British automaker Lotus is on the brink of unveiling a new all-electric sports car, tentatively named Type 135, as early as 2025. This addition to their electric vehicle lineup will join the ranks of the Electre SUV, Emeya sedan, and a forthcoming electric mid-size SUV.
Initially teased in 2021, the Type 135 is positioned as a direct competitor to the future electric Porsche Cayman and Boxster, with anticipated availability to customers by 2027. Notably, it will coexist in the market alongside the combustion-powered Emira for a brief period until the latter is phased out in 2028.
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Despite encountering challenges in its development journey, including a separation from the planned collaboration with Alpine and the discontinuation of partnership with British battery startup Britishvolt, Lotus remains committed to bringing the Type 135 to fruition. The car will ride on a specialized electric sports car platform known as ‘E-Sports,’ designed in-house by Lotus. This platform boasts adaptability for various battery configurations and sizes, featuring a lightweight rear subframe and the capacity to accommodate up to two electric motors at the rear axle.
While specific details about the Type 135 remain undisclosed, Lotus has previously indicated that the electric sports car platform can support different wheelbase options and battery capacities. The architecture provides flexibility in battery placement, allowing for either floor positioning or vertical stacking behind the cabin to achieve a weight distribution akin to mid-engined sports cars.
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The teaser released in 2021 provided limited insights, confirming the inclusion of sharp LED daytime running lights reminiscent of the Emeya. Additionally, the Type 135 exhibits pronounced rear haunches, hinting at a design aligned with traditional mid-engined sports cars.
Despite challenges faced during development, Lotus remains focused on delivering an electrifying addition to its lineup, showcasing their commitment to advancing electric sports car technology.
