Lotus is embarking on its plug-in hybrid journey.

      Kyle Cheromcha

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      Out of all the automakers transitioning to fully electric vehicles, Lotus has been the most puzzling. Current EVs tend to be heavy, while Lotus is known for creating lightweight cars. Additionally, Lotus is expected to produce actual cars and not SUVs, which is part of the reason its last 15 years have been less vibrant compared to Porsche.

      Consumer preferences change, and brands must balance staying faithful to their roots while adapting to these trends. However, embracing a fully electric lineup felt excessive for Lotus, which may explain why the British carmaker is reconsidering that commitment. Early next year, it is anticipated that a plug-in hybrid version of its Eletre SUV, boasting over 900 horsepower, will be introduced. After it debuts in China, it will be available in Europe by fall, as confirmed by Group Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng through Autocar.

      At present, Lotus is planning three plug-in hybrid models. One will be a smaller SUV that has yet to be named. All will feature a 900-volt architecture that the company calls “Hyper Hybrid” for its purported near-instant charging capabilities.

      The Lotus Eletre, which is quite heavy and doesn’t resemble traditional Lotus models. Kyle Cheromcha

      Details about the combustion-engine aspect of the hybrid system remain unknown, but it’s evident that the Eletre has ample space to accommodate one, and Lotus has numerous partners—not to mention Geely itself—to procure an engine. For the large SUV, Lotus estimates that the entire hybrid configuration should achieve around 600 miles with a full battery and gas tank, while the current Eletre EV has a range of approximately 315 miles.

      Overall, this appears to be a positive development for Lotus. However, I would be misleading if I claimed I was particularly worried about the company beyond the ongoing existence of the Emira. The Emira must be safeguarded and its viability ensured, at all costs.

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