Lotus has announced the prices and specifications for the most controversial model in its history – the Eletre. 

The all-new, all electric model which the company describes as a ‘Hyper-SUV’, is set to be one of the fastest and most powerful cars in the world, with two options for either 603bhp or 905bhp – that’s more than six Nissan Leafs. 

Three different versions of the car are available – Eletre, Eletre S and Eletre R. Eletre and Eletre S feature the 603bhp single-speed version, with a maximum range of 373 miles when fitted with smaller wheels. The Eletre R comes with the flagship 905bhp dual-speed system and a maximum range of 304 miles.

Torque figures are 710 and 985 Nm respectively, delivering a 0-62 mph time of either 4.5 or 2.95 seconds. The 112 kWh battery for both versions has a charging time (10%-80%) of 20 minutes using a rapid charger.

​Watch Tomi's walkaround video of the Eletre here.​

The 112kWh battery can charge to 80% in 20 minutes

As part of the Tech story, Lotus announced more details of its advanced ‘digital cockpit’ cabin on the Eletre, which uses ‘Unreal Engine’ technology from the gaming industry to create next-generation real-time 3D content and experiences.

In the UK the Eletre is priced from £89,500. The standard spec includes five drive modes, active air suspension, torque vectoring, matrix LED headlights, active front grille and 22-inch 10-spoke forged wheels. 20-inch and 23-inch are available as options.

Inside, the Eletre comes with 12-way electrically adjustable front seats, four-zone automatic climate control and a 1,380-watt, 15-speaker KEF Premium Audio. All versions of the Eletre feature five seats as standard, with a four-seat version available as part of the Executive Seat Pack.

Also standard is LIDAR technology, a world-first in a production car which supports autonomous driving, ready for when regulations allow for the more advanced levels of self-driving tech.

LIDAR tech is ready for autonomous driving to be made fully legal

The Eletre S costs £104,500 and adds features such as privacy glass, active rear spoiler, configurable ambient lighting, illuminated side sills, soft door close, auto-dimming side mirrors and an air quality system. It also includes a 2,160-watt, 23-speaker KEF Reference Audio.

The flagship version is the £120,000 Eletre R, which has a top speed of 165 mph and can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 2.95 seconds. The standard specification includes Lotus Dynamic Handling Pack, Carbon Fibre Pack, gloss black wheels, stainless steel sports pedals, black badging and high-performance tyres.

Matt Windle, Group Vice-President and Managing Director, Lotus Cars, said: “The launch of the Eletre is the natural next step for Lotus. Two-seater sports cars are not for everyone, and we want to offer a Lotus for every stage of your life. The Eletre is the start of that.”

Customer deliveries will start during the first half of 2023.

Testing on the track should ensure the Eletre handles like a Lotus - despite the hefty weight