Lotus has revealed its all-new SUV and it is a shock since we are used to small sportscars from this revered British brand. It is called the Lotus Eletre and represents a number of firsts for Lotus – the first five-door production car, the first model outside sports car segments, and also the first ‘lifestyle EV’. Beneath the radical exterior, lies a battery capacity that’s over 100kWh and along with a prodigious power output of 600bhp. The Eletre is also 4WD of course and adheres to the electric template. A 350kW charger will deliver a 400km (248 miles) range in just 20 minutes. The car’s target maximum WLTP driving range is c.600km (c.373 miles). It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging which, where available, reduces the time plugged in.
Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars, commented: “The Eletre is a bold and revolutionary new car, delivering on our commitment to move Lotus into completely new automotive segments as we widen our global appeal and accessibility. This is a momentous point in our history and a clear signal of our ongoing desire to transform our business. It is a true Lotus, and we’re confident it will delight performance car customers and offer a distinct alternative to the segment’s established players. The Eletre has the soul of a Lotus and the usability of an SUV. Alongside the Emira sports car, this is the perfect two-car garage from Lotus.”
There are unique bits as well like a deployable Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) system and a walk-up sequence that includes a lighting signature, an active grille, and even illuminated flush door handles. The styling is honed by aerodynamics as well as a sharp demeanor. The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new Electric Premium Architecture (EPA). The low-to-the-ground design promises keen handling, and the EPA can fit in C+ to E+ vehicle class battery sizes, motors, component layouts, and a myriad of driving technologies.
The platform will be the basis for an all-new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles from Lotus. For now, it starts with the Eletre. Sales across global markets will start in 2023 starting in China, the UK, and Europe. The US market will get the Eletre in 2024 with the 600 bhp model while there is a rumor of an even more powerful Eletre from Lotus. Interesting times indeed.
