Lotus opens the doors of its Chelsea showroom to rewind time revisiting its past models and unveiling a look into future models
When generally speaking about the prevalence of four-door EVs that are available nowadays, it’s no joke when I say that the given choices are monumentally staggering. We have Tesla’s Model 3 parking itself firmly in the accessibility department, and others such as the Audi e-tron and Porsche Taycan leading the way in the realm of electric luxury EVs. However, it is important to note that, and I say this after having just seen the Lotus Emeya in person, it really doesn’t matter who does it first, but rather who does it better.
I want to start my recollection much where I began my experience, which is on the ground floor of Lotus’ location in Chelsea, Manhattan. There, I was presented with older Lotus models that had all played a defining role in Lotus’ long history. First, the oldest, was the 1952 Lotus Mark VI, Lotus’ first production car. This model was especially special not only because it is where everything started, but because its roots speak to Lotus’ focus on delivering power and customizability to the driver; this model was available as a kit, which meant the customer could essentially install their preferred engine and gearbox, and make it their own with exceptional modularity.
The second historical vehicle present was the Lotus 72, a Formula 1 car from 1970. This vehicle thrust Lotus into the spotlight after the public recognized its extremely aerodynamic and successful design, and several high-publicity race wins.
A view of the Lotus 72
The car was a favorite amongst drivers and is revered as one of the most successful Formula 1 cars in its long lifespan. These accolades made it especially remarkable to see in person, as it felt like truly taking a step back in time. It must have been absolutely unreal viewing this vehicle on the track, knowing that it was close to guaranteed that it would win.
The final car on this floor was the most recent one, a Lotus Espirit, which launched in 1976. This one was more akin to a traditional road vehicle and featured the classic retractable headlights seen in many sports cars from this era. The model went through several iterations and was a fan favorite among those looking to drive a classic British sports car. All three of these vehicles cemented integral moments in Lotus’ history and made me that much more excited to see the Emeya.
The Espirit
After a brief picturesque elevator ride, I was able to enter the second floor, which expressed Emeya’s production across various mediums. The creation process showed parts of the body, design concepts, drawings, and clay sculptures that all no doubt played a hand in crafting the vision for the final product. Seeing the work that went into the design was sensational. I was also able to experience a multi-sensory room that surrounded me with giant projections of the views while driving through New York, and when the music swelled, it gave me a moment to appreciate my city.
Sketches of the Emeya’s production
Finally, on the roof, I was able to witness the Lotus Emeya itself in all of its glory. With smooth contours, a modern front fascia, and loaded to the top with tech, it looked ready to roll out in 2030. I took a walk around and was astonished just to count the number of cameras I could see on the outer body. The side mirrors were completely absent and instead offered three cameras that would face back, front, and out the sides. There were cameras pointing straight back, which I assumed would be used for the sentry mode, and the typical front and rear bumper cameras. In essence, the driver would completely have a handle on his or her surroundings at all times, and blind spots would be a thing of the past.
The 2025 Lotus Emeya
I stepped inside the car and was not surprised to see the same amount of tech inside as out. The doors could be opened via button, but it was also possible to open or close them simply by touching a glyph on the massive central screen, which would serve as the navigation, vehicle statistics, and adjustor for the hundreds of functions available for the car. Smooth interior ambient lighting and large, blocky glass and metal panels made the inside look absolutely futuristic and surmounted the ultimate luxury and comfort.
Speaking to a representative, I was able to find out more about the power and motor behind the Emeya’s glossy shell. The electric powertrain would be capable of reaching 60mph in just under three seconds, which is the crazy throw-you-back-in-your-seat type acceleration that we would expect from Lotus’ first electric vehicle. The two variants of the Emeya offer either 600 or 900-horsepower motors, which is insane to think about.
Absolutely massive wheels and brakes
We really have come so far from the 100-horsepower sports cars of the 70s. What surprised me, however, was the fact that even with these ludicrous numbers on the board, the vehicle managed to surpass 300 miles on a full charge, which is a much bigger battery capacity than I expected for such a powerful vehicle. In comparison, the Audi e-tron can only reach a range of about 220.
Stepping away from the Emeya, I took a moment to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere that Lotus had created. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were being served, and DJ Benji B played club hits over the clamor to see the new vehicle. Juxtaposed with the magnificent views of the skyline behind me, I really came to appreciate the exhibition around me and understood the event possessed many of the same qualities that made me gravitate towards the Emeya: form, function, and a little flash.
I really hope that I get the chance to drive the Lotus Emeya one day, but until then, I can only wait to see what Lotus has in store next.
