Category: Lotus

Jul 21

First Look: Lotus Eletre R – The All-Electric SUV Ready to Compete with Lamborghini and Ferrari

A Bold Transformation: Lotus’s Electric Eletre SUV

In a dramatic shift from its traditional sports car roots, Lotus has unveiled its groundbreaking all-electric Eletre SUV. Previously known for models like the Elise and Exige, Lotus now aims to redefine its brand with this high-tech marvel. While it took the British manufacturer 70 years to produce its first 100,000 cars, the company is targeting to achieve that milestone annually by 2028 with the Eletre.

The Eletre stands out as a trailblazing “hyper-SUV” in a class of its own, poised to rival the Lamborghini Urus and Aston Martin DBX in performance. Despite its formidable capabilities, its price aligns more closely with the Porsche Cayenne, which will only transition to an all-electric model by 2026. Lotus’s bold venture into electric vehicles could reshape the luxury SUV market.

Models and Performance Insights

Kidzone Electric Ride-On Bumper Car: Designed for children aged 1.5 to 5 years, this bumper car features customizable DIY stickers and a remote control for extra safety. The model includes LED lights and a 360-degree spinning feature, and it’s ASTM certified for peace of mind.

BROAGE Electric Bumper Car: Known for its blend of style and safety, this model features a sleek design and remote control operation. It’s ASTM certified and ideal for kids who appreciate both aesthetics and performance.

Sakar Sonic Bumper Car: Tailored for young Sonic enthusiasts, this bumper car boasts a 12V motor and LED lights, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor fun.

Choosing the Perfect Bumper Car: What to Consider

When selecting a bumper car, evaluate the environment where it will be used, whether indoors or outdoors, as this can influence the type you need. Consider the age and size of the primary users; younger children may require models with additional safety features and less power. Additionally, think about the maintenance needs of the bumper car, as some models may require more upkeep, which can affect long-term satisfaction.

In summary, the right bumper car should match the user’s environment, safety needs, and maintenance preferences. With careful selection, bumper cars can offer exciting, secure, and enjoyable experiences for children of all ages.

Jul 21

Lotus Faces Tough Times: 2022 Sales Decline and Job Cuts on the Horizon

2022 Sales Drop and Financial Struggles

In 2022, Lotus saw a dramatic reduction in sales, delivering just 576 cars, a significant drop from the 1,566 vehicles sold in 2021. The cessation of production for the Elise, Exige, and Evora in 2021, combined with delays in new model releases, including the Emira and the Eletre SUV, contributed to this downturn. The company’s financial woes were exacerbated by a £145.1 million loss for the year, following an £86.6 million loss in the previous year, prompting a major restructuring.

Job Cuts and Operational Impact

To manage costs and streamline operations, Lotus plans to cut up to 200 jobs, primarily affecting engineering and administrative roles at its Hethel and Warwickshire facilities. Production workers will not be impacted, as the company focuses on increasing output of the Emira and the Eletre SUV. Despite these setbacks, Lotus aims to rebound with a record production year in 2023.

Future Developments and Challenges

The long-awaited Lotus Evija electric hypercar still has unsold units from its initial production run, with deliveries starting in August. Additionally, Lotus is working on a new electric sports car, originally a joint venture with Alpine, now a solo Lotus project expected by 2026. This new model will face competition from Porsche’s upcoming electric 718 replacement, highlighting the competitive and rapidly evolving nature of the electric vehicle market.