In a significant shift, British automaker Lotus, owned by China’s Geely, has announced it will no longer pursue an all-electric lineup by 2028. Instead, the brand plans to develop hybrid and extended-range electric vehicles (EVs) to cater to a broader audience, particularly as luxury buyers remain hesitant about fully electric vehicles.
At the Guangzhou Motor Show, CEO Feng Qingfeng revealed plans for a “super hybrid” system. This innovative powertrain will combine a turbocharged combustion engine with advanced fast-charging capabilities, delivering a total range of 680 miles. Utilizing a cutting-edge 900V architecture, Lotus aims to solve the slow-charging challenges of current EVs, allowing “flash charging” even faster than battery swapping.
Feng emphasized Lotus’s commitment to adopting the best powertrain technology, blending performance and practicality to meet customer demands.
Lotus Strategic Shift
Lotus previously dismissed hybrid powertrains, citing concerns over compromised performance, especially with depleted batteries. However, this change in direction appears to target luxury models, such as the Eletre SUV and Emeya sedan, rather than lightweight sports cars. These larger vehicles stand to benefit from the added versatility of hybrid systems, expanding their appeal to buyers seeking a balance between performance and range.
Why the Change?
The decision reflects the reality of slower-than-expected adoption of electric vehicles, even in markets like China, where demand for luxury EVs has stagnated. This shift aligns with a more pragmatic approach, ensuring Lotus remains competitive while retaining its performance legacy.
While hybrid and range-extended EVs take center stage, traditional Lotus fans may feel disappointed. The lightweight sports cars synonymous with the brand’s heritage appear to be taking a backseat. For now, enthusiasts can still enjoy the Emira, the company’s last gas-powered sports car, which remains on sale for a few more years.
