Saying Goodbye to the Classics: Lotus Elise, Exige, and Evora Production Ceases
Lotus bids farewell to iconic models after remarkable production run
Lotus, the renowned British automotive manufacturer, has made a poignant announcement – the production of three of its most famous models, the Elise, Exige, and Evora, will come to a halt. This decision marks the end of an era for Lotus, signaling a significant transition in the company’s lineup.
Elise: A Symbol of Classic Performance
The journey began with the Elise in 1996, a modern sports car that captured the hearts of enthusiasts instantly. Weighing a mere 1598 pounds, the Elise embodied Lotus’s philosophy of simplicity and lightweight design. Its pure driving experience and exceptional handling set a benchmark that few could match.
Exige: The Track-Focused Sibling
Arriving on the scene in 2000, the Exige was a more hardcore version of the Elise, tailored for track enthusiasts. With a robust Toyota powerplant replacing the original engine, the Exige gained popularity for its performance and agility. The evolution of the Exige through various special editions solidified its reputation as a performance powerhouse.
Evora: The Grand Tourer with a Sporting Soul
Introduced in 2010, the Evora represented a blend of Lotus’s signature handling with enhanced comfort, catering to grand touring aspirations. Powered by a Toyota V6 engine, the Evora evolved over the years, attracting drivers who sought a balance between performance and practicality.
A Legacy of Innovation and Influence
The combined production of these three models reached an impressive 51,738 units over 26 years, underscoring their significance in Lotus’s history. From humble beginnings to becoming a notable player in the automotive industry, Lotus’s growth has been remarkable.
Embracing a New Era: The Future of Lotus
As production shifts towards the new Lotus Emira, the brand’s final combustion engine offering, and the upcoming electric Evija hypercar, Lotus showcases its commitment to innovation. The introduction of the all-electric Type 132 SUV signifies a strategic move to adapt to changing market demands while staying true to its performance roots.
Conclusion
Lotus’s decision to end production of the Elise, Exige, and Evora marks the end of an era filled with iconic sports cars. As the company embraces new beginnings with cutting-edge models, it honors the legacy of its classics while aiming for greater heights in the automotive world.
FAQ
What is the significance of the Lotus Elise, Exige, and Evora models?
These models are considered iconic in Lotus’s history, known for their exceptional performance, lightweight design, and agile handling, making them favorites among driving enthusiasts.
What can we expect from Lotus in the future?
Lotus is set to introduce the new Lotus Emira, an electric hypercar Evija, and the brand’s first SUV, the Type 132. These models signify Lotus’s shift towards electrification and innovation while staying true to its performance-driven heritage.
How many units of the Elise, Exige, and Evora were produced?
A total of 51,738 units of the Elise, Exige, and Evora were built over the span of 26 years, highlighting their enduring popularity and impact on Lotus’s legacy.
How does Lotus plan to honor its classic models while moving forward with new vehicles?
Lotus aims to celebrate the heritage and success of the Elise, Exige, and Evora by introducing innovative models that embody the brand’s core values of performance, agility, and driving excellence in the future lineup.
