Back then, rumors circulated that Lotus was considering stuffing the LT5 V8 into their Esprit Turbo SE. The SE produced 264 horsepower and weighed around 2,900 pounds, hitting 60 mph in just under five seconds. Imagine what an extra hundred horses could’ve done!

The Corvette ZR-1’s LT5 engine was a beast of its time: it churned out 375 hp and 370 lb-ft of torque when the rumors started swirling. Lotus’s own Turbo SE, by comparison, had only 264 hp and 261 lb-ft of torque.

But why didn’t this happen? The story goes back to 1984 with Lotus’s Giorgetto Giugiaro-designed Etna concept car. It featured a futuristic DOHC V8 engine, which GM wanted for their Corvette project. When they bought Lotus in ’86, GM asked about using that engine on the small block Chevy V8.

GM ended up scrapping the Etna behind closed doors after acquiring Lotus. But if things had gone differently and the LT5-powered Esprit made it to production, it would’ve been a giant killer among sports cars!

So, while we’ll never know how this story ends, it’s fun to imagine what could’ve happened if the stars aligned differently back then!

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General Motors initially bought into Lotus Engineering as part of its strategy to expand globally. However, despite early optimism and shared projects such as the Omega sports car concept, relations soured over time due to differing business philosophies.

The partnership between GM and Lotus faced challenges from the start, with both companies struggling to find common ground on product development and market strategies. Over the years, these differences became more pronounced, leading to a gradual decline in collaboration.

Lotus Engineering’s reputation for lightweight sports cars stood in stark contrast to GM’s broader lineup of mass-market vehicles. This mismatch made it difficult for both companies to align their goals effectively. As Lotus focused on its core strengths while GM expanded into other areas like electric and autonomous technology, the partnership became increasingly strained.

GM’s decision to relinquish ownership comes as part of a larger restructuring effort aimed at focusing resources on more aligned business opportunities. The company has been divesting assets that don’t fit with its strategic vision for the future automotive landscape.

This move by GM highlights the complexities involved when large automakers attempt global partnerships with smaller, niche brands. While initially promising, such relationships often face significant hurdles due to differing corporate cultures and strategic priorities.

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The upcoming Lotus PHEV SUV will be based on the existing Eletre platform but will feature a more powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain. This decision marks a significant departure from Lotus’ earlier pledge to focus solely on battery-electric vehicles, reflecting changing market dynamics and consumer preferences. The new model is set to compete with high-performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S and Tesla Model S Plaid.

Lotus has always been synonymous with lightweight engineering and agile handling, principles that will be evident in its PHEV SUV lineup. Active air suspension and a 48-volt stabilizing system are expected to contribute to what Lotus calls ‘hyper handling,’ ensuring the new models retain the brand’s hallmark driving dynamics despite their larger size.

The inclusion of a 900V charging infrastructure is another noteworthy feature, allowing for rapid charging speeds comparable to battery swapping technologies. This capability will be crucial in regions where fast-charging networks are less developed or not yet widely adopted. Lotus’ decision to offer PHEVs alongside its EV lineup underscores the brand’s commitment to providing performance-oriented vehicles that cater to a broader range of customer needs.

Lotus plans to introduce two additional PHEV SUVs, with the smaller model dubbed Vision X positioned below the Eletre in the company’s hierarchy. These models will likely continue Lotus’ tradition of innovative design and engineering excellence, drawing inspiration from past successes like the Elise and Exige while pushing boundaries with cutting-edge technology.

Lotus’ pivot towards plug-in hybrid technology represents a strategic move aimed at expanding its market reach while maintaining its reputation as a performance-focused brand. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Lotus is positioning itself to cater to a diverse array of consumers seeking both power and practicality.

The post Lotus Reverses Course with High-Performance PHEV SUVs appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The news comes as Lotus revises its strategy to gradually phase out internal combustion engines (ICE) vehicles. CEO Qingfeng Feng revealed during the company’s financial results call that despite the original plan to become an all-electric brand by 2028, they are now introducing a PHEV variant in early 2026.

Lotus is expected to launch its first plug-in hybrid vehicle on the Chinese market in Q1 of next year. The model will then roll out across Europe during the second half of 2026. While no specific name was given, it’s speculated that this PHEV could be an SUV variant of the Eletre.

The Lotus PHEV is anticipated to feature a high-voltage system similar to its battery-electric counterpart and aims for a combined range of 1,100 kilometers according to China’s CLTC driving cycle. However, exact specifications such as engine power and battery capacity are yet to be confirmed by the company.

Lotus has already seen success with its Eletre SUV in the electric vehicle market. The new PHEV model will likely build on this foundation while offering a hybrid option for customers who prefer or require the flexibility of both electric and internal combustion power.

Lotus’s decision to introduce a plug-in hybrid vehicle represents an exciting shift in their strategy. As they continue to evolve and adapt, it will be fascinating to see how this new model fits into the broader automotive landscape.

The post Lotus to Launch First Plug-in Hybrid in 2026 appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

The Lotus Evija isn’t just a car; it’s a statement. With its impressive power-to-weight ratio, this electric marvel accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in under three seconds—making it one of the quickest cars on the road today. But for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, the challenge lies in accessing charging stations that can match the Evija’s pace.

One of the key selling points of the Evija is its lightweight construction, which includes a carbon fiber monocoque chassis. This not only enhances performance but also ensures durability and safety on the road. The car’s aerodynamic design further contributes to its efficiency, allowing it to slice through air with minimal resistance.

Despite its high-tech features, owning an Evija isn’t without challenges. Its battery capacity requires a significant investment in home charging infrastructure or access to public fast chargers capable of handling such high power demands. For many potential buyers, this might be the deciding factor when considering whether the Evija fits into their lifestyle.

Lotus has positioned the Evija as an exclusive vehicle, with only 130 units planned for production worldwide. This limited availability ensures that each owner gets a unique and personalized driving experience. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and performance is evident in every detail of this electric supercar.

In conclusion, the Lotus Evija represents a new era of electric performance vehicles that push boundaries in terms of speed, design, and technology. While it may not fit everyone’s lifestyle, those who can embrace its demands will undoubtedly enjoy an unparalleled driving experience.

The post Lotus Evija: The Electric Supercar with a Punch appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

Lotus is making a strategic shift towards plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) to boost sales after experiencing significant declines this year. The company’s CEO, Qingfeng Feng, revealed during an earnings call that the Lotus Eletre PHEV will be the brand’s first foray into PHEVs.

The upcoming model is set to debut in China in January 2026 and hit European markets later in the year. This timing aligns with the company’s phased approach to introducing upgraded models, addressing tariff impacts and inventory adjustments that have affected sales recently.

Lotus Eletre PHEV enthusiasts can look forward to an SUV equipped with a high-tech 900V high-voltage system and boasting a mixed range of around 1,100 km. This impressive range is expected to make the Lotus Eletre PHEV competitive in both Chinese and European markets.

While exact pricing details are not yet available, Lotus officials have indicated that this model will be positioned as an affordable luxury option for car buyers looking for a blend of performance and practicality. The SUV’s plug-in hybrid system is expected to offer drivers the flexibility of electric-only driving in urban areas while providing extended range capabilities for longer trips.

Lotus’s strategic pivot towards PHEVs marks an important milestone for the brand. As it continues to navigate market challenges, the introduction of the Lotus Eletre PHEV is seen as a key step in regaining momentum and attracting new customers who value both performance and practicality.

The post Lotus Eletre PHEV Set to Debut in China and Europe appeared first on Auto Global News – Global Car News & Reviews.

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.

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.

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