in Corsa to 75 mm with the lifting system activated. Steering, drivability, and the V8 engine sound adjust based on the driving mode selected, influencing the overall driving experience of the Urus SE.
The calibration of the air suspension system is tailored to enhance each driving mode. Strada mode focuses on comfort, enhancing the smooth ride of the Urus SE. Sport mode adds excitement to driving, improving transmission characteristics for better drift control. In Corsa mode, designed for track driving, the Urus SE showcases its full dynamic capabilities thanks to advanced suspension ECU and electronics which enhance stability and responsiveness on the track and low-grip surfaces. Neve, Sabbia, and Terra modes are optimized for maximum wheel travel and ground force consistency to ensure optimal traction on various surfaces.
Image Source: PuccaPhotography / Shutterstock
