Codenamed Lotus Type 131, the new sportscar is set to enter production in prototype form at the carmaker’s facility in Hethel, Norfolk. There are no details about the car itself, but knowing Lotus, we expect it to be of the agile ilk, sporting a low weight, exotic looks, and enough power to turn weekend corner-carving into a delightful activity.
Previous reports suggested that the new sports car would sit above the existing Evora and pair a V-6 engine with a hybrid setup developed in-house by Lotus.
While we wait for more details, we can have a look at Lotus’ more recent moves to make a better picture about just how important is this new sports car for the brand. I mean, the fact that in building it Lotus has to sacrifice three iconic names says a lot. However, there’s more to Type 131 then axing cars.
Lotus is also planning to bring together two of its sub-assembly facilities under the same roof at Hethel and in the wake of a $137 million investment, it is also looking to bring in 250 new employees. And if we are to listen to Lotus Car CEO Phil Popham, there’s more to come.
“This year will be hugely significant for Lotus with new facilities coming on stream, a new sports car entering production and new levels of efficiency and quality that only a new car design and factory can deliver.”
Well, Lotus certainly learned a lot in developing the Elise, Exige, and Evora. The Elise launched in 1995, followed in 2000 by the Exige, before the Evora saw daylight in 2008. Between them, these three – let’s call them legends, shall we? - have sold around 55,000 units for Lotus.
Couple this with the outstanding facts and specs behind the Evija and we’re inclined to believe that Lotus’ new sportscar will be worthy of its legacy.
