The Lotus Type 135: An Electric Dynamo Ready to Electrify the Streets in 2027
As the dawn of electric vehicles brightens, the 2027 Lotus Type 135 positions itself as a beacon of innovation and performance. Slated for a late 2026 reveal, this electric sports car emerges as the spiritual successor to the iconic Elise, promising to carry the Lotus legacy forward into the electric era.
Priced at approximately 75,000 pounds sterling, or around 95,000 US dollars with the current exchange rates, the Type 135 isn't just a marvel of engineering; it's a statement of accessible high-performance electric driving. Developed in the historic grounds of Hethel, Lotus aims to make the Type 135 a centerpiece among its lineup, which will also soon welcome an Emira-replacing model.
Power and Performance
The heart of the Type 135 beats with the power of the E-Sports platform, capable of accommodating both rear- and twin-motor configurations. Outputs range from a thrilling 469 to an astonishing 872 horsepower. Despite its substantial battery pack and rear-mounted electric motor, the Type 135 promises a driving experience that's both exhilarating and refined.
Yet, the specifics of its power output remain veiled in anticipation. Early reports suggest that the 469 horsepower mark sets a new standard, nearly doubling the prowess of the most potent Exige variant. This figure not only eclipses the power of the larger Emira but also signifies a leap into a new realm of electric performance.
Innovative Platform
The E-Sports platform owes its existence to Project LEVA, which stands for Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture. Ambitiously designed, this platform is set to underpin at least three different vehicle layouts. The Type 135, with its two-seater configuration, boasts a wheelbase of at least 2,470 millimeters, a centrally mounted battery system, and an impressive 350 kW (469 hp) rear-mounted electric drive unit.
Moreover, the platform accommodates varying designs, from a more spacious two-seat variant with a twin-motor setup to a versatile 2+2 configuration. Each version benefits from a common diecast rear subframe and supports swift 800-volt charging, setting a new standard for electric vehicle versatility and performance.
Revolutionary Battery Design
The choice of a chest-type battery for the Type 135 is more than an engineering decision—it's a strategic move towards enhancing driving dynamics. By opting for this configuration over the traditional underfloor battery design, Lotus aims to leverage the benefits seen in early electric pioneers like the Tesla Roadster, which famously utilized an Elise-derived platform.
This innovative approach is not just about improving vehicle performance; it's a nod to Lotus's heritage of pushing automotive boundaries. From sharing platforms with Opel and Vauxhall to inspiring limited-production marvels like the Hennessey Venom GT, Lotus has always been at the forefront of automotive innovation.
The Legacy Continues in Hethel
As the Type 135 takes shape in Hethel, it's clear that Lotus's spiritual home is on the brink of a new era. With plans for factory expansion, Lotus is preparing not just for the production of the Type 135 but for the future of automotive excellence. As we look towards 2027, the Lotus Type 135 stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Lotus and the electrifying possibilities of the future.