Driving Forward: The Electrified Horizon of Sports Cars

 

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.

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

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

The Type 135 is just a single star in a vast galaxy of change. Like it or not, across brands and borders, the sports car realm is pulsating with electric energy. Traditionalists might argue that the purr of a gasoline engine is irreplaceable, but the whispering roar of an electric motor, with its instant torque and seamless acceleration, is crafting its own legacy on racetracks and winding roads alike.  Have you heard the sound of the Porsche Cayman EV race car?  Watch this fun video of it racing at the Race Of Champions: HERE

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.

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.