How Lotus Eletre EV fares against Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+
What's the story
Lotus has officially arrived in the Indian market with its e-SUV, the Eletre. It carries a starting price tag of Rs. 2.55 crore (ex-showroom).
The car aims to defeat the likes of the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ in the premium electric vehicle segment on our shores.
Between these two, which one is better: the German fighter or the British brawler?
Context
Why does this story matter?
Much like every other automaker around the world, Lotus has been slowly moving toward a green future with capable all-electric offerings.
The Eletre is the brand's first attempt at the popular premium EV segment.
However, can the all-electric SUV from the legendary marque dethrone the reigning champion, the EQS 53 4MATIC+ from Mercedes-AMG, in the premium segment? Let's find out.
Design
Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 looks more appealing
The Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ features a muscular clamshell bonnet, digital LED headlights, a closed-off "Panamericana" grille, frameless doors with flush handles,chrome-lined windows, connected LED taillamps, and 21-inch alloy wheels.
The Lotus Electre sports a sculpted hood with air scoops, L-shaped LED headlights with split-type DRLs, a wide air dam, flush-fitted door handles, cameras in place of ORVMs, and diamond-cut designer wheels.
Interiors
EQS 53 gets advanced 56.0-inch MBUX Hyperscreen
On the inside, the EQS 53 4MATIC+ has a luxurious cabin with premium upholstery, active ambient lighting, a wireless charger, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, a 56.0-inch MBUX Hyperscreen, and Level 2 ADAS functions.
The Eletre packs a sporty cabin, a panoramic glass roof, a 15-speaker surround-sound audio system, a head-up display with augmented reality, and a 15.1-inch landscape-oriented touchscreen infotainment system.
Performance
Lotus Electre promises range of up to 600km
The EQS 53 4MATIC+ is powered by dual electric motors linked to a 107.8kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The setup develops 762hp/1,020Nm. The sedan delivers a claimed range of up to 586km on a single charge.
The Eletre runs on a dual motor setup and an expansive 112kWh battery pack. The setup generates 603hp/710Nm or 905hp/985. The SUV has a range of up to 600km.
Verdict
Which one should you choose?
In India, the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ will set you back by Rs. 2.45 crore. On the other hand, the Lotus Eletre can be yours between Rs. 2.55 crore and Rs. 2.99 crore (all prices, ex-showroom).
In our opinion, the EQS 53 makes more sense on our shores with its aggressive design and a luxurious, tech-biased cabin at a lower price point.
Poll
