The Lotus Emeya is an electric super-saloon that offers impressive power and interior space. During a test drive in Austria, the Emeya proved to be a decent car with likable qualities. However, there was still something missing that couldn’t be pinpointed at the time. Upon further reflection, it became clear that Volvo’s subsidiary, Polestar, played a role in this.
Polestar, originally established as Volvo’s performance EV subsidiary but now an independent company under the Geely empire, is set to release its own competitor to the Porsche Taycan called the Polestar 5. Unlike the Emeya, which shares similarities with the Zeekr 009 and Smart #1, the Polestar 5 is being developed in the UK by a team of engineers who have created an aluminum chassis with superb stiffness. The 5 will also have an axle and steering system developed from scratch, aiming to be a thrilling drivers’ car.
This unique approach from Polestar raises questions about the Emeya’s development. Both Lotus and Polestar are owned by Geely, and resources developed by one brand can be made available to another. It’s perplexing why Polestar, known for its design-led approach, is taking a bespoke engineering route while the Emeya, a car associated with the joy of driving, shares a platform with other vehicles.
The Emeya is undeniably good and deserves more credit than it receives. However, it could have been even more true to Lotus’s heritage if the team behind it had been given the freedom to follow the approach taken with the Polestar 5. This would have allowed for a more Lotus-like experience or even the use of the 5’s platform.
The current situation is akin to Audi developing a unique chassis for the TT while Porsche has to adapt a VW Golf platform for the Boxster. It’s a decision that doesn’t quite make sense given the potential for a more focused and authentic Lotus experience.
In conclusion, the Lotus Emeya is a solid electric super-saloon, but its development could have been even more remarkable if it had followed the engineering approach taken by Polestar with the 5. The collaboration between Geely-owned brands presents an opportunity for shared resources and innovative design choices, and it’s a missed opportunity that the Emeya didn’t fully embrace its Lotus heritage.
