As noted in our recent analyst forecast of future Proton and Lotus models, the English company has now launched its electric hypercar, called Evija ('ev-eye-a'), co-developed by Lotus and Williams Advanced Engineering.
The British division of ZGH (Zhejiang Geely Holding Group) claims Evija is the first all electric British hypercar while its target power output of 2,000 PS makes it the world's most powerful series production road car.
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The automaker is also targeting 0-62 mph (0-100km/h) acceleration in under three seconds with top speed over 200mph (320km/h) and also claims the ultra lightweight carbon fibre monocoque makes it the globe's lightest production EV hypercar, at 1,680kg.
The electric driving range target is 250 miles (400km).
The mid-mounted battery pack echoes celebrated Lotus mid engine sports car layout – think of models such as the Europa or Esprit.
Lotus also claims a world first for its main and dipped beam laser lighting technology.
The car was designed and engineered at Lotus HQ in Hethel, Norfolk where customer personalisation and experiential programmes will be based.
Production will be limited to 130 cars – a tribute to its Lotus Type number – starting in 2020.
"The Evija marks the start of an exciting new chapter in the history of an iconic and much-loved British sports car brand, Lotus said in a statement.
It is [our] first hypercar and the company's first model with an electrified powertrain. As the first completely new car to be launched under the stewardship of Geely – the world's fastest growing automotive group – its significance cannot be overstated."
The Evija is the first Lotus road car to feature a one-piece carbon fibre monocoque chassis.
The battery pack is mid-mounted immediately behind the two seats and supplies four e-motors.
There are five driving modes – Range, City, Tour, Sport and Track.
The Evija is priced from £1.7m plus duties and taxes and a GBP250,000 deposit is needed to secure a production slot.
