Lotus Pivots Away From All EV Future

Lotus has reversed its all-electric strategy, opting instead to develop hybrid powertrains for its future lineup.

The Chinese-owned, historically British manufacturer had previously announced in 2021 that the Emira would be its last internal combustion engine model, with the brand planning to transition entirely to EVs by 2028.

Now, Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng says the brand will pursue "super hybrid" technology to meet customer demand, especially in key markets like China and Europe.

The new hybrid system will combine a turbocharged gasoline engine with a high-voltage battery pack, promising a total range of 680 miles. According to Autocar, Feng emphasized Lotus's adaptable approach: “At Lotus, we have always chosen the best power technology available, whether it’s pure gasoline, pure electric, hybrid or range-extended [EV].”

Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids, which can feel underwhelming once the battery drains, Lotus's hybrid architecture aims to eliminate this drawback with a 900V system capable of ultra-fast charging—reportedly faster than battery-swapping.

While specific models equipped with the hybrid tech remain unconfirmed, refreshed versions of the Eletre SUV and Emeya sedan seem likely candidates. The additional versatility of a hybrid setup could attract a broader buyer base, additionally, Lotus would enjoy lower tariffs on vehicles shipped into the European Union, which exempts PHEVs from additional duties imposed on Chinese-built EVs.

However, fans of Lotus's lightweight sports cars shouldn’t hold their breath, as the hybrid platform appears tailored for larger, heavier vehicles. For enthusiasts, the Emira remains a "traditional" Lotus offering for a few more years, standing as the brand’s last purely internal combustion sports car.

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