As the Lotus Esprit reaches its 50th anniversary since it was launched, the original car has been remastered in carbon fibre to create the Encor Series 1.
British firm Encor has replaced the Esprit’s glass fibre shell with one made entirely from carbon fibre that makes it lighter, more rigid and, the company says, millimetre precise in its build.
Simon Lane, Encor Co-Founder, said: ‘In every detail, we act as conservators of Chapman’s ideals. Our mission is to elevate the Esprit for a new era without sacrificing its soul.’
As a result, even the pop-up headlights have been remade in carbon fibre.
The base for the Encor Series 1 is an Esprit V8 with a fully rebuilt engine, and the new car retains its original identity.
Lane added: ‘Anyone can modify a car. What sets us apart is the way we treat the Esprit – not as a project, but as a responsibility. Progress should enhance, not replace.’
The Encor Series 1 will be unveiled in November and prices will start at £430,000 plus the cost of a donor Esprit V8.
The company plans to build a limited run of 50 cars and all will be uprated with climate control, 360-degree parking camera, and Apple CarPlay.
