Fifty years after the unique Lotus Esprit S1 captivated the public, the young British company Encor Design unveils its first project. Encor Series 1A meticulous reinterpretation of the coupe that defined an era. The proposal doesn't seek to rewrite history, but rather to thoughtfully update it so that the legend can have a second life in a modern way. And to announce that this model and company want to break into the automotive sector, they've released a series of teaser images that reveal what its look will be like.
The approach combines a iconic design, highly refined engineering and technology Contemporary. With a limited run of 50 units, the recipe relies on modern materials and discreet solutions to improve usability without diluting the personality of the original, something that's evident from the first glance. We'll tell you everything we know about this interesting project that promises to bring back a unique and much-loved model. Just don't expect a low retail price, because it will be exclusive and handcrafted...
Encor Series 1 design and chassis: legacy with carbon skin…
The base is the famous backbone chassis conceived by Colin chapman, which remains the backbone of the project. The old fiberglass body gives way to a new one. carbon fiber structure stiffer and lighter, developed with CAD tools to refine surfaces and aerodynamics without betraying the essential features of the Esprit.
One of the most recognizable winks are the headlights: the classic retractable ones are reinterpreted as low-profile LED projectors, a modern solution that preserves the clean aesthetics of the front and improves lighting, reliability and maintenance with a highly functional touch.
Mechanical basis and performance: respect for identity…
Each unit starts from a Lotus Spirit V8 donor. The engine and gearbox are completely rebuilt to improve performance, response, and everyday use, while maintaining the same chassis, engine, and transmission so the car can be taken out on the road and register as Lotus and preserve its pedigree. Encor does not offer a conventional preparation, but rather a technical rereading From an icon: raising the bar without erasing what makes it special. The goal is to elevate the experience and reliability without blurring the feel and character that have made the Esprit a classic.
Interior and technology: discreet craftsmanship…
The iconic wraparound cockpit is reimagined with leather, Alcantara and machined aluminum, a handcrafted approach to luxury. And it also takes a step toward integrating digital connectivity, hiding it from view so as not to disrupt the cleanliness of the dashboard, but it's there when you need it: Apple CarPlay, 360° cameras and climate control coexist with quality controls and updated ergonomics. The result is an interior that balances timeless design and modern comfort, designed for those who want exclusivity, presence and practicality without artifice.
The team behind the project, production, price, and availability…
The initiative is led by profiles with experience in projects such as the Pagani Huayra Codalunga, Koenigsegg, Aston Martin y Porsche y Lotus. Highlights simon lane, who heads special programs at Q by Aston Martin and Lotus Advanced Performance; the designer Daniel Durrant, linked to the Lotus Emira; the engineer Mike Dickison, with decades of experience in niche projects; and the duo William Ives y Michael Perkins (Skyships), responsible for connectivity and systems. The Encor Series 1 will be manufactured in a series of 50 numbered units.
The starting price is around Libras 430.000 (approximately equivalent to about 493.000 Euros), figures do not include taxes, options, or the Esprit V8 donor vehicle. Conversions depend on the current exchange rate. The official presentation is scheduled for November, and both images and final technical data will be made public closer to that date. The brand has outlined its approach and philosophy, withholding detailed figures until the project is ready to be shown in detail.
Cultural roots: from cinema to the road…
The inspiration is not accidental: the Lotus Esprit S1 became famous on the big screen with The spy who loved me, that mountain chase and the memorable “submarine mode” from the Bond saga. Encor recovers that unmistakable profile and brings it to the present with carbon bodywork and LED optics, two brushstrokes that summarize the philosophy of the project.
With its ultra-exclusive production approach, respect for Lotus heritage and measured technical update, the Encor Series 1 is positioned as a faithful but current reinterpretation: a classic of pure forms with modern tools, designed for those who value detail and authenticity as much as everyday usability.
Source - Encor Design
Images | Encor Design
