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Fresh off completion of a new production facility in China this past summer, Lotus Cars has officially launched its all-electric hyper-SUV, the Eletre. Today’s announcement includes all the pertinent performance specs and pricing from Lotus, showcasing three different available versions promising speed and luxury. It looks pretty damn cool as well, so let’s get into it, shall we?

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Background

Let’s start with a brief Lotus refresher course leading up to this electric SUV launch. Lotus Cars exists as a division of Group Lotus and is joined alongside Lotus Engineering and Lotus Tech. Although it was founded by two Brits in the late 1940s, Lotus has been majority owned by Chinese multinational conglomerate Geely Holding Group Co., Ltd. since 2017.

Early last year, Geely announced a development plan with Alpine as part of a joint venture with the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance to develop electric vehicles and the platforms they will sit upon. This strategy furthered Lotus’s previous developments of its first all-electric hypercar – the Evija.

In April of 2021, the UK automaker also shared plans to produce electric vehicles only by 2028, laying out a timeline to deliver four bespoke EVs beginning in 2022:

  • 2022 – Debut an E-segment SUV codenamed Type 132
  • 2023 – Launch an E-segment four-door coupe, Type 133
  • 2025 – Follow with the Type 134, a new D-segment SUV
  • 2026 – Launch an all-new electric sports car, Type 135

This past March, we learned that the type 132 would be officially called the Eletre, when Lotus pulled the sheet off its all-electric hyper-SUV for us all to gawk at. At the time, Lotus shared several of its targeted specs for the Eletre including range, top speed, acceleration, and charging times.

Now that production at Lotus’s new $1.2 billion factory is up and running in China, the UK-based automaker has come out to show off its electric hyper-SUV. Furthermore, the Eletre has delivered all its targeted specs and even surpassed some. Have a look at the exterior before we dig into its performance.

Lotus dubs Eletre the “world’s fastest dual-motor electric SUV”

That’s right, Lotus is coming out swinging with its first electric SUV – which is also the automaker’s first five-door production vehicle and first lifestyle vehicle to boot. Lotus Cars officially launched the Eletre today during a global livestream called “Unleash the Future,” which offered us all the details of this hypercar we usually seek at these sort of events.

With the launch of the Eletre, Lotus says it creating “a new breed of pure electric SUVs,” that takes the automaker’s 75 years of expertise in sports cars and evolves it into a lifestyle car. Lotus Group vice-president and managing director Matt Windle elaborated:

The launch of the Eletre is the natural next step for Lotus. Two-seater sports cars are not for everyone, and we want to offer a Lotus for every stage of your life. The Eletre is the start of that.

Per today’s update, Lotus’s electric SUV will come available in three separate versions with the choice of single or dual-motor powertrains – Eletre, Eletre S, and Eletre R. The former two feature a single motor, while the top-tier Eletre R delivers the highest performance upon a dual-motor setup. Here’s how they break down performance-wise:

Version Eletre Eletre S Eletre R
Max power 603 hp
(450 kW)
603 hp
(450 kW)
905 hp
(675 kW)
Max torque 710 Nm 710 Nm 985 Nm
Top speed 160 mph
(258 km/h)
160 mph
(258 km/h)
165 mph
(265 km/h)
Acceleration
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph)
4.5 seconds 4.5 seconds 2.95 seconds
80-120 km/h (50-75 mph) < 2.2 seconds < 2.2 seconds < 1.9 seconds
Battery capacity 112 kWh 112 kWh 112 kWh
Charging time 10-80% (fast charger) 20 mins 20 mins 20 mins
Max range (WLTP) 373 mi*
(600 km)
373 mi*
(600 km)
304 mi
(490 km)
Ground clearance 7.4″ (20″ wheels)
7.6″ (22/23″ wheels)
7.4″ (20″ wheels)
7.6″ (22/23″ wheels)
7.4″ (20″ wheels)
7.6″ (22/23″ wheels)
Rear trunk capacity 21.6 cu ft / 611 liters (4 seats)
24.3 cu ft / 688 liters (5 seats)
21.6 cu ft / 611 liters (4 seats)
24.3 cu ft / 688 liters (5 seats)
21.6 cu ft / 611 liters (4 seats)
24.3 cu ft / 688 liters (5 seats)
Trunk capacity with rear-seats folded 54 cu ft / 1,532 liters 54 cu ft / 1,532 liters 54 cu ft / 1,532 liters
* – using 20″ wheels

In addition to being Lotus Cars’ first electric SUV, the Eletre also houses the debut of the automaker’s new operating system – Lotus Hyper OS. But first, have a gander at the interior of this hyper SUV.

Introducing Lotus Hyper OS

During today’s presentation, the Lotus Cars team shared details of the new operating system that will debut inside the upcoming Eletre. The system utilizes “Unreal Engine” technology from the video game industry to create real-time 3D content and experiences for drivers and their passengers.This advanced “digital cockpit” is backed by two Qualcomm 8155 System-On-Chips. Here are some other features of this system including some help from some new partners:

  • Next-generation Digital Head Unit from ECARX
    • Provides fully customizable displays, hosted on an advanced Driver Information Module (DIM), and ultra-slim floating one-billion-color OLED touchscreen
  • Over-the-air (OTA) update capabilities
    • The immersive multi-screen user experience can be continuously improved throughout the lifetime of the EV
  • Eletre includes navigation services from HERE Technologies
    • Includes EV Routing, EV Range Assistant and Predictive Routing, can be updated OTA
  • Lotus has new collaboration with Dolby
    • Dolby Atmos and the Eletre’s KEF speaker system combine to elevate music listening

Moving past the software and microchips, the Lotus Eletre electric SUV will come available in six interior options that include high-grade materials like state-of-the-art leather alternatives and 100% recycled carpets and trunk liners (we love to hear that).

The Eletre comes standard with wireless smartphone charging, electrically adjustable front seats, and four-zone automatic climate control. Its infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the aforementioned 15-speaker KEF premium audio system, and a 15.1-inch full High-Definition OLED center screen.

All versions of the Eletre come standard with five seats, but a four-seat version is available as part of the Executive Seat Pack. According to Lotus, its new all-electric SUV is equipped to support autonomous driving someday, as the technology evolves. Per the release:

Also standard is the deployable LIDAR technology, a world-first in a production car which supports end-to-end autonomous driving (AD) technology. Integrated OTA software update capability ensures the system will be fully ready when individual market regulations allow for the more advanced levels of AD.

Okay, but how much?

Pricing and availability for the Lotus Eletre electric hyper-SUV

According to Lotus Cars, thousands of customers around the world have placed deposits to secure their Eletre. That being said, those customers are probably mostly in Europe, at least to start.

Sales and deliveries will begin in “eight key European markets” followed by other countries in the region. Lotus says that arrival of the Eletre in North America, Middle East, and Asia Pacific will begin sometime in 2024, and pricing/specs will be revealed closer to that time.

Per Lotus Cars, Eletre pricing varies not only by market, but by country. Its press release breaks it down by each country, to get an idea of pricing, the electric hyper SUV starts at an MSRP of $95,990 in Germany, which equates to about $95,350.

While we await details of the North American version of the Lotus Eletre, check out the company’s entire presentation from earlier today.

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isinwheel has an electric ride for everyone – check out these 6 standouts

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isinwheel has an electric ride for everyone – check out these 6 standouts

isinwheel’s terrific personal EVs “bring all the things you want closer to you.” Whether it’s an electric scooter, an e-bike, or an e-skateboard, the three things you’re guaranteed to get no matter which you choose are fun, safety, and affordability.

We’re taking a closer look below at six of isinwheel’s personal EVs – could one of these be your next electric ride?

Table of contents

isinwheel S9Pro commuting electric scooter

Meet the isinwheel S9Pro, the best value-for-money electric scooter that zips you through your day at speeds up to 19 mph with a range of 19 miles – perfect for your daily commute.

The S9Pro‘s powerful 350W motor delivers a smooth, efficient ride without breaking the bank. With a lightweight, foldable aluminum frame, it’s easy to carry, store, and even pop into your car trunk or onto public transport. Plus, the quick one-step folding mechanism makes it the ultimate on-the-go companion.

You can find the S9Pro on Amazon here.

isinwheel S10Max long-range electric scooter

The isinwheel S10Max is your ultimate high-performance ride, powered by a beastly 1000W motor that conquers any terrain with ease. With an impressive range of up to 37 miles, you can enjoy long-distance adventures without worrying about recharging.

The S10Max‘s all-terrain 10-inch off-road tires, paired with dual shock absorption, provide unbeatable grip and stability whether you’re cruising through city streets, on country paths, or on muddy trails.

You can find the S10Max on Amazon here.

isinwheel GT2 off-road electric scooter

isinwheel

Unleash your adventurous side with the isinwheel GT2. With a powerful 1000W motor, it rockets up to 28 mph, effortlessly conquering steep hills and challenging landscapes for a thrilling ride every time.

Its 11-inch off-road tires are built for all terrains, whether you’re cruising through the city or tackling rugged countryside paths. Plus, with four advanced shock absorbers, every ride is smooth and stable, no matter where your journey takes you. Get ready to ride the GT2 and experience performance like never before!

You can find the GT2 on Amazon here.

isinwheel M10 electric commuter bike

isinwheel

The isinwheel M10 electric commuter bike blends style with power. Crafted from lightweight, rust-resistant aluminum alloy, this sleek ride weighs just 47 pounds, making it easy to carry and tough enough to last.

With a professional 35-speed transmission, the M10 adapts to your every need, whether you’re accelerating, cruising downhill, or conquering steep inclines. With a 500W motor capacity, a top speed of 20 mph, 374 Wh battery capacity, and four hours of charging time, it’s the perfect blend of performance and convenience for your daily commute!

You can find the M10 on Amazon here.

isinwheel U1 folding electric bike

isinwheel

Say hello to the versatile isinwheel U1! With folding handlebars, pedals, and a height-adjustable seat, it’s perfect for easy storage and transport. The U1’s 500W motor comes with a smart chip that instantly adapts to give you that extra boost when you hit an incline, face a headwind, or carry more weight.

The U1 has a top speed of 18 mph, 280 Wh of battery capacity, and three hours of charging time. Whether you’re zipping through city streets or tackling hills, the U1 has you covered with power and portability.

You can find the U1 on Amazon here.

Check out isinwheel’s V8, V6 and V10 electric skateboards

The isinwheel V8 electric skateboard is your ticket to thrilling rides, featuring a top speed of 28 mph and a range of up to 12 miles. Its removable, detachable batteries allow for quick swaps, so you can extend your adventure with ease. Choose from four riding modes and let the gorgeous ambient lights make you stand out, whether you’re cruising in daylight or lighting up the night. With its powerful dual 540W motors and regenerative braking system, the V8 delivers a ride that’s as exhilarating as it is stylish.

The V8 is isinwheel’s first-gen electric skateboard, and we’ve also taken it to the next level. The V6 is perfect for teens and beginners, and the high-performance V10 is for those who crave more power. But we’re not stopping there – this September, we’re launching the V6 PRO, the ultimate cool ride for young skaters and newbies. Stay tuned; it’s going to be epic!

You can find the V8/V6/V10 on Amazon here.

Follow isinwheel on Instagram here, on X here, on YouTube here, and on Facebook here.

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Score a sporty new Fiat 500e at more than 30% off MSRP

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Score a sporty new Fiat 500e at more than 30% off MSRP

It’s no Ferrari, but owning a sporty little Fiat 500e is about as close to putting a cavallino rampante in the garage as most of us will ever get. And if we act soon, we could do just that for 30% less money than before.

Fiat parent company Stellantis is giving dealers the ability to offer buyers up to $3,000 in coupons and incentives to help move its slow-selling 2024 FIAT 500e coupes. When paired with a $7,500 factory lease credit through Stellantis Financial, those coupons lead CarsDirect analysts to call the 500e one of the most affordable new EVs on the market.

The math maths

2024 FIAT (500e) RED in Miami; via Stellantis.

Between coupons and Stellantis Financial cash, that’s $10,500 in potential discounts before negotiations even begin. With a base MSRP of $34,095 with destination for a 2024 500e, that’s a JC Penney-style 31% off, with an additional 2% (presumably) within easy reach.

According to CarsDirect, the biggest downside of the coupon program is that it’s still unadvertised, which means there’s no way of telling how much of the allowable discount dealers are actually including in prices. But (as GI Joe taught us) knowing is half the battle, so click here to find deals on a new Fiat 500e near you, and make “are you applying those $3,000 in Stellantis coupons” one of your first questions.

Electrek’s Take

2024 FIAT (500e) RED interior; via Stellantis.

Small cars have never sold well in America. Not even great ones like the OG Honda CRX or Suzuki Swift GTi. Americans tend to buy for low use case scenarios, which is a fancy way of saying that, if an American thinks they’ll need a pickup 2-3 days/year, they’ll convince themselves to drive a pickup for the other 362 days. The British want more taxes than Americans wanted to pay in 1775, and today we have more gun shops than McDonald’s … just in case.

The little Fiat, in other words, was never going to be a volume player in the US. And that’s too bad, because the little 117 hp microcar is, by all accounts, fun to drive, zippy, and unquestionably cool. The media at large, though, has complained about the 37 kWh battery and 149 miles of EPA range – calling both “inadequate,” despite the fact that the first-generation Nissan LEAF had objectively inferior specs and sold 200,000 examples before getting its first significant upgrade in 2016. And, frankly, that Nissan had about as much style as a hospital gown.

So, while it may not offer what most car buyers think they need – as a second car, or a fun, urban runabout for lighthearted singles, the little Fiat is tough to beat (especially in red).

Click here to see what it will cost to put one in your garage.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Stellantis, via CarsDirect.

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Mahle CEO Arnd Franz says hydrogen will fail without fossil fuels

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Mahle CEO Arnd Franz says hydrogen will fail without fossil fuels

Echoing the words of hydrogen critics everywhere, Mahle Chairman Arnd Franz says that building out a hydrogen infrastructure won’t be possible without “blue” H made from fossil fuels.

If you’re not familiar with Mahle, they’re a legendary engineering firm perhaps best known (in my circles, at least) for their high-performance piston designs. But they’re big time, and their expertise extends far beyond the reciprocating machinations of the VR38DETT.

With that in mind, I don’t want to misrepresent the words of the esteemed Mr. Franz, who claims to be bullish on H’s prospects as a fuel. What I intend to do here, then, is shine a light on the space between Franz’ lines, read whatever’s in there, and then ask if you see what I see.

“We can’t achieve any CO2 emission reductions if you use natural gas or any other fossil sources to produce hydrogen,” Franz is quoted saying. “Today, the overwhelming portion of hydrogen production worldwide is around 90 million tons. That number is going to go up to 130 million tons until 2030. Currently, we have a flourishing and growing portion of that being more sustainable. By more sustainable, I mean blue and, eventually, green hydrogen. In our opinion, [blue hydrogen production is needed] to get the infrastructure going in order to get the ecosystem.”

I read that as saying that, today, there are no carbon emissions reduction benefits from using hydrogen as a fuel, because the overwhelming majority of those 90 million tons is being produced by natural gas and fossil fuels.

What’s more, everyone involved seems to trying to justify that with claims that fossil-generated hydrogen is some kind of “necessary evil” (my words) to build out a viable H ecosystem. See if you hear it, too.

“We will fail [with hydrogen technology] if we don’t use blue hydrogen,” Franz clarified. “Right now, hydrogen is produced from fossil sources with carbon capture, meaning we don’t let the carbon reach the atmosphere. Eventually, we need to get to wind and solar as the sources of energy to make hydrogen, and we believe the US has a really impressive program [thanks to] subsidies from the Inflation Reduction Act.”

And, if you believe in those good intentions – well, read a little about Chevron’s history of using patent law to block the development of nickel-hydride EV batteries in the 90s and early aughts and see if that changes your mind.

Nothing we don’t already know

MAN Trucks says hydrogen will never work, bets the farm on batteries

Earlier this year, MAN trucks’ CEO Alexander Vlaskamp told reporters that it was, “impossible for hydrogen to effectively compete with battery electric trucks.”

He was right then, and he’s still right now. “It’s one thing to have the technology and another thing for the technology to be viable,” Vlaskamp told the magazine Expansión (translated from Spanish). “Green hydrogen is not available for transportation and there is no point in switching from diesel to hydrogen if the energy source is not sustainable.”

Even so, MAN continues to develop hydrogen technology with surprising openness. And, by “openness,” I mean: he comes right out and says he’s only developing hydrogen tech to absorb subsidy money.

That’s my take, anyway. Let us know what you think of my “reading between the lines” of Mahle’s statement in the comments.

SOURCE | IMAGES: Mahle, via CCJ.

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