As the automotive world accelerates towards electrification, sports car enthusiasts are left wondering: can the thrill of a combustion engine be replicated in an electric vehicle? The Lotus Emira, potentially the last petrol-powered car from the brand, is at the heart of this debate. Lotus aims to transition to an all-electric lineup by 2028, but is that goal feasible without sacrificing the driving experience that has defined the brand?
Exploring the Driving Dynamics of the Lotus Emira
The Lotus Emira has captured attention with its stunning design and impressive performance. While the 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine variant is widely praised, an alternative exists in the form of a 2-liter inline 4-cylinder engine. Despite producing slightly less horsepower—360hp compared to the V6’s 400hp—and a marginally slower 0-60mph time of 4.3 seconds, the I4 version offers a unique driving experience akin to an electric vehicle, thanks to its automatic gearbox.
The I4’s AMG-sourced dual-clutch system with eight gears is a significant shift for purists who prefer manual gearboxes. However, as electric vehicles generally lack manual transmissions due to their torque characteristics, driving the I4 offers a glimpse into the future of motoring. The Emira’s gearbox allows for a “flappy paddle” manual experience, providing a blend of modern convenience and driving engagement.
For those who enjoy track days, the manual V6 might be the preferred choice. Yet, the I4 version remains a compelling option for daily driving, particularly in urban environments where manual transmissions can be cumbersome. The Emira’s aesthetics, featuring a mid-engine profile and striking vents, enhance its appeal, while the interior breaks from traditional Lotus design by offering modern amenities like Apple CarPlay.
Driving modes further enhance the Emira’s versatility, with options such as Touring, Sport, and Track mode. These modes adjust the vehicle’s handling, suspension, and engine response to suit different driving conditions, from everyday commutes to spirited track sessions. While the Track mode is rather loud for passengers, it delivers heightened performance for those seeking maximum acceleration.
The Challenge of Weight in Electric Sports Cars
The transition to electric vehicles poses significant challenges for maintaining the lightweight ethos that Lotus is famed for. Current Lotus EV offerings, including the Evija hypercar and Eletre SUV, are far from the featherweight cars like the Elise. The Emira, weighing 1,446kg, is already considered heavy for a Lotus, and achieving similar dynamics in an electric version remains a complex task.
Lotus’s future electric models, teased with concepts like the Theory 1, aim to tackle this issue. However, with a target weight of under 1,600kg, these vehicles still exceed the weight of traditional Lotus sports cars. Innovations in battery technology are crucial, as demonstrated by lighter electric vehicles like the Caterham EV Seven and Project V, which hint at possibilities for maintaining Lotus’s performance standards in an electric future.
While lightweight electric vehicles exist primarily for track use, achieving a balance between performance, range, and practicality remains a hurdle. The McMurtry Spéirling and Rimac Nevera showcase impressive capabilities but at significant costs and weight penalties, indicating the complex trade-offs involved in this transition.
Future Prospects for an Electric Emira
The prospect of an electric Lotus Emira raises questions about when—and if—such a vehicle can match its combustion predecessor in terms of handling and driving pleasure. Battery weight is a significant factor, with a Tesla Model 3 Long Range’s battery alone weighing approximately 480kg, presenting challenges for replicating the Emira’s agility.
To achieve a similar driving experience in an electric Emira, advancements in battery energy density are essential. Until such technologies become available, enthusiasts may have to choose between dynamic performance and extended range, underscoring the transformative impact of electrification on the automotive landscape.
Original Story at www.forbes.com