Radical 735kW Lotus Theory 1 imagines wild three-seat Esprit EV reboot
For those losing faith with Lotus after the famously lightweight brand has been branching out into obese sedans and SUVs, the small British sports car maker has unwrapped a fast twin-motor supercar that could one day revive the famous Esprit nameplate as a fast three-seat EV.
Claimed to be the new ‘blueprint’ for all its future cars, the new concept dubbed the Lotus Theory 1 is said to come equipped with a twin-motor all-wheel drive powertrain that draws energy from a 70kWh battery that’s rear mounted in a lightweight carbon-fibre tub.
Both the battery and rear e-motor are used as a chassis stress-member to reduce weight and complexity.
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Said to produce a mighty 735kW, the Theory 1 is said to sprint from 0-100km/h in just 2.5 seconds and top out at 320km/h and blends that with the ability of being able to cover up to 402km on a single charge.
Looking like it pays homage to the first-gen Lotus Esprit S1 (1976-1978), the Theory 1 is said to measure in at 4490mm long and stand 1140mm tall, with a 2650mm wheelbase.
Thanks to a full carbon-fibre tub, Lotus says the Theory 1 weighs in at around 1600kg, around the same weight as a two-door supercar.
Beneath the skin, the front end features a diffuser and air deflectors that are said to slash drag by creating an air curtain. A sculptured underside, meanwhile, jets air into the cooling system before the hot air then makes it way to the downforce-boosting adjustable rear wing.
Instead of a typical two-seat cabin, the Theory 1 gets a central driving position that places a passenger either side. And instead of sliding the seats towards the wheel both the steering wheel and pedals move closer to the driver.
Enhancing the driving experience, Lotus has created a 3D audio system that delivers bespoke soundscapes, while inflatable pods on the seat and steering wheel react to provide extra support, or provide haptic feedback.
Other innovations including distilling the number of materials used to make the Theory 1 are just 10, compared to most modern cars 100, with the Lotus supercar made from titanium, polycarbonate and recycled aluminium, among others.
As part of its new design mantra dubbed ‘The Lotus Theory’, each Lotus from now on will be designed using Digital, Natural and Analogue (DNA) that will be blended with the brand’s latest tech and innovations.
Sadly, there’s little likelihood of the Lotus Theory 1 being pushed into production but the first car to be inspired by the latest EV supercar is likely to be the next-gen Lotus Elise successor that is being developed under the Type 135 and is due in 2027.
