We were incredibly eager to see the Lotus Type 132. All the leaks that surfaced certainly helped to keep our excitement in check. Especially those that revealed the patents for the bodywork and interior. We're sure the Hethel factory wasn't thrilled about it, but what does it matter now that they've released all the official images and technical specifications ? In short, it's a beast…
Yes, but before we reveal its secrets, we must tell you something: it's called the Lotus Eletre . So, we'll leave Type 132 behind and focus on the commercial name of the brand's first all-electric SUV. And not only that, but we're talking about a vehicle that measures 5,13 meters long , 2,13 meters wide, and 1,63 meters high. Not to mention its wheelbase, which is a generous 3,01 meters…
The design of the Lotus Eletre is very muscular and risky...
As we saw in its patent, the exterior design of the Lotus Eletra is spectacular . It's true that the drawings didn't have all the details of the final version, but they gave us a glimpse of what was to come. And it has certainly been a hit with everyone, although it must be said that it does have a touch of the Lamborghini Urus . The fact is, according to the brand, its silhouette seems "sculpted by the air," and this is evident in, for example, its short overhangs.
The Eletre's front end stands out with its slim, matrix LED headlights and active grille . We also can't overlook the short hood or the numerous air intakes distributed throughout the body. According to Lotus, the goal is to offer one of the best aerodynamics in the entire segment and market . Indeed, there's a roof spoiler and an active rear wing that deploys and can adjust to three different positions…
The rear of the Eletre is another distinctive area. A clearly coupé-like roofline is complemented by the unique shape of the taillights. These LED lights are very thin and connected in the center. In fact, they span the entire width of the body, and at the outer edges are two air vents for aerodynamics. The tailgate is relatively simple, and the bumper includes what appears to be a double diffuser finished in black.
Technological and highly habitable cabin with 4 or 5 seats...
If the Lotus Eletre impresses on the outside, the interior is no less so. Above all, because never before has a model from the Hethel firm offered so much space, quality, and technological sophistication . From the outset, the dashboard stands out for the size and functionality of the central touchscreen and the configurable digital instrument cluster. In this case, it's minimalist and hidden beneath the upper dome of the dashboard, extending onto the passenger side.
To enhance the driving information, the Eletre boasts a large Head-up Display . And that's not all; the design team has duplicated some functions with both touch controls and traditional buttons. Furthermore, to offer a high-quality onboard experience, it features elements such as a KEF Premium sound system. Additionally, it comes standard with four seats, although a fifth seat can be added for greater versatility.
The counterpoint to the interior design is technology. According to Lotus, it features an active aerodynamics package that is the most advanced in its segment. They also announce that it includes state-of-the-art active driving aids thanks to the inclusion of a LiDAR sensor . Furthermore, following the trend of "digital keys," it can be unlocked and started via the key or a mobile app that the owner can download.
600 hp, two engines, all-wheel drive and battery with more than 100 kWh
However, even knowing how impactful and important the Eletre is for Lotus, what interests us most is its technology. As you know, it's the world's first "Hyper-SUV," and as such, it's sure to impress. For its foundation, the Hethel-based company has created a new platform called EPA (Electric Premium Architecture), and on top of it, they've placed two electric motors (one on each axle) with a combined output of 600 hp.
It's powered by a lithium-ion battery with over 100 kWh of energy capacity . But the best part isn't that; it allows for acceleration from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in under 3 seconds and a top speed of 260 kilometers per hour . As for charging, thanks to its 800-volt technology, it can charge at a maximum of 350 kW or 22 kW. A full charge takes just 20 minutes, providing a range of 400 kilometers.
Although its weight is currently unknown, Lotus has equipped the Eletre with "weapons" to counteract it. These are five driving modes : Range, Tour, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. In each mode, aspects such as steering assistance, suspension stiffness, and throttle response are modified in one way or another. And that's not all; it also includes adaptive air suspension and active anti-roll bars.
When will the Eletre… hit the market?
The answer to this question has four parts. The first concerns orders: you can already pre-order it on the official website of the British manufacturer . The second concerns deliveries, which will begin sometime in 2023. Thirdly, there are the countries of origin: they will start with China, then the UK, and later the rest of Europe. Finally, the price is still unknown , so you can start getting an idea...
Source – Lotus
