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| This Lotus coupe sketch dates back to 2003. |
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A recent chat with a well-placed Lotus source confirmed that the specialist sportscar maker will be launching a proper 2+2 coupe at next summer’s London Motor Show.
The term ‘proper’ is used to indicate that Lotus personnel do not regard the current Europa S as worthy of wearing the badge. It should really have been a Proton but the paymasters insisted that it be marketed as a Lotus so their hands were tied.
In terms of scale, the Porsche 911 was mentioned and this perhaps might also give an indication of the price point for the new coupe.
The 2+2 project was brought forward ahead of the new Esprit; probably because of its greater commercial potential.
Apparently, no name has been finalised although my source conceded that it would be likely to begin with the letter ‘E’.
Digging into my memory banks of old Lotus names, Elite and Eclat would both seem reasonable but given the venue of the London Show, what could be more appropriate than Excel?
What about the Lotus Exit? If Proton doesn’t soon get its act together, it could be the last car Lotus ever makes.
Graham Whyte | 11 Dec 07 - 16:46It would be interesting to see Lotus enter the 911 arena.
AlfaMartini | 14 Dec 07 - 10:59They certainly have the technical abiility and styling talent to “excel”