The new Lotus Emeya is the first battery-electric “Hyper” Grand Tourer from Lotus Cars. Unlike the Evija, the Emeya is a production model that has a monstrous power output but can pass off as a daily. It has three variants and starts at PHP 8,000,000.
The design of the Emeya is sharper than the Eletre and Evija before it. Lotus said its design originated from a single line – from the tip of its “nose” to the side profile and connected to the taillight at the rear. This inspired the Emeya’s “hyperstance” that captures the aesthetic of earlier Lotus icons and carries it forward to the new age.
It has a distinct two-layer Daytime Running Light assemblies on the front end that gives it a unique look even among its lineup. The headlights are hidden along with the fairings on the deep cut at the nose of the car. At the bottom of the front face is an Active Front Grille system that opens at a certain speed to provide more cooling for the batteries and aircon among others. The sides have character lines that look sculpted by air as they lead towards the functional air vents of the Emeya. A very slim LED strip adorns the rear giving it a very futuristic look.
Tech is also subtly abundant in the Emeya’s exterior. Aside from the air intakes and vents of the Emeya, it also has an Active Rear Spoiler. Together, it can provide a downforce of over 150kg. There are also 4 deployable LiDARS, 18 radars, seven 8-megapixel cameras, and five 2-megapixel cameras that combine to see obstacles around the car up to 200 meters even in low light or inclement weather.
Powering the Emeya are 2 electric motors that can push out up to 905 HP and 985 Nm of torque. This is complemented by 50-50 weight distribution, low center of gravity, and 0-100kph acceleration of only 2.8 secs making it very enjoyable to drive. Charging is also fast as it can go 10% to 80% in just 14 minutes (with 400kW, 600A charger), or get up to 310 km of range in 10 minutes. Maximum WLTP range in a single charge is at 610 km.
Lotus also enhanced the battery structure of the Emeya itself. Aside from the capability to charge fast, it also has more cells for its size which is the reason for its range. They also improved its thermal cooling capabilities to improve the efficiency of the battery and its repeatability.
The Emeya’s exterior may be called subdued and simple, but the interior makes up for that. Starting with the power-assisted doors with sensors that can detect oncoming cars if you’re opening from the inside. The cabin will greet you with plush seats and a modern dashboard layout. There’s a screen dedicated for viewing the sides of the car, along with a 15.1-inch at the center of the dash. The gauge cluster beyond the steering wheel is small but that’s because there’s a massive 55-inch heads-up display with an interactive 3D display. These are joined by a KEF sound system and an intelligent lighting system that reacts with the driver’s inputs or the infotainment system.
Despite its prowess, the Emeya retains its practicality. It’s a 4-door 4-seater with 509 liters of trunk space making it valid to be a daily. The front trunk or frunk also has 31 liters of space that’s enough for small items or for the accompanying charger. All seats have five modes of massage so all occupants can be relaxed even in the longest rides. Even the panoramic sunroof can be turned to clear or opaque to give the driver their preferred experience while driving.
The cabin also has a mix of elements into it. Lotus made use of a new thread called Wyron Truecycle which is made from repurposed fibers of the fashion industry. They also utilized knurled surfaces on all touchpoints for added refinement and sense of luxury.
“This launch marks a new era in luxury electric vehicles, blending advanced aerodynamics with unparalleled performance and everyday usability. This vehicle exemplifies Autohub Group’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry,” said Willy Tee Ten, President of Autohub Group, the sole authorized dealer of Lotus Cars in the Philippines.
The new Lotus Emeya is available in base, S, and R trims starting at PHP 8,000,000. Lotus Manila is giving a complimentary XPPF Paint Protection Film, V-Kool VK Series Tint, and a 7 kW home charger for customers who will reserve a unit until October 31, 2024.
