Lotus is extending its boundaries beyond lightweight sports cars by venturing into the mainstream vehicle market with an electric SUV named the Eletre, which had its global premiere in early 2022.
The Eletre, a name that signifies “coming to life” in some eastern European dialects, launched sales in China in March. This summer, it will become available in Europe, and Lotus has previously confirmed that it is set to land in the U.S. in 2024.
The European price starts from 95,990 euros (roughly $105,00), while the pricing for the U.S. will be released closer to the launch date.
At present, Lotus offers three variants: a standard Eletre, a mid-range Eletre S, and the top-of-the-range Eletre R. The standard and S models share a dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, equipped with a single-speed transmission, peaking at 603 hp. The Eletre R boasts a 2-speed transmission with a peak power of 905 hp. This additional power and gearing allow the R model to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in 2.95 seconds, hitting a maximum speed of 165 mph. The base and S models can achieve 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 160 mph.
The Eletre is powered by a single 112-kwh battery, which, according to Lotus, can charge from 10-80% in 20 minutes using a DC fast charger compatible with 350-kw charging. Lotus claims a maximum range of 373 miles for the base and S models, and 304 miles for the R model, based on the WLTP test cycle used overseas. However, expect lower values when tested with the stricter EPA cycle.
Based on a modular EV platform, the Electric Premium Architecture (formerly Evolution), the Eletre is considerably larger than expected. With a length of 200.9 inches, the Eletre is longer than a Range Rover, and almost equal to some full-size luxury sedans. The lightest version weighs 5,490 pounds, comparable to a Tesla Model X. Lotus has attempted to reduce the weight by adopting a multi-material approach for body construction.
Standard features in the Eletre encompass active air suspension, torque vectoring, matrix LED headlights, active grille shutters, 22-inch wheels, mobile device wireless charging, 12-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.6-inch digital instrument cluster, a 15.1-inch infotainment screen (powered by Lotus’ own Lotus Hyper OS operating system), and a KEF audio system with 15 speakers (option of 23 speakers available) supporting Dolby Atmos surround sound. Five seats come as standard, but a four-seat version is also offered. There’s also an optional head-up display with augmented reality.
The Eletre R upgrade offers more than just additional power. This variant introduces active roll bars, rear-wheel steering, carbon-fiber components, Pirelli P Zero performance tires, and an exclusive Track mode to the standard Tour, Range, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual modes of the Eletre’s drive mode selector. Track mode lowers ride height, sharpens powertrain response, and raises the intervention level of the electronic stability control system.
Lotus has equipped the Eletre with a range of sensors, including four lidar units, which the carmaker asserts will support autonomous driving once the technology and regulatory landscape permits. Lotus is also designing a self-driving mode for well-known racetracks, such as Germany’s Nürburgring, allowing amateur drivers to experience a lap as if driven by a professional racer.
Lotus Technology, Lotus’ EV division, oversees the production of the Eletre at a factory in Wuhan, China. This facility will also produce more Lotus lifestyle models, including a sedan and smaller SUV, both leveraging the Eletre’s EPA platform. The sedan, internally known as Type 133, has been spotted during testing and is expected to make its debut later this year.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Lotus Eletre electric SUV
When did the Lotus Eletre electric SUV make its world debut?
The Lotus Eletre electric SUV made its world debut in early 2022.
What does the name ‘Eletre’ mean?
The name ‘Eletre’ means “coming to life” in some eastern European dialects.
When will the Lotus Eletre be available in the US?
The Lotus Eletre is scheduled for arrival in the U.S. in 2024.
What is the starting price for the Lotus Eletre in Europe?
The starting price for the Lotus Eletre in Europe is 95,990 euros, which is approximately $105,000.
What is the power output of the different Lotus Eletre models?
The base and mid-range Eletre S share a powertrain with a peak power of 603 hp, while the top-tier Eletre R has a peak power of 905 hp.
What is the estimated range of the Lotus Eletre models?
The base and S models have a maximum range of 373 miles, and the R model has a range of 304 miles, as per the WLTP test cycle used overseas.
Where is the Lotus Eletre produced?
The Lotus Eletre is produced by Lotus Technology, the EV division of Lotus, at a plant in Wuhan, China.
Does the Lotus Eletre have self-driving capabilities?
The Lotus Eletre is equipped with sensors, including four lidar units, which Lotus says will enable self-driving capabilities when the technology and regulations are ready. Lotus is also developing a self-driving mode for famous racetracks.
5 comments
Wow, Lotus making an SUV! Never thought I’d see the day. That 905 hp Eletre R sounds like a beast tho…
Not convinced. Love Lotus for their sports cars, not sure about an SUV. Does anyone know what this Electric Premium Architecture platform is all about?
20 mins for a 10-80% charge? not bad, not bad at all. The range seems pretty good too. Looking forward to seeing some real-world tests.
can’t believe Lotus is joining the EV game, and with an SUV no less! Seriously, how long will it take to see these on the road here in the states?
wait, a self-driving mode for racetracks? are they for real? that’s either gonna be epic or a disaster, no middle ground.