Esprit returns?! Lotus will launch a new V8 sports car in 2028 – Autocar

Lotus will launch a new V8 sports car in 2028, reviving the Esprit nameplate as part of a broader strategic pivot. The announcement marks a significant departure from the company’s previous trajectory toward full electrification, as the upcoming supercar will not be electric.

According to reporting from Reuters, the company is scaling back its electric vehicle plans to prioritize the 2028 launch of the new supercar. This shift suggests a recalibration of the brand’s powertrain strategy, reintegrating internal combustion elements into its high-performance lineup.

The return of the Esprit is a central component of a new corporate roadmap titled Focus 2030. As reported by Auto Express, this strategy also includes the development of an updated version of the Emira.

The strategic shift extends beyond product development into industrial operations. The Financial Times reports that Lotus is providing a lifeline to a troubled automotive plant in the United Kingdom, indicating a commitment to maintaining specific manufacturing capabilities within the region.

The decision to move forward with a V8-powered vehicle comes as many luxury automotive manufacturers navigate the volatility of the electric vehicle market. By diversifying its offerings and extending the life of internal combustion and hybrid technologies, Lotus is adjusting its approach to meet evolving market demands and consumer preferences for traditional high-performance engines.

The 2028 launch of the Esprit will serve as the primary benchmark for the company’s updated direction, blending the revival of a historic model with the objectives outlined in the Focus 2030 framework.