LOTUS is stepping into the SUV ring with intent by revealing what it calls the world’s first electric hyper-SUV; the Eletre. Capable of 0-100km/h in under 3.0 seconds, it will reportedly have a range near 600km.
“The Eletre, our hyper-SUV, is for those who dare to look beyond the conventional and marks a turning point for our business and brand,” Lotus CEO Qing Feng said.
Able to carry up to four passengers, it’s luxurious design will ensure the Eletre captures the attention of many. As Lotus often does, the name has meaning, and in this case it’s ‘coming to life’ in some Eastern European languages.
This motif is continued as the driver approaches the car, and according to Lotus, pressing the button on the key or smartphone app activates a moment of theatre that’s unique in the automotive world.
The car’s exterior lights run through a short sequence, the active front grille ‘breathes’ and the illuminated flush door handles deploy.
“This walk-up sequence is a ‘peacock moment’ – a little showing off that highlights the Eletre’s engaging personality,” Lotus head of studio Ben Payne said.
“It’s a visual expression of a car coming to life, and a metaphor for the reinvention of the Lotus business and brand which begins with the Eletre.”
Design has always been a strong suit of Lotus; think Elise and Exige as an example, and the Eletre is no different. The exterior has been guided by a ‘carved by air’ ethos. The interior utilises sustainable materials with a focus on being ‘visually lightweight’.
Perhaps most pertinent is the level of tech on board. Lotus have gone to great lengths to ensure the user experience remains simple. This is evident in the fact 95 per cent of the car’s functions can be accessed within three touches of the main screen.
A raft of driver assists are also designed to be updated during the Eletre’s lifecycle, and all the usual mod-cons are present and accounted for. Customers can even option a unique first-of-its-kind 2,160-watt 23-speaker sound system from KEF Reference.
First customer deliveries are expected some time next year. Australian availability, specifications and pricing is yet to be determined. Further information will be available closer to launch.
