Lotus Ends US-Spec Elise and Exige Production in August 2011
Lotus will cease production of US-spec Elise and Exige models by the end of August 2011, citing engine supply and regulatory issues, with limited Final Editions marking the end.
Lotus will halt production of the US-spec Elise and Exige models by the end of August 2011, ending a chapter for the lightweight sports cars in North America. The decision follows the expiration of a federal airbag exemption and Toyota's discontinuation of the 1.8-litre 2ZZ-GE engine that powers both models.
Lotus had relied on a US safety exemption to sell the Elise and Exige without advanced airbags, but that waiver expires this year. At the same time, Toyota has stopped producing the 2ZZ engine, leaving Lotus without a compliant powertrain for the US market. While the Elise and Exige remain available in other markets, these hurdles have forced Lotus to withdraw both models from North America.
Final Editions for North America
To mark the end, Lotus is offering three limited-run Final Editions exclusively for the US and Canada. Just 15 Elise SC Final Edition, 25 Exige Matte Black Final Edition, and 30 Exige S260 Final Edition cars will be built and imported. Each features unique trim and equipment, with prices starting at $57,500 for the Elise SC, $69,900 for the Exige Matte Black, and $67,500 for the Exige S260.
- 2011 Elise SC Final Edition: 15 units, four colours, $57,500 base price, includes Alcantara sport seats, limited slip differential, and special trim.
- 2011 Exige Matte Black Final Edition: 25 units, exclusive matte paint, 257bhp supercharged engine, $69,900 base price, track suspension and Alcantara interior.
- 2011 Exige S260 Final Edition: 30 units, full Lotus colour range, black forged wheels, $67,500 base price.
All Final Edition models are equipped with high-performance tyres, upgraded interiors, and distinctive badging. The Exige variants feature supercharged and intercooled engines, track-focused suspension, and lightweight forged wheels. The Elise SC Final Edition is available in Ardent Red, Aspen White, Carbon Grey, or Chrome Orange.
Impact on Lotus and US Enthusiasts
The withdrawal leaves Lotus without a road car in the US market until the arrival of the next-generation Elise, which is not expected before autumn 2014. In the interim, Lotus is reportedly developing its own engines, raising the possibility that future models may no longer use Toyota powertrains.
For US buyers, the Final Editions represent the last opportunity to purchase a new Elise or Exige until the new model arrives. Existing owners will see their cars become rarer, while dealers face a gap in the Lotus line-up for several years. Production and sales continue in other regions, but Lotus's US presence will be limited to these final imported cars.
