Lotus reborn: the esprit’s audacious return – and why it matters now
The 1970s saw the Lotus Esprit explode onto the scene, instantly iconic thanks to its improbable transformation into a James Bond submarine. Now, a UK firm is resurrecting this legend with a stunning restomod – the Encor Series 1 – but the story’s far from straightforward.
A flashback and a gamble
Back in the late 90s, Lotus embarked on a bold strategy: a new flagship lineup. This included a luxury sedan, a grand tourer, and a supercar – the all-new Esprit. Initially, the plan was to equip it with the Lexus IS-F’s V8, leveraging Toyota’s existing engine supply for the Elise and the Evora’s V6. However, a rather bizarre detour occurred. Rumours circulated of a recovered 458 Italia, undergoing testing on the roads of Norfolk, England – a project quickly abandoned and shipped off to a crusher.
Lotus Esprit Concept: Bridging the Past and Future. The late 2000s saw Lotus determined to revive the Esprit. At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the British marque unveiled the Lotus Esprit Concept, a prototype encapsulating the essence of exclusive supercar driving while honoring its heritage. Dany Bahar, then CEO, boldly declared it “the definitive supercar.”
Reinventing a legend isn’t easy. The Renault 5 E-Tech’s success demonstrates the potential, but it’s a high-stakes challenge. The Lotus Esprit represents a significant risk – a delicate balancing act between respecting the past and forging ahead. Yet, the concept appeared to have successfully navigated this critical juncture.
The prototype followed Colin Chapman’s philosophy of maximizing performance through lightness. It showcased a strikingly aggressive design, featuring low, wide proportions echoing the Ferrari 458 Italia. The Esprit’s aesthetic reflected its performance with robust lines throughout its low-slung body. The inherent symmetry gave it a powerful presence, a perfect embodiment of Lotus’s new DNA.
Power under the hood
Beneath the sculpted rear engine cover resided a 5.0-liter Lexus IS-F V8, producing 620 CV with a supercharger – a jump to 620 CV and 720 Nm of torque thanks to the forced induction. It revved to an exhilarating 8,500 rpm, a soundtrack that’s undeniably addictive. Notably, this engine, like the Lexus LFA’s V10, was crafted by Yamaha Racing, utilizing aluminum blocks sourced from the Lexus LS600h and incorporating modifications to the intake manifold and oil injection system.
Tragically, Lotus is facing difficult times. The company will be cutting 200 jobs in the UK, highlighting the ongoing challenges within the automotive industry. Despite these hurdles, the Esprit Concept’s ambition remained undiminished.
The Esprit Concept, with its 620 CV V8, delivered blistering performance – 0 to 60 mph in 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 330 km/h. It was a testament to Lotus’s commitment to lightweight design and exceptional engineering. The combination of a seven-speed automatic gearbox and a remarkably light 1,450 kg kerb weight ensured an unmatched driving experience.
Lotus isn’t simply revisiting a classic; it’s attempting to redefine it. And with the Esprit Concept, they’ve created something genuinely compelling – a supercar that honors its roots while boldly embracing the future. The Esprit’s return isn’t just a revival; it’s a statement.