Lotus To Reveal Two New Sports Car This Summer, SUV Four Years Out

Lotus CEO Jean-Marc Gales recently confirmed the company was working on two new sports cars and it appears we’ll learn a lot more about them this summer.

Speaking with Auto News Europe, Gales said Geely has approved the models and “We will tell you what they are in five months, but both will come in 2020.” He went on to say they will be the first all-new models since the company introduced the Evora in 2009.

Gales wouldn’t be drawn into specifics but he did suggest the cars will set a benchmark in terms of “handling, aerodynamics and lightweight.” That’s not much to go on but Gales has previously said one of the models will replace an existing vehicle such as the Elise, Exige or Evora. A new Elise is considered the most likely option and a 2020 launch was mooted in the past.

The other model is a bit more mysterious but reports have suggested it will be a track-focused car that will replace the 3-Eleven.

Besides the two new sports cars, Gales confirmed they are working on a crossover but it won’t arrive for “about four years.” The executive said the design hasn’t been finalized but he hinted it should be recognizable as a Lotus even though the company “can’t use the same design language as a sports car.”

Gales went on to suggest the crossover will be about the same size as either the Porsche Macan or Cayenne. He also noted the company will use a “mix of new and proven Geely family modules and combine them to create an aesthetically beautiful performance crossover.”

The executive suggested the crossover could be built in two different locations and one of them will likely be in China as it “makes the most sense” given the size of the market.

  • Dr Strangefinger

    So I’m not hoping petrol prices soar to 5 or 6$ a gallon, however, if they do, it’s going to be really interesting to watch all of these auto makers unwind their recently announced new gas guzzling SUV models.

    Enter Iron Maiden’s “Run to the Hills”.

    • LWOAP

      I know, right?. And if it’s a sudden increase watching them trip over themselves to try and replace those SUVs with something more efficient will be hilarious. Perhaps CUVs might soldier on unless people decide to downsize.

  • Mynameis Taylor

    I live in LA, where one frequently sees all kinds of exotic cars. But I can’t tell you the last time I’ve seen a Lotus. I’m sure they’re quick and fun to drive. But are they also look to be uncomfortable, harsh and not all that good looking.

    • LWOAP

      I think the Elise and Exige are no longer road legal in the states. That might explain it.

      • Mynameis Taylor

        Hmmm.. you might have a point

      • eb110americana

        Yes, they have not been for a few years now. If you want one, you have to find it used. The Evora is the only Lotus you can get new here.

  • Zandit75
    • Dr Strangefinger

      Dude, that thing is soooooo 2010!!!!

      But I do like it.

      • Zandit75

        The more I look at it, the more I’m reminded of the Tesla S. Perhaps Musk stole some design elements!

    • LWOAP

      That’s not the only one they should have put into production.

      • Zandit75

        Agreed, but I think the Eterne was the best looking of the lot!!
        Just as long as they don’t use the design for the ugly SUV concept they presented a few years back!