Lotus Cars to Build Electric Sports Cars in the UK, Triple Production as Part of Turnaround Plan
Lotus Cars, the iconic British sports car manufacturer, is gearing up for a major transformation as it shifts towards electric vehicles. The company, owned by Geely Auto Group, has announced plans to invest £2.5bn in its UK operations, with the goal of tripling production over the next ten years.
One of the key milestones in this ambitious plan is the launch of the Lotus Emira, the company’s final combustion-engined sports car before it transitions to an all-electric lineup. The Emira is set to replace Lotus’ current range of sports cars and is expected to be a game-changer for the brand.
With the introduction of electric sports cars, Lotus aims to significantly increase its production numbers, with projections suggesting that the company could be selling “tens of thousands” of vehicles by 2025. This growth will be supported by the development of new models, including SUVs and electric sports cars, as well as the expansion of production facilities in the UK and China.
Matt Windle, Lotus’ managing director, has emphasized the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability, stating that the new lineup of vehicles will open up new market segments and drive significant growth for the brand. The partnership with Renault’s Alpine sports car brand to develop a dedicated electric sports car architecture further highlights Lotus’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive technology.
Despite the shift towards electric vehicles, Lotus remains true to its roots, with Windle assuring that the new SUVs will still embody the spirit of Lotus vehicles. The company’s focus on maintaining its unique identity while embracing new technologies is a testament to its dedication to excellence and innovation.
As Lotus embarks on this exciting new chapter, the future looks bright for the legendary British car manufacturer. With a renewed focus on electric vehicles and a commitment to sustainable practices, Lotus is poised to make a significant impact on the automotive industry in the years to come. Watch this space for more updates on Lotus Cars’ electrifying journey towards a greener, more exciting future.