Lotus, the British sports car manufacturer, is expanding its flagship electric SUV, the Eletre, with a 939-horsepower plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain slated for release in 2026. This marks the first time Lotus has incorporated hybrid technology into its lineup, signaling a shift towards broader powertrain options while maintaining its performance focus.
New Powertrain and Range
The upcoming Eletre PHEV will utilize a 900V hybrid platform designed to deliver over 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) of combined driving range. This technology is shared with other Geely-owned brands, notably the Zeekr 9X, which boasts an even higher 1,381bhp output. While the Eletre’s version will be slightly detuned to 939bhp, it still surpasses the current all-electric Eletre’s peak power of 905bhp.
The system combines a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with three electric motors, paired with a 70kWh battery offering up to 220 miles of electric-only range under China’s CLTC testing standards. This gives buyers the flexibility of all-electric commuting with the reassurance of extended range when needed.
Performance and Handling Focus
Lotus emphasizes that the hybrid platform will retain the brand’s signature performance DNA. Expect “race-level chassis tuning” with features like air suspension and a 48V active stabilizer system to minimize body roll. The high-voltage setup also enables “Dual Hyper Charging technology” for faster charging times, though specific details are yet to be revealed.
Future Hybrid Expansion
Beyond the Eletre PHEV, Lotus plans to introduce another hybrid model, internally codenamed ‘Vision X’, in 2027. This smaller vehicle will leverage similar hybrid technology, positioning Lotus as a competitor to premium SUVs like the Porsche Macan and BMW X3.
The Eletre PHEV will first launch in China in early 2026, with European markets—including the UK—following soon after. The move allows Lotus to cater to a wider range of buyers who want both electric efficiency and the extended range of a combustion engine.
Lotus’ expansion into plug-in hybrids demonstrates the company’s adaptability in a rapidly changing automotive landscape. By combining high-performance electric technology with traditional combustion engines, Lotus aims to deliver the best of both worlds to its customers.
