The 2025 Lotus Eletre Carbon redefines what a high-performance electric SUV can be. Built in Wuhan, China, under Geely’s ownership, this “hyper-SUV” blends raw power, cutting-edge tech, and luxury, but it strays from Lotus’s lightweight sports car heritage. With a starting price of $229,900, it’s a bold move to compete with elite electric vehicles like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S. Let’s dive into what makes the Eletre Carbon a standout for casual drivers and enthusiasts alike.
A New Era for Lotus
Lotus, historically known for nimble sports cars like the Elise, takes a dramatic leap with the Eletre Carbon. This electric SUV, powered by dual e-motors, delivers an astonishing 903 horsepower and 727 lb-ft of torque. It rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and hits a top speed of 165 mph, outmuscling the 938-hp Porsche Taycan Turbo S, which starts at $210,995. However, at 5,850 pounds, the Eletre’s hefty curb weight contrasts with Lotus’s “simplify, add lightness” ethos, making it a departure from tradition. Geely’s influence is clear, with production in China and a focus on luxury and tech to appeal to a broader market.
Performance and Handling
The Eletre Carbon’s dual-motor setup, paired with a two-speed transmission for the rear motor, ensures blistering acceleration. Its 111.9-kWh battery provides a real-world range of about 247 miles at 96% charge, though high-speed driving can reduce this significantly. For instance, a 152-mile trip with 90 miles at 85–90 mph dropped the battery to 23%. The 800-volt architecture supports rapid charging, achieving 10–80% capacity in 20 minutes on a 350-kW charger, adding roughly 100 miles in 30 minutes on a 150-kW unit.
Handling is where Lotus attempts to retain its DNA. Rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars make the Eletre surprisingly agile for its size, shrinking its feel on winding roads. However, its air suspension struggles at low speeds, transmitting urban bumps harshly. Compared to the Taycan Turbo S, which offers sharper steering and a more connected feel, the Eletre prioritizes power over finesse. It excels on dry roads but can understeer when pushed hard, lacking the playful dynamics of traditional Lotus models.
Tech and Luxury Features
Inside, the Eletre Carbon is a tech showcase. A 15.1-inch OLED touchscreen runs Lotus’s HyperOS, delivering crisp visuals and intuitive controls. A 23-speaker KEF audio system provides immersive sound, while 34 sensors and 12 cameras power advanced driver assistance systems, with hardware ready for Level 4 autonomy via future updates. The cabin features premium Alcantara and Bridge of Weir leather, with carbon-fiber accents adding a sporty touch. However, its sheer size—200.9 inches long and 64.2 inches tall—makes parking tricky, and lane-keeping assist can feel intrusive.
Price and Competition
Priced at $229,900, the Eletre Carbon climbs to $261,250 with options like carbon-ceramic brakes ($18,500) and the Executive Seating Pack ($8,750). It’s pricier than the Taycan Turbo S and far exceeds the Tesla Model Y Performance ($54,130). While it offers more power, its range lags behind the Porsche Macan Electric (up to 380 miles) and efficiency is lower, averaging 2 miles per kWh compared to the Macan’s 3.3. For buyers seeking luxury and performance, the Eletre competes with the Lamborghini Urus and Aston Martin DBX, though its Chinese origins may deter some purists.
Looking Ahead
Lotus plans a hyper-hybrid Eletre by 2027, promising a 900-volt architecture and over 680 miles of range, blending electric and combustion power. This could appeal to those hesitant about full EVs. For now, the Eletre Carbon is a bold statement—fast, tech-laden, and luxurious, but not a true Lotus in spirit. It’s ideal for buyers wanting a head-turning SUV with supercar speed, but enthusiasts craving classic Lotus agility may look elsewhere.
