Iconinc racing and sports car maker Lotus has unveiled its latest all-electric offering, shifting lanes into the ever-so slightly more real world of SUVs, with its own take on the Hyper-SUV theme, called the Eletre.
As a luxury Hyper-SUV, the Eletre embodies that particular car segment’s signature blend of Fast, Flashy and Family – think Porsche, Jaguar, Bentley; an industry-wide push to “usability” (not to be mistaken with affordability) that previously niche car makers hope will attract a new generation of customers.
To that end, it is also electric.
Lotus, like innumerable other iconic car brands, has committed to move to full electric vehicle production, starting with the roll-out of around four BEVs by 2025, including the Eletre, which was previously known by its code name, Type 132.
As an EV, the Lotus Eletre is a compact and ultra sleek 4WD with a battery capacity of more than 100kWh and with power from 600hp. Its target maximum WLTP driving range is around 600km.
Lotus says it comes with the ability as standard to accept 22kW AC charging, while a 350kW charger will deliver a 400km range in 20 minutes. Acceleration can achieve 0-100km/h in under three seconds
The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new 800v dedicated Electric Premium Architecture (EPA) with integrated, high-voltage power distribution system. A flat ‘skateboard-style’ battery pack and electric motors are close to the ground to create a low centre of gravity and optimise handling.
Lotus says the high energy density of the battery pack provides the optimal balance of performance and driving range, while a three-in-one electric drive system makes the unit smaller and lighter – a “very Lotus” solution.
“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,” said Lotus Cars managing director Matt Windle.
“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.”
To achieve this “globally relevant product,” Lotus says it has notched up a number of firsts, including first five-door production car, first model outside sports car segments, first “lifestyle EV,” and the most “connected” Lotus ever.
Having been conceived and engineered largely in Europe, including in Lotus’ UK home base of Hethel, the Eletre the first in a new range of premium lifestyle performance electric vehicles to be built at a new state-of-the-art production facility in Wuhan, China.
On the outside, it is more Sports than Utility Vehicle, with a “carved by air” design and a “cab-forward” design that Lotus says has been inspired by the electric drive train to echo the iconic mid-engined layout of Lotus sports cars, and create a unique look in the SUV segment.
And it doesn’t scrimp on the Flashy, either, with the EV providing a “moment of theatre” every time the driver approaches, which the Head of Studio at Lotus Tech Creative Centre describes as a “peacock moment” as well as a metaphor for the reinvention of the Lotus business and brand.
To be more precise, the car’s exterior lights run through a short sequence, the active front grille “breathes” and the illuminated flush door handles deploy. The experience is repeated inside the car as the door closes behind the occupant.
Inside, there are elements of Tesla’s minimalistic style which Lotus describes as an “oversize premium feel.” Buyers have the option of choosing a more spacious option with four individual seats, alongside the more traditional five-seat layout. There’s also a fixed panoramic glass sunroof, wool-blend fabric seats and carbon fiber fixtures.
Ahead of the driver the instrument cluster amounts to a strip less than 30mm high, which is repeated on the passenger side, where different information can be displayed, such as music selection or nearby points of interest.
In the middle of the dash is a 15.1-inch, touch-screen landscape “interface” which provides access to the car’s advanced infotainment system, and which automatically folds flat when not required.
So when can all this be yours? Lotus says it is taking orders, globally, now, with manufacturing to start later this year and deliveries sometime in 2023 – the Lotus Australia website has no prices yet but does say the Eletre will be available in 2023.
On cost, various international reports put it at around $A175,000, so start saving. The Lotus Australia website has a “keep me updated” link that offers the option to “secure a build slot now.” A button marked “configure,” however, takes you to an EU-based site, which requires €2,500 down-payment.
Keyword: Lotus unveils its first “lifestyle EV” – an all-electric hyper-SUV called Eletre