Lotus launches powerful plug-in hybrid Eletre X

• New plug-in hybrid variant of the Lotus Eletre
• The Eletre X will take you from ‘fear to freedom’, says Lotus
• Power of 952 PS
• 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds
• EV range of up to 217 miles
• Seriously rapid charging; 20-80% in 9 mins
• UK prices still to be revealed

Lotus has revealed a new plug-in hybrid variant of its Eletre SUV which moves the needle when it comes to PHEV tech.

Up until now, the Eletre has only been available to lease with a fully electric powertrain.

But the Eletre X is now preparing to enter the market, with the official European launch slated for June 2026.

Here’s everything you need to know:

What’s the EV driving range of the Lotus Eletre X?

The Eletre X really is a game-changer when it comes to what’s possible with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

The British firm says it’s the first PHEV system in Europe capable of delivering 952 PS paired with an EV driving range of up to 217 miles on a single charge.

To put that figure into perspective, it’s pretty much DOUBLE what even the leggiest PHEVs in the UK can achieve, with cars like the Chery Tiggo 9 and Omoda 9 able to travel around 90 miles between trips to the plug.

It’s made possible by a massive 70 kWh battery - bigger than you get in many fully electric cars - and a 150 kW generator.

They feed two motors, one on the front and one on the rear, for reassuring all-wheel drive.

Is the plug-in hybrid Lotus Eletre X more powerful than the electric Eletre?

Yes, the PHEV Eletre X actually gets more outright power than the fully-electric Eletre.

The plug-in hybrid Eletre X boasts 952 PS and 935 Nm.

The Eletre EV, on the other hand, makes do with a max system output of 918 PS.

However, despite those on-paper figures, it’s the Eletre EV that’s the quickest to accelerate, covering the first 0-62mph in 2.95 seconds.

The Eletre X PHEV lags slightly behind (but only just), doing 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds, which is still supercar quick.

Lotus tells us that even with a 20% battery state-of-charge, the system can deliver up to 748 PS, ‘supporting demanding scenarios such as mountain‑pass overtakes’.

The Eletre X will also switch between pure EV, series hybrid, and parallel hybrid operation to ensure optimum performance, efficiency and real‑world range.

How fast can the Lotus Eletre X charge?

The Lotus Eletre X is underpinned by next-gen 900V architecture, which allows a 20-80% in just 9 minutes.

That, says Lotus, sets a ‘new benchmark for electric‑first performance mobility’.

Full details of charging speeds and UK specs will be revealed in due course.

What else can I expect with a Lotus Eletre X lease?

Again, we’re still waiting for full UK details to be announced, but Lotus promises an active rear spoiler for additional downforce, Brembo front brakes, dual-chamber air suspension with dual-valve dampers, and Lotus‑developed tyres.

You can also enjoy a panoramic sunroof, a KEF Reference sound system, and the optional Nappa leather interior.

When it comes to the Lotus Eletre X’s main rivals, you’re looking at the Porsche Cayenne Coupe Turbo E-Hybrid as well as the Range Rover with the P550e powertrain.

Enjoyed this? Read our latest news

• “The world of motoring is no longer the male-dominated industry it once was”
• Facelifted new CUPRA Born looks moodier than ever
• It’s official: Select Car Leasing is the biggest and the best!
• UK pothole crisis laid bare by new Select Car Leasing study
• Longbow sports cars takes aim at Tesla - and targets lease customers

Where To Next?

What is car leasing? Read our car leasing explainer.

For all the latest reviews, advice and new car deals, sign up to our newsletter.

Looking for a great leasing deal? Check out our incredible range of special offers.

Read our latest reviews and find the right model for you.

Want to know more about leasing? Take a look at our comprehensive leasing guides.

Interested in everything motoring? Why not catch up on all the latest car leasing news.