The Plug-In Hybrid Lotus Eletre X Makes More Sense Than the EV

The Lotus Eletre never really took off the way the company probably hoped. Now Lotus seems to be changing direction with a plug-in hybrid version called the Eletre X, and honestly, this setup makes a lot more sense for a big luxury SUV like this.

Instead of relying only on batteries, the Eletre X combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with two electric motors and a large 70 kWh battery pack running on a 900-volt system. In top H1000 form, the powertrain delivers 939 hp and 690 lb-ft (935 Nm) of torque. That’s enough for 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 3.3 seconds, while the jump from 50-99 mph (80-160 km/h) takes just 3.88 seconds.

The bigger story is the range. Thanks to the battery and a 52-liter fuel tank, Lotus claims the Eletre X can travel more than 745 miles (1,200 km) between stops. Pure electric driving range sits at around 217 miles (350 km), and the battery can charge from 20 to 80 percent in about 9 minutes using a 350 kW DC fast charger.

Lotus will offer two versions. The entry-level H550 produces 542 hp while keeping the same 690 lb-ft of torque and battery setup. It reaches 62 mph in 4.9 seconds and tops out at 130 mph (210 km/h). The more powerful H1000 raises top speed to 143 mph (230 km/h). Both keep the hardware from the electric Eletre, including air suspension, adaptive dampers, active anti-roll control, and massive Brembo brakes.

Pricing in Germany starts at €96,990 for the H550, barely more than the base electric Eletre at €95,990. The H1000 comes in at €119,990, which suddenly makes the fully electric flagship sitting above €150,000 look a lot harder to justify.