Zap and Lotus in electric car talks

Alternative transportation pioneer ZAP has held talks with Lotus Engineering to explore the next steps in the development of a new generation of electric vehicles.

The ZAP and Lotus Engineering team has targeted new technologies and technology suppliers with the ambitious goal of creating 'the most advanced electric cars in history.'

‘This was an important meeting because ZAP and Lotus Engineering are working to bring new technologies to bear that could change the auto industry forever,’ said ZAP CEO Steve Schneider. ‘With Lotus Engineering's capabilities, and ZAP's vision and entrepreneurship, we are building a world-class team to tackle this important endeavour.’

Lotus Engineering CEO Albert Lam said the venture with ZAP is a ‘fantastic’ opportunity for Lotus Engineering to be a leader for green automotive technologies.

‘The venture with ZAP is a dream come true because we are creating the most advanced electric vehicles in history,’ said Lam. ‘Lotus Engineering is very happy to be associated with ZAP in bringing this vehicle to market. The technology is ready for electric vehicles so they don't have to be slow, they can have a long range, and they can be exciting to look at.’

Earlier this year, ZAP and Lotus Engineering entered into a feasibility study to explore the development of innovative electric vehicle designs, including a crossover electric SUV called ZAP-X, based on Lotus Engineering's award-winning APX aluminium chassis technology. In the past few months, officials from ZAP and Lotus Engineering have held meetings in Norwich and California, ‘to take the venture to the next level,’ said Schneider.