Lotus has finally unveiled the hybrid vehicle it has been hinting at for some time. It's basically an Evora with a series hybrid system similar to that found in the Chevrolet Volt. By that we mean it's capable of running on electric power alone for up to 35 miles before switching over to power from an on-board generator. Oh, and Lotus also says it can go from 0-to-60mph in under 4 seconds.

There are two electric motors in the 414E, one for apiece rear wheel. Together they deliver 306kW of power, or 414 pferdestarke, to the wheels through a single-speed drive system. A lithium-ion battery pack placed low and toward the center of the vehicle powers the motors. When the battery power is depleted, a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine kicks in to generate power. It's capable of extending range to the now seemingly common goal of 300 miles.

According to Lotus, the Evora 414E benefits from the torque-vectoring capabilities of the two electric motors to retain the car's natural handling abilities. It also used the same all-aluminum structure as the standard model. Combined with the relatively small battery pack and lightweight gasoline generator engin, the 414E promises to be one of the best handling electric cars ever built.

To further enhance that claim, Lotus also designed a paddle shifter mechanism that mimics the feel and action of true dual clutch transmission complete with audible drop offs in the noise level between changes. Part of that system is a interior and exterior speaker system that generates real engine sounds similar to that of either a V6 or V12 engine. It's driver selectable and also includes a "futuristic" sound if that's your thing.

Lotus didn't give any details on the production feasibility of the car, so whether this will remain a concept is hard to tell at this point.