That Lotus has been using Toyota engines to power each and every of their cars is no secret. It was therefore natural of Lotus CEO Danny Bahar paying a visit to Japan and expressing his gratitude to Toyota. This marks the continuation of this long standing partnership between the two.
Keys to the Lotus Elise which is fitted with the 2ZZ-GE VVTL-I was handed over by Bahar to the CEO of Toyota, Akio Toyoda as a mark of this gratitude. During the occasion Bahar mentioned “The presentation of Toyota’s last 2ZZ engine in the Elise is a symbolic gesture of our continued respect and deep appreciation for our partner not only acknowledging our past but also looking forward to our future together.”
It is owned by Proton and the company plans to launch in the near future some Toyota powered cars like the Evora S and Evora IPS during the Paris Motor Show. There is also the 414E which is awaiting some financial impetus from the British government.
The flagship of Lotus named Espirit has rumors of being fitted with the Toyota 1LR-GUE V10. There is more news expected on the Espirit as the date for the Paris Show draws closer.
Toyoda on his part had to say this about the partnership with Lotus, “A Toyota engine in a Lotus car creates a completely unique drive feeling – a special blend featuring the best of Lotus and Toyota that we hope many car lovers continue to experience and enjoy.” Reliability of the car is a well known fact.
Source: carscoop
