A&Q about Lotus
Q:
I don't feel alienated by Lotus but I do have a few comments. As for the 'S' version; there is always product development after an initial release. For a company like Lotus where there are significant budget constraints, I would expect that they would not be able to commit to any future possible trim levels. Lotus was not going to bring the Elise to the US market but strong sales in Europe and Asia probably provided the funds and incentive to build in the changes needed to sell a car in the US.
My issue with Lotus is more with Lotus USA. They don't seem to care that someone has plunked down $50k for one of their cars. There is no follow-up communication from them - not so much as a "thanks for buying from Lotus" - nothing. When I have tried to contact them via email or letter (nothing urgent like warranty) I hear nothing back. There are a couple of Lotus publications that are available to European customers that I wanted info on - seems simple enough but they do not seem interested in any communicaitons with owners. This is marketing 101 stuff and they just don't get it.
If I were the person at Lotus corp. I would take a serious look at the way Lotus US deals with customers. Not to mention the horror stories from those seeking warranty claims.
I'm OK with Lotus releasing the 'S' as they did - they need to sell cars to make new models so I don't see that as an issue. But better control over how they communicate with customers and better control over their dealer network would be steps in the right direction.
A:
I grew up hoping someday I would own a Lotus.
Forget Ferrari, Lambourghini, and the rest. THIS was the car of my dreams.
And it really is...the most incredible driving machine in the world.
There are only 2500 of these cars imported to the United States a year, plus a few fancy Exiges.
If you are ever lucky enough to own one, then you will know why we love this marque and this website.
Lotus rocks.