Testing for the next Lotus Esprit is proceeding apace -- and it's aimed right at the Lamborghini Gallardo and the Ferrari F430.
The car is currently undergoing crash test work and looks likely to emerge from the factory on late 2007, in time for launch proper in 2008, according to this week's Autocar. Chief designer Russell Carr reckoned that the mid-engined car would be smaller than either of the two supercars mentioned above.
According to the report, it'll be powered by a twin-turbocharged V8 -- possibly a BMW -- via a six-speed sequential transmission. Bodywork is likely to be either composite or aluminium. There's no news on concrete matters such as price or a more detailed spec.
After the lukewarm reception afforded the new Europa, let's hope that Lotus gets the styling right for this prestigious end of the market.