Lotus has introduced a hybrid version of its electric SUV, the Eletre X, marking a significant shift for the British automaker now owned by a Chinese company. The launch comes after the original all-electric Eletre model experienced limited commercial success, prompting Lotus to explore a hybrid powertrain option.
The Eletre X combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with dual electric motors, producing a combined output of 939 brake horsepower and 690 lb-ft of torque. The petrol engine functions as a generator to recharge the batteries on the go and can also drive the front wheels directly, eliminating the need for a traditional gearbox. This setup delivers all-wheel drive capability and accelerates the vehicle from 0 to 62 mph in 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 143 mph.
Despite its SUV form factor and substantial size, weighing in at 2,615 kilograms, the Eletre X aims to retain some of the dynamic qualities Lotus is known for. Test drives have highlighted precise steering and a comfortable ride, unusual for a high-riding SUV, while the interior has been praised for its quality craftsmanship and an intuitive dashboard design featuring simple controls. Regenerative braking levels and driving modes, including an off-road option, can be adjusted via paddle shifters behind the steering wheel.
The hybrid system offers practical advantages over a pure electric vehicle (EV), particularly in addressing range anxiety and charging infrastructure challenges. The Eletre X boasts an estimated combined range of 746 miles and an average fuel economy of about 37 miles per gallon, noteworthy figures given the vehicle's performance capabilities and weight. In urban settings, when the battery is depleted, the hybrid system allows the vehicle to continue operating solely on petrol.
Lotus’ move to a hybrid powertrain reflects broader trends in the automotive industry, where several manufacturers are reconsidering the feasibility of fully electric models. While companies like Jaguar remain committed to all-electric lineups, others such as Rolls-Royce, Ford, and Mercedes have softened or delayed plans to phase out internal combustion engines. The shift is partly driven by competitive pressures from Chinese automakers who dominate the mass EV market, encouraging European brands to focus on performance and luxury attributes that distinguish their products.
Pricing details for the Eletre X have yet to be confirmed, though it is expected to enter the market around 2027 with an estimated price near £130,000, based on indications from Norway where a similar model is listed at approximately 1.7 million kroner.
The Eletre X represents Lotus’s effort to balance electrification demands with customer expectations for range, power, and driving enjoyment, positioning itself as a high-performance hybrid SUV in a rapidly evolving segment.