The Lotus Emira is making waves in the automotive world, emerging as a stellar performer that has contributed over 5,000 to the brand's impressive tally of 12,000 sales in 2024. Recently unveiled is the V6 Turbo SE, which sports an enhanced manual gearbox designed for pinpoint precision, along with tailored suspension modifications that elevate both ride and handling. To top it off, there's an upgraded cooling system that reduces weight, and stunning Racing Line editions adorned with striking yellow pinstripes and glossy black wheels. Yet, while the excitement around this powerhouse grows, Lotus has eased back on its timeline for an all-electric, mid-engined sports car. Instead, the company is turning its focus towards finding innovative ways to electrify its dynamic two-seater. “Everything’s possible; we could squeeze [a hybrid] in,” expressed Lotus Europe CEO Matt Windle, hinting at exciting developments on the horizon.
Imagine a fundamentally different approach from the sophisticated ‘hyper hybrid’ system designed for the Eletre SUV and Emeya saloon. This system features a robust 2.0-litre turbo engine coupled with high-output standalone electric motors at both the front and rear axles, creating a thrilling driving experience. Considering the tight packaging limitations of the 4,412mm-long Emira, where every millimeter counts, it’s likely that this stunning sports car will take cues from innovations found in the Ferrari 296 GTB and McLaren Artura. This means there might be an electric motor generator cleverly positioned between the engine and transmission, which would not only amplify power but also recover some energy to charge a modest battery. As for which engine could receive the hybrid treatment, details remain elusive. We’re eagerly anticipating whether the Mercedes-AMG-sourced turbocharged 2.0-litre or the Toyota-supplied 3.5-litre V6 will lead the charge. The contrasting performative traits of these four-cylinder and V6 engines make them central to customer preferences, especially with both SE models offering a robust 294 kW.
“We didn’t want to derate any of the power,” Windle chuckles, illustrating the brand’s commitment to performance. “We could have done that, but the main driver for the engines was gearbox application, not power.” The four-cylinder variant boasts an advanced eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, capable of delivering lightning-fast shifts, achieving a breathtaking 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 4 seconds. Meanwhile, the V6 version offers a more traditional experience, featuring either a manual or a responsive six-speed torque converter. For those craving the adrenaline of the track, the Emira is also available in a GT4 racing configuration, which enhances the power output of the V6, features a sequential racing gearbox, and sports improved aerodynamics. Is this the foundation for a stripped-down, road-legal Emira that mirrors the Porsche 718 Cayman GT4? Windle responds with confidence, stating, “We’re pretty much at the power we can be on those engines… until the hybrid comes on stream.”
And here's a tantalizing prospect: an open-top variant may soon join the line up! The chassis was designed with enough stiffness to support a spider model, reminiscent of the legendary Elise. An open Emira has the potential to captivate buyers in the crucial US market, especially considering the challenges faced by imports of the Eletre SUV and Emeya saloon due to hefty tariff barriers. With sister brand Volvo operating a factory in South Carolina, could Lotus leverage this facility for assembling their electric vehicles in the States? “At the moment, there are no plans for production over there,” Windle clarifies, underscoring the strategic nature of Lotus’s approach. Exciting times are ahead for the Emira and the Lotus brand as it forges its path forward in the evolution of sports cars.