Lotus Eletre: technology, performance and luxury in a spacious and practical very electric hyper-SUV

• Aimed at a new generation of Lotus customers looking for a practical, versatile and spacious family-focused electric hyper-SUV

• The most advanced Lotus ever, Eletre, combines comfort, performance and cutting-edge luxury design with durable materials.

• Cutting-edge infotainment system uses Lotus Hyper OS to deliver an intuitive and immersive experience for all occupants

• A true Lotus – Eletre mixes the core DNA of Emira and Evija, reinterpreting them as a hyper-SUV with advanced suspension and chassis technology

• High level of quality in fit and finish, materials and design

• World-class ride and handling built on Lotus’ pioneering development of active systems in road cars and race cars

• Active aerodynamics – including the front grille – mean optimized range and efficiency, plus extra strength for a superior driving experience and high-speed stability

• A powerful, efficient and refined all-electric powertrain delivers the perfect balance of performance, responsiveness and range – up to 600 km (373 miles) WLTP Combined

• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in less than three seconds makes the Eletre R the fastest dual-motor pure electric SUV

• Fast charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes, and up to 120 km (74 miles) range in just five minutes

• Complete form of advanced driver assistance systems featuring an innovative deployable LIDAR system

• Over-the-air updates to deliver the latest features and software to Eletre customers

• Eletre is future-proof for Level 4 autonomous driving capability

• Available to order now, starting at €89,500 in the UK and €995,990 in Europe

Lotus’ ongoing transformation into a truly global performance company and brand has reached its most important milestone yet – the arrival of the Eletre hyper-SUV.

The Lotus Eletre is a remarkable and progressive new model, the first in a new generation of pure electric performance SUVs. It takes the core principles and DNA of Lotus from 75 years of sports car design and engineering, evolving them into an all-new desirable lifestyle vehicle.

It is aimed at a new generation of Lotus customers, those who appreciate the world-class dynamic performance and striking design that have always been part of the Lotus experience, and who also need a practical, versatile and spacious vehicle family-focused – which is packed with the latest digital technology to make their driving lives safer and more convenient.

The Eletre is a true Lotus. It takes the heart and soul of Lotus’ latest sports car – the Emiraine – and the revolutionary aerodynamics of the all-electric Evija hypercar, and reinterprets them as a hyper-SUV. It delivers ride and handling performance, steering performance and aerodynamic performance – areas of automotive design and engineering where Lotus has both pioneered and dominated throughout its history, on cars road and racing cars. It is also the embodiment of beautiful design, efficient and elegant engineering solutions, embracing technology, best craftsmanship, advanced materials, innovation and ingenuity, and pushing new boundaries. These are precisely the things that made the Lotus great in the first place.

The Eletre is the latest in a long line of Lotus road cars whose name begins with the letter E, and it means “Coming to Life” in some Eastern European languages. It’s a fitting link because the Eletre marks the start of a new chapter in Lotus history – the first accessible EV and the first SUV.

The Eletre is ‘Born British, Leized Globally’, a collaboration between highly experienced and dedicated Lotus teams in the UK, Germany and China. They include the product definition and team attributes of Hethel, the home of Lotus since 1966; design teams from the UK Creative Center (UKCC) in Coventry; the engineering and dynamics teams of the German Innovation Center (GIC) in Raunheim; and the Lotus Tech engineering and manufacturing teams in Wuhan.

Following a world premiere in London in March 2022, thousands of customers around the world have already placed deposits to secure their Eletre. Three different versions of the car are available – Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R – with the choice of two powertrains.

The first customer deliveries began in China in March and will follow in global markets – including Europe and the UK – later this summer.

Mike Johnstone, Group Vice Chairman and Commercial Director of Lotus, commented: “Like all Lotuses, the Élétre is first and foremost a ‘For the Drivers’ car’. Its DNA is 100% Lotus, with exceptional dynamic performance. It is also the most advanced Lotus ever, blending that performance with comfort, practicality, versatile space, cutting-edge technology and modern luxury design in a vehicle that brings the Lotus experience to a whole new group of customers for the first time.

Mike added: “We know that two-seater sports cars aren’t for everyone, but the fantastic experience of driving a Lotus should be. The Eletre, along with the other fully electric lifestyle models we have already announced, provide customers and fans with a range of highly desirable Lotus cars that can meet all their needs at different times in their lives. It’s a natural progression for the brand, and an extremely exciting progression because Lotus is all about delivering the best performance, regardless of the segment the car sells in.”

M aximilian Szwaj, Vice President of Lotus Technology and Managing Director of GIC, said: “Since its founding exactly 75 years ago, Lotus has always been at the forefront of innovation, pioneering advancements in aerodynamics. , active systems and lightweight construction. Eletre embodies all of these fundamental qualities and adds cutting-edge technologies – including deployable LIDAR sensors – backed by future-proof hardware and software. The world-class customer experience is driven by a superb 5G infotainment system powered by Lotus Hyper OS that delivers best-in-class performance for visual effects and interactive feedback. Quite simply, it’s the most advanced Lotus ever made. »

The full standard specification of the Eletre includes active air suspension, continuous damping control, torque vectoring, Intelligent Lotus dynamic chassis control, 22-inch 10-spoke forged wheels in silver with a diamond finish 20-inch five-spoke in European markets), matrix LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, visual parking system, climate control, speed control. 80 W speakers.

The Eletre S focuses on customers seeking luxury. The upgraded specification includes additional features such as soft close doors, privacy glass, active rear spoiler, configurable ambient lighting, illuminated side sills, air quality system, KEF Reference system of 2,160 watts of 23 watts and the 22-inch 10-spoke forged wheels in gray with a diamond turned finish.

The flagship Eletre R is all about performance, and benefits from the Lotus Dynamic Handling Pack (including intelligent active roll control and rear steering), Carbon Pack, Pirelli P zero performance tires and a gloss black finish for the wheels. There’s also a sixth driving mode: track.

Eletre customers have the opportunity to tailor their vehicle to their needs using the full list of options kits. These include the Executive Seat Pack, Comfort Seat Kit, Extended Carbon Fiber Kit, Carbon Fiber Interior Packaging, Parking Kit and a Roadside Assistance Kit.

For even greater customer choice and customization, many of the packs’ features are available as standalone options. There is also a wide range of colors, materials and finishes available inside. Available to order now, pricing for the Eletre starts at €89,500 in the UK and $95,990 in Europe. Prices in other regions will be announced in due course.

A powerful technical visit

Lotus has always been one of the most innovative and technologically advanced automotive brands, and the Eletre is the culmination of 75 years of pioneering achievement in ride and handling, steering, aerodynamics and active systems. The result of an exhaustive global technical development program, the Eletre has been tested over more than a million kilometers in some of the harshest environments on the planet, including the northern Nurburgring circuit in G. L ‘Eletre merges the fundamentals of Lotus dynamics DNA with cutting-edge chassis and driving safety technologies, cutting-edge electric powertrains, plus a luxurious and spacious interior with a world-class infodilator to deliver a new type from Lotus for enthusiastic performance car drivers around the world.

With the Eletre, Lotus delivers more innovation, more technology, more capability and more appeal than ever before. Offering a range of up to 600 km (373 miles), the convenience of fast charging from 10 to 80% in just 20 minutes, and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in a sweeping a breathtaking 2.95 seconds on the flagship R model, the Eletre takes full advantage of all the benefits that electrification can offer and uses them to overall improve the driving experience.

The instant torque and all-wheel traction delivered by the two electric motors, along with active air suspension, also bring a completely new dimension to Lotus ownership: the ability to continue driving where the road ends, and to tow up to 2,250 kg.

A comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) is also part of the Eletre experience: Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); roadside assistance (HWA); collision mitigation support (CMSF); road sign information (TSI); door open warning (DOW); Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA); forward traffic alert; lane change assist; Brake (PEB); Rear Collision Mitigation Support (CMSR); and emergency rescue call (Call E). Each is designed to make every trip safer and more relaxing.

There’s also a 29-inch head-up display with semi-augmented reality that can overlay contextual graphics over the view in the future to help the driver keep their eyes on the road. A remote parking feature in the smartphone app allows the Eletre owner to maneuver the car into a tight parking space outside the vehicle, making it possible to fit into spaces that would otherwise not be not suitable. The cutting-edge sensor suite is also future-proofed to deliver further advancements in automated driving capability via over-the-air (OTA) updates.

Eletre customers in Europe benefit from a five-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty with an eight-year/200,000 km battery warranty. In the UK, customers benefit from a five-year/100,000-mile transportation warranty with an eight-year/150,000-mile battery warranty. All customers benefit from five years of pan-European support.

Chassis technology and vehicle dynamics: a new benchmark in the SUV segment

Every Lotus must deliver the ideal balance of agility, handling and comfort: this is fundamental to the brand’s DNA and to the unrivaled driver appeal that each model offers. Thanks to a combination of its lightweight, rigid platform, sophisticated suspension systems and intelligent all-wheel drive, Eletre’s engineering team had the ideal starting point for the development of vehicle dynamics. Technologies such as Active Roll Control, Torque Vectoring Braking, and Active Rear Wheel Steering constitute technologies such as Active Roll Control. By networking all of these advanced technologies together so that they interact seamlessly in unity, the result is an SUV that steers, corners and rides like only a Lotus can.

The Eletre features sophisticated multi-location suspension systems front and rear, with lightweight aluminum components. The design of each allows for effective decoupling of lateral and longitudinal loads, delivering superb ride quality as well as excellent responsiveness without one compromising the other.

Innovative two-chamber air springs, fitted as standard on the Eletre’s reach, allow independent control of ride height and stiffness. In addition to comfort and refinement, the active air suspension also ensures a speed-dependent lowering of the car by 25mm to reduce drag and therefore improve range. It can also increase ride height from 15mm to 25mm to improve off-road capability.

The Electronically Controlled Damping (CDC) system continuously measures loads entering the suspension at a rate of 1,000 times per second, and adapts the damping rate 500 times per second, to improve body control without any hardness. This means the Eletre “breathes” with the road, as all Lotuses should.

The Eletre is the first Lotus to use electromechanical power steering. The system has been meticulously tuned to provide the pure, truly connected feel, feedback and intuitive response to driver inputs that is a hallmark of every Lotus and for which Eletre also sets the class benchmark. And, at just 2.5 turns locked-lock, the ride is as fast as sports cars. Because the rack-mounted motor only consumes power on demand, the system offers greater energy efficiency than those that rely on hydraulics to provide assistance.

The active rear-wheel steering system makes the Eletre even more agile and is another Lotus first. The technology is offered, along with Active Turbology Control (CIRC), as part of the Lotus Dynamic Handling Pack which is fitted as standard on the Eletre R and as an option on Eletre and Eletre S. The actuators mounted on the rear chassis connected to the toe control arm can rotate the rear suspension knuckle up to 3.5o. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the fronts, reducing the wheelbase and thus reducing the turning circle by up to 0.8 meters to improve maneuverability. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the fronts, improving stability.

The IARC is a third-generation 48-volt system featuring powerful, fast-acting electromechanical actuators. By taking their input from the body’s motion sensors, their required torque output is calculated in just two milliseconds, allowing precision control of the required roll stiffness, resulting in even more neutral cornering and an improved climate of resistance. When driving on flat, smooth roads, CIRC effectively decouples the anti-roll bars, promoting driving comfort.

Managing the interaction of all these systems is Lotus’ incredible 6D Integrated Chassis Control (ICC) system. ICC seamlessly integrates the response of each component – as well as full-drive system torque distribution and active aerodynamics – to perfectly balance control and comfort in every driving scenario by continuously analyzing vehicle behavior on multiple dimensions: vertical, lateral and longitudinal movement, plus pitch, roll and yaw. This technology, developed in-house by Lotus, significantly expands the dynamic capability of the Eletre and provides an even more rewarding and engaging driving experience for the customer.

Drivers can also tailor the character of the Eletre to their individual taste by selecting one of the different drive modes, either through the central touchscreen or using the shift paddles below the steering wheel. Each mode subtly changes vehicle settings to bring a range of different benefits:

Tour mode is the default mode, and balances driving comfort and power consumption

Range mode reduces power consumption of systems such as climate control, optimizes front and rear torque distribution and provides a more progressive response to the accelerator pedal to increase range.

Sport mode refines powertrain and chassis response, improving ride and handling

Off-road mode can be used to improve traction on low-grip surfaces to eliminate the risk of wheel spindle

Individual mode allows the driver to choose specific settings for the powertrain, suspension and steering.

Lane mode (Eletre R only) reduces ride height and powertrain response compared to Sport mode, and also increases the threshold for electronic stability control system intervention, giving the driver greater influence on the vehicle’s cornering behavior, making it ideal for dynamic driving on a racetrack.

Extensive tire and brake development work also took place. Working in partnership with Pirelli, Lotus has designed a range of 22-inch and 23-inch high-performance, P zero and 22-inch ultra-high performance tires specifically for the Eletre. Each delivers an ideal balance of wet and dry grip, particularly under the high loads resulting from the instantaneous torque of the electric motors.

The braking system developed for the Eletre is distinguished by its six-piston front vices and two-piece Brembo discs, comprising steel rotors and aluminum mounting bells. Brought together by a special casting process, these discs offer weight savings over single-piece cast discs, and improved thermal management at high temperatures to improve braking performance – features proven during the testing program demanding of the legendary Nordschleife.

A carbon ceramic braking system is available as an option on the Eletre R (and Eletre S in European markets). It features AP Racing’s ‘Radi-Cal’ 10-piston calipers on the front axle: the highly optimized asymmetric shape of the forged aluminum components means they are the same weight as the six-piston calipers, but offer 60% additional pressure surface for even higher performance. They squeeze Brembo’s carbon ceramic discs, which are less than half the weight of the six-piston system’s discs, and can operate at extreme temperatures above 1,000oC, providing excellent fade resistance. They also offer a lifespan that is typically double that of steel discs. Calipers are available in a choice of six colors, depending on the specification chosen

Customized, multi-material VE architecture: light, rigid, resistant

Keeping the Eletre to deliver the benchmark ride, handling and agility expected of a Lotus, it has been developed from day one on the all-new Premium Electric Architecture (EPA). This highly flexible modular platform is on challenge at Lotus and will be at the heart of a series of new premium lifestyle performance EVs that will be developed over the coming years.

Designed to maximize the benefits of electrification, including packing the battery between the axles and under the floor to lower the center of gravity and maximize cabin space, the EPA features a clever mix of advanced materials to provide the high torsional rigidity and light weight that are fundamental to Lotus dynamics DNA. This approach saves 10% total weight on the complete body structure.

High pressure aluminum die castings feature in key components such as the shock mounting points – the two front pieces alone save 6kg compared to steel parts – as well as aluminum extrusions and for the sills and stampings for body panels. The three-piece hood assembly is 8kg lighter due to its aluminum construction, while the frameless aluminum doors save a further 6kg.

In total, advanced aluminum alloys make up 43% of the platform itself and 50.7% of the complete body structure. They are combined with high- and ultra-high-strength steels, as well as hot-rolled steels to reinforce the A and B pillars and enhance impact protection. A lightweight composite is used to form part of the rear floor. A total of 16 different advanced joining technologies are used throughout, including structural adhesives, self-drilling rivets, flux-drilled screws, spot welding and laser welding.

Together with state-of-the-art suspension systems, this lightweight and rigid body structure is key to the Élétre’s exceptional balance of dynamic capability, comfort and refinement, whether on road, track or off-road. It is also designed to meet or exceed the requirements of the world’s most stringent legislative and consumer safety regulations.

Fully electric dual-motor powertrain: power, performance and efficiency

Appreciating its hyper-SUV status, Eletre’s propulsion system technology delivers the captivating performance expected from a truly rewarding and engaging, driver-focused machine, along with the fuel efficiency essential for long range and day-to-day conviviality.

The vehicle’s floor is packed below state-of-the-art, 800 volt, 112 kWh power. Compared to conventional 400-volt systems, the 800-volt architecture reduces operating current by half for the same output power. The benefits to the customer are threefold: less weight because smaller diameter cables can be used in wiring harnesses; improve energy efficiency and improve thermal management as less heat is generated; and much faster charging.

The battery pack configuration is also innovative. Instead of being packaged first into a number of separate modules, the prismatic batteries are arranged directly within the structural battery housing. This has the benefits of reducing weight and improving packaging because more cells can be accommodated in a given volume. The result is an increase in energy density – above 175Wh/kg – which translates into greater range for the driver.

The sophisticated thermal management system and battery control module provide the ideal operating conditions crucial for both range and durability. Precise heating and cooling control ensures even heat distribution to all cells and ensures optimal temperatures under extreme conditions such as high power charging up to 350 kW, driving in extreme conditions below zero or sustained high speed cruising.

The integration of lightweight, compact electric motors in the front and rear axles delivers incredible performance and also makes Eletre the first drive-based off-road Lotus road car, an important step in the brand’s evolution. The permanent magnet, synchronous motors are housed with the transmissions and inverters inside a single cast housing for optimal packaging efficiency. All models feature a single-speed transmission on the front axle. Although the same is true for the rear axle of the Eletre and Eletre S, the Eletre R is two-speed: first gear has a ratio of 13.65:1, and second gear is 7.16:1. For the customer, this creates the ideal balance of superb launch and acceleration performance, as well as increased efficiency – and therefore range – at high speeds.

Gear changes are automatic and use friction plate clutches for smoothing. Weighing just 156kg, the Eletre R’s rear drive unit is approximately 14kg lighter than comparable two-speed designs. The inverters feature state-of-the-art silicon carbide material to provide the highest possible energy efficiency.

These highly advanced electric drive units bring astonishing and actionable new levels of performance to the SUV segment, along with remarkable efficiency. With 603 hp and 710 Nm of instant torque, the élétré and élétré S can accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4.5 seconds and go on to a top speed of 258 km/h (160 mph). Both can achieve a combined WLTP range of up to 600 km (373 miles)44. With an incredible 905 hp and 985 Nm, the Eletre R covers the benchmark sprint in just 2.95 seconds and can reach 265 km/h (165 mph). The range of WLTP Combine is 490 km.

Electric motorcycles also significantly improve real-world range. Unlike a combustion engine vehicle which converts kinetic energy into heat during braking, the Eletre can recover a significant portion of it as the engines act as generators when decelerating, with the energy recharging then the battery. The driver can choose from two levels of regenerative braking using the two touch-sensitive blades on the steering wheel, their complex shapes activated using a metal injection molding manufacturing process. To ensure drivers receive progressive, consistent pedal feel in all conditions, friction braking and regenerative braking are seamlessly blended.

Another attribute that Momentum’s effortless torque and all-wheel-drive traction underpins – and which adds another dimension to its performance – is towing capacity. Selected models are rated at 2,250kg (with braked trailer) and cars fitted with 22-inch wheels must be specified with the optional electric deployable tow bar, which detaches neatly when not in use. An additional 90 kg of weight can be carried on the roof bars which, with front luggage compartments of 688 liters (5-seater version) and 46 liters, give the Eletre the versatility and ability to match its luxury and performance.

Charging: fast, simple, convenient

To improve the ownership experience and make driving the Eletre even more enjoyable, it offers a footprint suited to its range and performance. All models feature a 22 kW onboard AC charger as standard: customers with a 22 kW wall box at home will be able to fully replenish the battery from 0 to 100 percent in less than six hours, which is ideal for night charging.

Customers can also completely control the amount to pay using the Lotus smartphone app. The app allows them to set the preconditioning function: while the vehicle is plugged in, it uses mains electricity to heat or cool the battery to the ideal operating temperature, and brings the cabin temperature to the setting desired by the customer. This is much more efficient than using power directly from the battery and, as well as improving occupant comfort, preconditioning also improves range, particularly in winter conditions when you have the most need.

When using the rapidly growing network of public charging stations around the world, Eletre customers enjoy the convenience of 350 kW DC fast charging. Perfect for topping off the battery on long journeys during a break, just 20 minutes is enough to recharge from 10 to 80%, and over 120 km (74 miles) of range can be added in just five minutes. Finding charging stations along the route is easy, thanks to the intelligent navigation system which not only knows where they are, but also whether or not they are available.

Form and function: active aerodynamics

Eletre’s dramatic, forward-looking design evolves the iconic design language from mid-engine sports car to hyper-SUV. The “air-sculpting” design ethos, as seen in the Evija hypercar and Emira sports car, is much more than skin-deep, and seamlessly integrates a series of active aerodynamic technologies that together , improve efficiency, performance and dynamics, and contribute to a drag coefficient of just 0.26.

One of the most important features is the active front grille. Part of the Emira and Evija-inspired front design, it features a row of seven individual openings, each featuring six triangular petals. These petals open and close on demand to meet the Eletre’s needs for cooling airflow to the powertrain’s engines and radiators, and the brakes.

Crucially, in colder markets, they can remain closed to retain heat. Unique to the Eletre R, if the driver chooses track mode, the gate is always fully open, allowing the vehicle to provide durable, high-performance handling and braking.

Power Rear View Mirror Displays (ERMD)11, which use high-definition cameras to broadcast the view behind the vehicle to six-inch screens in the front doors, have a much smaller frontal area than traditional mirrors. In addition to improved vision, ERMD technology can reduce the wind resistance coefficient by up to 1.5%, further improving aerodynamic performance and usable range.

The same benefit is the deployable, state-of-the-art LIDAR sensor mounted on the top of the windshield and front wheel arches. These remain hidden when not in use by the Eletre’s full suite of advanced driver assistance systems.

Another innovation is the Eletre’s active rear spoiler, packaged with a tailgate. Working in combination with the distinctive floating spoiler above, it automatically adjusts between three positions, depending on vehicle speed, acceleration, braking and driving mode setting.

When deployed at an angle of 18o, the spoiler can reduce the drag coefficient by up to 1.8%, while increasing the downforce by up to 60 kg; moving to 32o increases the drag coefficient slightly, by 1.8%, but more than doubles the force to 112.5 kg. Fully deployed at 34o delivers maximum deceleration to facilitate maximum braking effort.

Eletre inside: the digital cockpit

The Eletre has an interior like no Lotus before it. The luxurious and spacious cabin effortlessly combines performance-driven engineering design with world-class enrichment and connectivity and a curated selection of the finest materials and finishes that convey luxury, exclusivity and precision craftsmanship, with a focus on sustainability.

The Eletre’s intelligent “digital shock click” uses cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving experience by combining beautifully rendered graphics, lightning-fast responses and intuitive operation. Lotus Hyper OS, an all-new operating system debuting in Eletre, delivers a seamless interactive experience that delivers optimal performance and interactive feedback, putting the user – driver or passenger – in full control.

The specification includes dual Qualcomm 8155 Snapdragon chips for exceptional processing power, along with 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. The use of “Unreal Engine” technology from the world of computer games allows for real-time 3D animations and experiences. The best possible connectivity is ensured by 5G compatibility. On-air software capability ensures that the Eletre’s digital cockpit is always up to date and constantly improving over time as new features become available.

Another innovation is a virtual personal assistant so customers can interact with the vehicle simply by speaking: simply say “Hi, I’m cooling down”, for example, and the cabin temperature is adjusted accordingly, allowing drivers to keep your hand on the wheel and your eyes on the road.

The central touchscreen is a slim, fold-out, fold-out HD OLED design that’s just 10mm thick. Capable of displaying razor-sharp and clear images using over 16 million colors, it delivers exceptional clarity and a truly immersive experience for the driver. Navigation functionality, developed with HERE Technologies (for European markets), includes EV routing, electric vehicle range assist and predictive driving. Below the center console touchscreen is a wireless device charger to complement wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto2.

The front seat user has a high-definition touchscreen that allows them to control media playback and see information correspond to voice commands or receive instructions such as fastening seat belts. In the rear, passengers can control climate settings, seat adjustments, ambient lighting and media playback via an additional HD touchscreen – an eight-inch or nine-inch deployable screen for five-seat configurations or four places, respectively.

The 12.6-inch HD OLED instrument cluster behind the steering wheel is coupled with a 29-inch head-up display (HUD) with augmented reality to help the driver keep their eyes on the road. By projecting graphics that help convey key information such as navigation or advanced driver assistance system alerts onto corresponding objects in advance, the HUD can make it quicker and easier for the driver to understand what’s happening around them, reducing distraction and improving safety.

To ensure that every occupant can enjoy an unprecedented musical experience, the Eletre offers two audio systems developed with KEF. KEF Premium is a 1,380-watt, 15-speaker surround sound system, while KEF Reference is a 23-speaker, 2,160-watt system featuring space-saving surround sound and Uni-CoreTM technology, and the Eletre is the first vehicle to offer it. To improve depth, precision and clarity, both systems are combined with Dolby Atmos, and the pairing of this technology with KEF Audio is another first.

A smartphone application developed for the Eletre allows customers to interact with the vehicle wherever they are. In addition to using the app to control charging and preconditioning, it allows them to change climate control settings, purify cabin air, lock or unlock the vehicle, or simply check the information such as available range. Drivers can even use the app to park the vehicle remotely, for example, in tight spaces: they can watch their Eletre maneuver itself into parallel, perpendicular or diagonal spaces that would otherwise be too small if the occupants had to open the doors to get out.

Digital technology has even been applied to the panoramic glass roof 3: it offers 10 different settings for the amount of light transmitted into the cabin. And, compared to conventional designs that use a separate solar blind, it provides better thermal insulation, helping to reduce the energy consumption of the air conditioning system.

Advanced driver assistance systems: safe, future-proof

The Eletre is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), all designed to improve safety and make journeys more relaxing. To achieve this, a full complement of cutting-edge sensors are used: 34 in total, including four deployable LIDARs, six radars, seven 8MP HD cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. Together, they give the vehicle a true 360o view of the world around it.

To manage the real-time processing of this wealth of data, we can cite two NVIDIA Orin-X chips, which provide a computing capacity of 500 TOPS – a phenomenal number of 500 billion operations per second – and provide an architecture of fail-safe system to improve functional safety. This level of technology, along with software and over-the-air feature updates, ensures that the Eletre not only provides the latest ADAS functionality, but is also capable of delivering Level 4 autonomous driving capability as market regulations permit.

Eletre customers will be able to benefit from Roadside Assistance, which is designed to make long-distance highway driving more comfortable. Available from 30-150 km/h, it relies on the management of the speed and distance traveled by the system for controlling the speed and distance traveled by vehicles in front by automatically keeping the vehicle centered on its way, even in bends.

Driver fatigue and distraction are among the leading causes of road accidents, so Lotus has developed a Driver Monitoring System (DMS) that can help and support the driver if they determine that they are not concentrating not on the road ahead. Inside the cabin, near-infrared light is sent which is reflected by the driver’s eyes and captured by a camera: this determines, through filtering and complex calculations, where the driver look at. Combined with other inputs such as the speed and duration of each eye blink, the manner in which the mouth is closed or open, and the manner in which the vehicle is driven, the OMS can determine whether there is a risk that they fall asleep or don’t pay attention to the road in the future. If these scenarios occur, visual and audible warnings are triggered, encouraging the driver to stop and take a break.

Another innovation is Life Detection and Care – a system designed to protect children or pets inadvertently left inside a locked vehicle. If this happens, the CPD will trigger three levels of warning: within 10 seconds of closing the vehicle, the stair horn will sound and the lights will flash, and a notification will be sent to the driver. If the driver does not act, the horn and light signals will continue for five minutes. If no action is taken after five minutes and the temperature inside the cabin exceeds 35oC, an emergency call will be made to the authorities to alert them to the potential risk, the windows will be lowered and a new notification will be issued. sent to the driver.

Exterior design: bold and dramatic

Taking the creative freedom that comes from the absence of a gasoline engine, the dramatic form of the Eletre interprets 75 years of Lotus sports car DNA in a stunning new theme suited to the first all-electric hyper-SUV of the brand. It features a forward-running stance, a long wheelbase and front and rear overhangs. Overall, there is a visual lightness to the vehicle, creating the impression of a high-level sports car rather than an SUV.

A signature element of the design is its “porosity”, that is, the aerodynamic principle of air passing through the vehicle as well as below, above and around it. Porosity was central to the design of the Lotus Evija, is an integral part of the Emira and provided clear inspiration for the Eletre. Most obviously, air is channeled under the leading edge of the vehicle, emerging through two outlet vents in the hood.

There are other examples of porosity before and behind the front wheel arches, behind the rear wheels, and even at the top of the D pillar. For the driver, the benefits are clear: the reductions in aerodynamic drag they produce improves both performance and range.

At the front of the Element, the very sharp and crisp leading edge reveals a clear lineage to the Emira and Evija. It draws a distinct line through the very striking and contemporary design treatment below. There are further echoes of Evija in the layering of surfaces, the creation of space and the optimized, streamlined performance.

Just above the leading edge are the super-minus technical light clusters that house the daytime running lights and scrolling directional indicators. The full LED headlamps, which use Matrix technology to allow constant use of the high beam without dazzling the vehicle in front, or oncoming traffic, are housed below, recessed and partially hidden. The headlights also feature an industry-first high-beam spot module with an integrated active cornering light to increase visibility on dark, winding roads. The module is light, compact and simple – a true Lotus story, combining two features in one design. At the bottom is the Eletre’s active grille, another example of the vehicle’s porosity.

Overall, there’s a unique sense of flow and kinetic quality to the Eletre’s front end, the purity of which is enhanced by the deployable LIDAR sensor mounted atop the windshield, which remains in its lowered position when not in use. The bold leading edge of the hood continues into the front fenders, wheel arches and ultimately the length of the vehicle as a feature line. Tight, muscular features are dominant above her, with aerodynamic elements below.

In a streamlined manner, muscular hips dominate. The air outlet immediately behind the front wheels defines the sculpted shape of the doors, which also feature deployable technology for the handles, allowing the surfacing to flow smoothly along the edge of the bodywork.

The aggressive rake of the windshield – a sports vehicle’s 27o – is clearly visible on display, with the roofline dramatically unsettling at the rear, leading to a unique floating D-ply that features a ‘d-blade’. innovative ‘air’ which reduces drag. Another example of porosity is an improvement in aerodynamic performance taken directly from the front bumper of the Emira.

At the rear, the full-width ribbon light strip captures the feature line from the profile. Located just above the Lotus wordmark, it is red when the vehicle is moving and includes a scrolling directional indicator at each end, where it curves gently into the wheel arch air outlets – another clue of design that echoes both Emira and Evija. The light can appear in four colors, playing a role in the car’s theatrical unlocking sequence and also indicating the battery’s charge status. The unique overhanging carbon fiber roof spoiler is a motorsport-inspired design feature that evokes race car fins. The center section is removed to reduce weight – a very Lotus concept – and allows the LIDAR sensor to be integrated into the top of the glass.

Interior layout: luxurious, spacious

The Eletre takes Lotus interiors to an unprecedented new level. The technical and performance-driven design is visually lightweight, using award-winning materials to deliver an exceptional customer experience, whether in the standard five-seat configuration or the optional four-seat layout. Above, a 2 fixed panoramic roof floods the interior with natural light, adding to the bright and spacious feel inside.

The driver-focused cockpit and high center console are inspired by the Lotus Emira and Evija, creating a feeling of comfortable confinement. The layering of materials and textures creates a truly premium feel, augmented by a triangular theme – seen externally on the car’s active front grille – and replicated in several places around the cabin.

The Lotus philosophy of lightness – removing material where it is not needed – is clearly illustrated by the dashboard. The center section of the floating wing has been removed, echoing the design of the rear spoiler.

There are plenty of convenient storage spaces in the Eletre’s cabin. The center console includes a storage tray with wireless phone charging functionality, as well as twin cupholders that stay flush until needed. The beautifully sculpted door design includes storage that can accommodate a one liter bottle. The rear seats also have a wireless charging mat, and when the middle seat of the standard three-seat configuration is not in use, it can be lowered to become an armrest, also with two cup holders deployable.

Sustainability is also a key theme of the interior. A Lotus innovation debuting in the Eletre is Re-Fibre. Quality text made from waste made from the fashion industry, this material has the softness of cotton, the shine of silk and the softness of hemp, offering a new vision of sustainable luxury. By improving comfort, it also offers better air permeability than pure cotton. Offering a weight saving compared to leather, it also reduces the consumption of raw materials and reduces CO2.

Customers can also choose Ultrafabric polyurethane seats. This material offers a technical finish and is half the weight of leather, which is perfectly aligned with the Lotus ethos of lightness. There’s also Alcantara: this microfiber material has been carbon neutral since 2009, and the material offered in the Eletre has been offset by a zero carbon footprint. The mats are made from Econyl, a material made from 100% post-consumer waste that is also fully recyclable.

Lotus Eletre: a stage car for a landmark moment

With the Emira confirmed as the Lotus sports car, the final combustion engine, the importance of the Eletre as the first all-electric Lotus hyper-SUV is made all the more significant: it is a key milestone in the spectacular transformation of the brand, which embraces a bold new era. Lotus has always used technical innovation, advanced aerodynamics and lightweight design to create vehicles that set the class benchmark for performance, ride and handling. The Eletre proudly continues this tradition, but with a step change in versatility and usability, ensuring that the Lotus brand attracts driving enthusiasts around the world like never before.

1 – Eletre is equipped with standard mirrors in markets where local regulations do not authorize the DRE directive
2 – Not available in China
3 – Panoramic glass roof is optional in markets outside China
4 – With 20 inch wheel