Lotus is looking to the future, namely focusing on electrification. The venerable British automaker is anticipated to undertake a dramatic change in course by 2027, gradually replacing the Emira with the electric Type 135 sports vehicle. A more affordable option compared to the $1.5 million Evija, which soars through the air, the Type 135 is expected to cost approximately $95,345.
For the two-motor variant, the new electric car is anticipated to have 872 horsepower.
The Chief Commercial Officer of the Lotus Group, Mike Johnstone, stressed the importance of a two-seat sports car in preserving the core of the Lotus brand. It’s important to embody the spirit of invention and passion that have distinguished the Lotus brand, rather than merely owning a vehicle bearing the logo.
The Type 135 isn’t your average electric car. Riding on the Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture, it is expected to be an engineering marvel (LEVA). This novel chassis is claimed to be 37% lighter than the Emira’s, albeit the addition of a large battery pack will increase the overall weight.
With one- and two-motor configurations that provide 469 and 872 horsepower, respectively, Lotus promises adaptability. This adaptability makes it possible to have both rear- and all-wheel drive setups, leaving the possibility of a sophisticated torque-vectoring AWD system such to the one seen in the Evija.
But power isn’t the only factor. Redefining driving characteristics for electric sports cars is the goal of the Type 135 model. Lotus intends to stack the batteries behind the driver, in contrast to many EVs that store them beneath the floor. Because of the lower seating position guaranteed by this design decision, brand enthusiasts may expect a more genuine sports car experience.
With Lotus’ two vehicles, the Emeya sedan and the Eletre SUV, being made in China, the decision to base production of the Type 135 in England is a big one. Lotus aims to sell between 10,000 and 15,000 units worldwide each year, and it is well-positioned to revolutionise the sports car industry by fusing classic driving pleasure with cutting-edge electric economy. As Lotus gets ready to launch its revolutionary new
