Lotus Theory 1 EV Concept Unveiled: 986 HP, 2.5-Second 0-60 MPH Sleek Beast
The Lotus Theory 1 may not be the sexiest or prettiest of things, but Lotus' latest concept sports car seeks to demonstrate the 76-year-old company's desire to merge future tech with increased driver immersion. The concept sports an obligatory electric drivetrain, but also utilizes screens, hapticsb and sensors in the interior to interact with the driver.
The concept car doesn't have a specified powerplant just yet, aside from being electric and that Lotus claims has 986 hp going to all four wheels. Zero to 62 mph can be dispatched in less than 2.5 seconds, with a capped velocity of 198 mph. The 70.0 kWh battery pack is on the small side, due in part to the car's compact dimensions, providing 250 miles of European WLTP-rated range.
On the topic of compact, weight is kept in check at 3,527 lbs. This is inclusive of the battery and recycled carbon tub and shell made of composite and polycarbonate. Looking at the front and rear, you can see a lot of racing-inspired ideas, such as the split lower spoiler that directs airflow smoothly under the car as well as into the cooling system. The rear suspension utilizes pull-rods and the rear wing is in fact part of the motor and suspension assembly.
Pulling a Gordon Murray, the Theory 1 has a three-seat layout, with the driver in a front-center position. The cabin is also where Lotus introduces some interesting/weird ideas. Deemed "Lotuswear" (pronounced Lotus Wear, not Lot-U-Swear), what might sound like Lotus swag is actually a new "immersive system that aims to deliver a personalized experience to every occupant in the car." For example, haptic "inflatable pods" wrapped in robotic textile will pulse on the left and right sides of the steering to indicate to the driver to make a turn, or the same pods in the seats and headrests which adapt to the surrounding environment and drive modes to optimize comfort and driver experience.
Moreover, a suite of 360-degree sensors, lights, and speakers throughout the interior will serve a few important functions, such as increase passenger/pedestrian safety, improve vehicle dynamics, and produce "speed sounds" to deliver "a sense of thrill, exhilaration, and fun." Right.
How much of these concepts make it into Lotus products is yet to be seen, but with something like the Type 135 just a few years away, we won't have to wait long find out. For better or for worse.
