Lotus unveils 986bhp Theory 1 concept

Lotus has revealed a new Theory 1 concept.

For those unimpressed by the firm's recent SUV and four-door grand tourer, some headline facts about this Theory 1 ought to catch your attention.

A recycled chop carbon fibre tub and cellulose composite and polycarbonate body means the Lotus Theory 1 weighs in at under 1,600kg

For starters, it's a three-seater, with the driver set in a central driving position and a passenger on each side, nestled behind the driver. There's also the fact that it develops a total of 986bhp thanks to a 70kWh battery. And Lotus is saying that it will be able to crack the century sprint in under 2.5 seconds.

Oh, and a recycled chop carbon fibre tub and cellulose composite and polycarbonate body allows the concept to weigh in at just under 1,600kg.

Interested? On the outside, the Lotus Theory 1 gets an active rear spoiler that is mounted directly to the motor and suspension assembly to ensure the downforce acts directly on the suspension mounts, all the way through to the tyres. This working alongside a nose cone that comes with drag-reducing air deflectors and an air curtain that minimises the car's wake.

There's also a contoured underfloor, which comes complete with low drag NACA ducts to draw air into the car's cooling system.

And for those mad enough to try and drive this thing, access will be offered though a proprietary sports car door system that is said to make use of a reverse opening and wrap-over design and enables all occupants with easy 'step-in' access to the car.

The car is a three-seater and gets 3D printed lattice headrests alongside a KEF binaural audio system in its cabin

But where things really do get radical, is how the driver is expected to interact with the Theory 1.

Described as an immersive system designed to deliver a personalised experience, the 'Lotuswear' system makes use of an adaptive soft and lightweight robotic textile material that is said enable intuitive communication with the driver and passengers.

So, for example, there are inflatable pods on the seats and steering wheel, which react to offer more support or to deliver prompts to the driver. These can prompt the driver if he/she has to make a left or right turn.

The car also makes use of 3D printed lattice structure headrests, and there's also a binaural audio system designed in collaboration with KEF said to be able to offer individual bespoke soundscapes for each of the occupants.

Thoughts?