Lotus confirms new Esprit

The iconic Lotus Esprit is to be produced once more, with the British sportscar manufacturer announcing a possible Paris debut for a concept model.

Discontinued in 2004, Lotus has confirmed its desire to replace the Esprit, releasing a teaser statement counting down the days until an official announcement is made. The teaser includes a press release outlining important events in 1975 such as the beginning of Microsoft and football star David Beckham's birth. Significantly, 1975 was the year the Esprit was launched at the Paris motor show.

According to Auto Express, the release states that ''something breathtaking'' be will announced, saying rather cryptically: ''Once more in Paris. Once more at the Motor Show. Perhaps a new Esprit? Perhaps not. Or Perhaps even more?''

Since former Ferrari commercial director Danny Bahar arrived at Lotus, innovative plans surrounding the future production of the company have been launched, with hopes for a return to the baby supercar league. To be considered in such a marketplace, Bahar reportedly hopes to produce more high-end vehicles, armed with the latest spec in technology and utilising luxurious interior finishings, surely tempting those with sportscars such as the 911 to announce: ''I need to sell my Porsche and invest in the Esprit.''

With no details released on the design of the surely impending Esprit, Inside Line reports that the car will certainly remain powered by Toyota and revitalise the British brand, raising it to the next level of car buyers.

 

Ann Francis, Leeds, Landrover Freelander

Lee Pearce, Hertfordshire, Vauxhall Corsa