Meet Eletre – The Very First Lotus SUV

The team at Glenview Luxury Imports and other luxury car dealerships around the country, have been waiting for this day for a while and we were excited to have a first-hand look at the highly anticipated Eletre. This model holds the title for more than one first, as is the first SUV created by Lotus, as well as the first EV model. Lotus has not yet released their first EV hyper car, the Evija, and supercar dealerships everywhere can’t wait to get their first taste of it. The Eletre, previously known as “Type 132” during development, has allowed Lotus to broaden their horizons and venture into a different market segment.

Let’s get technical for a moment and have a closer look at what this model has to offer. For instance, this is the first Lotus vehicle that boasts having the newly developed 800-volt Electric Premium Architecture (EPA) as its powertrain. The Eletre’s power supply is a 100-kWh battery, and its AWD capability is powered by two motors that have a combined output of 591 horsepower. Lotus has stated that the Eletre is capable of reaching a top speed of 161mph and that 0-60mph can be reached in just under 3 seconds, which is indeed impressive. In terms of the all-important range specifications, the Eletre can reach 373 miles on one charge and can recharge an equivalent of 248 miles in roughly 20 minutes.

This SUV has a selection of five driving modes, which include Off-Road, Individual, Range, Tour, and Sport modes. The driver will be spoilt for choice and can easily adjust the vehicle to a variety of road conditions.

Most car enthusiasts and luxury auto sales dealerships will agree that SUV models across the board are generally not in line to win any beauty competitions and the Lotus Eletre is no exception. What Lotus has done however, is to place their focus on the aerodynamic aspect of this vehicle. Instead of an exceptional beauty of an SUV you can expect a high performing and aerodynamic SUV that can outperform many in its class. Having said that, Exotic cars dealerships would be the first to affirm the phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”.

Lotus has even named this aerodynamic design and calls it: Porosity. The concept of porosity in a nutshell, refers to the optimization of airflow around the car. The creation of this smooth flow is primarily due to the Eletre’s long wheelbase and its relatively short overhang. These aspects, in combination with strategically placed air exit vents, all contribute to the porosity of this unique SUV. Note the clever placement of the air exit vents, which are in the hood, the front and back of the wheel arches, behind the rear wheels and furthermore towards the top of the D-Pillar.

Lotus decided to go with a more intimidating and aggressive exterior look and the Eletre certainly has a striking appearance, both in the front and the rear. This mean look is enhanced by the narrow daytime lights and scrolling indicators. The headlights, just below this, consist of Matrix LED technology. Just below the lighting cluster, the grill resembles a menacing smile and hides the active cooling system. This system is finely tuned to the cooling requirements of the electric motor, battery pack and front brakes. All the black components are manufactured of carbon fiber, as it reduces weight and is a sustainable material.

Since this US-oriented model is at the very least a level 2 self-driving vehicle, it is expected to be capable of taking on certain autonomous driving responsibilities. The fact then that the side mirrors do not have a built-in camera system, is disappointing. This is considered an essential component of its ability to perform, at least partly, autonomously. There is hope however, as this model does have the potential to improve and include additional features over time with ongoing developments and updates.

The Eletre’s rear is equally as interesting as the front. The purpose of the split carbon fiber floating roof spoiler is more than just an interesting feature. Its main purpose is to direct airflow downwards, through an adjustable tailgate spoiler that alters the exit angle, depending on the car’s selected driving mode at any given time.

The interior was designed with sustainability as one of its primary objectives. Lotus, working closely with Kvadrat, managed to maximize sustainability by using synthetic microfibers for the main touch points. Furthermore, the sophisticated wool-blend fabric seating complements this objective even further. What is interesting to know is that the interior carbon fiber components were produced from recycled fibers that were in essence offcuts from the main weave’s edge. These parts are typically discarded, but in this case were cleverly incorporated in the interior design.

Some of the distinctive exterior design elements, like the front’s triangular design and the unique shape of the top spoiler, are reflected in the dash and panel design. Luxury dealerships will be pleased to inform potential buyers that the Eletre offers excellent flexibility when it comes to customization choices. Some examples are the choice between four or five seats and the top panoramic glass roof, both of which are accessible outside of China.

Another great interior design aspect of this model is the excellent balance created between aesthetics and functionality. The driver and passengers all have access to various wireless charging stations and enlarged cupholders. Parents everywhere will rejoice in the fact that rear seats are separated by space similar to the front seating. To top it all off, an easy-to-use infotainment system will ensure that the backseat occupants are kept entertained throughout the journey.

The Luxury auto imports industry will need to wait a little longer as production is set to start a little later this year in Wuhan, China. The Eletre will be manufactured in a newly constructed and purpose-built factory, using the latest technology in vehicle manufacturing. Customers and the vehicle luxury imports trade alike are still waiting for more crucial specifics like the car’s price, US availability as well as details on the power output. This important information is withheld by Lotus at this early stage and will be disclosed at a point closer to the market launch.

Automobile manufacturers gain their experience through the passage of time in order to provide better vehicles, geared to satisfy the needs of a variety of consumers. The same goes for luxury car dealerships, like the team at Glenview Luxury Imports. We draw heavily on our experience, gained through decades of dealing with luxury imports and customers alike. For the best service, advice, and technical information, get in touch with our friendly team to discuss all your luxury car requirements. We make dreams happen.