Lotus is close to closing a deal where they’d extensively modify a sedan that was built by another manufacturer, like what they did with the Cortina (a Ford). While not 100% Lotus, it’d still be a Lotus-tuned and prepped ‘practical’ family car, and would make for a great garage companion for the Elise. Production should begin in 2008. You can read more at the Times Online.
Lotus is making a family car!
June 20th, 2006New, lower power Elise
June 7th, 2006Taking a step in the wrong direction, Lotus has unveiled a lower power version of the Elise. Actually, it’s not a horrible move on their part, as the new Elise S is really just replacing the Rover engine with a lower power Toyota one (the 1ZZGE, I think) producing 134hp versus 190hp in the Elise R (formerly known as the Elise 111R). ABS is standard, and the touring pack is now standard on all Elises (though may be ordered without). Will it come to the US? Not likely, as a lower powered Elise is not likely to create much interest. Lotus needs to take a step in the other direction with this market, and needs to unveil a supercharged version of the Elise (which rumors indicate may be coming this fall). You can read more about it over at Pistonheads.
