The Lotus Eletre hyper-SUV recently made its North America premiere at Monterey Car Week, capturing attention at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. Attendees admired the Eletre’s Blossom Grey exterior and the expansive suite of features. This public unveiling in North America propels Lotus’s efforts to garner customer deposits ahead of its 2024 US market launch.
Why It Matters
Eletre signifies the inception of a new era of all-electric performance SUVs. It integrates 75 years of Lotus’ sports car heritage, fusing the thrill of driving with cutting-edge technology. The Eletre offers both performance and utility, designed to cater to city commutes as well as long-range journeys.
Key Points
- Price & Models: The Eletre starts at £89,500 in the UK and €95,990 in Europe. The premium Eletre S and Eletre R cater to luxury and performance enthusiasts respectively.
- Eletre S Features: Enhanced specifications over the base model encompass soft door close, active rear spoiler, privacy glass, ambient lighting, air quality system, a 23-speaker KEF Reference Audio system, and 22-inch wheels.
- Eletre R Features: Emphasizes performance with the Lotus Dynamic Handling Pack, Carbon Pack, Pirelli P Zero tyres, a gloss black wheel finish, and an added Drive Mode titled “Track”.
- Historical Nod: Lotus also unveiled the Type 66, celebrating 75 years of Lotus history. This track-only vehicle, limited to 10 units, integrates traditional motorsport heritage with modern racing tech.
- Emerson Fittipaldi: The Formula 1 legend, who would’ve raced the Type 66 in the 1970s, graced the unveiling. He expressed gratitude for the chance to reveal the Type 66 to the public.
- Bespoke Hypercar: Lotus fans were treated to Jenson Button’s customized Evija electric hypercar, reflecting his 2009 F1 World Championship win’s color scheme.
Bottom Line
Lotus continues to innovate and captivate its audience, seamlessly blending historical legacy with the future of mobility. The North America debut of the Eletre hyper-SUV underlines the brand’s commitment to leading the shift towards electrified high-performance vehicles, ensuring that Lotus remains at the forefront of automotive evolution.
