Lotus is charging into its future as an all-electric car company with the reveal of its latest vehicle, the Eletre, a hyper-SUV powered by a 100kW battery that can offer nearly 400 miles on a full charge and reach 0-60mph in under three seconds.
Previously known under its codename, Type 132, the Eletre is the first of three new Lotus lifestyle EVs in next four years, with design language inspired by world’s first British EV hypercar, the Lotus Evija.
The Eletre takes elements of the latest Lotus sports car – the Emira – and the aero performance of the all-electric Evija hypercar and reinterprets them as a 4WD Hyper-SUV.
The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new Electric Premium Architecture (EPA). The low-to-the-ground design is intended to enhance handling, and the EPA can easily adapt to accommodate C+ to E+ vehicle class battery sizes, motors, component layouts and intelligent driving technologies.
The 800V dedicated electric vehicle architecture with integrated, high-voltage power distribution system. This architecture uses aluminum and high tensile steel for optimum structural rigidity. The flat ‘skateboard-style’ battery pack and electric motors are close to the ground to create a low center of gravity and deliver on the core Lotus commitment of outstanding dynamic performance. The high energy density of the battery pack provides the best possible balance of performance and driving range. There are two electric motors, one driving the front wheels and another driving the rear wheels. A three-in-one electric drive system integrates each motor with a controller and reducer, an efficient design which makes the unit smaller and lighter.
A 350kW charger will deliver a 400km (248 miles) range in just 20 minutes. The car’s target maximum WLTP driving range is around 600km (373 miles). It also comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging which, where available, reduces the time plugged in.
The Eletre sees extensive use of carbon fiber and aluminum for weight reduction throughout, while the interior includes highly durable man-made textiles and sustainable lightweight wool blends.
Matt Windle, managing director of 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.
Manufacturing of the vehicle will take place at all-new high-tech facility in China later this year.
