New Lotus Eletre specifications revealed

Lotus has revealed the full specifications of its first-ever SUV.

The fully electric Eletre signals a new direction for the Geely-owned brand, which has gained a reputation over the years for its cutting-edge sports cars.

The move follows in the footsteps of Porsche and Lamborghini, who also broke the mould when they released the Cayenne and Urus SUVs. Lotus won't be the last premium manufacturer to introduce an SUV into its sports car line-up though, recently Ferrari revealed its first SUV called the Purosangue.

Lotus has confirmed that its new EV is available in three trim levels. The Eletre and Eletre S feature a 603bhp single-speed system and a maximum 373-mile range when fitted with smaller wheels. The S can go from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds.

The Eletre R is fitted with the more powerful 905bhp dual-speed system that provides a maximum 304-mile range and a 0-62mph of 2.95 seconds. The R model has a 985Nm torque output whereas the S has 710Nm.

Described as a 'Hyper-SUV’, the Eletre is massively potent with a huge 603bhp or 905bhp output. Both versions are fitted with a 112kWh battery that can charge from 10-80% in just 20 minutes with a rapid charger.

Lotus engineers had a core focus on reducing vehicle weight. EVs are typically heavier than ICE cars due to their heavy battery, which can have negative implications on their range and speed.

As a result, an innovative three-in-one electric motor system that integrates a motor, controller and reducer into one unit is being used to reduce the overall weight of the car. Lightweight materials like aluminium and carbon fibre are also used extensively in the Eletre’s framework.

The charging port for the car has been strategically placed on the front wing because this requires the least amount of internal cabling to get the power to where it needs to go, thus cutting back on even more weight.

An active grille combined with vents and tunnels improves air channelling across the SUV. This helps boost aerodynamics and increases the overall electric range.

In the UK, Lotus Eletre pricing begins at £89,500. Five drive modes, active air suspension, torque vectoring, matrix LED headlights, active front grille and 22-inch 10-spoke wheels are all features available on the standard spec. Smaller 20-inch wheels or larger 23-inch wheels are also available as options.

The interior of the Eletre is very high-tech. The front seats can be adjusted in 12 different ways and the climate control has four different zones. LIDAR tech comes as standard and a 15-speaker KEF system offers a high-end audio experience for everyone inside.

'Unreal Engine' technology, that's used in the gaming industry, is being utilised on the cabin's 15-inch touchscreen. Lotus is hoping to create a user experience that's just as fast as the Eletre itself.