The Lotus Eletre marks a bold and revolutionary step for the iconic British automaker, Lotus Cars, as it ventures into the realm of electric SUVs. Launched globally in March 2022 and introduced to the Indian market on November 9, 2023, the Eletre is not just Lotus’s first-ever SUV but also its inaugural fully electric vehicle produced in China, underlining the brand’s transformation under Geely’s ownership. Known for its lightweight sports cars like the Elise and Exige, Lotus has redefined its legacy with the Eletre, blending its hallmark performance ethos with modern luxury, practicality, and eco-conscious engineering. This hyper-SUV targets a new generation of buyers seeking a fusion of exhilarating driving dynamics, cutting-edge technology, and sustainable mobility. Available in three variants—Eletre, Eletre S, and Eletre R—the SUV caters to diverse preferences, from refined luxury to outright performance supremacy. With its striking design, advanced features, and competitive electric range, the Lotus Eletre stands as a premium contender in the rapidly evolving EV market, challenging established players while staying true to Lotus’s DNA of agility and innovation.
The Eletre’s arrival signifies Lotus’s ambition to expand its footprint in global markets, including metro cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where luxury EVs are gaining traction. Built on the Electric Premium Architecture (EPA), this SUV combines state-of-the-art electric powertrains with a futuristic cabin, positioning it as a game-changer in the luxury electric SUV segment. Whether it’s the aggressive styling, the spacious interior, or the blistering acceleration, the Eletre promises a driving experience that’s both thrilling and practical. In this detailed exploration, we’ll dive into its technical specifications, variants, pricing across metro cities, and how it stacks up against its close competitors.
Technical Specifications
The Lotus Eletre is engineered to deliver exceptional performance, efficiency, and comfort, underpinned by its advanced electric architecture. Below is a comprehensive table outlining its technical specifications, sourced from reliable platforms like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, ensuring accuracy as of March 17, 2025.
| Specification | Eletre / Eletre S | Eletre R |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Dual Electric Motors | Dual Electric Motors |
| Battery Capacity | 112 kWh | 112 kWh |
| Max Power | 603 bhp (611 PS) | 905 bhp (918 PS) |
| Max Torque | 710 Nm | 985 Nm |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Automatic | Two-Speed Automatic (Rear Motor) |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) | All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| 0-100 kmph | 4.5 seconds | 2.95 seconds |
| Top Speed | 260 kmph | 265 kmph |
| Range (WLTP) | Up to 600 km | Up to 490 km |
| Charging Time (AC) | 22 hours (standard wall plug) | 22 hours (standard wall plug) |
| Fast Charging (DC) | 10-80% in 20 minutes (350 kW) | 10-80% in 20 minutes (350 kW) |
| Length | 5103 mm | 5103 mm |
| Width | 2135 mm (2231 mm with mirrors) | 2135 mm (2231 mm with mirrors) |
| Height | 1636 mm | 1636 mm |
| Wheelbase | 3019 mm | 3019 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 187-194 mm (adjustable air suspension) | 187-194 mm (adjustable air suspension) |
| Kerb Weight | 2490 kg (Eletre), 2520 kg (S) | 2680 kg |
| Seating Capacity | 5 (optional 4-seat configuration) | 5 (optional 4-seat configuration) |
| Boot Space | 688 L (rear) + 46 L (frunk) | 688 L (rear) + 46 L (frunk) |
| Tyre Size | Up to 315/30 R23 | Up to 315/30 R23 |
| Suspension | Multi-link with Active Air Suspension | Multi-link with Active Air Suspension |
These specifications highlight the Eletre’s prowess as a high-performance electric SUV, with the R variant pushing boundaries with its supercar-like acceleration and the base models offering a balanced mix of range and power.
Variants
The Lotus Eletre is offered in three distinct variants, each tailored to different buyer preferences. Below is a tabular breakdown of the variants and their key differences.
| Variant | Key Features | Power Output |
|---|---|---|
| Eletre | Base model, 15.1-inch touchscreen, ADAS, 603 bhp motor, 600 km range | 603 bhp, 710 Nm |
| Eletre S | Adds active aero, premium KEF audio, upgraded wheels and brakes, same powertrain | 603 bhp, 710 Nm |
| Eletre R | Top-spec, 905 bhp, two-speed gearbox, carbon-fiber trim, 4-wheel steering | 905 bhp, 985 Nm |
The Eletre serves as the entry-level option, delivering impressive performance and luxury features. The Eletre S enhances the experience with additional tech and styling upgrades, while the Eletre R is the performance flagship, designed for enthusiasts seeking unrivaled power and dynamics.
Price in Metro Cities
Pricing for the Lotus Eletre varies across Indian metro cities due to differences in taxes, registration fees, and insurance costs. Below is a table reflecting the ex-showroom and on-road prices (approximate) as of March 17, 2025, based on data from CarWale and CarDekho.
| City | Variant | Ex-Showroom Price (INR) | On-Road Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | Eletre | 2.55 Crore | 2.68 Crore |
| Eletre S | 2.75 Crore | 2.88 Crore | |
| Eletre R | 2.99 Crore | 3.14 Crore | |
| Mumbai | Eletre | 2.55 Crore | 2.68 Crore |
| Eletre S | 2.75 Crore | 2.88 Crore | |
| Eletre R | 2.99 Crore | 3.14 Crore | |
| Bangalore | Eletre | 2.55 Crore | 2.68 Crore |
| Eletre S | 2.75 Crore | 2.88 Crore | |
| Eletre R | 2.99 Crore | 3.14 Crore | |
| Hyderabad | Eletre | 2.55 Crore | 2.68 Crore |
| Eletre S | 2.75 Crore | 2.88 Crore | |
| Eletre R | 2.99 Crore | 3.14 Crore |
These prices include RTO, insurance, and TCS, with slight variations depending on local regulations. The Eletre’s premium pricing positions it as a luxury offering, appealing to affluent buyers in metro cities where EV adoption is accelerating.
About the Lotus Eletre
Design and Styling
The Lotus Eletre redefines what a Lotus vehicle can be, stepping away from the brand’s traditional low-slung sports car aesthetic to embrace a bold, futuristic SUV silhouette. Measuring over 5 meters in length and boasting a wide, muscular stance, the Eletre commands attention with its sharp lines, aggressive front fascia, and sleek arrow-shaped LED DRLs. The grille features active aerodynamic elements that open and close to optimize airflow and cooling, a nod to Lotus’s heritage of aerodynamic innovation seen in models like the Evija hypercar. The sculpted hood, flush door handles, and a tapering roofline contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.26Cd, enhancing efficiency while maintaining a sporty profile. At the rear, a thin light bar and split-wing design—adjustable on higher trims—add a distinctive flourish, making the Eletre unmistakable on the road.
Available in six striking colors—Natron Red, Galloway Green, Stellar Black, Kaimu Grey, Blossom Grey, and Solar Yellow—the Eletre appeals to buyers seeking individuality. The 23-inch alloy wheels, available on top trims, further amplify its imposing presence, though they require careful navigation in tight urban settings. Despite its size, the Eletre retains Lotus’s signature lightweight philosophy through extensive use of aluminum and carbon-fiber elements, particularly in the R variant, ensuring it doesn’t feel as cumbersome as its 2.5-tonne-plus kerb weight might suggest.
Interior and Technology
Step inside the Lotus Eletre, and you’re greeted by a cabin that seamlessly blends luxury with cutting-edge technology. The interior is a showcase of modern design, featuring sustainable materials like 100% recyclable artificial leather and customizable themes that elevate the premium feel. The dashboard is dominated by a 15.1-inch foldable touchscreen infotainment system, powered by Lotus Hyper OS, which controls everything from climate settings to navigation with crisp, responsive visuals. Flanking it are slim 12.6-inch displays for the driver and front passenger, while a 29-inch head-up display with semi-augmented reality enhances driving information accessibility. Rear-seat passengers aren’t left out, with an 8-inch display for added convenience.
The Eletre offers both four- and five-seat configurations, with the former featuring individual rear chairs for a more luxurious experience. Comfort features abound, including four-zone climate control, 12-way electrically adjustable front seats, ambient lighting with greeting sequences, and a wireless charger. The audio experience is elevated by a 15-speaker KEF sound system delivering 1,380 watts of immersive sound, standard on the S and R trims. Storage is generous, with 688 liters in the rear boot and a 46-liter frunk, making the Eletre as practical as it is opulent.
Safety and driver assistance are paramount, with the Eletre equipped with LiDAR sensors—a rarity in its class—enabling advanced autonomous driving capabilities. It offers two ADAS packs: a parking assist package and a highway assist system, complemented by eight airbags, ABS, and a 360-degree camera. This tech-forward approach positions the Eletre as a leader in the luxury EV space, though its reliance on over-the-air updates means buyers must trust Lotus’s ongoing software support.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
True to its Lotus roots, the Eletre delivers a driving experience that balances performance with practicality. The base and S variants, with their 603 bhp and 710 Nm dual-motor setup, achieve 0-100 kmph in a brisk 4.5 seconds—remarkable for a vehicle of this size. The Eletre R, however, takes it to another level, boasting 905 bhp and 985 Nm, rocketing from 0-100 kmph in just 2.95 seconds, rivaling supercars like the Lamborghini Huracán. This is aided by a two-speed transmission on the rear motor, a unique feature that optimizes power delivery at high speeds, pushing the top speed to 265 kmph.
The Eletre’s all-wheel-drive system and rear-wheel steering (standard on the R) ensure nimble handling despite its heft. The multi-link suspension with active air adjustment adapts to road conditions, offering a smooth ride in城市 (city) traffic and razor-sharp dynamics on twisty roads. Lotus claims the Eletre embodies the “heart and soul” of its Emira sports car, and while it’s no lightweight Elise, its responsive steering and low center of gravity make it surprisingly agile. In urban settings, the one-pedal driving mode—enabled by lifting off the brake to roll at up to 15 kmph—enhances ease of use in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
Range is a critical factor for EVs, and the Eletre’s 112 kWh battery delivers up to 600 km (WLTP) in the base and S trims, dropping to 490 km in the R due to its higher power demands. Real-world figures may dip to around 500 km and 400 km, respectively, depending on driving style and conditions. Fast charging at 350 kW can replenish 10-80% in just 20 minutes, though India’s limited charging infrastructure remains a challenge outside metro hubs.
Market Positioning and Ownership Experience
Priced between INR 2.55 Crore and 2.99 Crore (ex-showroom), the Lotus Eletre targets affluent buyers in India’s metro cities, where luxury EVs are a status symbol and a practical choice amid rising fuel costs and stricter emissions norms. Exclusive Motors, based in New Delhi, handles sales and service, with plans to expand support infrastructure as Lotus grows its presence. The Eletre’s premium positioning pits it against high-performance SUVs, both electric and ICE-powered, appealing to those who value uniqueness over mainstream luxury brands.
However, ownership comes with considerations. The Eletre’s size—over 5 meters long and 2 meters wide—can be cumbersome in congested cities like Mumbai or Delhi, where parking and narrow roads pose challenges. Rear visibility is average, though mitigated by the standard 360-degree camera. Maintenance costs and service network expansion remain unknowns, as Lotus is still establishing its foothold in India. For buyers willing to embrace these trade-offs, the Eletre offers a compelling blend of innovation, luxury, and performance.
Close Competitors
The Lotus Eletre enters a competitive segment where luxury, performance, and electrification converge. Its primary rivals include both electric and ICE-powered SUVs, each bringing unique strengths to the table.
Lamborghini Urus
The Lamborghini Urus, a high-performance ICE SUV, is a direct competitor in terms of pricing (INR 4.18 Crore onwards) and performance. With a 4.0L twin-turbo V8 producing 657 bhp and a 0-100 kmph time of 3.6 seconds, it outpaces the Eletre S but falls short of the R’s acceleration. The Urus offers a visceral exhaust note and Italian flair, but its fuel economy and lack of electrification contrast with the Eletre’s eco-friendly credentials and lower running costs.
BMW iX
The BMW iX (INR 1.21-1.40 Crore) is a fully electric rival, offering a 619 bhp xDrive50 variant and a 425 km range. While cheaper and more established in India, it lacks the Eletre’s raw power and sporty dynamics, focusing instead on comfort and brand reliability. The iX’s understated design contrasts with the Eletre’s bold aesthetics, appealing to different buyer sensibilities.
Audi RS Q8
The Audi RS Q8 (INR 2.22 Crore) blends luxury with performance, powered by a 591 bhp 4.0L V8 and achieving 0-100 kmph in 3.8 seconds. It matches the Eletre’s premium feel but lacks electric efficiency. Its quattro AWD system rivals the Eletre’s handling, though the Lotus edges out in acceleration and tech innovation.
Jaguar I-Pace
The Jaguar I-Pace (INR 1.26 Crore) is a more affordable electric alternative, with 394 bhp and a 470 km range. It’s less powerful and luxurious than the Eletre, targeting buyers seeking a practical EV without the hyper-SUV persona. The Eletre’s superior range and performance make it a premium step-up.
BMW XM
The BMW XM (INR 2.60 Crore), a plug-in hybrid, delivers 644 bhp and a 0-100 kmph time of 4.3 seconds. It offers versatility with a small electric-only range (50 km), but its heavier build and higher price point make the Eletre a more dynamic and fully electric option.
The Lotus Eletre stands out for its blend of supercar performance, electric efficiency, and futuristic design, carving a niche among these competitors. While it lacks the heritage of Lamborghini or BMW in India, its uniqueness and Lotus’s performance pedigree make it a compelling choice for early adopters and enthusiasts.
Final Thoughts!
The Lotus Eletre is a transformative vehicle for Lotus, bridging its storied past with a forward-thinking future. With its hyper-SUV credentials, advanced technology, and luxurious appointments, it appeals to buyers seeking a standout electric SUV in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. While its premium pricing and nascent service network may deter some, its exhilarating performance, competitive range, and bold design make it a worthy contender against the likes of the Lamborghini Urus, BMW iX, and Audi RS Q8. For those who crave a driving experience that’s both sustainable and thrilling, the Eletre delivers in spades, redefining what a Lotus can be in the electric age.
