We didn’t have to wait long for Lotus to announce the Eletre SUV. That’s right, this is the official announcement for the company’s first SUV and that’s not the only first this EV carries. It is also the brand’s first EV, its first car to have four doors and the world’s first instance of LIDAR for level four autonomy.
“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.” – Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars
Lotus is breaking a lot of conventions with this model and we think we like it. Let’s find out more.
The new look of the new Lotus Eletre.
Thanks to leaks, we have seen the shape of the Lotus Eletre. What we haven’t seen is high detailed images with colour and this car looks so much better with them.
Lotus has clearly kept the same design language as the Emira. The upshot of that is a very aggressive looking SUV that screams, “I have somewhere to get to and fast!”
If any SUV could live up to that statement, this one can. Lotus has managed to make the Eletre incredibly aerodynamic with the use of active and passive devices. Negative spaces and holes along with the body direct air through and around the car smoothly which will also improve range and cool down the battery.
To further put this car into the luxury department, the Emire comes to life when the driver is close by. With the use of ultra wide-band (UWB) technology and an app, the Emire will know when you are close by, wave its aero slats in the grill and push out the door handles that sit flush with the car.
It’s all about luxury with the new Eletre.
Luxury SUV and super light sportscar are not two concepts that work together and Lotus knows this. They had to pick one of the two and they chose luxury with this model. It makes sense for the market this EV will be competing in but it does divert from the legacy the company has created.
Needless to say, Lotus did luxury well with this one. Hugely screen focused featuring the tech found in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, everything around the cabin is about comfort. This includes the use of recycled materials which is a nice touch.
Buyers will have options for the rear seats. They can choose to have two limo-like seats or a bench that can fit three people. This is all under a panoramic roof which is just an unnecessary addition of weight for Lotus but a necessity for luxury.
Performance is yet to be announced.
While the number of 560 kW has been thrown about online, Lotus actually has not disclosed the power of the Eletre but they do promise a zero to one hundred sprint in less than three seconds.
“The Eletre, our Hyper-SUV, is a new performance car from an iconic performance car brand and it will appeal to independent-minded and adventurous driving enthusiasts – those who love the thrill of driving. It is a unique combination of beautiful design, exceptional dynamic performance and everyday usability, for those who dare to look beyond the conventional, and marks a turning point for our business and brand.” – Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Group Lotus
There is no word on whether the Eletre will find its way to South Africa, but we do hope it does. In the case that happens, it will be Daytona who brings it over as they are our sole importers for Lotus cars.
