You have to like the 2010 Esprit concept, a car that was announcing new and great things for Lotus, including a new range of models that far exceeded what it was doing at the time, and what it’s stuck to doing under Malaysian management. The project has since been officially cancelled, as have the other promising models that it was envisioned to share the showroom with.
Reports have been playing badminton with the idea of the Esprit going into production since, and now another one has reared its head, this time from the Aussies at Motoring. They quote Alastair Manihera, who is the brand manager for the local branch of Lotus, who told them: “Contrary to popular belief the factory is keeping its options open. It’s extremely exciting — we’d love to see it, but as far as what happens and when, we still need to find out from the factory where they’re going to go.”
Information about the engine that is said to power this supposed Esprit supercar is also available. Apparently, it could use a 4.8-liter V8, though it’s not clear which car it would aim to rival with over 600 hp – probably the Ferrari 458 Speciale and/or McLaren’s new 650S or uprated 12C. It would be a far cry from the Toyota units Lotus currently uses.
Don’t bank on this actually happening, though – just be hopeful, if it’s a matter of interest; no time frame was specified.
By Andrei Nedelea
PHOTO GALLERY
