Lotus Eletre: Tecnologia, desempenho e luxo em um espaçoso e prático hiper-SUV puramente elétrico

• Destinado a uma nova geração de clientes da Lotus que buscam um hiper-SUV elétrico prático, versátil e espaçoso, voltado para a família
• O Lotus mais avançado de todos os tempos, o Eletre combina conforto, desempenho e design de luxo de última geração com materiais sustentáveis
• O sistema de infoentretenimento de última geração usa o Lotus Hyper OS para proporcionar uma experiência intuitiva e imersiva para todos os ocupantes
• Um verdadeiro Lotus - o Eletre combina o DNA central do Emira e do Evija, reinterpretando-os como um hiper-SUV com tecnologia avançada de suspensão e chassi
• Alto nível de qualidade em ajuste e acabamento, materiais e design
• Condução e manuseio de classe mundial baseados no desenvolvimento pioneiro da Lotus de sistemas ativos em carros de estrada e de corrida
• A aerodinâmica ativa - incluindo a impressionante grade frontal - significa alcance e eficiência otimizados, além de força descendente adicional para uma experiência de direção superior e estabilidade em alta velocidade
• O potente, eficiente e refinado trem de força totalmente elétrico oferece o equilíbrio perfeito entre desempenho, capacidade de resposta e alcance - até 600 km (373 milhas) WLTP combinado
• 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) em menos de três segundos faz do Eletre R o SUV elétrico puro com motor duplo mais rápido do mundo
• Carregamento rápido de 10 a 80% em apenas 20 minutos e até 120 km (74 milhas) de alcance em apenas cinco minutos
• Conjunto completo de sistemas avançados de assistência ao motorista com o inovador sistema LIDAR implantável
• Atualizações over-the-air para fornecer a funcionalidade e o software mais recentes aos clientes da Eletre
• O Eletre é preparado para o futuro, com capacidade de condução autônoma de Nível 4
• Disponível para encomenda agora, com preço a partir de £89.500 no Reino Unido e €95.990 na Europa
• Configure seu Eletre perfeito aqui 

A transformação contínua da Lotus em uma empresa e marca de desempenho verdadeiramente global atingiu seu marco mais significativo até o momento - a chegada do hiper-SUV Eletre.

O Lotus Eletre é um novo modelo marcante e progressivo, o primeiro de uma nova geração de SUVs de desempenho elétrico puro. Ele utiliza os princípios fundamentais e o DNA da Lotus de 75 anos de design e engenharia de carros esportivos, transformando-os em um novo e desejável veículo de estilo de vida.

Ele é voltado para uma nova geração de clientes da Lotus; aqueles que valorizam o desempenho dinâmico de classe mundial e o design marcante que sempre fizeram parte da experiência Lotus, e que também precisam de um veículo prático, versátil e espaçoso voltado para a família - um veículo que esteja repleto da mais recente tecnologia digital para tornar sua vida ao volante mais segura e conveniente.

Crédito da imagem: Lotus Media

O Eletre é um verdadeiro Lotus. Ele pega o coração e a alma do mais recente carro esportivo da Lotus - o Emira - e a aerodinâmica revolucionária do hipercarro totalmente elétrico Evija, e os reinterpreta como um hiper-SUV. Ele oferece condução e manuseio, direção e desempenho aerodinâmico líderes da categoria - áreas do design e da engenharia automotiva em que a Lotus foi pioneira e dominou ao longo de seus 75 anos de história, em carros de estrada e de corrida. Ela também é o epítome do belo design, das soluções de engenharia eficientes e elegantes, da adoção da tecnologia, do melhor trabalho artesanal, dos materiais avançados, da inovação e da engenhosidade, e da superação de novos limites. Essas são exatamente as coisas que tornaram a Lotus grande em primeiro lugar.

O Eletre é o mais recente de uma longa linha de carros de estrada da Lotus cujo nome começa com a letra E, e significa "Coming to Life" (Vindo à vida) em alguns idiomas do Leste Europeu. É um link apropriado, pois o Eletre marca o início de um novo capítulo na história da Lotus - o primeiro EV acessível e o primeiro SUV.

O Eletre é 'Born British, Raised Globally', uma colaboração entre equipes altamente experientes e dedicadas da Lotus no Reino Unido, Alemanha e China. Elas incluem as equipes de definição de produto e atributos em Hethel, a casa da Lotus desde 1966; as equipes de design no UK Creative Centre (UKCC) em Coventry; as equipes de engenharia e dinâmica no Germany Innovation Centre (GIC) em Raunheim; e as equipes de engenharia e fabricação da Lotus Tech em Wuhan.

Após a estreia mundial em Londres, em março de 2022, milhares de clientes em todo o mundo já fizeram depósitos para garantir seu Eletre. Três versões diferentes do carro estão disponíveis - Eletre, Eletre S e Eletre R - com a opção de dois trens de força.

As primeiras entregas aos clientes começaram na China em março e seguirão nos mercados globais - incluindo Europa e Reino Unido - no final do verão.

Mike Johnstone, Vice-Presidente do Grupo e Diretor Comercial da Lotus, comentou: "Como todo Lotus, o Eletre é, antes de tudo, um carro 'para os motoristas'. Seu DNA é 100% Lotus, com desempenho dinâmico excepcional. Ele também é o Lotus mais avançado de todos os tempos, combinando esse desempenho com conforto, praticidade, espaço versátil, tecnologia de ponta e design de luxo moderno em um veículo que leva a experiência Lotus a um grupo totalmente novo de clientes pela primeira vez."

Mike acrescentou: "Sabemos que os carros esportivos de dois lugares não são para todos, mas a experiência fantástica de dirigir um Lotus deveria ser. O Eletre, mais os outros modelos de estilo de vida totalmente elétricos que já anunciamos, estão oferecendo aos clientes e fãs uma gama de carros Lotus altamente desejáveis que podem atender a todas as suas necessidades em diferentes momentos de suas vidas. É uma progressão natural para a marca e extremamente empolgante, pois a Lotus tem como objetivo oferecer o melhor desempenho, independentemente do segmento em que o carro é vendido."

Maximilian Szwaj, vice-presidente da Lotus Technology e diretor administrativo da GIC, comentou: "Desde sua criação, há exatamente 75 anos, a Lotus sempre esteve na vanguarda da inovação, sendo pioneira nos avanços em aerodinâmica, sistemas ativos e construção leve. O Eletre incorpora todas essas qualidades fundamentais e acrescenta tecnologias de última geração - incluindo sensores LIDAR implantáveis - apoiadas por hardware e software preparados para o futuro. A experiência do cliente de classe mundial é impulsionada por um impressionante sistema de infoentretenimento com capacidade para 5G, alimentado pelo Lotus Hyper OS, que oferece o melhor desempenho da categoria para efeitos visuais e feedback interativo. Simplesmente, este é o Lotus mais avançado já feito".

A abrangente especificação de série do Eletre inclui suspensão pneumática ativa, controle contínuo de amortecimento, vetorização de torque, Lotus Intelligent Dynamic Chassis Control, rodas forjadas de 22 polegadas e 10 raios em prata com acabamento diamantado (20 polegadas e cinco raios nos mercados europeus), faróis Matrix LED, Adaptive Cruise Control, Visual Park Assist, controle climático de quatro zonas, bancos dianteiros com ajuste elétrico de 12 vias, head-up display, Apple Carplay e Android Auto sem fio e um sistema KEF Premium Audio de 1.380 W e 15 alto-falantes.

O Eletre S é voltado para clientes que buscam luxo. A especificação aprimorada inclui recursos adicionais como fechamento suave das portas, vidro de privacidade, spoiler traseiro ativo, iluminação ambiente configurável, soleiras laterais iluminadas, sistema de qualidade do ar, sistema de áudio de referência KEF de 23 alto-falantes de 2.160 watts e rodas forjadas de 22 polegadas com 10 raios na cor cinza com acabamento diamantado.

O carro-chefe Eletre R tem tudo a ver com desempenho e se beneficia do Pacote de Manuseio Dinâmico da Lotus (que inclui o Controle Ativo Inteligente de Rolagem e a Direção Traseira Ativa), Pacote de Carbono, pneus de desempenho Pirelli P Zero e um acabamento preto brilhante para as rodas. Há também um sexto modo de direção: Track.

Os clientes do Eletre têm a oportunidade de personalizar o veículo de acordo com suas necessidades usando a lista abrangente de pacotes de opcionais. Esses pacotes incluem o Pacote de Assento Executivo, Pacote de Assento Confortável, Pacote de Fibra de Carbono Estendido, Pacote de Fibra de Carbono Interior, Pacote de Estacionamento e Pacote de Assistência Rodoviária. De série no Eletre R, o Pacote Lotus Dynamic Handling e os Pacotes de Carbono também estão disponíveis para o Eletre e o Eletre S. Um Pacote de Freios de Cerâmica é oferecido no Eletre R (e no Eletre S nos mercados europeus).

Para aumentar ainda mais a escolha e a personalização do cliente, muitos recursos dos pacotes estão disponíveis como opções autônomas. Há também uma ampla gama de cores, materiais e acabamentos disponíveis no interior. Disponível para encomenda agora, o Eletre tem preço a partir de £89.500 no Reino Unido e €95.990 na Europa. Os preços em outras regiões serão anunciados oportunamente.

Um tour de force técnico
A Lotus sempre foi uma das marcas automotivas mais inovadoras e tecnológicas, e o Eletre é o resultado de 75 anos de conquistas pioneiras nas áreas de direção e manuseio, direção, aerodinâmica e sistemas ativos. Resultado de um exaustivo programa de desenvolvimento de engenharia global, o Eletre foi testado ao longo de mais de um milhão de quilômetros em alguns dos ambientes mais adversos do planeta, inclusive no desafiador circuito de Nürburgring Nordschleife, na Alemanha. O Eletre funde os fundamentos do DNA da dinâmica da Lotus com tecnologias de ponta em chassi e segurança de condução, trens de força elétricos de última geração, além de um interior luxuoso e espaçoso com infotainment de classe mundial para oferecer um novo tipo de Lotus para motoristas entusiastas de carros de desempenho em todo o mundo.

Com o Eletre, a Lotus está oferecendo mais inovação, mais tecnologia, mais capacidade e mais apelo do que nunca. Oferecendo uma autonomia de até 600 km (373 milhas), a conveniência da recarga rápida de 10 a 80% em apenas 20 minutos e a aceleração de 0 a 100 km/h (0 a 62 mph) em impressionantes 2,95 segundos no modelo R, o Eletre aproveita ao máximo todos os benefícios que a eletrificação pode oferecer e os utiliza para aprimorar de forma abrangente a experiência de dirigir.

O torque instantâneo e sem esforço e a tração integral proporcionados pelos dois motores elétricos, juntamente com a suspensão pneumática ativa, também trazem uma dimensão completamente nova para a propriedade da Lotus: a capacidade de continuar dirigindo onde a estrada termina e de rebocar até 2.250 kg.

Um conjunto abrangente de sistemas avançados de assistência ao motorista (ADAS) também faz parte da experiência do Eletre: Controle de cruzeiro adaptativo inteligente (ACC); Highway Assist (HWA); Suporte de mitigação de colisão frontal (CMSF); Informações de sinais de trânsito (TSI); Aviso de porta aberta (DOW); Alerta de tráfego cruzado traseiro (RCTA); Alerta de tráfego cruzado dianteiro (FCTA); Lane Change Assist (LCA); Life Detection and Care (LDC); Lane Keep Aid com Lane Departure Warning / Prevention (LKA+); Parking Emergency Brake (PEB); Collision Mitigation Support Rear (CMSR); e Emergency Rescue Call (E-Call). Cada um deles foi projetado para tornar cada viagem mais segura e relaxante.

Há também um head-up display de 29 polegadas com realidade semi-aumentada que pode sobrepor gráficos contextuais à visão à frente para ajudar o motorista a manter os olhos na estrada. Uma função de estacionamento remoto no aplicativo do smartphone permite que o proprietário do Eletre manobre o carro em uma vaga de estacionamento apertada enquanto estiver fora do veículo, possibilitando o encaixe em espaços que, de outra forma, seriam inadequados. O conjunto de sensores de última geração também está preparado para o futuro para oferecer mais avanços na capacidade de direção automatizada por meio de atualizações over-the-air (OTA).

Os clientes da Eletre na Europa se beneficiam de uma garantia de veículo de cinco anos / 150.000 km com uma garantia de bateria de oito anos / 200.000 km. No Reino Unido, os clientes recebem uma garantia de cinco anos / 100.000 quilômetros para o veículo com uma garantia de oito anos / 150.000 quilômetros para a bateria. Todos os clientes recebem cinco anos de assistência rodoviária pan-europeia.

Tecnologia de chassi e dinâmica do veículo: Uma nova referência no segmento de SUVs
Cada Lotus deve proporcionar o equilíbrio ideal entre agilidade, manuseio e conforto: isso é fundamental para o DNA da marca e para o apelo inigualável que cada modelo oferece ao motorista. Por meio de uma combinação de sua plataforma leve e rígida, sistemas de suspensão sofisticados e tração integral inteligente, a equipe de engenharia do Eletre teve o ponto de partida ideal para o desenvolvimento da dinâmica do veículo. Para aumentar ainda mais a capacidade, há tecnologias como o controle ativo anti-capotagem, a vetorização de torque na frenagem e a direção ativa nas rodas traseiras. Unindo todas essas tecnologias avançadas para que elas interajam perfeitamente como uma só, o resultado é um SUV que dirige, faz curvas e anda como só um Lotus pode fazer.

O Eletre apresenta sofisticados sistemas de suspensão multi-link na dianteira e na traseira, com componentes feitos de alumínio leve. O design de cada um deles permite o desacoplamento eficaz das cargas laterais e longitudinais, proporcionando uma excelente qualidade de condução, juntamente com uma capacidade de resposta excepcional, sem que um atributo comprometa o outro.

As inovadoras molas pneumáticas de câmara dupla, instaladas como padrão em toda a linha Eletre, permitem o controle independente da altura e da rigidez do veículo. Além do conforto e do refinamento, a suspensão pneumática ativa também proporciona um rebaixamento dependente da velocidade do carro em até 25 mm para reduzir o arrasto e, portanto, melhorar a autonomia. Ela também pode aumentar a altura do veículo entre 15 mm e 25 mm para melhorar a capacidade fora de estrada.

O sistema de amortecimento controlado eletronicamente - CDC - mede continuamente as cargas que chegam à suspensão a uma taxa de 1.000 vezes por segundo e adapta a taxa de amortecimento 500 vezes por segundo, para melhorar o controle da carroceria sem qualquer aspereza. Isso significa que o Eletre "respira" com a estrada, como todo Lotus deve fazer.

The Eletre is the first Lotus to use electromechanical power steering. The system has been meticulously tuned to deliver the pure, truly connected feel, feedback, and intuitive response to the driver’s inputs that is a hallmark of every Lotus and for which Eletre also sets the class benchmark. And, at only 2.5 turns lock-to-lock, the steering is sports-car quick as well. With the rack-mounted motor only consuming power on-demand, the system offers greater energy efficiency than those relying 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, together with Intelligent Active Roll Control (IARC), as part of the Lotus Dynamic Handling Pack that’s fitted as standard to the Eletre R and optional on Eletre and Eletre S. Actuators mounted on the rear subframe connected to the toe control arm can rotate the rear suspension knuckle by up to 3.5º. At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the fronts, effectively reducing the wheelbase and therefore reducing the turning circle by up to 0.8 meters to enhance maneuverability. At high speeds, the rear wheels turn in the same direction as the fronts, improving stability.

IARC is a third-generation 48-volt system featuring powerful and fast-acting electromechanical actuators. Taking their input from the body displacement sensors, their required output torque is calculated in only two milliseconds, delivering precision control of the required roll stiffness, resulting in even more neutral cornering and improved composure. When driving on smooth, flat roads, IARC effectively decouples the anti-roll bars, benefiting ride comfort.

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

Drivers can also tailor the Eletre’s character to their individual taste by selecting one of the different Drive Modes, either through the central touchscreen or using the shift paddles behind the steering wheel. Each Mode subtly alters the vehicle’s settings to deliver a range of different benefits:

• Tour Mode is the default mode, and balances driving comfort and energy consumption
• Range Mode reduces the energy consumption of systems such as climate control, optimizes front and rear torque distribution and offers a more progressive accelerator pedal response to increase range
• Sport Mode sharpens the powertrain and chassis response, enhancing drivability and handling
• Off-Road Mode can be used to enhance traction on low-friction surfaces to remove the risk of wheelspin
• Individual Mode allows the driver to choose specific settings for powertrain, suspension, and steering
• Track Mode (Eletre R only) reduces ride height and powertrain response compared to Sport Mode, and also raises the threshold for the electronic stability control system’s intervention, giving the driver more influence over the vehicle’s cornering behavior, making it ideal for spirited driving on a circuit

Comprehensive development work on the tires and brakes has also taken place. Working in partnership with Pirelli, Lotus has engineered a range of high-performance 22 and 23-inch P Zero and ultra-high performance 22-inch P Zero Corsa tires specifically for the Eletre. Each delivers an ideal balance of wet and dry grip, especially under the high loads resulting from the instant torque from the electric motors.

The braking system developed for the Eletre stands out for its six-piston front calipers and two-piece Brembo discs, comprising steel rotors and aluminum mounting bells. Joined together by a special casting process, these discs offer weight savings compared to conventional one-piece cast discs, and improved thermal management at high temperatures for improved braking performance – characteristics proven during the demanding testing program at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife.

A carbon ceramic braking system is available as an option on the Eletre R (and Eletre S in European markets). This features AP Racing’s 10-piston ‘Radical’ calipers on the front axle: the highly optimized, asymmetric form of the forged aluminum components means they are the same weight as the six-piston calipers but offer 60 per cent more pressure area for even higher performance. They clamp 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 exceeding 1,000ºC, offering outstanding fade resistance. They also offer a service life which is typically double that of steel discs. Calipers are available in a choice of six colors, depending on the spec chosen.

Bespoke, multi-material EV architecture: light, stiff, strong
Ensuring that the Eletre would deliver the benchmark ride, handling and agility expected of a Lotus, it was developed from day one on the all-new Electric Premium Architecture (EPA). This highly flexible, modular platform is bespoke to Lotus, and will be at the core of a range of new premium lifestyle performance EVs which will be developed over the next few years.

Engineered to maximize the benefits of electrification, including packaging the battery between the axles and beneath the floor to lower the center of gravity and maximize cabin space, EPA features an intelligent mix of advanced materials to deliver the high torsional stiffness and light weight that are fundamental to Lotus dynamics DNA. This approach delivers an overall weight saving of 10 per cent on the complete body structure.

Aluminum high-pressure die-castings feature in key components such as the damper mounting points – the two front castings alone save 6kg compared to steel parts – together with aluminum extrusions and for the sills and stampings for the body panels. The three-piece bonnet assembly is 8kg lighter because of its aluminum construction, while the frameless aluminum doors save a further 6kg.

In all, advanced aluminum alloys account for 43 per cent of the platform itself, and 50.7 per cent of the complete body structure. They are combined with high and ultra-high strength steels, together with hot-formed steels to reinforce the A and B-pillars and enhance crash 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-piercing rivets, flow-drilled screws, spot welding and laser welding.

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

Dual-motor all-electric powertrain: power, performance, and efficiency
Befitting its status as a hyper-SUV, Eletre’s propulsion system technology delivers the searing performance expected of a truly rewarding, engaging, driver-focused machine, together with the energy efficiency essential for long range and day-to-day usability.

Packaged beneath the vehicle floor is a state-of-the-art, 800-volt, 112kWh Lithium-ion battery pack. Compared to conventional 400-volt systems, the 800-volt architecture reduces the operating current by half for the same power output. The benefits for the customer are threefold: less weight because smaller diameter cables can be used in the wiring harnesses; enhanced power efficiency and improved thermal management as less heat is generated; and much faster charging.

The configuration of the battery pack is innovative too. Instead of being packaged first within a number of separate modules, the prismatic cells are arranged directly within the battery’s structural casing. This has the advantages of reducing weight, and improving packaging as more cells can be housed within a given volume. The result is enhanced energy density – more than 175Wh/kg – which translates into longer range for the driver.

The battery pack’s sophisticated thermal management system and battery control module deliver the ideal operating conditions crucial to both range and durability. Precise control of heating and cooling ensures uniform heat distribution across all the cells and ensures optimal temperatures under extremes such as high-power charging at up to 350kW, driving in sub-zero conditions or sustained high-speed cruising.

Integrating light and compact electric motors into the front and rear axles provides incredible performance and makes Eletre the first all-wheel drive Lotus road car – a significant milestone in the brand’s evolution. The permanent magnet, synchronous motors are housed together with the transmissions and inverters inside a single, cast housing for optimum packaging efficiency. All models feature a single-speed transmission on the front axle. While the same is true for the rear axle of the Eletre and Eletre S, the Eletre R features a two-speed design: 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 performance and acceleration, together with enhanced efficiency – and therefore range – at high speeds.

Shifts are automatic, and utilize friction plate clutches for smoothness. Weighing only 156kg, the Eletre R’s rear drive unit is some 14kg lighter than comparable two-speed designs. The inverters feature state-of-the-art silicon carbide material to deliver the highest possible energy efficiency.

These highly advanced electric drive units deliver astonishing and exploitable new levels of performance to the SUV segment, together with remarkable efficiency. With 603hp and 710Nm of instant torque, the Eletre and Eletre S can accelerate from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in only 4.5 seconds and go on to a maximum speed of 258km/h (160mph). Both can achieve a WLTP Combined range of up to 600km (373 miles)⁴. With an incredible 905hp and 985Nm, the Eletre R covers the benchmark sprint in just 2.95 seconds and can reach 265km/h (165mph). WLTP Combine range is 490km (304 miles).

The electric drive units also greatly enhance real-world range. Unlike a combustion engine vehicle which converts kinetic energy to heat during braking, the Eletre can recuperate a significant proportion of this because the motors act as generators during deceleration, with the energy then recharging the battery. The driver can select from two levels of regenerative braking using the two tactile paddles on the steering wheel, their intricate shapes enabled by using a metal injection molding manufacturing process. To ensure drivers receive consistent, progressive pedal feel under all conditions, friction braking, and regenerative braking are seamlessly blended together.

Another attribute that the Eletre’s effortless torque and outstanding all-wheel drive traction underpin – and one which adds another dimension to its performance – is towing capacity. Selected models are rated at 2,250kg (with braked trailer), and cars with 22-inch wheels can be specified with the optional deployable electric tow bar which shows neatly away when not in use. An additional 90kg can be carried on the roof bars, which, together with 688-litre rear (five-seat version) and 46-litre front luggage compartments, gives the Eletre the versatility and practicality to match its luxury and performance.

Charging: fast, simple, convenient
To enhance the ownership experience and make driving the Eletre even more enjoyable, it offers charging to match its range and performance. All models feature a 22kW on-board AC charger as standard: customers with a 22kW wall box at home will be able to fully replenish the battery from 0-100 per cent in less than six hours – ideal for overnight charging.

Customers can also fully control how much to charge using the Lotus smartphone app. The app enables them to set the pre-conditioning 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 customer’s desired setting. This is far more efficient than drawing power directly from the battery and, as well as enhancing occupant comfort, pre-conditioning also enhances range, particularly in winter conditions when you need it the most.

When using the rapidly growing network of public charging stations worldwide, Eletre customers benefit from the convenience of rapid 350kW DC charging. Perfect for topping up the battery on long journeys when stopping for a break, just 20 minutes is enough to recharge from 10-80 per cent, and more than 120km (74 miles) of range can be added in only five minutes. Finding charging stations along the route is easy, thanks to the intelligent navigation system which not only highlights where they are, but also if they are available or not.

Form and function: active aerodynamics
Eletre’s dramatic, cab-forward design evolves the iconic design language of the mid-engine Lotus sports car into a hyper-SUV. The ‘carved by air’ design ethos as seen in the Evija hypercar and Emira sports car is much more than skin deep, and seamlessly integrates a raft of active aerodynamic technologies which together enhance efficiency, performance, and dynamics, and contribute to a drag coefficient of just 0.26.

One of the most significant features is the active front grille. An integral part of the Emira and Evija-inspired front end design, this comprises a row of seven individual apertures, each one featuring six triangular petals. These petals smoothly open and close on demand to meet the Eletre’s requirements for cooling airflow to the powertrain’s e-motors and radiators, and to the brakes. Crucially, in colder markets, they can stay closed to retain heat. Unique to the Eletre R, if the driver selects Track Mode, the grille is always fully open, helping to ensure the vehicle can deliver sustained, high-performance driving and braking.

The Electric Reverse Mirror Displays (ERMD)¹, which use high-definition cameras to stream the view behind the vehicle to six-inch displays in the front doors, have a much smaller frontal area than traditional rear-view mirrors. As well as enhanced vision, the ERMD technology can reduce the wind resistance coefficient by up to 1.5 per cent, further improving aero performance and usable range.

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

Another innovation is the Eletre’s active rear spoiler, packaged neatly into the tailgate. Working in combination with the distinctive split floating roof spoiler above, it automatically adjusts between three positions, depending on vehicle speed, acceleration, braking and Drive Mode setting.

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

Eletre inside: the digital cockpit
The Eletre has an interior like no Lotus before it. The luxurious, spacious cabin effortlessly fuses a performance-orientated, technical design with world-class infotainment and connectivity and a curated selection of the very finest materials and finishes which convey luxury, exclusivity, and precision craftsmanship – with an equal focus on sustainability.

The Eletre’s intelligent ‘Digital Cockpit’ uses cutting-edge technology to enhance the driving experience by combining beautifully rendered graphics, super-fast responses and intuitive operation. Lotus Hyper OS – an all-new operating system making its debut in Eletre – provides a seamless interactive experience that offers best-in-class performance and interactive feedback, putting the user – driver or passenger – in complete control.

The specification includes dual Qualcomm 8155 Snapdragon chips for exceptional processing power, together with 12GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. Use of ‘Unreal Engine’ technology from the world of computer gaming enables real-time 3D animations and experiences. The best possible connectivity is ensured by 5G compatibility. Software-over-the-air capability ensures the Eletre’s Digital Cockpit is always up to date, and continuously improves over time as new functionality becomes available.

Another innovation is a virtual personal assistant so that customers can interact with the vehicle just by speaking simply say “Hi Lotus, I’m cold,” for example, and the cabin temperature is adjusted accordingly, enabling drivers to keep their hands on the steering wheel and eyes on the road.

The central touchscreen is a slimline, deployable, 15.1-inch HD OLED design that’s only 10mm thick. Able to display beautifully crisp, clear images using over 16 million colors, it offers exceptional clarity and a truly immersive experience for the driver. Navigation functionality, developed with HERE Technologies (for UK and European markets), includes EV Routing, EV Range Assistant and Predictive Routing. Beneath the touchscreen in the center console is a wireless device charger to complement wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto2.

The front seat passenger has a high-definition touchscreen of their own, enabling them to control media playback and see information corresponding to voice control commands or receive prompts such as fasten seatbelt. In the rear, passengers can control climate control settings, seat adjustments, ambient lighting, and media playback through a further HD touchscreen – an eight-inch or nine-inch deployable display for five-seat or four-seat configurations, respectively.

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

Ensuring that every occupant can enjoy an unrivalled music 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 2,160-watt 23-speaker system featuring 3D surround sound and space-saving Uni-Core™ technology, and the Eletre is the first vehicle to offer it. To enhance depth, precision, and clarity, both systems are combined with Dolby Atmos, and the pairing of this technology together with KEF Audio is another first.

A smartphone app developed for the Eletre enables customers to interact with the vehicle wherever they are. As well as using the app to control charging and pre-conditioning, it allows them to change climate control settings, purify the cabin air, remotely lock, or unlock the vehicle, or just check information such as available range. Drivers can even use the app to remotely park the vehicle, for example, in tight spaces: they can watch their Eletre maneuver itself into parallel, perpendicular, or diagonal spaces which 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 roof³: it offers 10 different settings for the amount of light transmitted into the cabin. And, compared to conventional designs which use a separate sunblind, it offers better heat insulation, helping to reduce the energy consumption of the climate control system.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems: safety, future-proofed
The Eletre is equipped with a full suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), all designed to enhance safety and make journeys more relaxing. To deliver this, a full complement of state-of-the-art sensors are used: 34 in total, including the four deployable LIDAR, six radar, seven 8MP HD cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors. All together, they give the vehicle a true 360º view of the world around it.

To manage real-time processing of this wealth of data are two NVIDIA Orin-X chips, which provide a computing power capability of 500 TOPS – a phenomenal 500 trillion operations per second – and provide a fail-safe system architecture for enhanced functional safety. This level of technology, together with software and feature updates over-the-air, ensures that the Eletre not only provides the very latest ADAS functionality but is also able to deliver Level 4 autonomous driving capability as market regulations allow.

Eletre customers will be able to benefit from Highway Assist, which is designed to make long distance motorway driving more comfortable. Available from 30-150km/h, this builds on the Adaptive Cruise Control system’s management of speed and distance to vehicles in front by also automatically keeping the vehicle centered in its lane – even in bends.

Tiredness and driver distraction are among the main causes of road accidents, so Lotus has developed a Driver Monitoring System (DMS) which can help and support the driver if it determines that they are not focused on the road ahead. Inside the cabin, near-infrared light is sent out which is reflected by the driver’s eyes and picked up by a camera: this determines, through filtering and complex calculations, where the driver is looking. Combined with other inputs such as the rate and duration of every blink, how the mouth is closed or open, and the way in which the vehicle is being driven, DMS can determine if there is a risk of them falling asleep or not paying attention to the road ahead. 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. Should this occur, CPD will initiate three levels of warning: within 10 seconds of the vehicle being locked, the Eletre’s horn will sound, and the lights will flash, and a notification will be sent to the driver. If the driver does not act, the signals from the horn and lights 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 sent to the driver.

Exterior design: daring and dramatic
Embracing the creative freedom which comes from the absence of a petrol engine, the Eletre’s dramatic form interprets 75 years of Lotus sports car design DNA into a stunning new theme befitting the brand’s first all-electric hyper-SUV. It is characterized by a cab-forward stance, long wheelbase and very short overhangs front and rear. Overall, there is a visual lightness to the vehicle, creating the impression of a high-riding sports car rather than an SUV.

A signature element of the design is its ‘porosity’ – the aerodynamic principle of air flowing through the vehicle as well as under, over and around it. Porosity was at the heart of the Lotus Evija’s design, is integral to the Emira, and has provided clear inspiration for the Eletre. It is most obvious where air is channeled under the leading edge of the vehicle, emerging through two exit vents in the bonnet.

There are other examples of porosity ahead of 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 that they deliver improve both performance and range.

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

Just above the leading edge are the super-slim, technical light clusters which house the Daytime Running Lights and scrolling directional indicators. The full LED headlights, which use Matrix technology to permit constant high beam use 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 incorporated active cornering light to increase visibility on dark, twisty roads. The module is light, compact, and simple – a true Lotus story, combining two features in one design. Lower down is the Eletre’s active front grille, a further example of the vehicle’s porosity.

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

In profile, the muscular haunches 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 bodyside.

The aggressive rake of the windscreen – a sports car-like 27º – is clearly visible in profile, with the roofline tapering away dramatically at the rear, leading to a unique floating D-pillar that features an innovative ‘air blade’ which aids drag reduction. Another example of porosity, it is an aerodynamic performance enhancement taken directly from the front bumper of the Emira.

At the rear, the full-width ribbon light strip picks up the feature line from the profile. Situated 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 air outlets from the wheel arches – another design cue which echoes both the Emira and Evija. The light can appear in four colors, playing a role in the car’s theatrical unlocking sequence and indicating the battery’s charge status. The unique cantilevered carbon fiber ‘floating’ split roof spoiler is a motorsport-inspired design feature that evokes race car winglets. The central section is removed to reduce weight – a very Lotus concept – and allows the LIDAR sensor to be integrated at the top of the glass.

Interior design: luxurious, spacious
The Eletre takes Lotus interiors to an unprecedented new level. The performance-oriented and technical design is visually lightweight, using ultra-premium materials to deliver an exceptional customer experience, whether in the standard five-seat configuration or the optional four-seat layout. Above, a fixed panoramic roof² floods the interior with natural light, adding to the bright and spacious feeling inside.

The driver-focused cockpit and high center console are inspired by the Lotus Emira and Evija, creating a cossetted feeling. 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 multiple locations around the cabin.

The Lotus philosophy of lightweighting – removing material wherever it is not needed – is clearly illustrated in the instrument panel. The floating wing’s central section has been taken out, echoing the design of the rear spoiler.

There is a wealth of practical storage space in the Eletre’s cabin. The center console includes a storage tray with wireless phone charging functionality, as well as twin cupholders which remain flush to the surface until they are needed. The beautifully sculpted door design includes storage which can accommodate a one-liter bottle. Occupants in the rear of the four-seat configuration also have a wireless charging mat, and when the middle rear seat of the five-seat configuration is not being used, it can be folded to become an armrest, also with two deployable cupholders.

Sustainability is also a key theme of the interior. A Lotus innovation which makes its debut in the Eletre is the Re-Fiber. A premium textile made from waste fabric from the fashion industry, this material has the softness of cotton, the luster of silk and the smoothness of hemp, offering a new vision of sustainable luxury. Enhancing comfort, it also offers better air permeability than pure cotton. Offering weight saving compared to leather, it also reduces consumption of raw materials and reduces CO₂.

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

Lotus Eletre: a milestone car for a milestone moment
With the Emira confirmed as the final combustion engine Lotus sports car, the Eletre’s significance as the first all-electric Lotus hyper-SUV is made more significant: it is a key milestone in the brand’s dramatic transformation as it embraces a bold new electrified era. Lotus has always used technical innovation, advanced aerodynamics and lightweighting to create vehicles which 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 appeals to driving enthusiasts around the world like never before.

1 – Eletre is fitted with standard mirrors in markets where local regulations do not allow ERMD
2 – Not available in China
3 – Panoramic glass roof is optional in markets outside China
4 – With 20-inch wheel

Lotus Eletre: Technical Specification
Powertrain and performance:

* Uso de rodas de 20 polegadas, disponíveis como opção sem custo no Reino Unido.

Chassi

Dimensões (mm):

Lotus Eletre: Preços (a partir de)