Proton Concept Packs Lotus Hybrid Drivetrain

It’s great to see Malaysian automaker Proton get into the hybrid business. Besides, they do now own Lotus and a Formula One team. Shame, really, if they don’t come out with better technologies.

This here is Lotus’ Proton concept car which will be showcased at the upcoming Geneva motor show come March. The car is set to showcase the “advanced” hybrid powertrain that Lotus has been working on.

The drivetrain features a 1.2L 3-cylinder Lotus range extender engine complementing an electrical drive system. Unlike current hybrids, the electrical drive system will be the one powering the car and it’s mated to a single-speed transmission.

The internal combustion engine will only kick in to provide an extended range once the battery power is depleted. The batteries are charged by the range extender engine or by plugging to a regular household outlet.