Lotus Type 132 electric SUV previewed in patent images

With British automotive marque Lotus Cars set to unveil the Type 132 electric SUV on March 29, 2022, patent images of the company’s biggest model to date have surfaced online. 

The renders were submitted to IP Australia by the automaker’s Lotus Technology arm, which is now headquartered in Wuhan, China, following its parent company’s acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding Group back in 2017. Geely is reportedly playing a significant role in rebranding Lotus as an electric vehicle company.       

As Lotus’ first-ever SUV, the Type 132 seemingly goes against founder Colin Chapman’s mantra of ‘simplify, then add lightness’ with its uncharacteristically large proportions. Yet the model is also said to take inspiration from the Emira and Evija sports cars, especially the chiseled hood. 

The generous proportions on the Lotus Type 132 are evident

Wide LED headlamps adorn the fascia, matched with full-width light bar at the rear. The Type 132 features a flowing silhouette that could be a way of compensating for its size, accompanied by turbine-like alloy wheels incorporating carbon inserts. 

Tech bits include door handles that sit flush with the rest of the body, as well as wing cameras in lieu of conventional side mirrors. No details of the interior were given, but a teaser video previously released hinted at a flat-topped steering wheel, digital instrument panel, and a 5G router as among the amenities to expect. 

It's expected to pull impressive numbers with its electric powertrain

While the Type 132’s proportions seem to imply three-row seating, the roofline’s sharp rake towards the rear suggests otherwise. It will also reportedly feature a lidar (light detection and ranging) system that will grant semi-autonomous driving capabilities. 

The Type 132 is the first model on the new Lotus Premium architecture, bringing a twin-motor powertrain with a selection of lithium-ion battery packs from 92 kWh to 120 kWh. Acceleration from zero to 100 kilometers per hour is expected to take less than three seconds. An 800-volt electrical system is seen to accommodate 350 kW charging capability. 

Lotus is marketing the Type 132 as having semi-autonomous driving capability 

In contrast with Lotus’ signature sports cars built in the U.K., the Lotus Type 132 will be assembled in China at a new $1.7 billion (Php 88.8 billion) facility along with the company’s other upcoming lifestyle vehicles.
   
Take more sneak peeks at future releases at Philkotse.com.