Electric Future: Lotus Plans to Replace Final ICE Sports Car with EV in 2027
Lotus Emira Getting Replaced So Soon?
The Lotus Emira, a relatively new entrant in the sports car arena, has garnered praise from enthusiasts since its launch in Q4 2022 in the UK. Despite its short existence, Lotus is already gearing up to introduce a fully electric successor by 2027, marking a pivotal shift towards EVs.
The Evolution to an Electric Sports Car
Lotus is in the works of developing their EV, codenamed “Type 135,” which will be manufactured in Hethel, England. Interestingly, a significant part of the EV’s research and development will be outsourced to branches in Germany and China. This move echoes Lotus’ history of collaborations, like using Toyota V6 engines and an optional AMG turbo-four in the Emira.
The Future Lineup
While specific details on Type 135 remain under wraps, Lotus has confirmed the EV will share production space with the electric hypercar Evija at Hethel. Concurrently, Lotus Technologies will oversee the development of electric models like the Eletre, Emeya GT, and the upcoming Type 134 SUV from China.
Shortened Legacy of ICE
The news of the Emira potentially exiting production in just five years strikes a chord, considering Lotus models historically had longer lifecycles. The impending shift to electric platforms raises concerns among enthusiasts, especially in North America awaiting deliveries due to certification delays from regulatory bodies like CARB.
Conclusion
Lotus’ pivot towards electric mobility with the impending demise of the ICE Emira signifies a significant turn in the brand’s legacy. While the promise of electric sports cars is exciting, the nostalgia for traditional Lotus elements like manual interactions and lightweight builds remains. The transition signifies a new chapter for Lotus, blending innovation with heritage.
FAQ
Why is Lotus phasing out the ICE Emira so soon?
Lotus’ decision to replace the ICE Emira with an electric model aligns with the industry shift towards sustainable mobility and reflects the brand’s commitment to innovation.
What can we expect from Lotus’ future electric lineup?
Lotus plans to introduce the Type 135 EV as a successor to the Emira, alongside other electric models like the Eletre, Emeya GT, and a Type 134 SUV, showcasing a comprehensive shift towards electric mobility.
How will the transition to electric affect the essence of Lotus sports cars?
While electric models promise enhanced performance and sustainability, some enthusiasts worry about losing the iconic characteristics of Lotus cars, such as manual driving experiences and lightweight construction.
