RE: Geely completes Lotus takeover

[kambites]

The Lotus website still lists Lotus Engineering as a division of the company.

[Frimley111R]

kambites said:

The Lotus website still lists Lotus Engineering as a division of the company.

Interesting, perhaps there's a small part of it left

[unsprung]

Frimley111R said:

I agree but I'd say that even more importantly it needs access to modern car systems and it could get these from Volvo. I'm talking about the 'essential' in car tech but this could also mean engines and all sorts of other tech that has been developed and proven by them but will never be seen by Lotus buyers.

That's a good point. Having access to a network or large resource of supply will mean that components and subsystems may be more cost efficient and/or of higher / more contemporary spec.

Furthermore, although the Geely acquisition can help with maths vis a vis cost-of-goods (and, as you note, the things the Lotus buyer does not see), this acquisition most importantly allows Lotus engineers, designers, and planners to enjoy more freedom.

Does this constitute a renaissance of sorts? Maybe. Maybe not. In recent years, opportunity at Hethel has never looked more promising.

[unsprung]

Frimley111R said:

OEM engineering projects have all gone. IIRC all the engineering consultancy part of Lotus was dissolved as it had been many years since it had been the jewel in the crown it once was. Most modern manufacturers did their own work.

I'm not sure what the professional racing network you're talking about is though?

Actually, the services provided by Lotus Engineering to OEMs are mentioned in the news of the Geely acquisition.

"Perhaps more important will be Geely's access to Lotus Engineering. This is a sister company to Lotus Cars, which operates as a consultancy for other automakers."

"That includes both Lotus Cars and the Lotus Engineering consultancy firm, which works with most car makers on a behind-the-scenes consulting basis."

I haven't talked about any racing network.