Beginning with an electric SUV known as the Eletre that made its debut in early 2022, Lotus is venturing beyond the realm of lightweight sports cars with the introduction of more mainstream vehicles.

In late 2024, the first clients can anticipate receiving their orders, and the U.S. order books are now open. The base price of the Eletre in this market is $107,000, while the more potent Eletre R starts at $145,000.

With a single-speed transmission, dual motors, all-wheel drive, and a maximum output of 603 horsepower, the basic Eletre is powerful. The Eletre R has a peak horsepower of 905 and a 2-speed gearbox. With the additional power and gearing, the R can accelerate from rest to 62 mph in 2.95 seconds and achieve a maximum speed of 165 mph. The normal grade accelerates from 0 to 62 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds and reaches a maximum speed of 160 mph.

The Eletre’s single battery is a 111.9-kwh unit that, according to Lotus, can be charged from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes using a DC fast charger that supports 350 kW of charging. Based on the WLTP test cycle utilized internationally, Lotus offers a maximum range of 373 miles for the regular grade and 304 miles for the R. When measured with the more stringent EPA cycle, figure lower.

The Eletre is far larger than enthusiasts may have anticipated and is built on a modular electric vehicle framework known as Electric Premium Architecture. With a length of 200.9 inches, the Eletre is comparable in length to several full-size luxury automobiles and longer than a Range Rover. The lightest variant weighs 5,490 pounds curb weight, which is comparable to the weight of a Tesla Model X. Lotus used multiple materials in the body structure to reduce weight.

The Eletre’s interior has two rows and five seats overall as standard, while there is also a four-seat alternative. With the back seats folded flat, there is a maximum of 54.1 cubic feet of storage capacity. A 15.1-inch infotainment screen and a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster are located on the dash. air suspension, 20-inch wheels (22- and 23-inch wheels available), 12-way power-adjustable front seats, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, a KEF audio system with support for Dolby Atmos surround sound, and numerous sensors, including four lidar units, are among the standard and optional premium features.

Getting the Eletre R is more than just getting additional power. Along with the current Tour, Range, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual modes of the regular driving mode option, it also adds a Track mode. To lower the ride height, sharpen the engine responsiveness, and increase the threshold for the electronic stability control system to intervene, switch to the Track mode. In addition to the basic steel brake rotors, buyers of the R have the option to purchase carbon-ceramic braking rotors.

Lotus Technology, the company’s EV division, produces the Eletre at a plant in Wuhan, China. Additional Lotus lifestyle vehicles, such as the soon-to-be-unveiled compact crossover and the forthcoming Emeya sedan, will be produced at the same site. These further models are not yet confirmed for sale in the United States by Lotus.