Lotus is embracing electrification, as demonstrated by the Emeya SUV and the Eletre sedan. The Emira, however, stands as the brand's final gas-powered vehicle, with a lifespan of just a few more years. Yet, this doesn't imply that Lotus's new electrification strategy will exclude sports cars. The first glimpse of this new direction, at least in concept form, is set to debut on September 17.
Lotus has teased the upcoming sports car with two videos on social media, dubbing it the Theory 1. The automaker uses terms like 'analog' and 'natural' to characterize it, aiming to evoke the brand's storied past. From the teaser, the vehicle features slender taillight bars flanking a 'LOTUS' wordmark, a Kammback-style rear end, and an assertive spoiler perched atop it. These design elements distinctly set it apart from the Emeya and Eletre.
The name Theory 1 hints that this is merely a concept, potentially foreshadowing a future production supercar or sports car. Originally, Lotus planned to introduce a new coupe by 2027, codenamed Type 135, but battery technology challenges might delay this. This EV would compete with the forthcoming Porsche Boxster / Cayman EV.
Rumors suggest that this electric sports car could offer 469 horsepower in its base model and up to 872 horsepower in the dual-motor variant, with a starting price under $100,000. It would replace the Elise and Emira in the lineup and utilize the Lotus LEVA (Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture) platform. The actual realization of this electric Lotus remains to be seen.
