Lotus introduces its first PHEV, blending a 2.0-litre gasoline engine with electric motors.
The hybrid Eletre features a 70-kWh battery and a combined 952-hp power output.
Global rollout expected, though name may change outside China.
Lotus will be introducing its first plug-in hybrid model, an electrified version of the Eletre SUV named For Me. The new variant appeared in regulatory filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) ahead of its official debut scheduled for next month.
The For Me retains the core design of the all-electric Eletre but integrates a new plug-in hybrid powertrain. It combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors to deliver a total output of 952 horsepower. The combustion engine contributes 275 hp and can also function as a generator to recharge the battery.
2026 Lotus Eletre PHEV “For Me” | Photo: MIITThe hybrid system is paired with a 70-kWh battery, smaller than the 107-kWh unit in the electric version. Lotus reports an electric-only driving range of 420 kilometres, measured under China’s CLTC test cycle. The battery supports fast charging from 30 to 80% in eight minutes.
In its heaviest configuration, the For Me weighs 2,625 kilograms. This places it between the base Eletre, which weighs 2,565 kg, and the high-performance Eletre R at 2,745 kg.
The vehicle’s name marks a departure from Lotus’s traditional branding strategy. Historically, names affixed to Lotus vehicles have begun with the letter “E”.
Lotus Could Add a Hybrid Version of the Emira, due to its Electric Successor Being Delayed
Lotus plans to sell the For Me outside of China, though it is unclear whether the international model will retain the same name or be marketed under the Eletre Hybrid designation. The introduction of a plug-in hybrid SUV also signals a big change in the company’s electrification roadmap. Lotus had previously announced plans to cease production of internal combustion engine vehicles by 2028. That timeline is now being reconsidered thanks to slower-than-anticipated EV adoption in global markets.
The company is also reportedly developing a plug-in hybrid version of the Emeya sedan, and a hybrid Emira sports car has already been confirmed for release in 2027.
With limited sales volumes for sports cars like the Emira, Lotus must, if it is to survive, diversify its product range through electrified SUVs and sedans. Geely’s ownership stake has allowed Lotus to broaden its horizons and invest in electrified platforms
Source: Motor1
