Lotus Theory 1
{{update|date=September 2024}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Lotus Theory 1
| image =
| caption =
| manufacturer = Lotus Cars
| model_code =
| aka = Type 135
| production = 2027 (to commence)
| designer =
| class = Sports car
| body_style =
| layout = Twin-motor, all-wheel-drive
| platform =
| related =
| motor = 2× Permanent magnet motors
| transmission =
| battery = 70 kWh
| wheelbase = {{cvt|2650|mm|in|1}}
| length = {{cvt|4490|mm|in|1}}
| width = {{cvt|NNNN|mm|in|1}}
| height = {{cvt|1140|mm|in|1}}
| weight = ~{{cvt|1600|kg|lb|0}}
| predecessor = Lotus Elise
| sp = uk
}}
The Lotus Theory 1 is a sports car concept revealed on 16 September 2024.{{Cite web |url=https://www.carscoops.com/2024/09/lotus-theory-concept-teased-hints-at-new-electric-sportscar/ |title=Lotus Theory Concept Teased, Hints At Electric Sportscar |website=Carscoops |author=Thanos Pappas |date=12 September 2024 |access-date=2024-09-18}}{{Cite web |url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/lotus-unveil-new-theory-1-sports-car-next-week |title=Lotus to unveil new Theory 1 sports car next week |website=autocar.co.uk|author=James Attwood |date=17 September 2024 |access-date=2024-09-18}} A production version is planned for release before 2027.
The Lotus Theory 1 is an all-electric hypercar concept. The automaker claims it is expected to deliver a total of {{convert|986|hp|kW}}. Performance figures include a 0-97 km/h (0-60 mph) acceleration time of less than 2.5 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 319 km/h (198 mph). The concept vehicle achieves a WLTP-rated range of 402 kilometers (250 miles) from its 70.0 kWh battery pack.{{Cite news |last=Palmer |first=Zac |date=17 September 2024 |title=The Lotus Theory 1 Concept Teases the Future of the Brand's Sports Cars |url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/news/a62240882/lotus-theory-1-concept-revealed/ |work=Road & Track}}
Lotus will streamline the car’s design by using only ten materials, far fewer than the typical 100 found in standard cars.{{Cite news |last=Ford |first=Tom |date=17 September 2024 |title=Woah! It’s the 986bhp Lotus Theory 1 concept |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/concept/woah-its-986bhp-lotus-theory-1-concept |work=BBC Top Gear}} Along with the integrated battery, the Theory 1 uses a recycled carbon tub and a body made of composite and polycarbonate. A target weight of under 3,527 pounds really sets it apart.{{Cite news |last=Fitzgerald |first=Jack |date=18 September 2024 |title=Lotus Theory 1 Concept Is a Funky Electric Sports Car with 986 Horsepower |url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a62240346/lotus-theory-1-ev-concept-revealed/ |work=Car and Driver}}
Taking cues from the McLaren F1, the Theory 1 concept places the driver in a central cockpit position, flanked by two passenger seats. The automaker has also introduced a system called "Lotuswear". It incorporates haptic airbags and vibrant lighting throughout the interior to interact with both the driver and passengers. The steering wheel can vibrate on either side to signal the driver when to make a turn.