Lotus ZAP-X

Lotus charges up electric SUV

First came Lotus's debut MPV, then a hybrid... and now the firm's experts have combined the two

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Ross Pinnock

28th March 2007

It's the ZAP-X, a crossover SUV, inspired by the firm's APX concept, with an entirely electric powertrain. Producing 644bhp, it's capable of 0-60mph in only 4.8 seconds, and can reach a top speed of 155mph.

To ensure handling is up to scratch, the newcomer uses Lotus's Variable Vehicle Architecture (VVA) chassis technology. Put simply, the system comprises four extruded aluminium poles held together by suspension mounting points to create a rectangle that can be adjusted to suit nearly any type of vehicle. Lightweight and strong, the set-up was judged perfect for US-based electric car maker ZAP. The resulting ZAP-X, which uses four wheel hub-mounted motors and advanced batteries, has a touring range of 350 miles and recharges in 10 minutes.

The powertrain was previewed by Lotus at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year in a Proton Gen2. The Efficient Variable Environmental (EVE) system was designed to showcase the company's ability in adapting existing cars to take hybrid engines.

However, it's not the first time that Lotus has teamed up with a car builder to create an electric vehicle. It has also worked with Californian manufacturer Tesla to develop a new electric sportster, prototypes of which have been spotted testing in the UK.