Summary
Lotus plans to launch the Elise’s EV successor in 2027, but this may be delayed if it can’t meet the company’s high standards for performance and lightness.
The Lotus Type 135 electric sports car has been in development for several years with plans for a 2027 launch.
Current EV battery technology makes cars too heavy for a Lotus sports car, leading to uncertainty about meeting the 2027 deadline.
Lotus has no issue selling heavier EVs made in China, while striving to keep their future electric sports car light.
The electric sports car market in 2027 will feature models from various manufacturers, with different strategies for keeping weight down, such as smaller battery packs.
Article
Lotus is planning to launch the successor to the Elise, a new electric sports car codenamed Type 135, in 2027. However, the launch may be delayed if current EV batteries cannot become lighter in the next few years. Lotus design boss Ben Payne expressed concerns that current EV batteries make cars too heavy for a Lotus sports car, even an electric one. He emphasized the difficulty in creating an electric sports car due to size and weight constraints, stating that it is much easier to make larger, taller vehicles electric. While the launch deadline for the electric sports car is still possible, Payne acknowledged that it is a challenging task.
As the demand for electric sports cars grows, Lotus faces competition from other automakers planning to introduce enticing models in 2027. Porsche, Polestar, Toyota, and Caterham are all set to launch electric sports cars, each with unique features and capabilities. Caterham’s Project V, in particular, is expected to weigh just over 2,600 lbs due to its relatively small 55-kilowatt-hour battery pack. This approach allows for a lighter overall vehicle weight while still providing a respectable WLTP range. Lotus may consider a similar strategy to keep the weight of the Type 135 down, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
Lotus aims to maintain its reputation for “adding lightness” with the Type 135, building it on a new dedicated electric sports car platform that is 37% lighter than what is used for the Emira. This platform can accommodate battery packs ranging from 66.4 kWh to 99.6 kWh, allowing for two- or four-seater configurations. By utilizing a smaller battery pack, Lotus can keep the pounds off while still delivering a competitive driving range for the electric sports car. The Type 135 will be a significant departure in size from the Elise, offering a more spacious interior and modern features to attract a broader range of customers.
While Lotus is committed to creating a lightweight electric sports car, it has also ventured into the production of heavier EVs made in China under its brand. The Lotus Eletre SUV and Emeya sedan weigh around 5,800 and 5,500 pounds, respectively, showcasing the brand’s versatility in providing a range of electric vehicles. However, the company’s focus on keeping the Type 135 light highlights its dedication to delivering a true sports car experience for enthusiasts. Despite the challenges posed by current EV battery technology, Lotus remains determined to meet the 2027 launch deadline for the Type 135, ensuring it upholds the company’s legacy of performance and innovation in the world of electric sports cars.
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