Lotus has launched a new high-performance centre, opening its Hethel headquarters to other manufacturers and technology companies in a move that will help secure the long-term future of the Norfolk site.
The Hethel Performance Hub aims to collaborate with manufacturers, tech companies and other firms, giving them access to Lotus’ engineering, advanced manufacturing and motorsport expertise, allowing them to develop, test and build new products.
Lotus' Hethel Performance Hub (Image: Lotus)
Lotus said the centre is already operational, with engineering and manufacturing programmes under way.
It said it is working with a global electric vehicle manufacturer, a UK-based sports car brand, and a European low-volume vehicle producer, but it did not name them.
Lotus said its long-term plan is to establish Hethel as a globally recognised centre for high-performance innovation and specialist low-volume production.
Matt Nice, deputy managing director at Lotus Cars, said “Hethel Performance Hub is about unlocking the full potential of what exists here”.
“We’re taking world-class capability - engineering, manufacturing, motorsport - and turning it into a platform for partnership,” he said.
“Crucially, it’s not just about access, it’s about bringing the right people together. By creating an environment where partners can collaborate, develop and deliver side by side, we enable a faster, smarter way to innovate in a sector where traditional models often slow things down.”
Last month, Lotus put its all-electric ambitions in reverse - unveiling plans to launch a new hybrid vehicle, its first-ever supercar, which will likely be built in Norfolk.
Its debut supercar, the Type 135 - a V8 hybrid with over 1,000 horsepower - is planned for 2028.
Lotus has teased the launch of its first-ever supercar, the Type 135, which is plans to launch in 2028 (Image: Lotus)
Lotus had previously targeted a fully electric line-up by 2028, but has now pivoted to a hybrid-led strategy, aiming for a split of around 60pc hybrid and 40pc battery electric vehicles.
Its new long-term strategy, which it calls ‘Focus 2030’, marks a significant reset for the brand, confirming that its design and engineering will remain rooted in the UK, while research and development (R&D) will take place in China.
