Despite the vehicle being planned as a purely EV platform from the outset, Lotus has announced a range-extended hybrid version of the Eletre, looking to capitalize on increasing demand for REEVs in both the Chinese and other global markets.
It will be based on what the company calls the X Hybrid platform and will combine a 70kWh battery with a 150kW range-extender ICE, capable of producing up to 25kWh in steady-state running. Notably, the vehicle has a 900V architecture and can fast charge at up to 350kW, with a claimed all-in range of 1,200km.
The concept is already being trialled in a China-market-only SUV called the Lotus For Me. According to Qingfeng Feng, the CEO of Lotus Tech, “With For Me, we are proving that advanced technology must serve the drivers, not replace them, delivering constant performance, total control and real safety in every condition, so that consumers can enjoy the emotion of driving and the confidence of protecting what matters most.”
Details of the range-extender ICE have not been revealed, but with Lotus parent company Geely also holding a stake in the Horse Powertrain JV, which markets its X-Range series of compact, range-extender-specific powertrains, it would not be surprising if these engines were used.
More details of the Horse REEV engines can be found here
