Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid

Next week Lotus will roll out a new demonstrator concept at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show that will showcase hybrid technology in a sports car application. The demonstrator concept is called the 414E Hybrid and borrows its chassis and exterior design from the Lotus Evora.

The Lotus 414E Hybrid concept is powered by a twin electric motor setup that total 408 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. The electric motors are paired with a 1.2-liter, three cylinder gasoline engine giving the 414E a 0-60 time of less than four seconds and a potential estimated range of more than 300 miles. Of that 300 mile or more range, Lotus engineers estimate that the cars range on pure electricity is some where near 35 miles.

The battery power for the 414E will come from a lithium-polymer composition, giving the car the superior range and power. In addition to the hybrid technology, the Lotus 414E will also be equipped with a simulated seven-speed gearbox with paddle shifters, Halosonic electronic sound synthesis (to give the driver engine noise into the cabin) and the gasoline motor will be able to run on alcohol-based fuel.

Bottom line—the automotive industry is embracing hybrid technology and Lotus is right in the mix with a car that could compete with other environmentally sports cars like the Tesla.