Encor’s Series 1 Brings a Carbon-Fiber Revival to the Lotus Esprit

The British firm reshapes the classic through contemporary materials and precision engineering, with production capped at just 50 units.

Encor

The Encor Series 1, unveiled in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the original 1975 Giugiaro-designed wedge, substitutes the traditional fibreglass shell with a singular autoclaved carbon-fiber body. This material exchange maintains the vehicle's wet weight at around 2,645 lbs, yielding a power-to-weight ratio of 333 hp per tonne. Performance objectives encompass a 0-60 mph acceleration in 4 seconds and a maximum velocity of 175 mph.

Encor

The enhanced Type 918 V8 engine is equipped with forged pistons, new injectors, and refurbished turbochargers, governed by a contemporary ECU including electronic throttle-body management. Although it is artificially induced, the engine is calibrated to produce an auditory profile akin to that of a naturally aspirated V8. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox that has been thoroughly re-engineered in collaboration with Quaife to incorporate a helical limited-slip differential and a custom twin-plate clutch.

Encor

The cabin features the characteristic slanted dashboard and tartan details of the original, enhanced by contemporary improvements. A digital instrument display is encased in a singular billet aluminium binnacle, with contemporary features like Apple CarPlay and 360-degree cameras seamlessly incorporated to preserve an analogue aesthetic. Deliveries for the custom-built commissions are set to commence in the second quarter of 2026.