A lot has changed since Colin Chapman first founded Lotus back in 1948. Chapman’s mantra of “simplifying and adding lightness” no longer really applies to today’s contemporary vehicles as they grow increasingly complex and high-tech electric powertrains continue to permeate the space. In a bid to honor the values and principles that have guided the marque for the last 70-odd-years while still looking to the future, Lotus has now developed a one-off all-electric supercar concept that represents the brand’s future while still keeping one foot firmly planted in the past.
The Lotus Theory Launch
Giving a sneak-peak at the automaker’s future design language, the Theory 1 is the first product of what’s been dubbed The Lotus Theory. This new project centers around a trio of core principles — Digital, Natural, and Analog (or “DNA” for short) — that will be used to guide the development and design of al future Lotus production models.
The Powertrain
Equipped with multiple electric motors, the Theory 1’s EV powertrain features a 70-kWh battery pack that offers a combined range of 250 miles per charge. The multi-motor setup’s power is sent to an advanced all-wheel-drive system.
Power & Performance
Offering a glimpse into what Lotus calls “the future of intelligent performance vehicles,” the Theory 1 is kicked along by a fully-electric powertrain that generates a whopping 986hp. Thanks to a curb weight of around 3,500lbs, the factory-built concept is capable of clocking 0-60mph runs in 2.5 seconds or less, and is able to achieve a top speed of around 200mph.
Chassis & Bodywork
The entire concept is constructed around a central tub made from recycled forged carbon fiber. This forged carbon framework comes cloaked in a suite of bodywork that’s made from a combination of cellulose composite and polycarbonate. The body also features a pronounced aero kit that’s brought to life in exposed forged carbon.
Hardware & Componentry
Offering Lotus’ usual brand of stellar handling, the Theory 1 concept features a steer-by-wire system and front and rear double-wishbone suspension setups with active dampers at all four corners. At all four corners are also center-locking wheels (20” front, 21” rear) and top-of-the-line six-pot calipers chomping down on massive 15.35-inch discs that come courtesy of AP Racing.
Straight From The Horse’s Mouth
“With Theory 1, we’ve built on everything Lotus has achieved so far in its 76-year history, to push the boundaries for what it means to drive a performance vehicle,” explains Ben Payne, Vice President of Design at the Lotus Group. “We want to demonstrate that you don’t need to compromise – with both digital and analogue capabilities working harmoniously in the future car. In doing this, we are able to bring drivers the best possible immersive driving experience with raw emotion, functionality and connectivity, at the core.”
Spec Sheet
Class: Factory-Built Concept Car
Brand: Lotus
Model: Theory 1
Powertrain: Electric
Power: 986HP &
0-60MPH Time: 2.5 Seconds
Top Speed: 198.8MPH
Battery Capacity: 70-kWh
Combined Range: 250 Miles
Weight: 3,527LBs
Pricing & Availability
As a factory-built one-of-one concept car, the Lotus Theory 1 isn’t for sale, nor is it currently earmarked for production. With that said, the concept likely gives a a sneak peak of what Lotus has in store for future supercar models.
Recap
Lotus Theory 1 Concept
Lotus honors its long-held guiding principles while looking to the future with an all-electric, 986-hp, 200-mph factory-built concept car.
