Group Lotus North American subsidiary Lotus Cars USA will launch the Elise roadster in mid-2004 as a 2005 model, the company announced on Thursday.
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Lotus claims the ‘federal’ Elise will retain the performance, handling and dynamics acclaimed in UK and European markets while complying with US regulations.
Details of specification changes for the US have not been announced.
The Elise is constructed around a strong, rigid, yet lightweight extruded and bonded aluminium chassis weighing less than 150 lbs (68kg) that allows for a complete vehicle weight of approximately 1700lbs (770kg) in European specification.
Its mid-mounted 1.8-litre Rover K-series engine, driving through a five-speed gearbox, develops 158bhp, good for a 5.1-second sprint to 60mph and a top speed of 132mph.

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By GlobalDataLotus research has shown that there is a demand for a small, lightweight and very high performance sports car in the U.S. While the Elise is a hand-built car, a new manufacturing facility at the company base in Hethel, England, has enabled Lotus to build cars at a higher volume and introduce quality standards suitable for today’s demanding customers.
Lotus Cars USA President/CEO Arnie Johnson said the company sees the USA as a key market for the Elise and future models. “Our market analysis studies and surveys have overwhelmingly confirmed demand for the car. Based on customer and dealer reaction, we are very confident that the Elise will enjoy the same success here as in other markets.
“The introduction of the Elise marks the beginning of a new era of growth for Lotus Cars USA as well as for our dealer network. Over the next few years we anticipate further expansion and growth with new models to follow.”
Lotus Cars USA plans to provide the highest quality sales and service support throughout the dealer network and add new dealers in key market areas, making the brand more accessible to its expanded customer base.