Lotus, the renowned English sports car brand, has finally set foot in India with its groundbreaking model, the all-electric Eletre SUV. This electric beast, with a price tag starting from Rs 2.55 crore, is currently the most potent and costliest electric SUV available in the country. Further strengthening its position as a pioneer, the Lotus Eletre also signifies the onset of Lotus’s transformation into an exclusively electric performance car brand.
The Lotus Electric Vehicles Journey in India
Exclusive Motors of New Delhi, also known for retailing Bentleys in India, will serve as the retailer and distributor of Lotus cars across the country. The inauguration of the first showroom is scheduled for early 2024 in Delhi, with more showrooms to follow in the subsequent years.
Key Facts about Lotus Electric Vehicles
- Lotus is currently owned by the Chinese brand Geely.
- The brand’s global portfolio includes 3 EVs and 1 petrol sportscar.
- The Lotus Emira sportscar is slated for launch in 2024.
Pricing in India: the presently available brand…
Below is the detailed price list of the Lotus Eletre in India (ex-showroom, India):
- Eletre: ₹2.55 crore
- Eletre S: ₹2.75 crore
- Eletre R: ₹2.99 crore
Now, let’s list down the key Features in a brief.
Lotus Eletre: A Glimpse into India’s Electric Future
The automotive landscape in India is undergoing a seismic shift, and the arrival of the Lotus Eletre, the presently available brand of Lotus electric vehicles in India, marks a significant milestone. As the country embraces sustainable mobility, this all-electric SUV promises a blend of performance, luxury, and environmental consciousness. Let’s delve into the details of this ground-breaking vehicle.
Lotus Eletre, colorful it is indeed!!
Lotus Eletre appears in five different vibrant colors, Galloway Green, Stellar Black, Kaimu Grey, Blossom Grey, and Solar Yellow.
1. Unveiling the Lotus Eletre: A Date with Destiny
On November 9, 2023, Lotus Cars officially introduced the Eletre to the Indian market. This momentous occasion marked the brand’s foray into the electric vehicle segment, signaling a departure from its iconic internal combustion heritage.
2. Variants and Pricing
The Lotus Eletre, Lotus electric vehicle in India, is available in three trim levels, each catering to different preferences and driving needs:
- Eletre Standard: Equipped with a 112 kWh battery, this variant boasts an impressive 600 km driving range on a full charge. It delivers a robust 600 bhp and 710 Nm of torque, ensuring spirited performance. The ex-showroom price for the Eletre Standard starts at ₹2.55 Crore.
- Eletre S: Building upon the Standard Model, the Eletre S offers the same battery capacity but adds a touch more flair. With the same driving range, it delivers an identical 600 bhp and 710 Nm of torque. The Eletre S is priced at ₹2.75 Crore.
- Eletre R: For those seeking exhilaration, the Eletre R takes the crown. With over 900 bhp, 985 Nm of torque, and a two-speed transmission, this variant is a powerhouse. Its driving range is slightly reduced to 490 km, but the thrill is unmatched. The Eletre R commands a premium price of ₹2.99 Crore.
3. Design and Features
Exterior
The Lotus Eletre’s aggressive exterior design commands attention. Key features include:
- Sleek, and “arrow-shaped” DRLs flanking the wide front profile.
- A split headlamp setup with an active grille and wide air dams.
- Black-painted roof, chunky blacked-out wheel arches, and 22-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels (with options for 20- and 23-inch wheels).
Interior
Inside, the Lotus Eletre offers:
- A “15.1-inch” super foldable touchscreen infotainment system powered by Lotus Hyper OS.
- Four-zone climate control for personalized comfort.
- 12-way electrically adjustable front seats for optimal ergonomics.
- A wireless charger to keep your devices fully charged up.
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), an air purifier, multi-color ambient lighting, and a 15-speaker KEF-sourced sound system.
- Customizable interior themes crafted from 100% recyclable materials.
4. Performance and Safety
Powertrain
The Lotus Eletre packs a 112 kWh battery unit, ensuring ample power. The dual motor setup in the Eletre and Eletre S delivers a combined output of 600 bhp and 710 Nm of torque. Meanwhile, the Eletre R’s staggering 900 bhp and 985 Nm of torque make it a force to be reckoned with.
Safety
Safety is paramount. While specific crash test ratings are yet to be released, the Lotus Eletre’s robust construction and comprehensive safety features inspire confidence. The 800V system allows rapid charging at up to 350 kW.
Few more words about the Lotus Eletre SUV:
The interior design of the Lotus Eletre offers a feeling of sophistication and high-tech appeal. The centerpiece of the cabin is the 15.1-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, which folds flat when not in use. This system runs on the ‘Lotus Hyper OS’.
The dashboard is split into two sections, mirroring the design of the split spoiler at the rear. Below it is a ‘ribbon of technology’, consisting of three separate screens. Alongside the digital control and voice command options, the SUV still retains physical toggle switches for key functions such as the HVAC controls. A dedicated smartphone app, 5G data compatibility, and over-the-air software updates are also part of the package.
The Lotus Eletre also takes sustainability into account, with the use of Kvadrat, a sustainable material, on some touch-points, and a wool-blend fabric on the seats, which is 50% lighter than traditional leather.
Standard equipment offers a wireless-charging facility, 12-way adjustable “front-seats”, four-zone climate control, 15-speaker “Dolby Atmos”, and KEF premium sound system, configurable ambient lighting, soft-close doors, over-the-air updates, ADAS features based on Lidar technology.
Why will people rush for Lotus Eletre?
Why will Byers choose Lotus Eletre?
This is a question that our readers may have. After all, it’s an expensive car regarding its price in Indian money. Yes, it’s a luxurious car, but certainly not for people in the middle-income group. But, people who would like to attach their status value to a car, particularly fond of EV SUVs, can aim for it.
Let’s try to find the answers for our readers.
The Eletre exudes a distinct aura of elegance and power with its cab-forward stance, elongated wheelbase, and short front and rear overhangs. The compact bonnet echoes styling cues from Lotus’s historic mid-engined layout, thereby retaining the brand’s heritage.
Various elements in the Lotus Eletre are encouraged by other Lotus cars, such as the “sharp-edges” at the front, reminiscent of the Lotus Evija. The glass canopy on the body is another striking design element borrowed from the Evija. The standard India-spec model is equipped with a 22-inch, 10-spoke forged wheel.
“In an electric vehicle like the Eletre, aerodynamic efficiency is a crucial aspect. Consequently, the car features an active front grille that channels air under the leading edge, emerging through two vents on the bonnet, behind the front wheel arches, behind the rear wheels, and atop the D-pillar.“
The rear of the SUV is adorned with a full-length ribbon light, which curves into the air outlets from the wheel arches – another shared feature with the Emira and Evija. The light can appear red, orange, or green, depending on the battery charge.
Lastly, the Eletre is fitted with a carbon-fibre, three-stage deployable, split, roof-mounted spoiler, seamlessly integrated into the rear. This design is intended to evoke race car winglets. The central part is missing to save weight, exemplifying Lotus’s dedication to weight reduction.
What else do you need? Lotus Eletre is a perfect confluence of power, design excellence, and technological marvels. Lotus Eletre is worth the price tag associated with it. A car that offers you luxury, comfort, status, and power.
The Future of Lotus in India: The Lotus Emira
The next offering from Lotus in India will be the Emira sportscar, scheduled for launch in 2024. The Emira marks Lotus’s final foray into internal combustion engine sportscars and will be available with either a 360hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine or a 400hp, supercharged V6 engine. The V6 variant even gets the option of a manual gearbox.
With the launch of the Lotus Eletre, Lotus has marked a significant milestone in the EV cars Indian market. The brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance electric vehicles sets a new benchmark for other manufacturers. As the world moves towards clean and sustainable transportation, Lotus electric vehicles are indeed a beacon of the future.
Must read our previous post in which i talk about future or electric vehicles…
Conclusion
The Lotus Eletre represents a harmonious blend of performance, luxury, and environmental responsibility. As India accelerates toward an electrified future, the Eletre stands tall—a beacon of innovation and a testament to Lotus’s commitment to excellence.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on available data as of the publication date. Prices and specifications may vary. Always consult official sources for the most up-to-date details.
