Lotus has officially revealed the plug-in hybrid version of the Eletre SUV, marking a major shift in its global strategy. The new model, known as the Lotus for Me in China, represents the brand’s first production PHEV and comes just a year after the company signalled a move away from an EV-only lineup by 2028. The Eletre PHEV will make its public debut in January and begin reaching international markets in early 2026.
Massive 952hp Output From Hybrid Powertrain
The Eletre PHEV combines a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 70kWh battery pack and dual electric motors. Together, these components produce an impressive 952hp, enabling the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100kph in a claimed 3.3 seconds.
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Engine: 2.0-litre turbo-petrol
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Battery: 70kWh
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Layout: Front and rear motors
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Claimed range: 420km (CLTC cycle)
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Charging: 30–80 percent in just 8 minutes using a DC fast charger
These numbers position the Eletre PHEV as one of the most powerful hybrid SUVs on the market.
Design Changes: Subtle Yet Distinct
While the plug-in hybrid retains the silhouette and overall styling of the electric Eletre, Lotus has given it a few unique touches. The PHEV variant gets:
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A redesigned, more open front grille
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New alloy wheel designs
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Carbonfibre-style trim elements on the D-pillars
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Unique For Me badging
These updates help distinguish it from the EV while keeping the family design DNA intact.
Interior Features Expected to Mirror the EV
Lotus has not revealed official cabin images of the Eletre PHEV yet, but the interior is expected to stay largely the same as the electric model. Buyers can anticipate a tech-rich and premium cabin with highlights such as:
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15.1-inch OLED centre touchscreen
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Digital driver’s display and passenger screen
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23-speaker KEF premium audio setup
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Ventilated, heated and massaging seats for all rows
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Full electric seat adjustment
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Soft-close doors
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Advanced driver assistance systems
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Customisable ambient lighting
Eletre EV Range in India
The all-electric Eletre currently on sale in India is priced between ₹2.69 crore and ₹3.16 crore (on-road). Depending on the variant, it offers a range between 490km and 600km, along with features like disc brakes on both axles, power windows with one-touch functions, and over a hundred premium comfort and safety features.
A Major Step in Lotus’ Evolving Line-up
With the Eletre PHEV, Lotus is expanding beyond its electric-only direction and opening doors to markets where hybrid technology remains a priority. The combination of extreme performance, rapid charging, and high-end features positions the Eletre PHEV as a strong contender in the luxury performance SUV space.
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