- Lotus launches 939-bhp Eletre X plug-in hybrid SUV for Europe this summer. North America to follow.
Hybrid powertrain combines turbocharged petrol engine with dual electric motors.
New model is the result of Lotus adapting to slower-than-expected sales of electric Eletre and Emeya.
Lotus has introduced a PHEV version of its Eletre SUV, signalling the brand’s return to combustion-engine power after previously committing to a fully electric lineup. The model was presented in China as the “For Me” and will arrive in European markets during the summer under the name Eletre X.
The SUV combines a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder gasoline engine with electric motors mounted on both axles. The system produces a combined 939 bhp, giving the vehicle a claimed 0–100 km/h acceleration time of about 3.3 seconds. That figure exceeds the peak 892 bhp output offered by the fully-electric Eletre R variant. The hybrid system shares similarities with technology developed within the wider Geely group indicating possible future performance expansions.
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Energy storage is made possible by a 70-kWh battery pack, smaller than the 108-kWh unit installed in the fully electric Eletre models. Lotus reports an electric range of approximately 354 km CLTC (249 km EPA). The company also claims a combined driving range of up to roughly 1,416 km (994 km EPA) when the combustion engine and battery operate together.
Fast-charging capability is another highlight of the system. The battery supports what Lotus describes as “6C” charging performance, allowing the state of charge to increase from 30% to 80% in approximately eight minutes under suitable charging conditions.
The chassis integrates a technology package Lotus calls 6D Digital Dynamic Chassis. It includes a 48-volt adaptive anti-roll bar system designed to improve body control and reduce the high-centre-of-gravity handling characteristics typical of large SUVs.
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Vehicle mass varies between roughly 2,575 kg and 2,625 kg (5,676-5,787 lbs) depending on specification and equipment. Those figures are comparable to the electric Eletre variants currently on sale. So much for “simplify then add lightness” …
Lotus executives presented the model as a competitor in the luxury high-performance SUV segment. Vehicles referenced during the launch included the Lamborghini Urus SE PHEV, along with other powerful models such like the BMW XM.
Introducing plug-in hybrids is nothing short of a 180-degree turn for the small performance-luxury British brand. The company previously planned to transition entirely to EVs by 2028, but demand for its Eletre SUV and Emeya sedan is far lower than expected. More hybrids are on the way including a PHEV version of the Emira sports car.
Source: Autocar
