There have been rumours for a long time now that Lotus might be about to ditch the K Series in favour of another power plant for the Elise.
With the speculation ongoing, Lotus have taken the unusual step of issuing a statement categorically denying such a move is afoot. The statement reads, "Lotus Cars Ltd, would like to state categorically that the K-series engine, as used in the award winning Elise, is not to be dropped in favour of another."
Many of the rumours stem from the assumption that a different engine will be required for the US Elise. Lotus's answer to this is, "It will come as no surprise to most that there is to be a new engine installed in certain versions of the Elise, namely the federalised car, the details of which will be released in due course. This engine will not replace the K-series engine ... Lotus Cars will continue to use the K-series engine within the Elise range for the forseeable future."
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