2027 Lotus Elise EV faces delays due to heavy battery tech

AutoExec Summary
Lotus is considering delaying the development of its next-generation 2027 Lotus Elise due to the unavailability of smaller, lighter batteries. The upcoming Elise, codenamed Type 135, was set to be unveiled in the next few years and hit the market in 2027. However, a report from Britain’s Autocar indicates that these plans are now at risk. Lotus Group design boss, Ben Payne, expressed concerns that a battery-powered roadster would not live up to the lightweight legacy of the original Elise. He highlighted current technology limitations in terms of weight and packaging large batteries, leading to unideal proportions for a sports car. Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to replicate the driving experience of the combustion-engined Elise in an electric vehicle. Payne emphasized the importance of creating a driver-focused and engaging product, similar to the appeal of the Elise.
Brands mentioned: Lotus, Autocar