As the automotive horizon of 2023 stretches ahead, we find ourselves not just on the precipice of technological evolution but a deeper, more symbolic transition. The amount of vitriol directed at Lotus EVs continues to baffle me considering they are being mandated in this direction. The shift to Electric Vehicles (EVs) is far more than just a change of fuel source; it’s about reimagining the very soul of mobility. Many people associate the sound and feel of ICE as the soul of a sportscar. Maybe this is the source of all that venom? I created a video: HERE that makes a different argument. The critical question that lingers is: can the electrification of our beloved sports cars capture their essence? I say yes. This article argues this point and discusses the upcoming Lotus EV sportscar - the Type 135.
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| concept Type 135 illustration credit: Car & Driver |
Lotus's Electric Endeavour Lotus, historically celebrated for its dedication to lightness and simplicity, isn't just adapting but evolving. The Evija was created as an EV halo - though out of reach for most of us. Their upcoming sportscar EV, the Type 135 (see above), aims to be a beacon of this new chapter, blending their cherished ethos with the promise of electric power and 'affordability'. This rendering is essentially an Emira that has been tweaked to eliminate intakes. I found this image in a C&D article: HERE MotorAuthority also write a good article: HERE
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| LEVA |
The Type 135 is slated for a 2025/2026 release and utilizing the new Lightweight
Electric Vehicle Architecture (LEVA) platform (see image), the Type 135 promises to carry
the legacy of its forebears like the Elise and Evora GT, albeit with an
electric heartbeat. I'm especially pleased with the weight distribtion of this LEVA chassis. Our video discusess this in more detail: HERE
Broader Horizons: The
Sports Car Realm
Behind the Scenes: The
Evolution Continues With factories, like Lotus's iconic hub in Hethel and new Wuhan factory, gearing
up for this electric future, it's evident that this isn't just a phase—it's the
future. And as manufacturers delve deeper, the integration of performance with
sustainability (this can be argued) is becoming clearer. With the legislation that is in place in most countries, what choice do they have but move towards EV? Porsche's eFuels may become a savior for fans of ICE. They ran all their cars on this fuel at their recent Rennsport Reunion held at Laguna Seca. This fuel holds potential.
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| 911 GT3R - bad to the bone with the price tag to match! |
Financial Frontiers &
The Market Landscape As the EV market expands, pricing plays a pivotal role in
shaping its trajectory. While Lotus's Type 135 starts at an estimated $80,000,
placing it in competition with models like the Porsche 718 EV, the broader
market offers a spectrum. The next decade promises a range that caters to both
the elite and the everyday enthusiast. VW have shown an EV GTi that looks great and should be more affordable. The new e-Ray from Corvette portends their all electric Vette that certainly is in the works. What better bang (pun intended) for the buck exists than the Corvette? I expect Chevy's Vette team to deliver. The first manufacturer to deliver a <$50k EV sportscar will likely gain many a client. Though this may not seen for another 5-10years.
Concluding Thoughts The journey from gas pumps to charging stations isn't just about changing where we stop on long drives; it's about reimagining the journey itself. If I am honest, my favorite road trips were not 100% about the car I was driving. They were/are journeys of experiences and the path is as important as the ride. ICE will continue to power most of my foreseeable road trips but a time will come where an EV may be a viable option.
See you on the road and track, and
remember: it's not about what powers the car, but the passion that drives it.
