Lotus Suprises With New Elan Concept

There was little doubt that Lotus was going to use the Paris auto show as a springboard to break into their new, totally upscale market. What they delivered, however, was nothing short of flabbergasting.

Five models later, it’s clear that Lotus is indeed moving in a new direction. But perhaps the most surprising release under Colin Chapman’s initials was this: the supposed 2013 Lotus Elan. Looking nothing like anything that’s ever worn that badge, the new Elan promises to arrive looking better than ever before and blessed with an incredibly impressive resume: 450 horsepower, seven speed dual clutch gearbox, 0-62 mph 3.5 seconds, and an available hybrid system.

However, even with all that good stuff, the two (or apparently optionally four) seater still clocks in at just 2,849 pounds; a curb weight that just screams of the old adage: add lightness. And as long as the remainder of the Lotus lineup maintains that, the most important of Lotus traditions, all indicators point to a bright future ahead.