Improvised test mules have been around for quite some time, but now, the first complete prototype has hit the roads, which gives evidence that all crucial design features of the vehicle, such as the principal structural design and manufacturing technology, packaging and drivetrain supplier have all been decided.

The new Esprit will be built around a new aluminium structure, which Lotus plans to adopt for other cars, too. The Esprit is expected to spawn another, somewhat smaller six-cylinder Lotus sportscar and/or a 2+2 GT car in the future.

It is still unknown what engine will be used. Several sources have reported that Lotus has chosen to use a 4.4-liter or a 4.8-liter V-8 from BMW, worked over by Lotus with its own electronic engine management and control unit. The engine and gearbox will be mounted longitudinally-evidenced here by the transmission case plainly visible at the bottom rear end.

The new Esprit will come as a coupe and, for the first time, as a convertible/roadster, too. A price of $130,000 has been bandied about.

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Following a major review of the entire business and with the full support of the Lotus Group International Limited (LGIL) holding company board, Lotus intends to launch two additional new models over the next three years. This is in addition to the new Esprit, which will top the range as the company’s future flagship sports car.

The two additional models will be a new mid-range Lotus set for launch in December 2008 and a Lotus/Proton high-performance model, due in May 2008. The flagship Esprit replacement, whose introduction has been extended to incorporate more Lotus “DNA” and other enhancements to meet the changing needs of the global marketplace, will be unveiled in December 2009.

The review also highlighted opportunities for growth in the engineering consultancy business, including expansion in new markets, joint ventures and strategic alliances.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer, Group Lotus said: “We are very pleased to have secured LGIL Board approval for a high-level five-year strategic business plan – the first such approved plan that this company has had in the last six years. We have some great opportunities ahead of us and some already under way. It’s a very bright future but we have to work hard to bring all the opportunities to fruition.”

The current Lotus model range includes the award-winning and class-leading Elise and Exige with the recently-introduced Europa S. The three new models, all to be sold through the Lotus dealer network, will address new market segments and allow Lotus to extend its appeal to a wider customer base. Development work on two of the three new models is already ongoing and will increase significantly in future months.

Responding to a general economic downturn in certain key markets, Lotus has recently reduced production of its iconic Elise and Exige models. It also expects to ‘right-size’ its workforce to match capacity with global demand and to minimise overheads.

Mike Kimberley concluded “Like many other carmakers we need to tighten our belts in the short term. It is essential we respond fast to market conditions while we drive forward this exciting long-term plan. Our shareholder Proton has been and is very supportive of Group Lotus plc, with strong backing for our realignment plans.”

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