Lotus moves into the small car market

The car-maker usually known for its sporty portfolio is moving into the world of small cars and hot hatches, according to motoring sources.

Lotus, more well-known for its Esprit, Elise and Europa models is set to produce a hybrid supermini to rival the likes of MINI, Ford and VW. Known as the 'Lotus Global Small Car' the model will be based on the Italian designed Proton EMAS concept which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year.

With a large front grille, chunky alloys, sporty Recaro seats and 100mpg petrol/electric hybrid engine, the car will surely appeal to buyers that want to own an iconic marque. The company will be using Lotus domed badges on the UK and European versions, whilst in Malaysia, the supermini is expected to remain Proton badged in a bid to appeal to all markets.

The small but perfectly formed model is due to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in October, after a cloak and dagger marketing campaign that has enticed car enthusiasts with the possibility of a new Esprit and two GT models.

According to AutoExpress, the mini Lotus is expected to reach production by 2012, with the manufacturer hoping to shift upwards of 8,000 models per year.

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