The New 48V Hybrid 'Countach' Arrives in Japan | Lamborghini
Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4
Lamborghini Unveils New 48V Hybrid Countach in Japan
Automobili Lamborghini Japan unveiled the new Countach LPI 800-4, a hybrid supercar, for the first time in Japan on June 21.
Text & Photographs by Akira Hara
0-100km/h in 2.8 Seconds, Top Speed of 355km/h
The new Countach LPI 800-4 is a limited edition of 112 units, created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the debut of the original Countach, which became a Lamborghini icon. It embodies what a supersport model would evolve into if the original Countach, symbolizing the 70s and 80s, were revived in the 2020s. It was first unveiled on August 13, 2021, at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering in the United States.
The body measures 4,870mm in length, 2,099mm in width, and 1,139mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,700mm. The design features clean, pure lines reminiscent of the original LP500 and its production model LP400, with a sharply raked greenhouse adopting the same straight-line approach as the original Countach.
It was explained that inspiration was also drawn from the Quattrovalvole, displayed next to it at the event, particularly its long, low rectangular grille and headlights, and the iconic hexagonal theme of the wheel arches.
The rear 'hexagonal' design and the four powerful exhaust tailpipes are characteristic of the Countach family, and the iconic scissor doors, a hallmark of V12 models, are retained.
The powertrain consists of a 6.5-liter V12 engine producing a maximum output of 780 hp at 8,500 rpm and 720 Nm of torque at 6,750 rpm, combined with a mild-hybrid system. This system features an electric motor developed for the hybrid model 'Sián,' delivering 34 hp and 35 Nm, directly integrated into the gearbox using a supercapacitor (a high-capacity energy storage device utilizing capacitors).
A dry weight of 1,595kg is achieved through a carbon fiber monocoque chassis and body panels, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of just 1.95kg/ps. With a 7-speed ISR transmission and a full-time 4WD system, it boasts a claimed 0-100km/h acceleration of 2.8 seconds, 0-200km/h in 8.6 seconds, and a top speed of 355km/h.
Innovations for the 21st century are evident not only in the hybrid technology employing supercapacitors but also in the use of carbon fiber for the front splitter, around the windshield and mirrors, air intakes on the engine cover, and rocker panels, as well as in interior details. Further advancements include movable air vents produced with 3D printing technology and a electrochromic roof that transitions from opaque to transparent with the touch of a button.
The display car for this event is destined for a Japanese owner, featuring a combination of Rosso Lamborghini (vibrant red) with a white interior. The center console is equipped with a dedicated 8.4-inch HDMI touchscreen for the LPI 800-4, compatible with Apple CarPlay. Pressing the unique 'Stile' (Style) button activates an explanation of the Countach's design philosophy, audible only within the car.
Davide Sfrecola, President of Lamborghini Japan, who took the stage at the event, explained, "The Countach is called 'Coon-tach' in its home region, named by a person from the Piedmont region who, upon seeing its innovative style when the original was released, called it 'Coon-tach' in their local dialect, meaning 'Wow!'. The production number of 112 units is a tribute to the original's internal project name, LP112 (LP signifying longitudinal placement and the first 12-cylinder model)."
Davide Sfrecola (front) and Francesco Scardaoni (rear)
Francesco Scardaoni
Francesco Scardaoni, the company's CEO for Asia Pacific, stated, "We are honored to announce the new Countach in Japan, a name synonymous with supercars in this country. We celebrate the revival of the Countach for the modern era."
Mitja Borkert, Head of Design, joined online from his home in Italy before starting his workday. He explained, "The design of the new Countach adopts a 'Wow!' factor that makes it instantly recognizable as a 'Countach.' It inherits the design language of previous models like the Diablo, Murciélago, and Aventador, characterized by a slim, wedge-shaped profile – what we call the spaceship line or single center line. For this Countach, we've incorporated future-forward inspiration, particularly in the aggressive, muscular lines of the rear fenders."
Mitja Borkert, Head of Design, speaking online
This captivating model was announced with a starting price of 2 million Euros (approximately 280 million yen) in its home market, and all 112 planned units have already been sold out. We are delighted that several of these will be coming to Japan.
