2010 Geneva Preview: Proton Concept will get Lotus Engineering hybrid power

February 22, 2010February 22, 2010 Omar Rana 2010 Geneva Motor Show, Compact Cars, Concepts, electric-cars, electric-vehicles, plug-in hybrids, Proton

Lotus announced today that it will show its Proton Concept car at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show next month. The concept, which was developed in collaboration with Proton Holdings, will showcase an advanced series hybrid drivetrain, designed and developed by Lotus Engineering.

“The hybrid drivetrain of the Proton Concept is another example of Lotus Engineering”s expertise in electrical and electronic systems and efficient performance engines,” said Dr Robert Hentschel, Director of Lotus Engineering. “It is an exciting example of the diverse range of highly efficient total propulsion systems that Lotus Engineering continues to develop for its partners and clients.”

The Proton Concept is a city car developed by Lotus Engineering and includes the Lotus Range Extender engine, designed specifically for series hybrid vehicles. The concept will include an electrical drive system with single-speed transmission, mated to a 1.2L 3-cylinder Lotus Range Extender engine that kicks in to provide extended range capability once battery power has been depleted. While the Lotus Range Extender assists in recharging the battery and providing electrical power for the drive motors, the battery can also be recharged via a standard household outlet.