London, UK – April 9, 2025
On April 21, the roar of a turbocharged V6 will echo through the Estoril circuit once more, as the legendary Lotus 97T returns to the track where Ayrton Senna claimed his first ever Formula 1 victory. Four decades later, in a deeply symbolic gesture, Senna’s nephew, Bruno Senna, will pilot the very same car, marking 40 years since that watershed moment in Formula 1 and Lotus history.

The commemorative drive forms part of two milestone celebrations—the 75th anniversary of Formula 1 and Lotus’ pivotal contribution to its evolution. It’s a celebration of a golden era in motorsport, where raw power met bold innovation, and where legends like Senna etched their names into racing folklore.

A Masterclass in the Rain

The 1985 Portuguese Grand Prix at Estoril was more than just a debut victory—it was a declaration of Ayrton Senna’s extraordinary talent. Battling torrential rain and treacherous conditions, Senna delivered a sublime performance that stunned the paddock. He lapped all but one car, showcasing a level of control and precision that even seasoned champions admired. Though many cite his 1993 Donington Park win as his greatest drive, Senna himself was quick to disagree:
“No way! I had traction control there. It was a good win but compared with Estoril ’85 it was nothing.”

The upcoming tribute drive promises to rekindle the spirit of that defining day—one that set the tone for a glittering career that would include 41 wins, three world titles, and a lasting impact on the sport.

The Lotus 97T: Innovation in Motion

Beneath the black and gold livery, the Lotus 97T was a marvel of engineering. It was among the first to feature aerodynamic appendages—vertical vanes behind the front wheels—that would go on to influence the development of modern bargeboards, now a staple of F1 car design. With its Renault turbocharged engine, the 97T exemplified the brutal, fire-breathing spirit of the turbo era.

Clive Chapman, Managing Director of Classic Team Lotus and son of Lotus founder Colin Chapman, reflected on the significance of the car and its driver:
“For Team Lotus, Ayrton’s arrival was a defining moment. His talent, technical understanding and relentless drive helped push the team forward. This anniversary allows us to relive that magic and honour his legacy. Bruno Senna’s commemorative drive at Estoril promises to be an emotional and historic moment, bringing the past full circle and cementing Senna’s enduring impact on motorsport.”

A Nephew’s Tribute, a Global Celebration

For Bruno Senna, stepping into the cockpit of the 97T is more than an homage—it’s a personal journey.
“It will be an incredible feeling to drive this iconic car, marking the beginning of a series of victories and achievements by my uncle,” he said. “This celebration will bring together fans from all over the world and shows how Ayrton Senna remains a powerful name in motorsport, and a positive influence on society—from education to sustainability, and as a movement that continues to inspire generations to pursue their dreams and never give up.”

From Goodwood to Estoril

Before making its historic return to Portugal, the Lotus 97T will first appear at the 82nd Goodwood Members’ Meeting on April 12–13. The event will serve as a poignant send-off for the car, offering fans a rare opportunity to witness it in action.

The Duke of Richmond CBE DL shared his enthusiasm for the car’s return:
“Goodwood has always celebrated motorsport’s greatest icons, and it’s an honour to host the Lotus 97T ahead of its return to Estoril. Seeing the legendary car on track once again will be a fitting tribute to Ayrton Senna’s legacy and a special moment for fans, who can see the car in action again at the Festival of Speed in July.”

A Legacy Lives On

This tribute is more than a nostalgic revival—it’s a reaffirmation of the values that defined both Ayrton Senna and Team Lotus: innovation, courage, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The return to Estoril connects past and present, reminding the world of the indelible mark left by one of F1’s most beloved figures.

Lotus will be capturing every moment, with stories, interviews, and footage shared across social media platforms. The historic lap will also be broadcast by Sky Sports F1, ensuring that this iconic celebration reaches fans across the globe.

As the Lotus 97T fires up once more, and Bruno Senna takes to the Estoril tarmac, history won’t just be remembered—it will be reborn.

The Legacy of Lotus in Motorsport

For over 75 years, Lotus has stood at the forefront of motorsports innovation and success. From the earliest days of Formula 1 to the most recent triumphs in endurance racing, Lotus has built an unparalleled legacy rooted in technical brilliance, a relentless pursuit of speed, and a commitment to drivers. This legacy, built on countless podiums, championships, and iconic moments, is now encapsulated in the unified global Team Lotus.

Lotus has always been for the drivers. It’s a phrase that embodies not just the cars but the spirit of the team itself. It speaks to the dedication to creating vehicles that elevate the driving experience, whether on public roads or the toughest racing circuits in the world. The rebirth of Team Lotus represents more than a mere return to competition; it’s a reaffirmation of Lotus’ unwavering belief in the power of motorsport to unite people, foster ambition, and inspire the next generation of racing talent.

A Unified Global Force

Under the banner of Team Lotus, the brand’s motorsport activities are now a cohesive force, uniting factory-supported programs, partner racing teams, the Lotus Cup championships, driver development initiatives, and fans worldwide. From grassroots competitions to the most prestigious international events, Team Lotus provides the infrastructure, resources, and support necessary for its community of drivers to thrive.

Gavan Kershaw, Director and Head of Motorsports at Lotus Cars, emphasizes the importance of this new chapter: “Motorsport has been in Lotus’ DNA from day one, and we have hundreds of Lotus cars competing every weekend in all forms of classic, national, and international races. Team Lotus unites that passion across every level. Whether it’s GT, endurance, or grassroots competition, we’re committed to supporting teams and drivers who share our love for racing.”

Expanding the Roster: Emira GT4 and Partner Teams

As Team Lotus revs its engines for a new era, an expanding roster of partner teams and customers will take to the track in 2025, starting with the formidable Emira GT4. This car will be challenging on the global stage, with Lotus-backed teams competing in some of the most prestigious racing series. These include Mahiki Racing in the British GT4, Pegasus Racing in the SRO GT Cup in Shanghai, PB Racing in the Italian Championship, and the Euro Series GT4, all bringing the legendary Lotus performance to the forefront of motorsport worldwide.

The return of Team Lotus is not just about continuing an illustrious history—it’s about shaping the future of racing. Lotus is determined to build a global motorsport community, one where shared goals, mutual support, and a love for speed drive success. Each race and each track will be an opportunity for Lotus to demonstrate its commitment to both the sport and the people who make it great.

The 2025 Livery: Bold, Iconic, and Forward-Facing

To mark the reintroduction of Team Lotus, a striking new race livery has been designed for the 2025 season. This unique design incorporates the boldness of Lotus’ signature yellow, a color synonymous with the brand’s racing history, while drawing inspiration from the most iconic liveries of the past. This bold new livery symbolizes not just a connection to Lotus’ storied past but also its forward-facing vision—a symbol of a team ready to make history once again.

As part of Lotus’ 75th anniversary celebration in Formula 1, Team Lotus will pay homage to its incredible legacy while ensuring that its foundations in motorsport are stronger than ever. The livery reflects the team’s ambition to compete at the highest level while honoring the spirit of racing that Lotus has embodied for over seven decades.

A New Chapter for the Racing Community

At the heart of Team Lotus lies a deep sense of togetherness—a commitment to the drivers, fans, and partners who make motorsport the thrilling spectacle it is. Whether in the pit lane, on the track, or in the stands, Team Lotus aims to reignite the passion for racing, inspiring future generations of drivers, engineers, and fans to chase their dreams and be part of something truly extraordinary.

As Lotus sets its sights on a bright future, the message is clear: Team Lotus is back, and it’s more than just a team—it’s a global family, united by the love of racing and driven by a passion that will never fade.

#TeamLotus | #ForTheLoveOfRacing

With the launch of Team Lotus, Lotus is once again proving that motorsport isn’t just a part of its DNA—it is the pulse that drives the brand forward. Racing is more than a sport; it’s a way of life. And with Team Lotus, that life is about to get even more exciting.

The Emira Turbo SE: A Tribute to Lotus History

The Emira Turbo SE marks a bold leap forward, fusing cutting-edge technology with a nod to Lotus’ rich heritage. Its name draws from the Turbo Esprit of 1980, one of the brand’s pioneering models to feature turbocharged technology. The “SE” designation, used by Lotus in the past to signify high-performance variants with special equipment, returns in this new model as a testament to increased power, refinement, and exclusivity.

In terms of performance, the Emira Turbo SE does not disappoint. Powered by a 4-cylinder variable geometry turbocharged engine paired with an 8-speed DCT gearbox—both sourced from Lotus’ technology partner, AMG—the Turbo SE produces a thrilling 400 horsepower, an increase of 40 bhp. Torque rises by 50 Nm, reaching 480 Nm, propelling the Turbo SE to a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph), an 18 km/h improvement over its predecessor. Acceleration is equally impressive, with the car achieving 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4.0 seconds.

Enhanced Design and Performance Features

True to its ‘SE’ moniker, the Emira Turbo SE comes with an array of performance enhancements. Standard features include the Lotus Drivers Pack, which includes sports suspension settings, uprated cross-drilled ventilated two-piece brake discs, and launch control. These enhancements, combined with the car’s dynamic capabilities, position the Turbo SE as the most thrilling Emira to date.

Aesthetically, the Emira Turbo SE embodies the bold, aggressive lines and sleek contours that define Lotus’ design philosophy. The car is fitted with newly finished 20” V-spoke forged Satin Grey wheels, Zinc Grey paint, Alcantara headliner, red brake callipers, and exclusive ‘Emira Turbo SE’ badging. It also features new black Lotus branding, making a distinct statement wherever it goes.

The Emira Turbo SE is available for order now, with prices starting at £89,500, and the showroom debut scheduled for April 2025.

Emira V6: A Timeless Classic

For those who desire the iconic V6 experience, Lotus continues to offer the Emira V6. Powered by the 400bhp charge-cooled and supercharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, the Emira V6 stays true to the brand’s performance-oriented philosophy. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. Key performance features include cross-drilled and ventilated two-piece brake discs, Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport tyres, and the Touring suspension for an enhanced driving experience. With a starting price of £92,500, the Emira V6 remains a powerful option for those seeking a more traditional driving experience.

Celebrating Production Milestones at Hethel

The Emira’s impressive evolution continues at the Lotus factory in Hethel, UK, where the 10,000th Emira was recently produced. This landmark achievement underscores the model’s success and represents the fastest build rate of any Lotus car to date. With the facility now operating at a capacity of 5,000 cars per year, up from just 1,500 a decade ago, the Emira has quickly surpassed the total production numbers of the legendary Esprit.

As Matt Windle, Group VP & Managing Director of Lotus Cars, comments, “The Lotus Emira is the most accomplished Lotus road car ever to roll through the Hethel factory gates. Beautifully proportioned with a stunning design inspired by the Evija all-electric hypercar, it’s the perfect package. The Emira is a junior supercar with all the thrills and head-turning characteristics found in the greatest Lotus cars, but at the same time is an everyday sports car that’s high on comfort and functionality, packed with the latest technology demanded by the discerning driver.”

The revamped Lotus Emira line-up offers unparalleled performance, design, and technology. Whether opting for the newly launched Emira Turbo SE or the more classic Emira V6, drivers can expect the same exhilarating driving experience Lotus is known for, now with even more power, style, and precision. With the Emira’s continued production success, Lotus is clearly forging a new chapter in its storied legacy—one where performance meets everyday usability, and thrilling drives become a part of daily life.

For more information on the revamped Lotus Emira line-up, visit www.lotuscars.com.

The 14th annual Reuters Sustainability Awards were marked by a competitive field of over 700 entries globally, with only 30 honorees selected across 17 categories. Lotus Tech’s recognition stands out not only for its prestige but also as the singular representation from the automotive sector, affirming its unique leadership in sustainable innovation and its pioneering contributions to a cleaner, smarter mobility future.

The Business Transformation Award specifically highlights companies reshaping their business models to promote sustainability and resilience. Lotus Tech’s accolade underscores the success of its data-driven and transparent approach to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives, which has spurred systemic change within the company and across the luxury automotive landscape. The company’s commitment is deeply rooted in its ambitious Vision80 Strategy, launched in 2018, which laid the groundwork for Lotus Tech’s transition from a traditional carmaker to an intelligent luxury mobility provider.

Under Vision80, Lotus Tech has spearheaded the development and global distribution of three groundbreaking electric vehicles: the Evija hypercar, the Eletre SUV, and the Emeya GT sedan. These models exemplify Lotus Tech’s core principles of sustainable design, cutting-edge technology, and performance-oriented luxury. With each vehicle, the company has made notable strides in reducing environmental impact while delivering high-performance luxury to an eco-conscious global audience.

Chairman of the ESG Committee at Lotus Tech, Mr. Alexious Lee, expressed the company’s pride in receiving this recognition. “We’re truly honored to receive this accolade from the Reuters Sustainability Awards,” said Mr. Lee. “Our journey of transformation since 2018 has been remarkable, and this award strengthens our resolve to continue driving positive change for the next generation and our planet.”

This recognition highlights the strategic alignment between Lotus Tech’s sustainability objectives and its product innovation, serving as a powerful reminder of the company’s unwavering commitment to the future of sustainable mobility.

For more information on Lotus Tech’s ESG strategy and ongoing achievements, download the latest ESG report here.

As Lotus Tech advances, its dedication to a cleaner, smarter world serves as an inspiring model, demonstrating the potential for luxury mobility to harmonize with sustainable innovation and environmental responsibility.

This exciting initiative highlights Uber’s ongoing commitment to sustainable urban transport, as nearly 30% of its miles in London are already fully electric. The Lotus Eletre fleet is set to further promote the transition to electric vehicles in one of the world’s busiest and most pollution-conscious cities.

Driving Toward a Greener London
London has long been at the forefront of the global shift toward zero-emission transport, and Uber Green, launched in central London in 2021, has played a significant role in this transition. Since its debut, Uber Green has helped save an estimated 55,000 tonnes of carbon emissions in the capital. This latest initiative, in partnership with Lotus, not only aligns with the city’s broader environmental goals but also underscores Uber’s ambitious electrification strategy.

As Andrew Brem, General Manager for Uber UK, explains: “We’re thrilled to team up with Lotus to combine cutting-edge luxury with sustainable travel. Uber drivers are already leading the way, going electric far quicker than regular motorists – making London Uber’s global capital for electrification.”

The Eletre, Lotus’s first all-electric Hyper-SUV, is a bold statement for both the automaker and the ride-hailing giant. Its introduction into Uber Green is not merely a luxury offer but a significant stride toward showcasing how sustainability and opulence can coexist harmoniously in the future of mobility.

A Competition to Encourage Electric Journeys
In a bid to encourage more riders to make greener choices, Uber has launched a competition tied to this initiative. The rider who saves the most emissions by the end of November—by opting for fully electric Uber Green rides—will win free Uber Green trips for the next decade. Riders can track their emissions savings using Uber’s in-app Emissions Savings tool, introduced earlier this year.

This competition amplifies the appeal of choosing electric vehicles, not just for their environmental benefits but for the chance to win a significant reward.

The Lotus Eletre: A New Era of Hyper-SUVs
At the heart of this initiative is the Lotus Eletre, an all-electric Hyper-SUV that epitomizes innovation. Known for its performance, advanced aerodynamics, and luxurious interiors, the Eletre redefines the passenger experience.

Conor Horne, Commercial Director of UK and Ireland at Lotus, expressed excitement about the partnership: “We are incredibly excited to partner with Uber to have a fleet of our all-electric Lotus Eletre available in London via the app for passengers to experience and enjoy. We hope this initiative will not only enhance the riding experience for Uber customers but also contribute to a greener city, something we at Lotus are very passionate about.”

Passengers stepping into a Lotus Eletre will enjoy a spacious and premium environment, designed to provide a relaxing journey. The Hyper-SUV’s interior boasts world-class materials and a state-of-the-art infotainment system, while its driving experience remains true to Lotus’s legacy of performance engineering.

Partnering with Otto Cars
The vehicles in this exclusive fleet will be managed by Otto Cars, London’s largest private hire provider. Gurinder Dhillon, CEO of Otto Cars, emphasized the importance of the collaboration: “We are delighted to power up this concept for Uber and Lotus. Let’s prove that a sustainable ride can be a thrilling experience, without the smoke.”

A Thrilling Future for Urban Transport
Uber’s collaboration with Lotus signals a future where high-end luxury and environmental responsibility are no longer mutually exclusive. Through innovative partnerships, both brands aim to show that zero-emission transport doesn’t have to come at the expense of comfort, performance, or style.

As the Uber Green fleet continues to expand, and with Uber drivers adopting electric vehicles at five times the rate of regular motorists, the future of urban mobility in London looks promising. By making the transition to zero-emission vehicles more accessible and desirable, this initiative marks a bold step forward in reducing carbon footprints while enhancing the passenger experience.

For Londoners, October offers the chance to experience the epitome of green luxury while contributing to a cleaner, greener city—one ride at a time.

The service will provide customers with the capability to customise their Lotus products, from custom badges and trims to complete one-off personalisation of an entire vehicle.

Initially launching in China from 25 April 2024, the bespoke service will then roll out around the world over the coming months.

Clive Chapman, son of Colin and Director of Classic Team Lotus, commented; “Together my parents shared an extraordinary adventure. Their dynamic personalities created innovative designs for the drivers to enjoy. Now the drivers can enjoy creating their own innovations with Lotus Chapman Bespoke.”

The Lotus Chapman Bespoke name honours Lotus founders Colin & Hazel Chapman who started the business in 1948 in London, UK. A pioneering innovator, many of the designs, technologies and innovations seen in motor-racing today were first developed by Colin Chapman.

Lotus has always carried that rebellious Chapman spirit; a true originator, he ignored the status quo and was famous for carving his own path, in his own style.

Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Lotus Group commented; “The story of Lotus is the story of a bespoke carmaker. The first cars were hand-drawn and hand-built at home by Colin Chapman, and that spirit lives on in us today.”

Lotus cars today are driven by those who share that same spirit and Lotus Chapman Bespoke connects our founders with the drivers of today. Now you can finish your car in your way, the same way Chapman himself would have done. This is why Lotus Chapman Bespoke carries the name of our founders, Colin & Hazel Chapman, the highest accolade we could award.

With Bespoke, there are three levels of personalisation and customisation to choose from:

1. Tailor-made: choose your own unique combination from within a broad palate of colours and designs, and finish with exclusive personal touches and details.
2. Collection: choose from a selection of limited-edition designs, bought to life in partnership with partners, artists and likeminded luxury brands.
3. One-off: As the name suggests, build a car as unique as you are.

Ben Payne, VP Design, Lotus Group, commented; “Many of our customers are looking for a bespoke experience; be that colour, texture, fabric, detail – and we are excited to see their individuality stamped on our cars around the world.”

Three levels of excellence, with almost unlimited combinations to choose from. Search Lotus Chapman Bespoke online or speak to your local Lotus Centre for more information.

The all-new Emeya, which customers in the Europe will receive from Q3 this year, sets a new benchmark in EV performance and usability.

Commenting on Emeya, Feng Qingfeng, CEO, Lotus Group, said: “Electric cars do not have to be boring. We are combining our rich sports car heritage with the latest cutting-edge technologies to redefine what it means to drive an electric vehicle. Emeya seamlessly blends exceptional ride and handling with world-class luxury, performance, comfort, connectivity, and range – bringing drivers the ultimate grand tourer package with the unrivalled driving experience of a true Lotus.”

A new frontier for charging and range
Emeya makes it easier than ever to own an electric vehicle by providing drivers with the confidence to complete long-distance journeys:

• Lotus has optimised the design layout of the batteries in its vehicles, so that 20% more cells can be packaged in the same space. By doing this, Emeya is able to offer market-leading charging capabilities, boosting range by up to 20%.1
• When using a 350kW DC fast-charger, Emeya can achieve a 10-80% charge within 18 minutes, with a maximum WLTP range of 610 km (379 miles).2

Sports car levels of dynamic performance
Lotus has incorporated its rich motorsport heritage and industry-leading engineering capabilities throughout Emeya to bring drivers a refined and dynamic EV that is truly exciting to drive. Features include:

• Innovative, driver-focused suspension design available with all wheel drive, advanced active roll control and rear-wheel steering.
• Advanced active aerodynamics such as active air dam under the front bumper and an active rear spoiler. These increase downforce and therefore stability in the car when deployed and reduce drag when not deployed.
• Downforce of 150 kg at 250 km/h, with a low drag coefficient of 0.21 Cd. With this, drivers can tailor the driving experience to their environment. For instance, on a technical mountain road, a customer can engage Sport mode to boost downforce, increase agility and better connect with the road.
• Power of up to 905 bhp, enabling Emeya to accelerate from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in under 2.8 seconds, and making it one of the quickest electric cars in the world.
• Advanced new high-performance twin-layer battery design’s cooling attributes support even greater repeatability and sustainability of performance, even under extreme driving conditions such as on a circuit, yet also provides greater driving range between charges.
• Lightweight carbon ceramic brakes reduce weight and braking distance – which contribute to dynamic handling – as well as doubling the lifespan of the components.
• Up to five driving modes including Range, Tour, Sport, Individual and Track. Drivers can control the ride height, air suspension stiffness, acceleration response, seat configuration (with adjustable side bolsters), and more to optimise efficiency, performance, and comfort in any environment.
• An electronically controlled air suspension system with advanced onboard sensors respond to changes in road conditions and automatically adjust the vehicle set-up. This ensures the smoothest ride and optimum driving experience for customers.
• Combined with Emeya’s low driving position, every element of the car is designed to connect drivers to the road and evoke the genuine feeling of being in a true Lotus sports car.

Redefining the luxury experience
Emeya sets a new benchmark for how a luxury car should look and feel by optimising design, technology, comfort, and versatility to deliver the best possible in-car experience for every occupant. Features include:

• A spacious boot of up to 509 litres, offering everyday usability and making it the ultimate touring companion.
• Generous legroom for all passengers, ensuring they have the most spacious and comfortable ride.
• Ambient lighting functions interact with the driver’s experience. For instance, when getting an incoming phone call, elements of the dashboard will pulse to notify the driver of this, and when charging, the ambient lighting on the floating dashboard will change to green.
• Five massage modes at three different intensity levels, ensuring all occupants have a relaxing ride no matter where they are sat.
• Power-assisted doors make entering the vehicle seamless for customers. Sensors can also detect obstacles ensuring a door will not open if the vehicle is at risk of damage. In addition, a kick sensor on the tailgate enables customers to easily open the boot, event when their hands are full.
• Advanced intelligent panoramic glass roof, which drivers can switch between opaque and clear. This allows customers to enjoy a feeling of space whatever the time of day. They also have the option to turn individual sections of the roof opaque, enabling them block out direct sunlight while keeping the rest of the roof open.

Next-generation connectivity
Lotus Emeya features cutting-edge technologies, which have been designed to provide a seamless experience for the driver, further connecting them to the vehicle. Features include:

• A state-of-the-art 15.1-inch HD OLED Lotus Hyper OS infotainment system, which features an interactive 3D display of Emeya to access its numerous functions. Powered by Unreal Engine gaming tech, the car is able to respond rapidly in real-time to any changes the driver makes and adjust accordingly. For instance, touching the screen to open the doors will immediately open the doors on the car.
• Intelligent EV routing, which is capable of learning individual driving patterns, such as departure times, destinations, and routes, to offer every driver a personalised experience.
• An expansive Augmented Reality head-up display for the driver, meaning they can clearly see important vehicle data without taking their eyes of the road.
• Over-the-air software updates as required and delivered direct to each Emeya, so Lotus can continue to advance the driver experience by offering new services and upgrades.

Pricing and availability
Emeya is offered in six colours including two new finishes that are now available as exterior options across the entire Lotus electric vehicle range – Boreal Grey and Fireglow Orange. The additional colours include Solar Yellow, Akoya White, Stellar Black and Kaimu Grey.

Emeya is competitively priced in the luxury GT segment, and will be available in three variants:

• Emeya, the entry point for the range, starting at £94,950 (€106,400).
• Emeya S, a well-equipped Hyper-GT model, beginning from £107,450 (€126,950).
• Emeya R, the flagship, which starts at £129,950 (€150,990).

Emeya was launched in China on 18 January and will be arriving with UK and European customers in Q3 2024. Further information on market availability will be released nearer the time.

Over the winter, the all-electric grand tourer was in Ivalo, Finland, as Lotus engineers conclude their validation work. Around 250km inside the Arctic Circle, temperatures in recent weeks have been as low as -25 degrees Celsius… and still the team has put the car in a local automotive ‘freezer’ to test it to -40 degrees Celsius.

It’s the culmination of a stringent three-year test and development programme across 15 countries in two continents1, supported by Lotus’ global engineering teams. It took place on a variety of terrain and conditions; from the UK’s challenging B-roads to the smooth and fast-flowing German autobahn, through the highest Alpine passes and the remoteness of Inner Mongolia. Testing also took place at race tracks such as the Nürburgring Nordschleife and at proving grounds like the high-speed loop near the southern Italian town of Nardò.

As well as extreme cold, Emeya also endured conditions as high as 40 degrees Celsius in these environments. Additional in-market testing will take place in the Middle East, United States and Australia ahead of deliveries in these markets.

Sylvain Verstraeten, Regional Vehicle Line Director, Emeya, said: “The testing process at Lotus is rigorous and covers a comprehensive performance assessment of everything from suspension and steering through to battery and tyres. Emeya is the ultimate all-electric grand tourer, designed and engineered to deliver the optimum driving experience for our customers 365 days a year and in all conditions. We’re incredibly excited for customers to be able to experience Emeya for themselves.”

During the Arctic testing programme, Lotus’ engineers focused on testing Emeya in various ways, including:

• Chassis systems such as suspensions, steering, brakes and traction and stability controls, to ensure stability of the vehicle in various conditions and on surfaces such as ice and snow.
• Tyre testing and development of bespoke Lotus winter tyres that effectively support the handling and dynamics of the vehicle.
• Driver assistance functions, which help customers remain in control of the vehicle in situations where road markings and traffic signs may be obscured due to external factors such as snow.
• Proving the unrestricted usability of the battery in extreme weather, both charging and discharging, to ensure consistency and repeatability.
• Testing and calibrating the air-conditioning and thermal management systems to ensure the car is as efficient and comfortable as possible in all conditions.

Two types of testing took place during Emeya’s development – controlled and real-world. Controlled testing means consistent conditions must exist. For example, during tyre tests the surface must remain consistent to allow meaningful comparisons. Real-world testing then proves the controlled results, introducing new factors such as changing road surfaces and driving in traffic.

Meeting global regulatory targets is obviously a vital part of the programme, but at the heart of it is one key internal target – to guarantee Emeya drives like a true Lotus. As the company transitions to become an all-electric tech-focused luxury performance brand, staying true to the roots of what makes Lotus a Lotus is paramount.

Gavan Kershaw, Director of Attributes and Product Integrity, Lotus, was involved in that process since he joined the company in 1988 as a 16-year-old. He commented: “There are many elements of the Lotus DNA which have been carried through all our vehicles since the very first one in 1948. A Lotus should be engaging and desirable, but also safe and predictable. That doesn’t mean boring – in fact, just the opposite! Drivers need to know they can trust their car so they can maximise the dynamic performance, and with the development work that’s gone into Emeya, they really can.”

As a true grand tourer, Emeya has many features which help to make it the perfect companion in any environment, including the Arctic Circle. With Lotus advanced control systems and four-wheel drive, the vehicle excels in stability, handling and control, meaning the drivability of Emeya is not compromised in extreme weather.

Customers can remotely prepare their car from the comfort of their own home via the Lotus App. They can set the cabin to the desired temperature as well as turn on the heated seats and the heated steering wheel2. This process can be completed in only a few minutes3 and allows customers to move from house to car with minimal discomfort. The same of course applies in hot climates, where customers can cool the cabin and seats before entering their vehicle.

In addition, heated side cameras and mirrors prevent their vision being impacted by condensation, snow or ice. The 55-inch head-up display – the largest and most advanced in any Lotus – has Snow Mode which turns the display blue, helping the driver to see the outline of the road more easily against a white background.

H.R. Owen has a rich history of more than 90 years in luxury car sales and servicing, operating prestigious dealerships like Jack Barclay Bentley in Mayfair and the only Bugatti Service Partner of Excellence in the UK. The group represents a range of elite brands, including Aston Martin, Bentley, Bugatti, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and now, proudly, Lotus.

The Group has built a reputation on world-leading customer service, with two of its dealerships named the best in the world by their respective manufacturers in 2023 alone – Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London and Lamborghini Manchester.

The new Lotus showroom is in Hatfield, located at H.R. Owen’s new flagship multi-marque facility, which houses a dual-storey Ferrari showroom as well as cutting-edge Lamborghini, Maserati and Bentley dealerships. It will provide the ideal space to host the fast-expanding range of Lotus products.

The new Lotus Emeya, an electric four-door hyper-GT, is testament to the car brand’s innovative spirit and commitment to high performance in the EV sector. Boasting a dual-motor setup delivering up to 905hp, Emeya accelerates from 0-60mph in as little as 2.8 seconds, while also delivering up to 370 miles of range. Customer deliveries worldwide start in the spring.

Alongside Eletre, the all-electric hyper-SUV that is already being delivered to customers across the UK and Europe, the contemporary Lotus line-up is inspired by the dynamic and driver-focused Lotus models of the past, bringing new levels of driver engagement to the EV sector. Meanwhile, Emira represents the transitional moment in the Lotus story, as the last ever mainstream petrol-powered sports car from Lotus.

Ken Choo, CEO of H.R. Owen, commented, “At H.R. Owen, it’s the vision of Berjaya Group founder, Vincent Tan, that we continually align ourselves with brands that push the boundaries of luxury and performance. Lotus’ dedication to innovation and the introduction of electrifying models like Emeya perfectly aligns with our vision. We are thrilled to offer these exceptional vehicles to our customers.”

Mike Johnstone, Chief Commercial Officer, Lotus, added: “The global reputation of H. R. Owen and its discerning customer base makes it an ideal new partner for Lotus in the UK. The Hatfield site is in an excellent and easily accessible location north of London and will significantly improve brand visibility in the south-east of England.”

The company’s Eletre owners will be able tap into Bosch’s and Mobilize Power Solutions’ charging capabilities, enabling them to charge their hyper-SUV at home or on the move, providing them with further access to easy-to-use, reliable charging. The partnerships will also support owners of the company’s upcoming electric hyper-GT, Emeya, which Lotus will be delivering to customers in Europe later this year.

Through the Bosch charging network, Lotus owners have access to more than 600,000 public charging stations across 30 European countries including UK, Germany and France1. Lotus will continue to expand its charging network across Europe by adding additional network operators over time.

Drivers access the network with a simple tap of the Lotus Charging Card, and can find all the information they need easily via the Lotus Cars smartphone app. The app allows drivers to keep track of their charging history, manage costs and monitor vehicle battery status remotely.

Mike Johnstone, Chief Commercial Officer at Lotus Group, said: “Lack of charging infrastructure continues to remain one of the biggest barriers to electric vehicle adoption. We need make it easier than ever before to own an electric vehicle, in order to accelerate the transition to electrification and collaboration across the industry is key to this. By tapping into Bosch and Mobilize Power Solutions, we’re able to offer our customers further confidence in owning an electric Lotus by providing them with more and effortless options, wherever they are in Europe.”

Lotus’ electric vehicles offer exceptional charge times to keep drivers moving with minimal downtime. With a 350kW DC fast-charger, Eletre and Emeya can add 74 miles (120km)2 of range with approximately five minutes of charge; the same fast-charger can also boost the battery from 10-80% in 20 minutes for the hyper-SUV and 18 minutes for the hyper-GT.

Lotus Hyper OS, the award-winning in-car infotainment system in the Eletre and Emeya, uses intelligent EV routing to help drivers locate nearby public chargers. This feature reduces range anxiety and can significantly cut travel times. The system can even suggest alternative routes based on the driver’s real-time battery consumption – all delivering an optimised Lotus EV driving experience.

Lotus is teaming up with Mobilize Power Solutions to unlock the home as the primary charging location by offering an all-inclusive package which includes the supply and installation of a charging point, with personalised support from ordering to commissioning. Competitively priced from £1,199 including VAT (from €2,155 including VAT), it comes with a tethered cable as standard and can utilise energy generated by a domestic solar array.

Olivia Arago, Vice-President, eMobility Services, Bosch Electrified Motion, said: “Availability of the public charging network is a primary concern for almost half (44%) of potential EV buyers and we are making significant headway to improve access across Europe. We are delighted to be working so closely with Lotus customers to encourage more widespread EV adoption in the UK and EU, ensuring that drivers can readily locate and use our chargers while on the go.”

Nicolas Schottey, CEO, Mobilize Power Solutions, added: “Charging at home is the most convenient way for Lotus customers to get the most from their EV and, thanks to our solutions and this new partnership, that is now easier than ever. We are proud to be the Lotus’ EV installation partner of choice.”

Today’s announcements come on the heels of Lotus’ launch of its own EV charging solutions, including an ultra-fast 450kW DC charger, a power cabinet and a modular unit for charging up to four vehicles at once. Lotus is future-proofing its charging solutions in preparation for when next-generation fast-charging infrastructure becomes more widely available.

Lotus has committed to developing its own charging solutions to support its Vision80 strategy that is seeing the company transform from a British sports car manufacturer to an all-electric global luxury technology brand by 2028.

The company is delivering on that promise with Eletre, which started customer deliveries in 2023. Emeya was unveiled last year, and the company is expected to see it arrive with customers in H2 2024 in Europe.

Lotus is ending its 75th anniversary year on a high as it’s named ‘Brand of the Year’ by automotive one-stop shop and media giant Carwow.

The Carwow team was full of praise for the “automotive ingenuity” demonstrated by Lotus across its latest all-electric cars – the Eletre hyper-SUV and Emeya hyper-GT. Carwow’s Eletre test-drive film shot at the Lotus EV production facility in Wuhan, China, earlier this year has been viewed more than 1.5 million times.

Mat Watson, Chief Content Officer at Carwow, said: “Lotus is right back on form and it’s great to see. The Emira is peak Lotus: light, responsive and fun; the Eletre shows that the British brand isn’t scared to embrace the future with a really impressive electric SUV; and the new Emeya gives me plenty of reason to think the company has a bright future.”

Conor Horne, Commercial Director, UK and Ireland, Lotus, said “Winning ‘Brand of the Year’ from Carwow is a fantastic finale to our 75th anniversary. With Eletre now in the hands of customers across the UK and Europe, and the world premiere of Emeya generating a huge of amount of media interest and reservations, 2023 has been an amazing success story for Lotus. It’s just the start – there is so much more to come in 2024 and beyond.”

This year has also seen Lotus open new experience centres in London, Paris, Munich and Oslo, and launch in multiple new markets around the world, most recently India and South Korea.

Lotus also received a ‘Highly Commended’ award for the Lotus Emira in the ‘Pleasure of Driving’ category.

Charging anxiety remains one of the main barriers to electric vehicle adoption, with nearly 80% of the public citing the lack of charging infrastructure as a primary reason for not buying an EV in a survey conducted by the Energy Policy Institute. With Lotus’ charging capabilities, the company is providing consumers with reliability and confidence wherever they are driving.

The new suite of EV charging solutions designed for businesses includes:

• Liquid-Cooled All-in-One DC Charger: a new charger, which offers ultra-fast charging of up to 450 kW. For example, with the Lotus Eletre R, it can add up to 88.5 miles or 142 km of range with approximately 5 minutes of charge making it one of the most competitive electric vehicle chargers. A 10% to 80% charge can be achieved in just 20 minutes with a range extension of 74 miles or 120 kilometres from a 5-minute charge when using a 350 kW Rapid Charger.
• Liquid-Cooled Power Cabinet: a modular power cabinet that is suited for spaces that require high energy in order to increase efficiency and minimise charging time, such as motorway rest stops. It offers market-leading power output capabilities of up to 480 kW.
• Liquid-Cooled Charging Unit: a charging terminal, which when used with the Liquid-Cooled Power Cabinet, can charge up to four vehicles at once. The unit has a maximum current output of 600 Amp, which ensures it is able to meet the needs of all electric vehicle drivers. For instance, if they need a short top-up whilst on the go, or fast-charge for long distance drives, Lotus’ new offering provides them with a convenient solution.

Lotus is using liquid-cooled technologies throughout its suite of commercial charging solutions to make it easier and quicker for EV drivers to charge their vehicles.

Lotus’ fast-charging solutions have already been deployed in China and are expected to roll out across the majority of European countries and Middle East in Q2 2024, with Germany and Austria following at a later date. Further market availability will be announced in due course.

As charging infrastructure improves over time, Lotus is ensuring its customers are equipped by providing a 450 kW solution. Lotus has futureproofed its charging offering, which is expected to be the next step forward in fast charging when the infrastructure becomes readily available. Lotus customers will be able to easily upgrade to this power output without additional hardware costs once in-market service providers rollout grid upgrades.

Mike Johnstone, Chief Commercial Officer at Lotus Group, said: “Over the past six years, Lotus has been investing in the technology and infrastructure to accelerate the transition to electrification. We want to make it easier than ever to own an electric vehicle and with our latest offerings, Lotus is able to provide customers with the confidence to access easy, fast, and efficient charging.”

Alan Wang, Vice-President of Lotus Technology and CEO at Lotus Flash Charge, said: “As more governments are increasing investment into electrification in their journey to net-zero, the demand for a reliable electric vehicle charging infrastructure has never been higher than before. Lotus has developed best-in-class fast charging solutions to deliver a quick and reliable charging experience to meet customer needs.”

In 2018, Lotus announced its Vision80 strategy and plans to transform the brand from a British sports car maker to an all-electric global luxury technology brand by 2028. As part of this transition, the company is committed to developing its own range of EV charging solutions.

The company launched its first electric hyper-SUV Eletre in 2022, with customer deliveries across UK, Europe and China taking place this year. Lotus recently launched Emeya, its next-generation electric hyper-GT, in early September 2023.

Both vehicles integrate hardware, software, and cloud capabilities to develop a full stack of intelligent driving technologies. They also include HD cameras, radar, and high-precision mapping capabilities to allow the vehicles to precisely perceive their environment in a stereoscopic display, providing a smooth drive even in extreme conditions. Lotus will continue to expand its range of premium electric vehicles, as the company looks to scale in this growing market.

Lotus has seen a huge demand for its products, with an orderbook of over 19,000 vehicles for its Emira sports car and Eletre hyper-SUV. The company has ramped up production this year, having had a record-breaking first half of 2023, and expects the full year to surpass all previous years.