Lotus: 3 new U.S. models, new Exige S Club Racer

Lotus has announced a new 5-year plan for the U.S., which will include three all-new models. The Lotus model lineup has been more or less stagnant for the past few years, introducing only variants of established models like the Elise and Exige. The announcement coincides with the appointment of Michael J. Kimberley, current CEO of Group Lotus Plc, to the role of President of Lotus Cars USA, Inc.

What the three upcoming models will look like is open to speculation. Surely Colin Chapman's minimalist philosophy will continue to exert a strong influence - though creature-comforts may assume a higher priority in the upcoming models.

Spy shots of the 2009 Esprit hit the web earlier this year, and earlier this month we reported on the Esprit and an upcoming 2+2, code named Project Eagle. Hmm, Eagle. New plan for the U.S. Coincidence?

The new Exige S Club Racer (pictured) is basically a visual update in a bespoke shade of blue for the stellar track-day car for the street. Only 25 will be sold however, and they're only available in Old Blighty. Full details on the new Exige after the jump.

Lotus Launch Limited Edition ‘Club Racer’

Lotus Cars releases its latest limited edition this month - the exciting ‘Club Racer’ a visually distinctive version of the Exige S.

The Club Racer represents a real value proposition, benefiting from standard upgrades as well as featuring a number of unique additions, for a recommended retail price of £39,950.

The prominent use of the track logo on the Club Racer pays homage to its racing heritage and passion so fundamental to the Lotus marque. The Cub Racer features a sky-blue and black paint scheme reminiscent of the 1960’s racing era with which the Lotus name is synonymous.

25 limited edition Club Racers will be available from Lotus dealers nationwide with the following vehicle specification:

• Exige S

• Sport Pack

• Touring Pack

• Super Touring Pack

• Sports Exhaust (post-registration fitment)

• Air Conditioning

Additional Components:

• Hethel track decals

• Special Edition Paint – Sky-blue (non-metallic) with Phantom Black Tri-Stripe Design

• Unique Interior Trim - Black leather and carbon fibre effect leather with colour

• Coded stitching