Lotus Emeya Review : Luxury EV Saloon with Supercar Speed but Missing the Lotus Spirit

The past few months have been turbulent at Lotus HQ in Hethel. Rumors of production halts, leadership changes, and disappointing sales of its new EV lineup have clouded the future of the brand. Against this backdrop, the arrival of the Lotus Emeya, the company’s first all-electric luxury saloon, carries enormous weight.

Much like its sibling, the Lotus Eletre SUV, the Emeya prioritizes luxury and comfort over pure driving thrills. It’s offered in two main versions: the Emeya 600, producing around 603 hp, and the Emeya 900, which delivers a staggering 905 hp. Both feature all-wheel drive, adaptive suspension, and cutting-edge technology.

But here’s the question: does this 2.5-tonne luxury EV truly live up to the heritage of a brand defined by Colin Chapman’s mantra “Simplify, then add lightness”?

Design & Aero Innovations

The Emeya sits on Lotus’s Electric Premium Architecture, featuring a slimmer battery pack for a low stance and improved cooling for faster charging. The exterior is striking, with active aerodynamic features such as a deployable rear spoiler and front splitter that balance downforce with efficiency.

At over 5.1 meters long, the Emeya is bigger than a BMW i5 or Mercedes EQE but shorter than the EQS or BMW i7. Its proportions position it against luxury EV rivals like the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-Tron GT, but with a slightly softer, more practical edge.

Performance: Emeya 600 vs. Emeya 900

• Lotus Emeya 600:
  • 603 hp, 524 lb-ft of torque
  • 0–62 mph: 4.2 seconds
  • Range: up to 379 miles
  • Dual-motor AWD, adaptive suspension
• Lotus Emeya 900:
  • 905 hp, 0–62 mph in 2.8 seconds
  • Active aero, four-wheel steering, anti-roll bars
  • Range drops to 301 miles
  • Two-speed gearbox on the rear motor

Charging is another headline: thanks to 800V architecture and support for 420 kW ultra-fast charging, the Emeya can go from 10–80% in just 14 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging EVs on the market.

Driving Impressions

The Emeya 600 feels swift, smooth, and composed—ideal for covering long distances in luxury. The 900, however, is an entirely different beast: brutally quick, with violent acceleration that demands focus. Launch control delivers the sub-3-second sprint, but torque steer and chassis heft remind you this isn’t a featherweight Lotus.

Handling is safe and balanced, though never playful. Compared to a Porsche Taycan Turbo S, which feels agile and engaging, the Emeya comes across as heavy and restrained by electronics. Ride comfort is excellent for motorway cruising, but the 900’s firmer setup makes it less forgiving in town.

Verdict? The Emeya 600 strikes the best balance—it feels aligned with the car’s luxury brief, while the 900 overwhelms the chassis with too much power.

Interior : Where Lotus Surprises

Step inside and you might forget you’re in a Lotus. The Emeya’s cabin rivals Mercedes and BMW flagships in material quality and design. Expect Nappa leather, carbon-fibre details, KEF audio, ventilated massage seats, and a surprisingly spacious rear cabin with an optional four-seat layout.

Practicality is another win: 509 litres of boot space, a hatchback tailgate, and a small frunk. Four tall adults can sit comfortably thanks to generous legroom and the panoramic roof adds airiness, although headroom could be better.

Technology is abundant, though at times overwhelming. The touchscreen dominates too many functions, with small icons and menus that distract from driving. Physical buttons for climate control are welcome, but driver-assist toggles remain buried in menus.

Before You Buy

Pricing is competitive: the Emeya undercuts the Porsche Taycan while offering more equipment as standard. The sweet spot is the 600 GT SE, which adds luxury options without forcing buyers into the 900’s overkill territory.

If you want driving thrills, spend the savings on a Lotus Elise or Emira for weekend fun. If you want luxury EV speed and comfort, the Emeya is a compelling choice.

Lotus Emeya Verdict

Viewed as a standalone luxury EV, the Emeya is excellent: fast, comfortable, luxurious, and practical. But wearing a Lotus badge creates expectations it doesn’t quite meet. It isn’t the engaging driver’s car enthusiasts crave—it’s more of a luxury express with Lotus DNA diluted by market realities.

Still, for customers who want a stylish, rapid EV saloon that undercuts German rivals, the Emeya deserves attention. It may not be a “true Lotus,” but it’s a car that could help the brand survive a difficult new era.