- Lotus’ upcoming sports car could take design inspiration from Theory 1 concept
- The Theory 1 is powered by a 70-kwh battery, providing a range of about 250 miles and 987 horsepower from two electric motors.
- Lotus has an electric SUV coming in 2025, followed by a sedan
On Tuesday, Lotus unveiled the Theory 1 concept as a preview of the design direction of future models, including electric sports car due in 2026.
Outside combination aerodynamic factorsAccording to Lotus, the car is equipped with a diffuser, wind deflector and air curtains at the front of the car, a contoured floor that incorporates NACA ducts that direct air into the cooling system, and the sides of the car are designed to allow air to flow easily around the car.
This concept has a 70 kwh battery pack provide an estimate range about 250 milesand power two sending motors 987 horsepower all four wheels, using EV-specific Pirelli P Zero Elect tires. Lotus estimates a 0-62 mph time of under 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 200 mph for the roughly 3,500-pound EV.
Lotus Theory 1 Concept
Lotus claims that both the battery and motor are integrated into the chassis as stressed members to increase rigidity, a common practice with the racing cars on which the British automaker has built its reputation. The rear wing is also attached directly to the rear engine and suspension assembly so that the downforce it creates acts directly on the suspension mounts—not unlike early winged Formula 1 cars.
Inside, the Theory 1 has a central driving position, with passenger seats on either side. In keeping with Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s mantra of “simplify, then lighten,” the seats are actually cushions that are attached directly to the car’s carbon fiber tub. The headrests also house speakers for the audio system, and Lotus has used a special fabric that incorporates tactile elements in place of traditional switches.
Lotus Theory 1 Concept
Elements of Theory 1 could reappear on an upcoming Lotus electric sports car codenamed the Type 135. The car will be based on a new Light Electric Vehicle Architecture (LEVA) and had to use a new one “battery pack” developed with Britishvolt before the company went bankrupt.
Type 135 will be conducted by Lotus Eletre electric SUVexpected to arrive in the United States in the first quarter of 2025, and the Emeya, an electric vehicle that will go head-to-head with Tesla Model S Plaid and Porsche TaycanLotus plans to offer only fully electric models by 2028 and has also introduced fast-charging hardware that can provide more power than most EVs can handle.
