Lotus Has Created A New Division To Focus On Custom-Built Vehicles

Lotus has established Lotus Advanced Performance, an in-house special operations branch that will develop customized and limited-run products. Simon Lane, who previously led the similarly positioned Q by Aston Martin division, embraced the blank sheet of paper and the chance to design the most fascinating and special Lotus cars, adopting the electrified future while honoring its rich history.

In a 2021 interview with Autocar, Lane stated that his objective at Aston Martin was to produce automobiles for consumers "who don't want anything on the menu and want to do something completely different." Though the specifics of Lotus's new branch have yet to be revealed, it appears that he will follow a similar set of principles.

The carmaker is keeping quiet about LAP's debut project, but a sneak peek photograph suggests an open-wheel track car inspired by classic Formula 1. It's unclear if this will be powered by a combustion engine or an Evija-derived electric drivetrain, but a closer look reveals a standard radiator, air filter, and exhaust system. LAP will also work on personalization options for series-production vehicles, such as bespoke colors, trims, and materials, as well as special high-spec and very desirable variants of Lotus cars.

The very first production-based special edition is anticipated to be based on the Emira, which is set to hit the market in the coming weeks. The launching of a worldwide support program for customers of the new Emira GT4 customer racer is one of the branch's first goals, and it will also provide Lotus Driving Academy track instruction at sites around the world, including Lotus' own Hethel track.