The electrification of the automotive industry has compelled even the most storied marques to evolve, and Lotus is no exception. Once defined by its commitment to lightweight, stripped-down sports cars, the brand now embraces a bold new direction. Under the stewardship of Geely, Lotus has pivoted towards electrification, a strategy that began with the Emira sports car and the all-electric Eletre SUV. Now, with the Emeya, Lotus ventures into the high-performance grand tourer segment.
From first glance, the Emeya asserts itself as a thoroughly modern Lotus. Its taut, sculpted lines convey a sense of purpose, while an innovative ‘porous design’ allows air to flow efficiently through the bodywork, enhancing both aerodynamics and cooling. The active front grille optimizes airflow, opening for cooling and closing to reduce drag when needed. The result is a striking yet functional aesthetic that respects Lotus’s racing heritage while embracing contemporary design.
Step inside, and the transformation of Lotus becomes even more apparent. Gone are the days of austere, weight-saving interiors. Instead, the Emeya boasts a cabin that rivals the best in the luxury EV segment. Sustainable materials such as Alcantara, carbon fibre, and repurposed textiles create an upscale yet eco-conscious ambiance. A widescreen digital display and augmented reality head-up display ensure that vital information remains within the driver’s line of sight, reinforcing the car’s high-tech credentials. The seats, a stark contrast to Lotus’s historically spartan offerings, provide both comfort and support, while the panoramic glass roof enhances the sense of spaciousness.
But the Emeya is not merely about aesthetics. Beneath its sleek exterior lies a formidable dual-motor powertrain. The range-topping model delivers a staggering 905 hp, rocketing from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds. Our test car, the Emeya S, is slightly less extreme, with 603 hp and 710 Nm of torque. Even so, it sprints to 100 km/h in a brisk 4.2 seconds — hardly a compromise.
True to its heritage, Lotus has prioritized handling dynamics. A low centre of gravity, courtesy of its flat battery pack, combines with an advanced air suspension system to deliver an engaging yet refined driving experience. While far more comfortable than any previous Lotus, the suspension still leans toward the firmer side of the spectrum, as it should, being a Lotus. Whether carving through winding roads or cruising on the highway, the Emeya maintains a balance of agility and composure that few EVs can match.
Lotus has also ensured that the Emeya retains a sense of driver engagement. Unlike many over-sanitized EVs, it offers precise, weighty steering and an adaptive damping system that adjusts dynamically to driving inputs. This connection to the road sets it apart in an increasingly digitalized automotive landscape.
Range and charging capability are critical factors for any electric grand tourer, and Lotus has addressed these concerns head-on. The Emeya boasts a 610 km range (WLTP cycle), and with its 800V ultra-fast charging capability, it can replenish 80% of its battery in just 18 minutes. This makes it a viable option for long-distance travel, reinforcing its credentials as a true grand tourer.
But can it dethrone the segment’s reigning champions? The Porsche Taycan remains the benchmark for driving precision, yet the Emeya presents a compelling alternative — a seamless fusion of Lotus’s handling DNA, contemporary luxury, and advanced EV technology. It is engaging without being intimidating, sophisticated without feeling detached.
Where the Emeya truly impresses is its value proposition. It significantly undercuts the Porsche Taycan while offering comparable performance and luxury. Whether this pricing advantage translates into strong sales remains to be seen.
Of course, there are areas for improvement. While the infotainment system is sleek and feature-rich, its user interface could be more intuitive. Additionally, while rear-seat legroom is generous, the sloping roofline slightly compromises headroom for taller passengers. These minor drawbacks reflect Lotus’s learning curve as it transitions from a specialist sports car manufacturer to a producer of high-performance luxury EVs.
Ultimately, the Lotus Emeya is more than just a new model — it is a declaration of intent. For a brand once defined by its commitment to lightweight, analogue driving machines, the Emeya is a bold step forwards and proves that Lotus’s spirit can thrive in the electric age.
Lotus Emeya S
Engine: Dual-motor EV
Power: 603 hp
Torque: 710 Nm
0-100 km/h: 4.2 seconds
Top speed: 250 km/h
