It’s truly intriguing to witness a subtle Hyper-SUV like the fresh Lotus Eletre R take on a rugged V8 SUV like the Lamborghini Urus Performante in a quarter-mile drag race.
While electric vehicles (EVs) may outshine internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles in terms of acceleration, there’s an undeniable allure to the thunderous roar of a V8, V10, or even a V12.
Driving isn’t merely about achieving a 0-60 mph sprint in record time; it’s about the visceral experience, the journey itself. Our expedition today leads us to rainy England to introduce our contenders.
First up is the unassuming exterior of the Lotus Eletre R. This electric powerhouse boasts two electric motors propelling all four wheels, generating a staggering 905 hp or 675 kW, along with 726 lb-ft or 985 Nm of torque.
Equipped with a 2-speed transmission and a hefty 112 kWh battery pack, the Eletre R offers an estimated range of 254 to 280 miles (409 to 450 kilometers). Despite its weightiness at 5,820 lbs. or 2,640 kg, it rockets from 0 to 62 mph (100 kph) in a mere 2.95 seconds, with a top speed of 165 mph (265.5 kph).
Priced at 189,352 US dollars or 150,000 GBP, the Eletre R is piloted by Mat Watson, whose attempt at showcasing some spirited driving inadvertently caused a brief battery overheating issue, halting the car’s operation momentarily.
Two additional versions of this electric SUV are available: the AWD Eletre S, delivering 603 hp or 450 kW, with a top speed of 160 mph (258 kph) and a 0-62 mph (100 kph) time of 4.5 seconds, boasting an estimated range of 304-354 miles (489-570 kilometers).
Then there’s the standard AWD Eletre, also offering 603 hp or 450 kW, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph (100 kph) in 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 160 mph (258 kph), and a battery range of 304-373 miles (489-600 kilometers).
Now, let’s turn our attention to the sleek Lamborghini Urus Performante, adorned with a complete Urban body kit. This AWD behemoth houses a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 churning out 657 hp or 666 ps, along with 627 lb-ft or 850 Nm of torque. Despite being less potent than the Eletre R, it’s approximately 1,102 lbs. or 500 kg lighter, tipping the scales at 4,740 lbs. or 2,150 kg.
In the first race, Mat encountered a brief loss of control during the launch, allowing the Urus Performante to gain ground. However, the formidable power of the Eletre R propelled it forward, ultimately securing victory by a considerable margin.
Although victorious, the Lotus displayed a “Launch failed” warning, indicating some technical glitches. Despite efforts to engage Launch Control, another warning flashed: “Too many launch activations.” Ah, the quirks of EVs!
During the second race, the Eletre R experienced a significant slip after launch, appearing to veer towards the Urus Performante aggressively. Nevertheless, despite the theatrics, the Eletre R emerged victorious once more.
With stability control engaged, the Lotus Eletre R completed the quarter-mile in 11.3 seconds, and with ESC OFF, in 11.6 seconds. In comparison, the Lamborghini Urus Performante crossed the finish line in 12 seconds. A subsequent half-mile roll race saw the Lotus clinch victory decisively, leaving the Urus Performante trailing in its wake.
However, in a customary brake test from 100 mph (161 kph), conducted on wet tarmac, the Lamborghini finally secured a victory, clinching a gold medal in this particular challenge. Perhaps we’ll witness the Lotus Eletre R in action again, under more favorable conditions.
