Rumor: New Lotus Esprit to use Lexus LFA V10 power?
The 2010 Paris Motor Show will be very exciting for Lotus. The British automaker is scheduled to unveil the next-generation Lotus Esprit, a new concept, and two new versions of the Lotus Evora.
According to sources, a top-of-the-line version of the Lotus Esprit will be powered by the 552-hp 4.8L V10 engine found in the Lexus LFA. The base Esprit will be powered by a version of the 416-hp 5.0L V8 engine found in the Lexus IS F sedan.
Of course, Lotus wouldn’t confirm anything about the Esprit when questioned.
The Esprit is seen as a central part of Lotus’ shift to become a more upmarket brand. CEO Dany Bahar, who previously worked at Ferrari, will unveil the new strategy at the 2010 Paris Motor Show. The new management team, which also consists of maximum Bob Lutz in a consultancy role, has come to the conclusion that in order to make profit, the company has to build supercars and sports cars with higher profit margins – and that means competing with the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Porsche.
– By: Omar Rana
Source: Inside Line
