Lotus prepares hybrid offensive: new models in Europe from 2026

Lotus Hybrid: New Electrification Strategy Brings Eletre PHEV and Vision X to Europe and Romania

British performance car brand Lotus is redefining its electrification strategy, announcing an expansion of its range with new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models starting next year. The decision comes amid an assessment of the European market, where sales of pure electric models have apparently not met the brand's initial expectations.

Focusing on combining Lotus' renowned performance with the efficiency and flexibility of hybrid systems, the manufacturer brings a fresh perspective to the luxury car market, specifically targeting the high-performance SUV segment.

First Wave: Lotus Eletre PHEV – The Plug-in Hyper-SUV

The centerpiece of this new strategy is the introduction of a PHEV version of their first electric SUV, the Lotus Eletre.

• Performance and Dynamism: According to initial information, the Eletre PHEV promises an extremely potent drivetrain, developing a staggering 912 horsepower. To manage this power and maintain the Lotus-specific agility, the model will be equipped with air suspension and an active stabilizer, ensuring more dynamic and controlled road behavior in corners.
• Market Launch: The market debut of the Eletre hybrid version will initially take place in China, in the first quarter of 2026. The European launch, which also includes the Romanian market, is scheduled for the fall of the same year (2026).

Second Ace: The Future SUV Vision X and Hyper Hybrid Technology

The hybrid strategy doesn't stop at the Eletre. For 2027, Lotus has scheduled the launch of a second SUV with PHEV propulsion, tentatively known as the Vision X. It will be positioned below the Eletre in the range.

• Charging Innovation: The Vision X will be a technological benchmark, adopting the new Hyper Hybrid architecture. This technology includes a 900-volt charging system, a significant leap over the 800V systems found on the current electric Eletre.
• Recharging Speed: Such an architecture would make battery charging extremely fast, rivaling the time required to replace the battery at a dedicated station – an essential element to eliminate range anxiety and waiting times.

Expected Prices and Lotus Presence in Romania

Although no official prices have been announced for the new PHEV models, we can make a reasonable estimate based on the price of the current pure electric Lotus Eletre model available on the European market and, implicitly, in Romania.

Lotus Eletre PHEV

• The launch on the Romanian market is estimated for the fall of 2026.
• The estimated starting price for this hybrid hyper-SUV (912 hp) is expected to be in the range of €120,000 - €160,000+. This estimate is based on the fact that the top-of-the-line electric version, the Eletre R, already sells for prices exceeding the €160,000 threshold, and a complex plug-in hybrid system would keep the price at a similar or slightly higher level.

Lotus Vision X PHEV

• The launch is scheduled for 2027.
• As an SUV positioned below the Eletre in the range, the Vision X is expected to be more affordable. The estimated starting price could be around €90,000 - €120,000+.

The Romanian market

The Romanian luxury market has proven its appetite for exclusive brands and performance models. The current electric Eletre is already available at some specialized dealers. The official launch of the PHEV models in Romania will probably be done through these sales partners or new dealerships that will take over the distribution.

Conclusion: The Balance between Tradition and Future

Lotus’ new hybrid powertrain strategy is a pragmatic recognition of market demand, offering performance customers the transition to electrification in a more familiar form. With the Eletre PHEV and Vision X, Lotus aims to not only revitalise its sales but also set new standards in the luxury hybrid SUV segment, combining its legendary history with cutting-edge technological innovation.