Priced from RM 578k, 2023 Lotus Eletre EV launched in Malaysia with up to 905 PS

Lotus Cars Malaysia has just launched the British sports carmaker’s first-ever SUV, the fully-electric high-performance SUV, the 2023 Lotus Eletre. Malaysia is also the hyper-SUV’s first market in Asia outside of China.

The hyper-SUV is fully-imported (CBU) from Geely Group’s Wuhan plant in China and is offered in 3 variants:

• Lotus Eletre – From RM 578,000
• Lotus Eletre S – From RM 648,000
• Lotus Eletre R – From RM 798,000

The Eletre represents numerous firsts for Lotus besides being the company’s first model outside of the sports car segment. It is also the carmaker’s first lifestyle electric vehicle (EV) and the most ‘connected’ Lotus ever.

Hardcore Lotus fans might feel the Eletre doesn’t fit the hallowed brand that emphasised lightness but the number of orders tells otherwise. As of today’s launch, the hyper-SUV has collected around 140 bookings with a total of 200 units allocated for the whole of 2023.

Also read: Neither simple nor light, here's why Lotus made the all-electric Eletre SUV

The Eletre is built on Lotus’ all-new and highly versatile 800v Electric Premium Architecture (EPA) that is made out of aluminium and high-tensile steel. The flat ‘skateboard-style’ battery pack and electric motors are close to the ground to create a low centre of gravity.

The Eletre comes with a choice of two powertrains, each with two electric motors driving both axles. Both the Eletre and Eletre S are powered by a single-speed system to deliver 603 PS/710 Nm. Top speed of these two variants is 258 km/h with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.5 seconds. Both variants also have a maximum WLTP driving range of 600 km.

Meanwhile, the flagship Eletre R comes with a dual-speed system that offers an impressive output of 905 PS/985 Nm and 0-100 km/h is done and dusted in 2.95 seconds. This variant is also currently the world’s fastest dual-motor pure electric SUV and has a maximum WLTP driving range of 490 km.

All 3 variants are juiced up by a 112 kWh battery which is the largest in its segment and via a 350-kW DC fast charger, the EV can be juiced up from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.

With the Lotus badge stuck on this SUV, there’s no doubt that it has the handling capabilities of a Lotus sports car. There are front and rear multi-link suspensions fitted to the Eletre along with numerous features that aid in aerodynamics like an active front grille, a floating split roof spoiler, and an active tailgate spoiler.

Also read: 6 traits that make a great handling car

The Eletre comes with 5 drive modes which adjust the steering, damper settings, powertrain, and accelerator pedal response. These modes are Range, Tour, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual while the Eletre R gets an additional Track mode which is developed based on extensive testing at the hallowed Nurburgring circuit.

Also read: 15 live photos of the RM 1.1 mil Lotus Emira, the last combustion engine Lotus sports car

Styling-wise, the Eletre looks like any modern Lotus sports car with enhanced aerodynamics which suits the brand. However, it’s the interior that really makes the difference, especially for a Lotus as the SUV elevates the brand to a premium level.

The Eletre is offered in 4- or 5-seater configurations with the former being shown to the media during its launch. The 4-seater is offered as part of the optional Executive Seat Pack. Still, whether it’s 4- or 5-seats, the Eletre is easily the most practical Lotus ever with 688 litres of rear boot space, ample storage compartments, and a frunk up front.

The Eletre’s infotainment OS is powered by the Lotus Hyper OS which is powered by two Qualcomm 8155 System-on-Chips (SoCs) and delivers video game-like graphics thanks to Unreal Engine. It also comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support for those wanting proper smartphone connectivity.

Also read: It's 2023 but the Proton X90 still has no Android Auto / Apple CarPlay - this is ACO Tech's reply

Like many modern SUVs, the Eletre comes with state-of-the-art safety features but aside from the standard ADAS suite of features, it also comes with a deployable LIDAR system with further capabilities available to be added via OTA software updates.

The 2023 Lotus Eletre in Malaysia comes with a 5-year/150,000-km manufacturer’s warranty while the battery with an 8-year/200,000-km warranty. Those interested in knowing more about the Eletre can contact Lotus Cars Malaysia at +60 16-611 2388

The Eletre will also be on display at the Lotus Cars Malaysia pop-up showroom at Pavilion KL - Level 3 in front of Rolex and Prada. The pop-up will be there from this weekend until mid May.