Lotus has announced the upcoming release of its Lotus Eletre Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV) model, scheduled for a January preview event. The PHEV variant will feature an impressive 939 horsepower and over 1,000 kilometers of combined driving range, marking a significant leap in performance and efficiency.
Key Takeaways
- The Lotus Eletre PHEV will debut with 939bhp, surpassing the electric-only version’s 905bhp.
- The new model boasts a combined driving range of over 1,000km (621 miles).
- Lotus plans to launch another hybrid model codenamed ‘Vision X’ in 2027, targeting smaller luxury segments.
The Lotus Eletre PHEV will be based on a 900V hybrid platform that offers dual hyper charging technology and air suspension. This platform ensures superior handling and performance, with the ability to counter body roll through an integrated 48V active stabiliser system. The plug-in hybrid system includes a turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors.
Lotus has confirmed that the PHEV version will use a 70kWh battery pack, providing up to 220 miles of pure-electric range under China’s CLTC testing conditions. This is significantly higher than typical plug-in hybrid vehicles, which usually offer around 40-60 miles of electric-only driving range.
Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng stated during a Q4 financial results call that the Eletre PHEV will be launched in China early next year, followed by European markets including the UK. The company also hinted at future plans with another hybrid model codenamed ‘Vision X’, set to debut in 2027 and compete against vehicles such as the Porsche Macan and BMW X3.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Lotus Eletre PHEV be available?
The Lotus Eletre PHEV is set to debut at a January preview event in 2026 and will launch commercially in China early next year, with European launches following shortly after.
What kind of performance can the Lotus Eletre PHEV deliver?
The Lotus Eletre PHEV is expected to offer 939bhp and over 1,000km (621 miles) combined driving range. It will feature race-level chassis tuning with air suspension and a 48V active stabiliser system.
Lotus’ move into plug-in hybrid technology represents a strategic shift towards broader market appeal while maintaining its high-performance legacy. The introduction of the Eletre PHEV sets a new benchmark for performance SUVs, challenging established brands in both electric and traditional powertrain segments.
