Lotus is eyeing the future with its eyes set on electrification. By 2027, the iconic British brand is expected to make a bold pivot, phasing out the Emira in favor of the electric Type 135 sports car. Pegged as a more accessible alternative to the high-flying, $1.5 million Evija, the Type 135’s anticipated price tag hovers around $95,345.
The New Electric Car is expected to have 872 hp for the two-motor version
Mike Johnstone, Lotus Group’s Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the critical role of a two-seat sports car in maintaining the essence of the Lotus brand. It’s not just about having a car with a Lotus badge; it’s about capturing the spirit and innovation that have defined the marque.
The Type 135 is not just any electric vehicle. It’s set to be a marvel of engineering, riding on the Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture (LEVA). This innovative chassis is touted to be 37% lighter than that of the Emira, although the final weight will see an uptick due to the inclusion of a hefty battery pack.
Lotus is promising versatility with one- and two-motor setups, delivering 469 horsepower and 872 horsepower, respectively. This flexibility allows for both rear- and all-wheel drive configurations, keeping the door open for a high-tech torque-vectoring AWD system akin to what’s found in the Evija.
But it’s not just about power. The Type 135 aims to redefine driving dynamics for electric sports cars. Unlike many EVs that house batteries under the floor, Lotus plans to stack them behind the driver. This design choice ensures a lower seating position, providing a more authentic sports car feel that fans of the brand have come to expect.
Production of the Type 135 will be rooted in England, marking a significant move as Lotus’ other models, the Emeya sedan and the Eletre SUV, are manufactured in China. With an annual sales target of 10,000 to 15,000 units globally, Lotus is poised to electrify the sports car market, blending traditional driving joy with modern electric efficiency. As Lotus prepares to roll out this exciting new chapter, the automotive world watches with eager anticipation.
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(Via)
