FYI: The Lotus Electre, the luxury electric SUV, is now available in the U.S. with a revised starting price and exclusive features.
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# Lotus Electre Carbon: A Premium Electric SUV Now Available for Preorder in the U.S.
The anticipation for the Lotus Electre electric SUV builds up as it enters the U.S. market with a significant price adjustment and exclusive features. Potential buyers should be prepared for a substantial price increase from what was originally disclosed.
## Price Surge for the Electre Carbon
The starting price for the Lotus Electre has skyrocketed from the previously announced $107,000 to a remarkable $229,900. This new pricing applies to the special Electre Carbon model, the only variant currently available for preorder in the U.S. This version boasts specs similar to those of the previously planned Electre R, which had a starting price of $145,000, making the price jump undeniable.
## Impact of U.S. Tariffs on Chinese-Made EVs
One of the key contributors to the inflated price is the 100% tariff imposed by the U.S. on electric vehicles manufactured in China. While Lotus traditionally assembles its sports cars in Hethel, Britain, its “lifestyle” models like the Electre and the recently revealed Emeya sedan are produced in Wuhan, China. This tariff also led Volvo to delay the U.S. release of its China-produced EX30 electric crossover until production could be shifted to Belgium.
## Premium Features and Performance
To justify the steep price tag, Lotus has equipped the Electre Carbon with a suite of top-tier features. Exclusive to the U.S. and Canadian markets, the model includes:
– Bridge of Weir leather trim
– Heated front seats with adjustable lumbar support and memory function
– Alcantara-lined steering wheel
– Optional electrochromic glass roof at no additional cost
– Carbon fiber accents for both exterior and cabin
Moreover, the Electre Carbon can be ordered in a unique carbon-look satin-finish Stardust Black paint, explicitly manufactured for this model.
With a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivering 905 horsepower and a two-speed transmission, the Electre Carbon claims impressive performance. It accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 2.95 seconds, reaching a top speed of 165 mph.
## Battery and Charging Capabilities
All Electre models, including the Carbon, feature a 111.9 kWh battery capable of charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 20 minutes using a DC fast charger that supports 350 kW charging. Lotus states that the Electre R, and by extension the Electre Carbon, achieves a maximum range of 304 miles according to the WLTP test cycle used abroad. This range is expected to be slightly lower under the more rigorous EPA cycle used in the U.S.
## Conclusion
The U.S. deliveries for the Lotus Electre Carbon are slated to commence in early 2025. While the hefty price tag represents a significant increase, the top-tier features, exclusivity, and outstanding performance make the Lotus Electre Carbon a noteworthy contender in the luxury electric SUV market.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
