The successor to the Lamborghini Huracán looks set to drop the howling atmospheric V10. But a new report claims the high-revving V8 likely to replace it will use forced induction in rather an unusual way…

The Lamborghini Gallardo employed a free-breathing V10 engine. The outgoing Lamborghini Huracán – which debuted back in late 2013 – uses a powerplant of the same configuration. But, according to a fresh report, the Huracán’s replacement will have fewer than 10 cylinders.

Yes, Motor Trend’s source claims the successor to the Huracán is scheduled to hit the market in 2024, dropping the famous naturally aspirated 5.2-litre 10-cylinder petrol engine – which is also used by its platform twin, the Audi R8 – in favour of a twin-turbocharged V8 hybrid powertrain that revs to a heady 10 000 rpm.

The publication claims the as-yet-unnamed Huracán replacement will ride on an updated rather than all-new version of the outgoing platform, while its powertrain will include an axial-flux electric motor positioned between the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 and the transmission.

Lamborghini’s famous V10 engine badge. Soon to be a thing of the past?

While the V8 engine will likely be closely related to the unit used by the Urus Performante, Motor Trend claims the forced induction element will work entirely differently. According to the publication, the V8 will function like a naturally aspirated engine (with a little electric assistance) until 7 000 rpm, when the turbochargers finally kick in. So, from 7 000 rpm to the redline of 10 000 rpm, the turbochargers will unleash maximum top-end power.

Interestingly, the source being cited does not specify whether the Huracán successor will hang on to a mechanical all-wheel-drive system or whether electric motors will instead be employed on the front axle. Similarly, there’s no indication yet of whether the hybrid system will offer plug-in capability.

As a reminder, the current Huracán is still available in South Africa, with the local range comprising as many as 6 variants, including the box-fresh Tecnica. Pricing starts at R4 575 000 for the 449 kW Huracán Evo RWD coupé and runs through to R7 775 000 for the likewise rear-driven 470 kW Huracán STO. The all-wheel-drive Huracán Evo coupé slots in the middle of the line-up, with a starting price of R5 750 000.