Sports Car Lotus Boss: "Our Goal Remains the Exclusive Experience"

From Tomas Hirschberger/SP-X | Translated by AI 1 min Reading Time

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Lotus has been part of Geely since 2017. There are now SUVs and hybrid drives. Lotus boss Qingfeng Feng describes how much Lotus will still be in Lotus in the future.

Lotus boss Qingfeng Feng wants to continue to offer exclusive models.(Image: Lotus)
Lotus boss Qingfeng Feng wants to continue to offer exclusive models.
(Image: Lotus)

Mr. Feng, Lotus has been majority-owned by Geely since 2017. How much influence does the Group have on the product, design and technology? Are there any red lines?

Feng: Global resources naturally help us to scale innovations faster—for example in the supply chain, in software development or in the production structure. But the Lotus product doctrine, the Lotus DNA, is non-negotiable: steering and chassis feel, driver-centered ergonomics and performance always come first. Company-wide streamlining is about efficiency, not standardization. And it is very important to emphasize that Lotus only approves products to Lotus standards.

Are you planning higher quantities or will exclusivity remain the driving force?

We will extend our range with electric-first hybrids to meet regional requirements. But our goal remains the exclusive experience of driving a Lotus. Lotus will definitely not focus on mass, interchangeable volume production or products. We will only scale selectively where it benefits us to continue investing in driver-focused engineering. The plan is to have a balanced portfolio, electric vehicles and X-Hybrids, that meets market demand without diluting the brand essence.

Which segments does Lotus want to reach; and are there any concepts for autonomous driving?

Our guiding star is our role as an innovation leader for driver-oriented, electrified performance. You can expect a portfolio that remains electric-first, but at the same time utilizes hybrid solutions where they are helpful, for example in infrastructure or range. We will continue to apply Lotus driving dynamics to the segments we are already entering, including performance SUVs such as the Eletre X. Autonomy and connectivity should support the driver—but never replace their central role in a Lotus. The driver will always remain at the center and heart of a Lotus.

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