Lotus is likely to bring the Esprit name back for a new flagship sports car, and the company says it will occupy a very specific spot in the lineup. Codenamed Type 135, the new model will sit between the Emira and the all-electric Evija.
“The Type 135 will fill the gap between the Emira and the Evija,” said Group Lotus vice president of design Ben Payne.
Interestingly, buyers are expected to get a choice of powertrains. Alongside the confirmed hybrid V8, Lotus is also planning a V6 version that should be lighter and more accessible.
The V8 hybrid is expected to produce more than 1,000 hp, while Lotus is targeting a weight of around 1,500 kg. An 800V electrical architecture and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission are also part of the programme.
That puts the Esprit in a very different league from the current Emira 420 Sport, which produces 416 hp from its 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder. At the other end sits the Evija, with its four electric motors producing a staggering 2,011 hp.
Lotus says the new car is being developed to retain the mechanical feel and handling character that define the Emira, while using hybrid technology to move closer to the Evija’s performance benchmark.
“Preserving the emotional connection Emira owners have with the Lotus mechanical handling while leveraging V-8 hybrid technology to approach the technical benchmark set by the Evija.”
Source: Motor Trend
