We have by no means related the phrases “electrical,” “SUV,” and “China” with Lotus, and but right here we’re. Subjected to a painstakingly lengthy teaser marketing campaign, the Kind 132 as at the moment recognized by its codename will lastly break cowl on March 29. With good purpose, some will argue Colin Chapman would’ve by no means appreciated the prospects of a heavy, high-riding automobile, nevertheless it’s 2022 and enterprise is enterprise.
The primary-ever Lotus SUV and the corporate’s second EV after the Evija hypercar will not be constructed at residence in Norfolk. As an alternative, the mannequin will likely be assembled in China at a newly constructed manufacturing facility in Wuhan (sure, that Wuhan). Will probably be adopted by a Kind 133 four-door coupe and a Kind 134 smaller crossover, each of which will likely be EVs. The truth is, the Geely-owned firm is completed with launching ICE-powered vehicles because the Emira is the final hurrah for the gasoline engine.
Regardless of sharing quite a lot of previews, Lotus hasn’t talked an excessive amount of about its SUV. We do understand it rides on a bespoke EV platform in a position to take battery packs as massive as 120 kWh. The sports activities automotive on stilts will likely be roughly the identical measurement because the Porsche Cayenne and can include all-wheel drive courtesy of twin electrical motors.
Different particulars confirmed concerning the structure embrace a wheelbase measuring anyplace between 2889 to 3100 millimeters (113.7 to 122 inches) together with help for quick charging because of the 800V tech. Count on someplace within the area of 600-700 horsepower for a 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) dash in as little as three seconds.
The antonym for Chapman’s “simplify, then add lightness” motto will likely be a four-door, five-seat heavy automobile brimming with tech. From lively aero and a LiDAR setup to a tilting infotainment and digital instrument cluster, the Lotus SUV will likely be a totally trendy automotive.
Designed within the UK, the Lotus Kind 132 will seemingly go on sale by the top of the yr or early 2023. We’re anxious to seek out out its actual identify as some say it is going to be known as “Lambda.” That will break with custom because the sports activities vehicles normally started with the letter “E.”
