Firstly I'd like to address the concerns that the car looks like the Elise/Exige platform. Where we were concerned, was with fulfilling our objective of recognisable Lotus DNA in a completely new platform. I would ask you to view the car in the flesh before you make any decision as I can assure you that it is absolutely beautiful, elegant with lush haunches and the treatment at the rear of the car (which is the view most people will have) is phenomenal with exquisite lines and at the same time it looks strong, very strong and aggressive. The car interior is stylish and modern, yet retaining a unique Lotus feel. The high quality finish will match up to the highest competition in the market and the ease of use and functionality are ground breaking, designed around the driver as all Lotus products are.
The development team have created, in the Eagle project, a unique car which results in a stunning package and I am exceedingly pleased with what they have achieved. The proportions of the vehicle exterior, whilst being much larger than the Elise footprint belie the 'quart into a pint pot' interior and many of the largest Esprit drivers will find the car very comfortable and still retain room in the back, yet the car retains the look of a real supercar with it's low, sleek lines. We've kept many of the best angles for people to see at the show next week including the 3/4 rear view along the lines of the vehicle which is simply stunning and extremely unique.
I personally drove the car just recently and I would be happy for any Esprit driver to drive it in the knowledge that the performance is very similar to the cars they drive at present. Let us not forget that the car is still in development, we will not begin production until the end of December and although the exterior design is as good as complete we still have to put the finishing touches to the overall package. The car is on target for release as stated and is bringing the company back to Colin's original vision for Lotus.
