Mitja Borkert on Lamborghini’s Design Vision: Hexagons and the New Temerario

Before our interview, Mitja Borkert, Lamborghini’s head of design, dashes to a back room and returns with a folder brimming with sketches of the upcoming Lamborghini Temerario. This new model is set to succeed the Huracán as the brand’s “entry-level” supercar. After nearly a decade of the Huracán’s various iterations, including the Evo, STO, and the unexpected Sterrato, it’s clear a complete overhaul rather than a mere variant was needed.

During the uncovering at The Quail, Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann proudly declared that the Temerario marks a new pinnacle for Lamborghini’s lineup, positioning it as “better than ever before.”

For specifics on the Temerario, which shares its name with a historically valiant bull from 1875, refer to Caleb Miller’s detailed report. Briefly, the Temerario boasts a V-8 engine complemented by three electric motors, all-wheel drive, and an impressive 907 horsepower with 538 pound-feet of torque. It also offers increased cabin and luggage space.

Returning to Borkert and his sketches, he emphasizes the importance of creating a car with a striking impact. Having served as Lamborghini’s design director for the past eight years, Borkert has mastered the brand’s design DNA, ensuring that Lamborghini’s distinctive silhouette remains unchanged. “As long as I’m in charge, the silhouette of Lamborghini will stay consistent,” Borkert asserts, highlighting the brand’s iconic shape that remains recognizable from a distance.

Borkert compares the design evolution to music, noting how artists like Marilyn Manson and Madonna evolve their styles while maintaining their core identity. Similarly, Lamborghini’s new models, while fresh in design, retain the brand’s fundamental characteristics.

Regarding continuity with the Huracán, Borkert clarifies that no components from the previous model are carried over to the Temerario—everything is entirely new. To increase interior space without expanding the car’s dimensions remarkably, they’ve implemented a design innovation akin to the old Le Mans race cars, incorporating a roof lift similar to the Gurney Bubble. This modification also allowed for an aerodynamic channel integrating into the rear wing.

The frequent use of hexagons in Lamborghini’s design is a nod to the brand’s history, evoking elements from the 1960s, such as the Lamborghini Marzal and Miura. Borkert chose the hexagon for its historic and striking design appeal, ensuring that Lamborghini cars remain instantly recognizable from afar.

In response to the challenge of maintaining a unique design without becoming cliché, Borkert acknowledges the balance between innovation and brand consistency. He shares a humorous anecdote about a 1:18-scale Countach being recognized at an airport security checkpoint, a testament to Lamborghini’s distinctive design language.

Looking ahead, Borkert emphasizes the importance of avoiding excessive vehicle sizes. Although cars like the Revuelto appear large, they are designed to feel nimble and engaging. The focus remains on creating vehicles that are compact and enjoyable to drive, aligning with Lamborghini’s commitment to delivering a thrilling driving experience.