The iconic English sportscar manufacturer Lotus has officially marked its grand entry into the country with the launch of the groundbreaking all-electric Eletre SUV.
Priced at a staggering Rs 2.55 crore (ex-showroom), the Eletre not only claims the title of the most powerful but also the most expensive electric SUV in India, firmly establishing Lotus as a pioneer in the electric performance car realm.
The much-anticipated Eletre was introduced by Exclusive Motors of New Delhi, the trusted retailer with a reputation for luxury vehicles, including Bentleys. The first showroom is all set to open its doors in Delhi early in 2024, promising a wave of showrooms across the nation in the years to follow.
The Eletre makes a distinctive statement with its cab-forward stance, a lengthy wheelbase, and minimal front and rear overhangs, giving it a sleek appearance that defies its actual size. Drawing inspiration from Lotus’ iconic mid-engined layout, the compact bonnet pays homage to the brand’s rich heritage, echoing design cues from the celebrated Evija model.
The SUV’s exterior features, such as sharp edges reminiscent of the Evija and Emira, and a glass canopy akin to the Evija, pay homage to Lotus’ rich heritage. The India-spec model rides on standard 22-inch, 10-spoke forged wheels, ensuring a blend of style and performance.
Designed with a keen focus on aerodynamic efficiency, the Eletre incorporates an active front grille that skillfully channels air for optimal performance. Notable aerodynamic features include vents on the bonnet, behind the front and rear wheel arches, and atop the D-pillar.
At the rear, the SUV showcases a full-length ribbon light that curves into the air outlets, reminiscent of the Emira and Evija. The color-changing light, based on battery charge, adds a dynamic touch to the vehicle’s aesthetic.
Inside the Eletre, a tech-heavy ambiance prevails. The highlight is the 15.1-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, running on the innovative ‘Lotus Hyper OS.’ The cabin, adorned with sustainable materials like Kvadrat and a wool-blend fabric, features a unique split dashboard design and an array of screens displaying crucial vehicle information.
Underpinned by Lotus’ Electric Premium Architecture, the Eletre offers six interior themes, emphasizing sustainability. Standard features include wireless charging, adjustable front seats, climate control, a premium sound system, ambient lighting, and advanced driver assistance features.
Available in three versions – Eletre, Eletre S, and Eletre R – with two powertrains, the SUV boasts impressive performance figures. The Eletre R claims the title of the world’s fastest production electric SUV with a top speed of 258kph.
As Lotus pioneers the performance-focused electric SUV niche in India, the next offering on the horizon is the Emira sportscar, slated for a 2024 launch. This final internal combustion engine sportscar will be available with a range of powerful engine options, signaling Lotus’ commitment to innovation and excellence.
