Lotus Evija makes dynamic debut

In November, that tour included a stop at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China, where Lotus revealed footage of engineering prototype #2 in action at a private circuit.

What Lotus are claiming as the first all-electric British hypercar, the Evija has a target performance output of 1,470kW and almost 1,700Nm from its four electric motors (driving all four wheels), which will make it the most powerful series production road car in the world.

Testing will continue at Lotus’s home base of Hethel, as well as several other high-speed and handling circuits throughout Europe.

“Physical prototype testing at speed is a landmark moment for the Evija and hugely exciting for everyone involved,” said Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes, Lotus Cars. “Our aim is to make sure it’s a true Lotus in every sense, with exceptional performance that’s going to set new standards in the hypercar sector.”

Both the dynamic and static testing are part of a comprehensive validation process designed to guarantee the car will meet customer expectations and demands in key global markets and environments.

“Everything about the Evija is ‘For The Drivers’. I don’t believe there is another EV in the world that can claim this,” said Matt Windle, Executive Director, Sports Car Engineering at the Guangzhou Auto Show. “From the mid-engined-inspired Lotus layout, to the aerodynamics and downforce, the driving position, vehicle stance and unbelievable performance. It is instantly recognisable as special with a unique character, yet it is unquestionably a Lotus.”

While production of the Evija will start in 2020, a public release date and whether the hypercar will be available in Australia are yet to be confirmed.