According to reports coming out of the UK, Lotus CEO Dany Bahar is looking for a partner who can buy Lotus from parent company Proton. Proton has controlled Lotus since 1996 and was recently sold to Malaysian Conglomerate DRB-Hicom.

Reports suggest that Bahar is making the move because Proton’s new owner may not be open to supporting Lotus’ new business ideas to compete with Ferrari, Lamborghini and Aston Martin. To reach that goal, Bahar is looking for around £500m to fund a future model line-up that will include a Elise, Elan, Esprit and Eterne cars.

Other reports circulating state that Genii Capital, the owner of the Lotus Formula One team, has shown an interest in buying the brand’s road-car arm. Also, more than one Chinese company has also shown interest.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

All Lotuses manufactured between June 1, 2004 and November 30, 2006, despite their Toyota powerplants, seem to be having some very British reliability issues. After reports of smoking and in one case, a fire, Lotus is recalling Elises and Exiges from that time frame to replace a faulty oil cooler line.

The line is prone to detaching and/or weeping oil, causing smoke, fires or oil coating tires. The recall is a result of a NHTSA investigation regarding the leaks.

The repair will be at no cost to owners who may contact Lotus at (800) 245-6887 or the NHTSA vehicle safety hotline at (888) 327-4236 or go to safercar.gov.

- By: Sawyer Sutton

We’ve put together a little list for you for the 13 cars that have been discontinued for the 2012 model year.

Thankfully, none of them really have us even a tad bit upset.

Hit the jump for the complete list or just circle through the gallery above.

Cars Discontinued for the 2012 Model Year (in Alphabetical Order):

• Buick Lucerne
• Cadillac DTS
• Cadillac STS
• Chevrolet HHR
• Dodge Dakota
• Ford Ranger
• Honda Element
• Lotus Elise
• Mazda Tribute
• Mitsubishi Endeavor
• Nissan Altima Hybrid
• Volvo S40
• Volvo V50

- By: Omar Rana

Lotus has a lot planned for the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show next week. So far we know that the automaker will show up with a collection of three new models for release. The automaker has plans to debut a replacement for the Lotus Elise S,  a special edition Lotus Evora GTE and something else.

This teaser here doesn’t really show you much and it won’t hurt not passing this one up.

In fact, save 20 seconds of your life and move on.

Check out the video after the jump if you must.

- By: Omar Rana

Lotus plans on making a statement at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show with a collection of three new models for release.

First is the Elise S, the Elise SC’s replacement, that comes with a new supercharged motor that promises tons of torque. The Elise S also promises improved throttle response, and better fuel economy.

As for the other two, Lotus is keeping tight-lipped about them, but has dropped the hints that one will be the fastest the brand has made yet, and the other will be a revival of a previous model.

A special edition Evora GTE will also be making its debut at Frankfurt. The Evora GTE intends to deliver a smooth ride, despite it being the quickest model Lotus has available. Originally intended as a Limited Edition for Asian consumers, it has been expanded to other markets. Lots of carbon fiber has been used for various parts to cut weight down.

Dany Bahar, Group Lotus CEO expresses his enthusiasm about the vehicles’ release, saying “What is unique about this car, is not just that it’s a serious race car – it’s a serious car. People get so excited then they see and especially hear it for the first time. It’s a very special car and will appear to a very special type of driver – and they won’t be disappointed.

By: Alexandra Koken

Since Lotus has been finding its way into many of our headlines, it should be no surprise that their famous track monsters, the Elise and the Exige are on their way out. But Lotus has made sure to give them a not-so-quite exit, hence the reasons why they are releasing Final Editions for both of them.

The Final Editions consist of an Elise SC, the Exige and the Exige S260. Only 15 Final Edition SCs will be sold, with 25 Exige Matte Black models and 30 Exige S260 Final Editions.

The Elise SC Final Edition comes with an option of four select colors: ardent red, aspen white, carbon gray and chrome orange. Special features on the Final Edition Elise SC include a revised rear diffuser, a black perforated leather steering wheel, air conditioning and MP3 capability. Also added on is the preexisting optional Touring Package and that adds leather trim to the doors, center console and the handbrake lever and a limited-slip differential.

The Lotus Exige Matte Black Final Edition comes with, quite obviously, a Matte Black paint finish, a three-element rear diffuser, leather steering wheel, air con and remote locks with an engine-start push bottom. The optional Sport Pack and Touring Pack are also included standard while Alcantara trim is added as well as sport seats, Lotus’s Traction Control System, iPod connectivity and an adjustable suspension. The engine in the Exige is a supercharged version of the last of Toyota’s 1.8L 2ZZ four banger.

And lastly, the Exige S260 Final edition comes with the same supercharged four banger as the Exige Matte Black edition combined with all of the available packages of the aforementioned models.

Prices start at %58,625 for the Elise SC, $71,025 for the Exige Matte Black, and $68,625 for the Exige S260 Final Edition. However, with a limited run of only 70 cars total, they are bound to go quickly. So if you’ve ever fancied a Lotus Exige or an Elise, now’s the time to whip out the checkbook or the Amex Black Card.

Lotus Exige Final Edition / Lotus Elise Final Edition:

Press Release:

Lotus Launches “Final Editions” of the Iconic Elise and Exige for North America

Lotus celebrates end of production for renowned North American bound Elise and Exige models with the Elise SC, Exige Matte Black and Exige S260 Final Editions

As the saying goes; “all good things must come to an end”. Such is the case now with two of the greatest, purest drivers’ cars ever offered for sale in North America – the Elise and Exige.

While the Elise and Exige will continue to be available in other markets around the world, the lack of continued availability of the 1.8-liter 4-cylinder Toyota 2ZZ engine that powers all North American Elise and Exige models necessitates the stopping of production by the end of August, 2011 for North America.

To celebrate these iconic Lotus sports cars and provide true driving enthusiasts one final chance to acquire pure driving nirvana, Lotus will build and import into the US and Canada just 15 Elise SC, 25 Exige Matte Black and 30 Exige S260 Final Edition models.

2011 Elise SC Final Edition – only 15 produced
To mark the end of an era of Lotus Elise production, Lotus has created the Elise SC Final Edition exclusively for North America. With a supercharged 218bhp engine, exclusive matte black paint detailing on the rear transom panel, roll hoop cover, hardtop and door mirror housings and an unprecedented level of standard equipment, this “Final” Elise makes a striking statement. Only 15 Elise SC Final Editions will be built for the North American market, virtually insuring this Elise becomes instantly collectible. The Elise SC Final Edition will be available in Ardent Red, Aspen White, Carbon Grey and Chrome Orange at a base price of just $57,500 ($66,500 CAD) including all of the following highlighted features:

SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS (beyond details mentioned above)
Rear diffuser with black anodized finish
Black leather perforated steering wheel
Polished aluminium gear knob and handbrake sleeve
Driver and passenger front airbags
Air conditioning
Audio system with radio, single CD and MP3 player with four speakers
Remote activated central locking and alarm system with engine imobiliser
Engine start push button
Extruded aluminium storage tray and machined billet aluminium cup holder
Yokohama A048 high-performance tires
Black 14-spoke forged alloy wheels
Black ProBaxTM sport seats with Alcantara trim
Sport suspension, springs and dampers

UPGRADE OPTIONS INCLUDED IN BASE PRICE
Touring Pack:
Padded leather door panels
Perforated leather door inserts
Leather trimmed center console
Black perforated leather handbrake lever gaiter
Black carpet floor mats with embroidered Elise logo
Noise insulation material
iPod® stereo connectivity
Matte black painted hardtop
Limited slip differential (LSD)
Lotus Traction Control System (TCS)

2011 Exige Matte Black Final Edition – only 25 produced
To mark the end of an era of Lotus Exige production, Lotus has created the Exige Matte Black Final Edition exclusively for North America. With a supercharged and intercooled 257bhp engine, exclusive matte black paint finish, black Alacantara sport seats and a high level of standard equipment, this one of two “Final” Exige models makes a stealthy and aggressive statement. Only 25 Exige Matte Black Final Editions will be built for the North American market, virtually insuring this Exige becomes instantly collectible. The Exige Matte Black Final Edition will be shown for the first time in North America within the Lotus exhibit on Peter Hay Hill in Pebble Beach Thursday, August 18 through Sunday, August 21 and will have a base price of just $69,900 ($80,800 CAD) including all of the following highlighted features:

SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS (beyond details mentioned above)
257bhp supercharged and intercooled 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine
Exclusive Matte Black paint finish
Three-element rear diffuser with black anodized finish
Body-colored rear wing, front splitter, side scoops and roof scoop
Double shear track control arm brace
Black leather perforated steering wheel
Polished aluminium gear knob and handbrake sleeve
Driver and passenger front airbags
Air conditioning
Audio system with radio, single CD and MP3 player with four speakers
Remote activated central locking and alarm system with engine imobiliser
Engine start push button
Yokohama A048 high-performance tires
Black 5-spoke ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels
Limited slip differential (LSD)

UPGRADE OPTIONS INCLUDED IN BASE PRICE
Sport Pack:
Lotus Traction Control System (TCS)
BS4 T45 steel roll-over hoop and struts
Adjustable front anti-roll bar
ProBaxTM sport seats with black Alcantara trim
Touring Pack:
Alcantara door panels
Alcantara door inserts
Alcantara trimmed center console
Black Alcantara handbrake lever gaiter
Black carpet floor mats with embroidered Exige logo
Noise insulation material
iPod® stereo connectivity
Extruded aluminium storage tray and machined billet aluminium cup holder
Track Pack:
Track suspension with adjustable dampers and adjustable ride height

2011 Exige S260 Final Edition – only 30 produced
Lotus has also created the Exige S260 Final Edition exclusively for North America. With a supercharged and intercooled 257bhp engine and a high level of standard equipment, this one of two “Final” Exige models is available in the full array of Lotus exterior colors. Only 30 Exige S260 Final Editions will be built for the North American market, virtually insuring this Exige becomes instantly collectible. The Exige S260 Final Edition will have a base price of just $67,500 ($78,100 CAD) including all of the following highlighted features (certain exterior colors available at an additional cost):

SPECIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS (beyond details mentioned above)
257bhp supercharged and intercooled 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine
Full Lotus exterior color range available (Standard & Metallic paints at no extra cost, Lifestyle & Limited paints at an extra cost)
Three-element rear diffuser with black anodized finish
Body-colored rear wing, front splitter, side scoops and roof scoop
Double shear track control arm brace
Black leather perforated steering wheel
Polished aluminium gear knob and handbrake sleeve
Driver and passenger front airbags
Air conditioning
Audio system with radio, single CD and MP3 player with four speakers
Remote activated central locking and alarm system with engine imobiliser
Engine start push button
Yokohama A048 high-performance tires
Black Y-type 5-spoke forged alloy wheels
Limited slip differential (LSD)

UPGRADE OPTIONS INCLUDED IN BASE PRICE
Sport Pack:
Lotus Traction Control System (TCS)
BS4 T45 steel roll-over hoop and struts
Adjustable front anti-roll bar
ProBaxTM sport seats
Touring Pack:
Padded leather door panels
Padded leather door inserts
Leather trimmed center console
Black perforated leather handbrake lever gaiter
Black carpet floor mats with embroidered Exige logo
Noise insulation material
iPod® stereo connectivity
Extruded aluminium storage tray and machined billet aluminium cup holder
Track Pack:
Track suspension with adjustable dampers and adjustable ride height

- By: Chris Chin

The National Highway Traffic Safety Adminstration has just announced that it will be looking into nearly 4,400 Lotus Elises between 2005-2006 as owners have complained about finding oil leaking on a tire, causing handling problems.

The document was filed on Friday after nearly 17 complaints from Elise owners who said that an oil-cooler line broke and sprayed oil either on the engine bay causing a fire, or on the wheel assemblies causing a loss of traction.

“Consumers allege the condition can create a loss of vehicle control and one complaint alleges the vehicle caught fire,” according to a statement in the document.

“The oil line released from its fitting on the front right oil cooler, wetting the tire with oil,” said an Elise owner who was a victim of this problem. “The car spun and left the road. No damage occurred.”

So if you have a Lotus Elise between 2005 and 2006 model years, it’d be best to have your car checked out.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: NYT

Lotus has been hard at work as they seek to expand their offerings. From axing the familiar Lotus Elise and Lotus Exige from the current lineup, to working on replacements for the latter and a new Elan, the future of the small British sports car make is under heavy development, especially since their image heavily rests on their latest halo car, the traditional Esprit mid-engined sports car. Although the Esprit debuted at last year’s Paris motorshow, Lotus has been providing small updates in terms of the research and development.

In the latest press conference with Lotus’s CEO Dany Bahar, he promised that “the new Esprit will offer a more authentic driving experience than the Ferrari 458 Italia and McLaren MP4-12C.”

The new Esprit is scheduled for a 2013 launch along with five other new models including the new Elan and Elise/Exige replacements, which Bahar says will “always be around to please the Lotus’s existing customer base.”

“It (the new Esprit) will have the character and emotion that the McLaren lacks and rolling chassis are now complete with running prototypes scheduled for testing by November,” Bahar continued.

The new Esprit will be developed at both the industry standard’s Nurburgring Nordschliefe, Spain’s Idiada racing circuit, and Lotus’s own Hethel HQ. It will also feature Lotus’s first all-new V8 that should be good for about 570hp and will be 80kg lighter and 40% smaller than the Toyota-sourced V8 originally chosen for the Esprit.

Bahar also said that in order to keep the “authentic” feel of the new Esprit, Formula 1 KERS-style technology will be used to only add to the driving experience and there will be minimal use of electronic driving aids.

Also in the works are the next generation Exige and the new 2-Eleven, which are rumored to use Lotus’s new lightweight modular platform made completely from aluminum.

“That’s what we’re working on,” he finished in some closing remarks. “We have some nice plans for the 2-Eleven. But at the moment it’s doing very well so there is no need to change it. It’s a fun car; it’s selling. We have something in mind.”

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCar

Lotus has a long check list for changes to be made on its Elise and Evora models – 150 changes to be exact.

The Evora will be launching a new 2012 model late this year, so it is the focus of the improvements. Lotus design boss Donato Coco is looking to give the car a bit more edge, to stay on par with current market offerings. Coco notes “Even many economy cars look more aggressive,”. The former Ferrari designer is also taking inspiration from the early 1960′s Lotus 18.

Both cars will get upgraded engine response, gearchange quality, and exhaust note. Mechanical improvements will no doubt be a part of the effort to push Lotus further into the premium sports car market that owner Dany Bahar is looking to appeal to.

He states motorsport will be pivotal to move into that market, and to put Lotus in competition with several different genres. Cars will be comparable to Porche in model range, aside from SUV’s, quality, and, hopefully, sales. With all of the new updates, Lotus is expecting upwards of 6,000 units to move by 2015.

- By: Alexandra Koken

Source: AutoCar

Lotus’ new CEO Dany Bahar may be seen as an amateur in the industry, but the man now has 20 months as the head of Lotus under his belt and is looking to make some big moves.

Bahar, who quit his top marketing job at Ferrari in 2009 to become CEO of Lotus Cars, has embarked on an ambitious program to greatly expand and revamp Lotus’ product portfolio. He is looking to reposition the brand as a competitor to Porsche with a target of annual sales around 6,000-8,000 by 2015.

So how is Bahar going to do this and what are the big moves we’re talking about? At a recent roundtable discussion with journalists, Bahar said that Lotus cannot develop the range of cars that meet emissions and crash regulations on its own. He is considering linking up with a global automaker, such as Toyota, through an alliance or even a sale. Separately, Bahar said that Lotus could be spun off and publicly traded.

In the meantime, Bahar said that Lotus continues to work on its range of premium sports cars that were shown at the 2010 Paris Motor Show in concept form. Also in the works is a tiny city car and a luxury sedan that would compete with the Porsche Panamera.

Lotus Esprit:

Lotus Elite:

Lotus Elise:

Lotus Elan:

Lotus Eterne:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: Inside Line

2011 Lotus Elise

This summer will be a sad one. No, not because this will be the second to last summer before the world ends, supposedly. It’s because the US will no longer see new versions of the Lotus Elise and Exige this side of the Atlantic once the summer comes along.

This is due to the fact that Toyota stopped producing the 2ZZ-GE four-banger that powered the Elise and Exige. And it’s even a triple whammy for the exclusive British make because the waiver that Lotus has to build its cars without smart airbags expires in August and none of the current models meet new and stricter stability-control regulations.

CEO Dany Bahar said that redesigning and recertifying the cars isn’t financially feasible, but that Lotus will continue to build and sell models that utilize the 1.6L 1ZR-FAE four-pot.

But if you were worried that Lotus was going to be absent from the US market completely, you need not to. Their big plan calls for a number of new models for 2014, which includes reintroducing some names like the Elan, the Elite and the famous Espirit with a new Elise Coupe to follow in 2015.

Not to mention, the Evora will still continue to be sold with a more powerful S version on the way as well as an option for an automatic transmission.

So if you want to keep it old school with a Lotus free of power-steering, be sure to pick yours up now before they all sell out. “Final Edition” models are also on the way to pay homage to the Elise and Exige’s leave of absence from the American market.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: CARandDRIVER

Lotus Esprit

Remember those six supercar concepts that Lotus was flaunting around at auto shows last year? Well, it seems like production on those models may have to be delayed a little. Lotus has missed out on a £27.5 million ($39.6 million) loan from the government that it would have used to fund an expansion to its Hethel manufacturing facility.

With the failure to secure the funds Lotus could see a delay in the production of its new models, including the 2013 Lotus Esprit.

Click here for more details on Lotus’ Concept lineup.

Lotus had planned to use the loan to “expand and maintain its production at its Hethel site, creating 1,200 new and sustainable, high-value jobs and safeguarding the existing 1,200 jobs.”

“Despite the clear synergies between Lotus’s growth plans and the fund’s objectives to enable private sector organisations to invest in projects that would create jobs and secure long-term growth, the bid team decided that the money was better invested elsewhere,” said Lotus. “Following this decision Group Lotus is currently exploring all available options, including the possibility of submitting an updated bid for round two of the funding, which is set to close on July 1.”

Other automakers including General Motors, Nissan, Jaguar/Land Rover and Bentley were successful in their applications to the Regional Growth Fund.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

2012 Lotus Elise Club Racer

While Lotus is changing its philosophy and direction to compete with the likes of Ferrari, Aston Martin and Lamborghini, the automaker doesn’t seem to be giving up on its grassroots of cutting the weight off their vehicles. At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show next month, Lotus will show this 1.6 Lotus Elise Club Racer, which the smart engineers at Lotus have managed to shed an additional 53 pounds.

The engineers involved with the Lotus Elise Club Racer took a ‘stripped-to-the-bare-bone approach’ and used other techniques including a motorsport derived lightweight battery and the removal of noise insulation. For the first time ever, an Elise variant also comes with a Sport setting for the DPM (Dynamic Performance Management).

Power comes from a 1.6 liter Valvematic engine making 134-hp at 6,800 rpm.

Sales of the Lotus Elise Club Racer will begin in Europe later this year with prices starting at €34,450 ($47,168 USD).

Check out the press release after the jump.

2012 Lotus Elise Club Racer:

Press Release:

Maximum fun, minimum collateral

Anyone harbouring under the misapprehension that Lotus might be moving away from performance through lightweight only needs to take a quick ride in the new 1.6 Lotus Elise Club Racer to know that’s definitely not the case. The bright engineers at Lotus put even the lightest of Lotus’ modern cars on a diet and managed to shed a further 24kg.

So how did Lotus manage to make one of the lightest models on the market even lighter? The engineers behind the Elise Club Racer took a stripped-to-the-bare-bone approach visualised by the body-coloured seats but materialised in many ways such as the motorsport derived lightweight battery and the deletion of noise insulation. Attention to even the smallest of details has ensured that Lotus’ passion for performance through lightweight has been translated throughout the car.

For the first time ever an Elise variant comes complete with a Sport setting for the DPM (Dynamic Performance Management) allowing even the less experienced sports car drivers to feel at the top of their game, while the ability to switch it off completely will please the more established track orientated drivers. DPM combined with improved agility courtesy of Lotus finely tuned sport suspension and an adjustable anti-roll bar will make the Elise Club Racer equally versatile for both road and race track fun.

Wolf Zimmermann Chief Technical Officer Lotus Cars said: “The traditional Lotus approach of reduction and purity has lead to one of the most zeitgeist and contemporary sports cars around. For over 15 years the Lotus Elise has become an icon in the sports car market, carving out a niche market with a dedicated following of lightweight fans. The new Club Racer will definitely give these people something extra to get their teeth stuck into. This car epitomises everything that’s cool about the Elise – it’s fast, raw, responsive and a huge amount of fun to drive.”

Quality throughout the vehicle has been a top priority, highly regarded component suppliers such as Eibach for springs and Bilstein for dampers ensure that the Elise Club Racer is a car of substance as well as style.

The Elise Club Racer pleases the eye as well as the soul with a choice of six striking colours (Sky Blue, Saffron Yellow, Ardent Red, Aspen White, Matt Black and Carbon Grey) and bespoke design elements that emphasise the character of the car.

It’s pocket pleasing too, at £27,500 / €34,450* / CHF48,900, the Elise Club Racer marks the new entry level sports car from Lotus. And with the Elise standard of just 149g CO2/km plus the weight reduction, the new Club Racer provides maximum fun without so much of the green-guilt usually associated with high performance driving.

- By: Omar Rana

Lotus Esprit Concept

Lotus’s popularity has been on the rise since the Elise and Exige began selling here in the US. But seeing as how supercar and sports car wars are on the rise, Lotus plans to expand. And as a part of their demonstration, Lotus is planning to produce its own engines ranging from six to eight cylinders.

Usually, Lotus, sourced their engines from Toyota and was contemplating whether as to maintain that relationship or not. Lotus even tossed around the idea of purchasing Lexus’s V10 that made its debut in the LFA as well the 5.0L IS-F V8. But now, only a twin-turbo four is going to keep the joint operations between Lotus and Toyota active and the English brand plans on making engines that are lighter, more compact and more efficient in house.

So far, details given involve V8s ranging from 4.0-4.8L as well as V6s to the tune of 3.0-3.5L. But oh yes, just remember the turbo trend, Lotus plans to be apart of that too while also developing naturally aspirated version. Already Lotus says that their new V8 is 130lbs lighter than Lexus’s IS-F V8 and insiders announced that their 4.8L version is already capable of 550-600hp, which will debut in the new Esprit R. Their V6 is ready for 350hp in N/A guise and 500 in turbo.

However, these are still guesstimates and with the new Esprit and Elan on the way in by 2014, things are still in the planning stages with even a plug-in hybrid powertrain. Lotus’s expansion is definitely worth following.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: Automobile

Lotus Elise

Lotus CEO Dany Bahar has a lot of ambitious plans for the British automaker’s future. For one, he wants Lotus to change its whole philosophy and compete with the likes of Ferrari, Lamborghini and Aston Martin.

Having faced criticism from analysts on trying to create a British Ferrari, Bahar now says he wants Lotus to follow in the footsteps of Porsche.

“… actually we’re trying to make a British Porsche,” Bahar said but added “we’re not trying to make the same number of cars as them but the same type of cars.”

If all goes as planned for Lotus, we should see all of these six Paris concepts on the road by 2014.

Lotus Esprit, Elite, Elise, Elan Concepts:

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar

Lotus Elite

Lotus has just dropped some new images of the Esprit, Elite, Elan and Elise concepts (click on each link to learn more about the concept). All of Lotus’ concepts made our list of the Top 10 Concept Cars of 2010.

If all goes as planned for Lotus, we should see all of these vehicles on the road by 2014.

Hit the jump to see the updated high-res image galleries.

Lotus Esprit, Elite, Elise, Elan Concepts:

Lotus Esprit:

Lotus Elite:

Lotus Elise:

Lotus Elan:

- By: Omar Rana

Porsche 918 Spyder

As we say goodbye to 2010, we’re looking back at the most important parts of the automotive industry during the year. We’ve already taken a look at the Top 10 Automotive Industry Moments of 2010 and now we’re going to take a look at the Top 10 Concept Cars of 2010.

What allows a concept car to deserve recognition on our Top 10 list? Well, for one they had to be revealed in 2010 – second they have to have major significance to the automaker’s future. Whether or not they’ll be produced is up to the buzz they generate at auto shows or if the automaker can make a viable business case to put them into production.

Of course, the coolness factor of the concept helps a great deal – and no… the Cadillac Urban Luxury Concept did not make our list.

Let’s take a look…

1. Porsche 918 Spyder:

Porsche 918 Spyder

• The Porsche 918 Spyder, revealed at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, is one of the most important concepts in the automaker’s history. Whether or not it will be built is still up in the air but the rumormill has been speculating of a production model. So far, we hear that Porsche has plans to build a limited-series production of the 918 Spyder with prices starting over $600,000 a piece; not to mention Porsche plans on revealing “something spectacular at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show next month.  Power for the Porsche 918 Spyder Concept comes from a 3.4L mid-mounted V8 making 500-hp. The engine is mated to two electric-motors sitting on the front and rear axle with an additional output of 218-hp. Power is driven to the wheels by Porsche”s 7-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe PDK transmission, allowing the 918 Spyder Concept to go from 0-62 mph in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 198 mph. Drivers are allowed to choose from four different driving modes including E-Drive, Hybrid, Sport Hybrid and Race Hybrid. The E-Drive mode lets the 918 Spyder concept run on pure electricity with a range of 16 miles. Click here for more news on the Porsche 918 Spyder.

2. Lamborghini Sesto Elemento:

Lamborghini Sesto Elemento

• At the 2010 Paris Motor Show in October 2010, Lamborghini unveiled the Sesto Elemento Concept. At first the model was believed to be the much-anticipated successor to the Murcielago – however, that was quickly denied by Lamborghini. Instead, Lamborghini says that the Sesto Elemento “shows how the future of the super sports car can look.” President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini said that the concept shows the company’s ability “in carbon-fiber technology that have facilitated such a forward-thinking concept.” Weighing in at just 2,202 pounds, the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento is powered by a V10 engine making 570-hp. That allows it to have a power-to-weight ratio of only 1.75 kilograms per hp and a 0-62 mph time of just 2.5 seconds. It has been rumored recently that Lamborghini will built a limited 10 units for track use only. Click here for more news on the Lamborghini Sesto Elemento.

3. Jaguar C-X75:

Jaguar C-X75

• Also unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, the Jaguar C-X75 was another important concept unveiled in 2010. The model made its North American debut at the 2010 LA Auto Show. Will Jaguar produce it? Not yet. According to Jaguar, the C-X75 provides a look into the future of Jaguar’s design philosophy and “producing beautiful, fast cars powered by sustainable means.” Power for the Jaguar C-X75 comes from four 195-hp electric motors – one for each wheel – producing a total of 780-hp and a peak torque of 1,180 lb ft. On battery power alone, the C-X75 has a range of 68 miles. After power from the lithium-ion batteries runs out, the C-X75 uses two gas micro-turbines that produce a total of 188-hp and extend the range to 560 miles. Mated to a single-speed transmission, the Jaguar C-X75 goes from 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds with a top speed of 205 mph. It was recently reported that Jaguar bosses are in favor of producing the C-X75 but are looking for a business case and resources to develop the car. Click here for more news on the Jaguar C-X75.

4. Mazda Shinari:

Mazda Shinari

• The Mazda Shinari Concept is a four-door-coupe study that shows the future design direction for the brand. Mazda said that it will use the word ‘Kodo’ (Japanese for soul of motion) to describe the new design language, which was created through a collaboration between Mazda”s styling studios in Germany, the United States and Japan. Will it be produced? No word on that yet, but the next-generation Mazda6 will get heavy Shinari design cues. Click here for more news on the Mazda Shinari.

5. Lotus Elite, Esprit, Elan, Elise, Eterne, City Car:

Lotus Esprit

• At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Lotus showed up with six concept cars – all which hint at the brand’s new direction to move upmarket and compete with the likes of Ferrari, Aston Martin, Bentley, Lamborghini and other supercar brands. Will they all be produced? Apparently. Lotus’ CEO Dany Bahar says that the investment to produce the concept cars and move the company in a new direction has been confirmed. It was later reported that out of the six concept cars, the Lotus Esprit is the only concept that is in development and should arrive on the market in 2013. Check out the following links for more info on each concept. Lotus Esprit, Lotus Elite, Lotus Elise, Lotus Elan, Lotus Eterne, Lotus City Car.

6. Bugatti 16C Galibier Concept:

Bugatti 16C Galibier

• Volkswagen Group owned Bugatti currently produces only one model – the Veyron. While we’ve seen many special-edition versions of the Veyron, there is only one model that Bugatti can be proud of and heck, they should be – it’s an orgy of technical innovations and is the fastest car in the world. But what does Bugatti have in store for the future? Apparently, the supercar maker is working on a sedan and the 16C Galibier Concept hints at what that future four-door model could look like. The Bugatti 16C Galibier Concept is inspired by the Type 57, and is known as the “most exclusive, elegant, and powerful four door automobile in the world.” Power comes from an 8.0L 16-cylinder engine that features two-stage supercharging and can pump out more than 800-hp. Reports suggest that the 16C Galibier will go into production in 2013. Click here for more news on the Bugatti 16C Galibier.

7. Cadillac XTS:

Cadillac XTS

• The Cadillac XTS kicked off the 2010 year for concept cars at the 2010 Detroit Auto Show. At first the model became known as Caddy’s answer to the large luxury sedans such as the BMW 7-Series, Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8 and the Lexus LS. Is it going into production? Of course it is – however, sources say that General Motors’ CEO Ed Whitacre has authorized the brand to create an even bigger, rear-wheel-drive flagship. Meaning the XTS is not a competitor to the large luxury sedan segment. While the Cadillac XTS will go into production in 2012, the larger, RWD large luxury sedan model will appear sometime in 2014. Power on the Cadillac XTS Platinum Concept comes from a 3.6L V6 direct-injected gasoline engine mated to a plug-in hybrid system. Working together, the system provides a total output of 350-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Click here for more news on the Cadillac XTS.

8. Audi quattro concept:

Audi quattro concept

• At the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Audi surprised the automotive world with the Audi quattro concept, a study which celebrates the 30 years of quattro – but is that all? Not really. Recent reports suggest that plans to put the quattro concept into production are fairly advanced, however, we’re not sure when we’ll see it on the roads. The Audi quattro concept is powered by a turbocharged 5-cylinder engine making 408-hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, the new quattro concept runs from 0-62 mp in 3.9 seconds. The Audi quattro concept uses the same underpinnings of the Audi RS5 but sits on a wheelbase that measures 5.91 inches shorter. Weight comes in at 2,866.01 lbs, which is roughly 440.92 lbs lighter than the Audi TT RS. Click here for more news on that Audi quattro concept.

9. BMW Concept Gran Coupe:

BMW Concept Gran Coupe

• The BMW Concept Gran Coupe made its debut at the 2010 Beijing Motor Show and quickly became known as BMW’s answer to the Audi A7 and the Mercedes-Benz CLS. Shortly after its debut, reports came out stating that the Gran Coupe will enter production in 2012 and will be built on the same platform that underpins the 5-Series, 7-Series and the 5-Series Gran Turismo. We would be really surprised if BMW decided not to produce the Gran Coupe so keep your fingers crossed. Click here for more news on the BMW Concept Gran Coupe.

10. Nissan Ellure:

Nissan Ellure

• Re-imagine the sedan – that is what Nissan says about its Ellure concept, which made its debut at the 2010 LA Auto Show. Power for the Nissan Ellure Concept comes from a supercharged 2.5L 4-cylinder engine with Intelligent Dual Clutch Control and a 25W electric-motor mated to a Xtronic CVT transmission. It features front-wheel-drive, regenerative braking, independent suspension, a drive-by-wire electric/hydraulic steering and many more fuel-saving  technologies that make it a green sedan with a lot of style. Will it enter production? No word from Nissan yet.

* Note: List is in no particular order.

- By: Omar Rana

Lotus Elite Concept

Former General Motors chief Bob Lutz has said he gives the new innovative Lotus plan “a 60 percent chance” of achieving its objective of launching five new models, moving prices more upscale and hunting down 6,000 to 7,000 new car buyers a year.

Lotus CEO Dany Bahar recently invited Lutz to become a member of the company’s senior advisory board of industry experts.

“People keep asking me if I’m sure the new plan will work,” Lutz told Autocar, “and of course I can’t guarantee that. It’s a risk. But I’m quite certain it stands a better chance than the Lotus status quo, which for sure would eventually lead this great brand into terminal decline.”

Lutz went on to say that Bahar’s recent strategy to show off 5-6 new concepts at auto shows is “a fair bit of showbiz” and said that the specified timings of each car may change a good deal before they hit the market. Lutz also said that the Lotus’ investors are taking a huge gamble but added “The engineering I’ve seen so far is very good, and they’re definitely going about it the right way. The money they’re spending on each model is only a fraction of what we’d have spent at GM on similar projects.”

2010 LA: Lotus Elite:

All Photos Copyright © 2010 Omar Rana – egmCarTech.

- By: Omar Rana

Source: AutoCar