Lotus, the brand that’s been making lightweight sports cars, has decided to step into the world of electric SUVs. They’ve launched the Eletre, which in some Eastern European dialects means “coming to life,” but in my dialect means “I can’t afford this.”
The Eletre comes in three grades: the base Eletre, the Eletre S, and the Eletre R. The base and S grades have a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup with a peak of 603 hp. The Eletre R steps it up with 905 hp, ensuring you’ll never be late to pick up the kids, or anything else for that matter.
The Eletre is based on a modular EV platform and is a lot bigger than fans might expect. It’s longer than a Range Rover (which seems to be a popular design inspiration) and close in length to some full-size luxury sedans. A little junk in the trunk if you will.
The Eletre also comes with a suite of sensors for active safety systems, including four lidar units. Lotus says this will enable self-driving capability when the technology and market regulations are ready. Nothing says “I trust technology” like letting your car drive itself while you sit back and contemplate why you spent so much on a car. Here’s a random thought. Should car insurance go down if you have lidar units?
Lotus is planning to roll out more electric models in the future. Right now, it’ll first hit China then Europe. Pricing in Europe starts at 95,990 euros, about $105,000 US, or about $104,000 more than you’ve saved in your seat cushions. So, if the Eletre is a bit out of your price range, just keep rummaging between couch cushions for enough lint-covered nickels to maybe buy a used Lotus Eletre in 50 years.
