LOTUS
THEORY 1

OUR NEW DESIGN MANIFESTO

An experimental concept car that embodies the future of intelligent performance. For the Drivers.

A NEW CHEMISTRY BETWEEN CAR AND DRIVER

Theory 1 is the ultimate expression of Lotus’ design principles, innovation and next level driver engagement.
With its progressive technology, material reduction and sustainability at its core – it embodies our commitment to design truly For the Drivers.
Theory 1 is the first expression our new design philosophy, based on three core principles: Digital, Natural, Analogue.

digital

DIGITAL

Represents the immersive, intelligent and intuitive experience.

natural

NATURAL

Brings to life emotional, connected, human-centric design.

analogue

ANALOGUE

Demonstrates our continuous advancement of performance engineering.

Legacy empowers future. Theory 1 takes inspiration from three iconic models of our past: Type 72, Esprit, and Eleven – progressing their iconic features for the intelligent age.

By balancing intelligent performance engineering with human-centric design, Lotus Theory 1 breathes new life into the dynamic relationship between driver, car and road.

You access the 3 seats Theory 1 interior through an innovative, patent pending, door system. The reverse opening mechanism is a unique feature for a car of its class. Welcome to the future.

LOTUSWEAR™

The ultimate immersive and responsive driving system

The LOTUSWEAR™ Drive System is designed to deliver the most immersive experience, connecting driver and machine closer than ever before thanks to adaptive robotic textiles, next generation haptic controls and advanced sensorial audio.

COMMUNICATION THROUGH TOUCH

The steering wheel is trimmed with a soft robotic fabric that inflates to communicate with the driver. Analogue paddles enhance the “hands-on” experience of a pure sports car.

RESPONSIVE SEATING

The soft robotic fabric - crafted in collaboration with MotorSkins - is applied on the seat pads as well. It inflates in key areas to provide ultimate grip and support for the driver and the two passengers – enhancing performance or comfort, adapting to the selected drive mode.

BESPOKE SONIC EXPERIENCE

Designed together with KEF, each headrest offers individual bespoke soundscapes using Binaural Audio technology for perfect channel separation through four integrated speakers. The 3D-printed lattice structure manufactured by Carbon ensures maximum comfort while reducing weight.

LOTUSWEAR™ Technology Line is a functional technology band running inside and outside the car. It incorporates cameras, lidar sensors, door handles and OLED technology in a single system.

It also handles Theory 1's 360 degrees autonomous driving hardware - with car computing powered by NVIDIA - providing drivers with confidence and safety every time they drive. A homage to the purely functional joining “band” on the Lotus Esprit.

THE CHALLENGE OF 10

Minimal materiality with only 10 A-surface materials

Current cars are made with an average of 100 a-surface materials. As a concrete action towards a more circular economy, Challenge of 10 aims to build the car with the use of only ten main A-surface materials, with lightweight, performance and sustainable properties.

cellulose composite

CELLULOSE COMPOSITE

Used under the satin white paint parts

THE DRIVE

The emotional connection to driving is at the heart of Lotus Theory 1

Our most famous legacy Formula 1 cars inspired the anatomical design and central driving position in our continuous pursuit of performance engineering.

Real-time reactions

Conceptualised with car computing by NVIDIA, the front and rear push-rod suspension adapt parameters in real-time for optimum driving dynamics.

Best in class

Every part of Lotus Theory 1 sets a new standard in performance, from a state-of-the-art carbon ceramic braking system from AP Racing and the Pirelli P ZERO ELECT™ tyres developed for performance electric vehicles.