Description
Lotus Unveils Theory 1 Concept Car
Lotus Unveils Theory 1: The Future Of Intelligent Performance
London, UK – September 17, 2024
Lotus has unveiled Theory 1, its first concept car that embodies the future of intelligent performance vehicles.
As part of this, Lotus is launching The Lotus Theory, the company’s new design manifesto that will form the foundation for all future Lotus cars, encapsulated through three core principles - Digital, Natural and Analogue (DNA):
>> Digital, which represents the immersive, intelligent, and intuitive experience.
>> Natural, brings to life emotional, connected, human-centric design.
>> Analogue, which is the brand’s continuous advancement of performance engineering.
By seamlessly blending together these core design principles with the latest design innovations from Lotus, as well as cutting-edge technologies, Lotus is able to simplify and enhance how a car should feel and perform. Theory 1 harmoniously fits around the driver and is able to adapt based on their needs – delivering the ultimate driver experience.
THE ULTIMATE IMMERSIVE AND INTUITIVE DRIVER SYSTEM WITH LOTUSWEAR™
Lotus has developed a proprietary driver system, LOTUSWEAR™, designed to create a personalized, immersive driving experience by connecting occupants to the road. It features an adaptive, lightweight robotic textile that communicates with the driver and passengers through real-time haptic feedback. Inflatable pods in the seats and steering wheel provide support, grip, and subtle prompts, like pulses indicating turns. The system offers five driving modes (Range, Tour, Sport, Individual, Track) that optimize performance and comfort based on the environment.
Developed with MotorSkins, LOTUSWEAR™ marks the first use of textile-based wearable robotics in the automotive industry. The system also includes 3D-printed lattice headrests, designed in collaboration with Carbon, for enhanced comfort, reduced weight, and improved aerodynamics.
A binaural audio system, developed with KEF, provides occupants with tailored soundscapes and noise-canceling features, creating an immersive audio experience akin to being in a recording studio. This system enhances speed sounds, focus, and entertainment quality.
The LOTUSWEAR™ Technology Line, inspired by the Lotus Esprit’s design, integrates OLED displays for vehicle status and safety. Lotus’ 360-degree autonomous driving suite, powered by NVIDIA DRIVE, uses a combination of LiDAR, cameras, and radars to provide comprehensive obstacle detection up to 200m in all directions, even in poor lighting conditions. This minimal design keeps the technology streamlined and functional.
A NEW BENCHMARK FOR USER EXPERIENCE
Theory 1 integrates projections, screens, and haptics to deliver a seamless, borderless user experience aligned with Lotus' design manifesto. It provides information quickly and easily through:
- Interactive notifications via MotorSkins’ adaptive inflatable textile.
- A digital system using intelligent light, LEDs, and laser reflections on the windscreen for obstacle detection, braking, and turns.
- Laser lights on the dashboard indicating turns, in sync with haptic seat materials.
- RGB LEDs on suspension modules showing green or red signals for braking or acceleration.
- Simple, functional 2D graphics on the steering wheel, ERMDs, and heads-up display with minimal fonts and elements.
- Immersive 3D graphics that change based on vehicle speed, braking, and turning, inspired by the 60s Arte Programmata movement.
These features enhance peripheral vision, allowing the driver to stay focused on the road, minimizing distractions, and improving safety.
A HOLISTIC DESIGN APPROACH, WITH MINIMAL MATERIALITY AND TRUE INNOVATION
Lotus has embraced sustainability by creating the ‘Challenge of 10,’ a goal to design cars using only ten key A-surface materials, reducing the industry's material usage. Theory 1 exemplifies this with materials like cellulose-based glass fiber, recycled carbon fiber, titanium, recycled glazing, polyester, rubber, elastomeric polyurethane, transparent polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethane, and recycled aluminum. This minimalism reflects Lotus’ heritage of simplicity and lightweight design.
The LOTUSWEAR™ system, featuring soft robotic fabrics and 3D-printed headrests, embodies this philosophy. Lotus also partnered with Kyocera SLD Laser for advanced laser lighting that reduces component size and weight while maintaining safety and performance.
Rooted in racing principles, Lotus aims to enhance car performance while making high-performance vehicles more accessible by simplifying design and technology for ease of use.
ENHANCING DYNAMIC PERFORMANCE, HANDLING, AND SPEED
Theory 1 brings Lotus' engineering expertise to electric vehicles, focusing on performance and driver confidence with fun, engaging experiences. Its advanced aerodynamic design includes active cooling, an active rear spoiler, and a passive rear underbody, all contributing to stability and vehicle lightness. Key features include:
- A nose cone with diffusers, drag-reducing deflectors, and an air curtain inspired by Lotus' racing heritage.
- A contoured underfloor directing air into cooling systems and reducing drag.
- Side pods isolating airflow turbulence to improve efficiency.
Inspired by the Lotus 49 F1 car, Theory 1 uses its motor and battery assembly as a stressed member, reducing weight and complexity by eliminating the need for a subframe. The rear wing and suspension are directly connected, improving downforce and stability, with a pull rod suspension lowering the center of gravity.
Lotus also developed a unique sports car door system, allowing easy access even in tight spaces. Theory 1 features a three-seat layout with a central driving position for optimal visibility and control, inspired by motorsports. The car's interior is shaped around the human body, with steering wheel and pedals moving toward the driver for a personalized fit.
The steer-by-wire system enhances precision and control, enabling adjustable steering ratios for a smoother, more connected driving experience.
THE PINNACLE DRIVING EXPERIENCE, POWERED BY THE LOTUS DNA
Theory 1 features bespoke Pirelli P Zero tyres, designed specifically to enhance performance while minimizing environmental impact. The Pirelli Elect technology supports the weight and high torque of electric vehicles, providing greater durability, reduced wear, and optimized battery range. These tyres are also used in Lotus' Eletre, Emeya, and Evija models.
Additionally, Theory 1 is equipped with an advanced carbon ceramic braking system from AP Racing, a long-time Lotus partner. The lightweight system features a Monoblock aluminum design, reducing unnecessary material while ensuring high performance braking.
TARGET TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS (CATEGORY: THEORY 1)
Battery capacity: 70 kWh
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): <2.5 seconds
Max power: 1000 PS
Top speed: 320 kph
WLTP combined range: 402 km / 250 miles
Drivetrain: AWD
Tub: Recycled chop carbon fiber
Body: Cellulose composite and polycarbonate
Greenhouse: Recycled glass
Steering: Steer by wire
Suspension type: Front and read double wishbone
Damping system: Active
Tyres: front: Pirelli P-ZERO Elect – 265/35 R20, rear: Pirelli P- ZERO Elect – 325/30 R21
Rim: front: 20 X 9.5J, rear: 21 X 11.5J
Brakes: AP Racing 6 piston calipers, Near-net Monoblock forged
Front discs: 390 x 36 mm, Rear discs: 390 x 36mm
NOTE
Theory 1 is not for sale. This is a concept car, which is a canvas for design R&D programmes, and an intent for the technology and innovation Lotus are exploring implementing in the future across all the product lineups including lifestyle EVs and sportscars.
SOURCE: LOTUS MEDIA
