Check Out Lotus’ Wild Theory 1 Concept—and Yes, It’s Electric

• The Lotus Theory 1 is a battery-electric concept that sends 986 hp to the wheels.
  

• Lotus is using its motor array and 70-kWh battery pack as stressed members in the chassis.

• Lotus says this 986-hp concept machine has a top speed of 198 mph.

Giving us hints of what we should expect in the future, Lotus is showing off its Theory 1 concept car, a battery-electric concept machine highlighting some tech that will likely make its way to Lotus production cars, a future styling direction, and some innovative materials.

Lotus claims that this concept machine throws 986 hp to all four wheels. Feeding the electric motor array is a 70.0-kWh battery pack, which Lotus says is good for 250 miles on a single charge when judged by the WLTP. This Theory 1 is also apparently potent enough to sprint to 62 mph in only 2.5 seconds and will climb all the way to 320 kph, or 198 mph.

The design is more interesting than the output. Lotus is using its battery pack and motors as stressed elements of the chassis. Lotus says this decision was inspired by the legendary Lotus 49 F1 machine and helps to save weight. Lotus also fixed the wing to the rear motor and suspension mounting points.

Surrounding this motor array is a concept-worthy shell, with new attention to door design and a focus on aerodynamics. Lotus says the door system helps with ease of entry but also allows the Theory 1 to fit in tighter parking spaces than a traditional door would permit.

The Theory 1 concept also features side pods that shuffle air around its rear, and a sculpted floor to help with system cooling and downforce.

Inside this three-seat concept, Lotus is showing off its new Lotuswear system, which uses 3D-printed headrests equipped with a binaural audio system fitted to the seats. This headrest can also pump in more powertrain noise, audio, or noise cancellation, whatever your preference.

As for drive information, the Theory 1 blends immersive 3D graphics and driver feedback through the steering wheel and head-up display for a genuinely futuristic feel.

While the design and concept of the Lotus 1 hint at the future, so does its execution. Lotus shows off a variety of recycled materials throughout this concept car. Recycled carbon fiber makes the tub, recycled glass fills the greenhouse, and more recycled materials fill the rest of its voids.

It’s worth stressing that you’re probably never going to be able to buy this Lotus. Like any concept car, it’s just showing what the brand is working on inside of its skunkworks. That said, it wouldn’t be a huge surprise for Lotus to lean on some of these design elements or materials when it rolls out its next battery-electric sports car.

Do you think Lotus pivoting to BEV is a smart move? Tell us your thoughts below.