Lotus has recently made a significant announcement regarding its future plans for electric vehicles. Earlier this week, the company revealed that it would not be going purely electric by 2028 as initially planned. Instead, Lotus has shared some preliminary details about a new technology called Hyper Hybrid that will help keep the gasoline engine alive.
During the Q3 2024 earnings conference call, Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng spoke about the Hyper Hybrid technology, which is currently in development. This plug-in hybrid powertrain will allow Lotus cars to offer a maximum driving range of over 684 miles (1,100 kilometers). What sets this technology apart is its ability to enable the car to run strictly on gasoline, making it more efficient than an electric motor at higher speeds, such as on highways.
The combustion engine in the Hyper Hybrid system is being referred to as an “ultra-fast on-the-drive charging” system. Essentially, the gas engine will act as a generator, charging the battery five times faster than the energy consumed during regular driving. This will provide cars with uninterrupted electric performance in any situation, including in extreme cold weather and at high speeds.
While this technology is not entirely new, as there have been other electric cars with range-extending gas engines, Lotus is focusing on enhancing the driving experience and range of its vehicles. However, there are concerns about the added weight and complexity of incorporating a range-extender into an already heavy electric vehicle. This goes against Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s philosophy of “simplify, then add lightness.”
Despite these challenges, prolonging the life of the gasoline engine could potentially attract more buyers to Lotus vehicles. The company has already seen a 136% increase in sales in the first nine months of the year, with a total of 7,617 units sold.
In conclusion, Lotus’s decision to explore hybrid technology and keep the combustion engine alive shows a commitment to innovation and adapting to the evolving automotive landscape. By striking a balance between electric and gasoline-powered vehicles, Lotus is poised to offer a diverse range of options to its customers in the coming years.
