Half a century after the original Lotus Esprit debuted at the 1975 Paris Motor Show, a new chapter in the car’s legacy is being written. Encor, a newly formed company dedicated to remastering iconic classics, has unveiled its first project: the Encor Series 1, a modern reinterpretation of the Esprit S1.
Limited to just 50 examples, the Series 1 retains the spirit of Colin Chapman’s lightweight engineering philosophy while introducing 21st-century materials and design. The backbone chassis of the original remains, but the fiberglass body has been replaced with a precisely engineered carbon-fiber shell. According to Encor, the new structure is lighter, stiffer, and aerodynamically refined, while maintaining the sharp-edged styling that made the Esprit an icon. Even the hallmark pop-up headlights return, reimagined as sleek LED projectors.
Co-founder Simon Lane said the mission was to act as “conservators of Chapman’s ideals,” ensuring that the car’s essence was preserved while its capabilities were enhanced. Each build begins with a Lotus Esprit V8 donor car, whose chassis, gearbox, and engine identities are retained. The powertrain is fully rebuilt to deliver greater performance and everyday usability.
Inside, the Esprit’s signature wraparound cockpit has been upgraded with Alcantara, leather, and machined aluminum accents. Subtle digital integration adds conveniences such as Apple CarPlay, 360-degree cameras, and modern climate control, blending heritage aesthetics with contemporary comfort.
The leadership team behind Encor brings decades of experience from brands including Lotus, Aston Martin, Porsche, Koenigsegg, and Pagani. Daniel Durrant, formerly lead designer of the Lotus Emira, has guided the Series 1’s styling to respect the original while adapting it for today.
The Encor Series 1 is priced from £430,000 ($525,000) before taxes and options, excluding the cost of a Lotus Esprit V8 donor vehicle. The car will be formally revealed in November 2025.
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