Lotus is shifting its strategy toward plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles, starting with the Eletre PHEV, marketed as the “For Me” in China. This move comes as deliveries declined by 40% year-over-year, signaling a need for broader market appeal. The Eletre PHEV combines an electric range of up to 355 kilometers with the reliability of a gasoline engine, offering a practical solution for consumers who aren’t yet ready for full electric.
Battery and Charging Capabilities
The Lotus Eletre PHEV will utilize a 70 kWh ternary NMC battery pack sourced from the CATL-Geely joint venture. This battery, weighing 408 kg, also powers select trims of the Zeekr 9X SUV, indicating a shared platform strategy within the Geely Group. The high-voltage 900V system enables fast charging: 20% to 80% in just over 8 minutes. This quick charging capability addresses one of the key barriers to EV adoption – charging time.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The vehicle’s curb weight ranges from 2,575 to 2,625 kg, impacting the actual electric range, which varies between 345 and 355 km under CLTC standards. When running in PHEV mode, the Lotus For Me achieves a combined fuel consumption of 0.06-0.07 liters per 100 km (WLTC). Even with a depleted battery, fuel efficiency remains reasonable at 5.98-6.10 liters per 100 km.
Powertrain and Speed
The Eletre PHEV will feature a 2-liter turbocharged engine delivering 205 kW (275 hp), capable of direct power to the wheels or acting as a generator to recharge the battery while driving at highway speeds (approximately 90 minutes for 30-80% charge at 120 km/h). Lotus is also expected to adopt a tri-motor layout from the Zeekr 9X Hyper, boosting combined power to 1,030 kW (1,381 hp). This setup promises acceleration below 3 seconds to 100 km/h and a top speed of 230 km/h, along with a towing capacity of up to 2,275 kg.
Design and Launch Timeline
The Lotus For Me retains the exterior styling of the fully electric Eletre, including active aerodynamic features that generate up to 90 kg of downforce and a drag coefficient of 0.26. The dimensions are 5103/2019/1636 mm, with a 3,019 mm wheelbase. It will feature retractable LiDAR systems and staggered tires.
The vehicle will launch in China in January 2026, with European sales following in the first half of 2026. Lotus CEO Feng Qifeng has indicated that the brand aims to transition entirely to PHEV variants by 2028. This aggressive shift reflects the company’s response to changing market demands and its commitment to providing hybrid options before fully committing to electric vehicles.
The Lotus Eletre PHEV represents a strategic move towards practicality, offering a blend of electric efficiency and traditional engine reliability. This hybrid approach allows Lotus to maintain competitiveness while adapting to the evolving automotive landscape.
