Lotus celebrates Toyota partnership by giving Akio a special-edition Elise

Dany Bahar presents Akio Toyoda with special Lotus Elise

Lotus today celebrated its relationship with Toyota at a celebration at the British Embassy in Tokyo where Lotus CEO Dany Bahar gifted Toyota Motor Corp’s President and CEO Akio Toyoda with a specially equipped Lotus Elise powered by the latest Toyota 2ZZ-GE VVTL-iengine. “The occasion marked the end of an era and the start of an even stronger relationship between the two companies,” Lotus said.

“The presentation of Toyota”s last 2ZZ engine in the Elise is a symbolic gesture of our continued respect and deep appreciation for our partner not only acknowledging our past but also looking forward to our future together,” said Bahar said.

“A Toyota engine in a Lotus car creates a completely unique drive feeling ““ a special blend featuring the best of Lotus and Toyota that we hope many car lovers continue to experience and enjoy,” said Toyoda.

Lotus also siad that it has decided to take its relationship with Toyota to the next level that will enable the British sports car maker to create tailor-made powertrain solutions for future Lotus cars. Further details on the expansion of collaboration between the two companies will be announced at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.

Dany Bahar presents Akio Toyoda with special Lotus Elise:

– By: Omar Rana