LEVA is a “plug ‘n play” system that allows for different wheelbases, battery sizes and one or two motors up to a maximum power output of 872PS (650kW). A version of it will also provide the basis of the electric replacement for the Alpine A110 that Lotus and the French firm are jointly developing.
Confirming the tie-up with Britishvolt this week, Lotus says priorities for the development of a new battery cell package for the sportscar will be fast-charging, optimised energy density and weight reduction. Lotus is developing its own motors.
Britishvolt’s new gigafactory is being built on the site of the former Blyth Power Station in what is being hailed as a major boost for Northumberland. The project hit the headlines earlier in January thanks to assertions that the factory will create 3,000 direct highly-skilled jobs and another 5,000-plus in the associated supply chains. It is expected to turn out its first batteries by early in 2024.
Lotus managing director Matt Windle told us: “Lotus is delighted to be collaborating with Britishvolt to develop new battery cell technology. These are the first exciting steps on the journey towards an all-new electric sportscar from Lotus.
“In the coming months we will be unveiling the Type 132, an all-new and all-electric Lotus SUV and we’ve confirmed three more EVs are on the way.”
And before all that? Just the small matter of getting the Lotus Emira, its last petrol-powered sportscar, out into the world and into owners’ hands, expected for later this year along with first deliveries of the Evija electric hypercar.
Welcome to FOS Future Lab where we report on the latest visions of future technology. We'll be boldly covering flying cars, hoverboards, jetpacks and spaceships with plenty of down to earth topics in between.