Lotus launches 918-hp Emeya and Eletre in China

On August 31 in China, Lotus launched three models: a mid-engine petrol sports car, a high-performance electric sedan and a high-performance electric SUV. The prices begin at 135,000 USD for the Emeya 900 Gold, 136,000 USD for the Eletre 900 Gold and 145,000 USD for the Emira 420 Sport, whose deliveries are scheduled to start in October.

The two electric models use an 800V architecture — a high-voltage system designed to support faster charging — and dual-motor all-wheel drive. Each produces 918 hp and 985 N·m of torque. The Emeya combines a 102 kWh CATL battery with a 530 km CLTC range, reaches 100 km/h from rest in 2.78 seconds and can add 180 km of range in 5 minutes using 420 kW fast charging.

The Eletre 900 Gold applies the same powertrain formula to an SUV. Its 112 kWh CATL battery is rated for a 560 km CLTC range, while its 0-100 km/h time is 2.95 seconds and its top speed is 265 km/h. Active equipment includes dual-chamber air suspension, 48V anti-roll bars, rear-wheel steering and a four-stage spoiler that can provide up to 112.5 kg of downforce.

The petrol Emira 420 Sport takes a different route. Its mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout uses an AMG M139 2.0T four-cylinder engine making 420 hp and 500 N·m, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Weight-saving measures bring the base curb weight to 1,430 kg, while aerodynamic changes provide an additional 25 kg of rear downforce at 300 km/h, according to Lotus.

Concretely, Chinese buyers can now choose between rapid-charging electric performance and a petrol sports car, with high-end equipment such as carbon-fibre kits, ten-piston carbon-ceramic brakes and active aerodynamics included on the two 900 Gold models. The Emeya has already set a production EV lap record at Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit, but the published information does not give delivery timing for the electric models, and the stated ranges use the CLTC test cycle.