Watch The Lotus Evija Hypercar In Action For The First Time

As the Lotus Evija all-electric hypercar has entered its initial build phase in the UK, the automaker has released a video showing a prototype in action for the first time.

In the footage, the Evija engineering prototype #2 is seen undergoing high-speed testing on a private circuit as part of the all-electric hypercar’s global development program. The video was released during the company’s press conference at the Guangzhou Auto Show, where the Evija made its Chinese premiere this week.

Besides marking the dynamic debut of the 1,972 HP (2,000 PS) battery-powered hypercar, the video highlights “just how far development work has progressed since the Evija was unveiled last July.” More importantly, Lotus says the footage confirms the electric hypercar is on course for start of production next year.

Related: Lotus Evija Is Off To An Outstanding Start, Gets Double-Digit Orders

The Evija prototype retains the shape of the concept but is completely covered in camouflage, suggesting that the production version might be slightly different from the car Lotus has shown at Pebble Beach and, more recently, in Dubai. We can’t spot any significant changes, however, with the exception of the headlights which don’t seem to feature LEDs – but we guess these aren’t the finished items.

Lotus says that dynamic testing will involve track time at its Hethel proving ground and on other demanding high-speed and performance handling circuits across Europe. Over the coming months, several Evija prototypes will cover many thousands of miles and many hundreds of hours of driving assessment, including on public roads.

Both the dynamic and static testing are part of the validation process which will ensure the Evija will meet customer expectations and demands in key global markets and environments.

“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,” said Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes, Lotus Cars.

The Lotus Evija has a target output of 2,000 PS (1,972 HP) from four electric motors, making it the most powerful production series road car in the world. The hypercar is projected to accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in under 3 seconds and to 186 mph (300 km/h) in a stunning 9 seconds, while its top speed will exceed 200 mph (320 km/h).