Lotus Elettre arrives in the U.S. in late '24 with a base price of $107,000.
Lotus will not limit itself to the world of lightweight sports cars, but will launch more mainstream vehicles, starting with the Eletre electric SUV, which was first unveiled in early 2022.
The order book for the U.S. is finally open, and the first customers can expect their vehicles to be delivered in late 2024. Pricing for this market starts at $107,000 for the standard Elettre and $145,000 for the more powerful Elettre R.
The standard Elettre has a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain with a single-speed transmission and a peak output of 603 hp. The Eleator R is equipped with a two-speed transmission and has a maximum output of 905 hp; this power and gearing allow the R to sprint from a standstill to 62 mph in 2.95 seconds and reach a top speed of 165 mph. The standard grade accelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and has a top speed of 160 mph.
The only battery in the Eleuthero is a 111.9 kwh unit that, according to Lotus, can be charged to 10-80% in 20 minutes when using a DC fast charger capable of 350 kw of charging Lotus says the battery can be charged to 10-80% in 20 minutes when using a DC fast charger that supports 350kw charging. Lotus states that the maximum range, calculated on the WLTP test cycle used overseas, is 373 miles for the standard grade and 304 miles for the R. Lower figures are expected when measured under the more stringent EPA cycle.
The Eleuthero is based on a modular EV platform called Electric Premium Architecture, which is considerably larger than fans might expect. At 200.9 inches in length, it is longer than a Range Rover and closer to a full-size luxury sedan. The lightest version weighs 5,490 pounds, which is close to the weight of the Tesla Model X. Lotus minimized the weight by adopting a multi-material approach to body construction.
Inside, the Eleuthera comes standard with two rows of seating for five passengers, but a four-passenger option is also available. Storage space is up to 54.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. The dashboard features a 12.6-inch digital meter cluster and a 15.1-inch infotainment screen. Air suspension, 20-inch wheels (22- and 23-inch wheels are also available), 12-way power-adjustable front seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, Dolby Atmos surround sound support KEF audio system, multiple sensors including four rider units, and other premium features are standard or optional.
Upgrading to the Elektre R not only gives you more power. It also adds a Track mode to the existing Tour, Range, Sport, Off-Road, and Indivisual modes of the standard drive mode selector. Switching to Track mode lowers ride height, sharpens powertrain response, and increases the threshold at which the Electronic Stability Control system intervenes. R buyers can also opt for carbon ceramic brake rotors instead of the standard steel rotors.
Production of the Eletere is being handled by Lotus Technology, Lotus' EV division, at its plant in Wuhan, China. The plant will produce additional Lotus lifestyle models, including the upcoming Emeya sedan and an unannounced compact crossover. Lotus has not yet confirmed U.S. sales of these additional models.
