Lotus has announced that the Evija has entered its initial build phase in the UK, with the all-electric hypercar making its dynamic world debut on a private circuit.

Following “extensive” computer simulations, the company says over the coming months several prototypes will cover thousands of miles and hundreds of hours of driving assessment, including on public roads.

Engineering prototype “#2” is said to be the most advanced of three vehicles on test, with customer-specification suspension, EV powertrain, brakes and full carbon-fibre body panels.

It also features the most complete interior yet, with key elements such as production seats and ‘ski slope-style’ floating centre console in place.

“Through testing like this we can work on every element, like how connected you feel to the car, the driving position, location of the primary controls and visibility. It’s all about validating how the thousands of hours of computer simulations actually translate into the vehicle. It’s a two-fold process: proving they were the correct targets in the first place, and that the results are accurately translating into the car,” explains Gavan Kershaw, director of vehicle attributes at Lotus.

“Physical prototype testing at speed is a landmark moment for the Evija and hugely exciting for everyone involved. Our aim is to make sure it’s a true Lotus in every sense, with exceptional performance that’s going to set new standards in the hypercar sector,” he adds.

The Evija – with a target output of 1973 bhp making it the most powerful production series road car in the world – is scheduled to enter production in 2020.

Tags: electric car, EV, Evija, Gavan Kershaw, Lotus, prototype