Lotus Esprit Axed, Brand to Focus on Core Products
After corporate takeovers and a sacked CEO, Lotus is on the rocks and is reportedly canceling production of the Esprit.
First seen as a concept car at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the Esprit was the first car revealed as part of a new five model product push, over the course of five years. That plan was the birthed by ex-CEO Dany Bahar, but the company is backpedaling now that he is no longer at the helm.
Financial uncertainty is plaguing the brand, with some suppliers even reporting that they have been having a hard time collecting money from Lotus. Because of this, a more realistic plan for future product has been developed according to the company, which excludes the high-end sports car’s production.
The Esprit was supposed to be a hybrid sports car, using a 5.0-liter V8 mated to a 100 hp electric motor. Lotus is now left with the same three cars it has had in its range for some time, the Elise, Exige and Evora.
UPDATE: A representative from Lotus has informed AutoGuide that reports the Esprit has been cancelled are a rumor and that the claim holds no validity.
GALLERY: Lotus Esprit
[Source: Auto Evolution]
Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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sad day for Lotus. Would all 5 cars have sold well? probably not. Would the revamped Elise and Esprit have sold well? YES.
That plan was the birthed by ex-CEO Dany Bahar, but the company is backpedaling now that he is no longer at the helm.