Last Updated on June 30, 2024 by SPN Editor
Lotus Cars, the iconic British brand famed for high-performance sports cars, has made its grand entry into the Indian EV market, unveiling the stunning Fastest SUV Lotus Eletre cars. The company, owned by the Chinese brand Geely, launched its first fully electric SUV, the Eletre, in India. The debut event showcased three distinct variants – Lotus Eletre, Eletre S, and Eletre R, priced at Rs 2.55 crore, Rs 2.75 crore, and Rs 2.99 crore respectively (ex-showroom pan-India).
At the launch event of Lotus Eletre in India, Dominic Baumgart, Head of Aftersales for Asia Pacific, West Asia, Africa, and India at Lotus Cars, expressed utmost confidence in the strategic timing of the SUV’s introduction. “We’ve thoroughly analyzed the Indian market, its infrastructure, and invested time in securing the right partnership… we’re certain this move will drive our brand and boost vehicle sales here,” Baumgart affirmed during the launch event.
The Fastest SUV Lotus Eletre, hailed as a dual-motor electric SUV, claims its position among the fastest in its category. It boasts a 112 kWh battery that swiftly charges from 10% to 80% within just 20 minutes using a rapid charger. In its flagship variant, the Eletre R, it delivers a remarkable 675 kW / 905 hp power output and covers a maximum range of 490 km (304 miles) on a single charge.
Lotus Cars has picked Exclusive Motors to represent their brand across India, promising an upcoming showroom in Delhi to bring their exceptional vehicles closer to Indian electric vehicle enthusiasts.
Beyond the electric buzz, Lotus Cars plans to introduce the Emira, their final internal combustion engine-powered sports car, to India by 2024. This Emira will offer two engine options – a 2L Turbocharged 4-cylinder producing 360hp or a 6-cylinder supercharged option putting out 400hp.
This Indian voyage for Lotus Cars aligns with a surge in electric vehicle (EV) popularity in the country. September 2023 witnessed a whopping 36% spike in EV sales, with electric two-wheelers and passenger-type electric three-wheelers leading the charge, setting the stage for Lotus Cars to shine in the luxury EV arena.
Moreover, discussions regarding the India-UK free trade agreement include considerations to reduce import taxes on British luxury EVs, potentially amplifying Lotus Cars’ prospects in the Indian market.
However, while the Eletre stands out with its rapid charging capabilities and impressive power output, its pricing notably surpasses that of other electric SUVs available in India, such as the Tata Nexon EV and Hyundai Kona Electric, positioning it as a premium offering in the market.
When looking at the future of electric SUVs available in India, several notable contenders stand out. The Tata Nexon EV, revered as India’s top-selling electric SUV, boasts a 30.2kWh battery, accelerates from 0-100kmph in 9.9 seconds, hits a top speed of 120kmph, and offers a range of 312 kilometers.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric shines as one of India’s fastest electric cars, reaching a top speed of 167kmph. Its 39.2kWh battery capacity allows for a range of 452 kilometers, requiring 6 hours for a full charge.
Additionally, the MG ZS EV stands tall among India’s popular electric SUVs, alongside the Kia EV6, both making their mark in the Indian market.
Overall, the fastest SUV Lotus Eletre Cars’ entry into India signifies a significant milestone in its global expansion strategy. With its high-performance Eletre electric SUV and the upcoming Emira, the brand is poised to capitalize on the escalating demand for luxury EVs in India, leveraging government policies and evolving consumer preferences for EVs in the country’s automotive future.