Electric Cars

A timeless automotive icon is experiencing a magnificent revival, as Encor breathes new life into the beloved Lotus Esprit. Fifty years after its initial debut, the Encor Series 1 stands as a testament to thoughtful modernization, meticulously preserving the original's distinctive character while addressing its historical shortcomings. This ambitious project aims to elevate the Esprit for enthusiasts who cherish its aesthetic and desire contemporary performance and reliability, provided the significant investment is not an impediment.

The transformation begins with a ground-up approach to materials and design. Encor’s engineers digitally scanned an authentic Esprit, then subtly refined its contours rather than radically altering them, ensuring the unmistakable wedge profile endures. The original two-piece fiberglass body has been replaced by a singular, autoclaved carbon-fiber shell, drastically reducing weight and enhancing structural integrity. Beyond aesthetics, functional upgrades include a wider stance to accommodate modern tires and improved cooling, along with pop-up headlights that now conceal advanced LED projectors. The redesigned wheels pay homage to classic Lotus motifs but are crafted using contemporary forged construction, contributing to a vehicle that appears more refined than overtly flashy.

Beneath the sleek carbon-fiber exterior, the Series 1 boasts a meticulously restored Lotus Esprit V8 chassis, re-engineered for optimal performance. The mid-mounted 3.5-liter twin-turbo V8 engine has undergone a comprehensive overhaul, featuring forged internal components, upgraded turbochargers, and state-of-the-art fuel and cooling systems, all complemented by a stainless-steel exhaust. This powerhouse generates an impressive 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with a targeted curb weight of under 2,650 pounds, the car promises exhilarating acceleration, with an estimated 0-62 mph time of approximately four seconds and a top speed approaching 175 mph. A refined five-speed manual gearbox, enhanced with Quaife hardware, addresses one of the original Esprit's persistent criticisms. Inside, the cockpit retains its iconic angled dashboard and tartan seat accents, while seamlessly integrating modern infotainment and climate control systems with an analog-inspired aesthetic. This exclusive restomod will be limited to just 50 units globally, with a starting price of around $540,000, excluding taxes, options, and the required donor vehicle. Deliveries are anticipated to commence in the second quarter of 2026, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive heritage, brilliantly revitalized for a new era.

This innovative blend of heritage and contemporary engineering showcases how dedication to craftsmanship and a forward-thinking approach can not only honor the past but also forge a path to an even more exciting future, proving that true excellence can always be reimagined and refined.

Toyota's highly anticipated GR GT is poised to redefine the brand's performance legacy by offering a more attainable flagship model than its ultra-exclusive predecessor, the Lexus LFA. Set for a 2027 release, this 641-horsepower machine aims to challenge European high-performance vehicles without the prohibitive price tag that characterized the LFA. By strategically aligning its cost with established GT3 competitors and leveraging Lexus's premium service network, Toyota intends for the GR GT to be a driver-focused vehicle that is both aspirational and accessible to a broader enthusiast market.

The decision to price the GR GT more conservatively signals a shift in Toyota's approach to halo cars. Instead of creating a limited-production collectible, the company is focusing on delivering a high-performance vehicle that emphasizes driving experience and competitive value. This move not only broadens the appeal of the GR GT but also ensures that owners will receive an elevated level of care and support through specialized Lexus dealerships, reinforcing its position as a true performance leader.

The GR GT's Strategic Positioning and Pricing

Toyota's forthcoming GR GT, a powerful 641-horsepower vehicle slated for a 2027 debut, is set to become a spiritual successor to the legendary Lexus LFA. However, unlike the LFA, which commanded an initial price of $375,000 in 2009 (equivalent to approximately $563,000 today), the GR GT is designed to be considerably more accessible. Toyota executives have indicated that its pricing will benchmark European GT3 cars, such as the Porsche 911 GT3 and Mercedes-AMG GT, suggesting a starting price likely above the $200,000 mark. This strategic pricing aims to position the GR GT as a competitive high-performance vehicle that focuses on driving dynamics and market relevance rather than extreme exclusivity.

This pricing strategy represents a calculated move by Toyota to learn from the LFA's market performance, which, despite its engineering marvels, was often perceived as being priced out of reach for many enthusiasts. By drawing comparisons to established European contenders, Toyota is actively communicating that the GR GT will offer comparable performance and prestige at a more grounded price point. This approach is intended to attract a wider segment of performance car buyers who seek a potent track-ready machine without the collector-level investment. The GR GT is therefore being crafted not merely as a technological showcase, but as a genuine competitor in the high-performance GT segment, emphasizing its role as a car to be driven and enjoyed.

Premium Ownership Experience Through Lexus Dealerships

A significant aspect of the GR GT's market strategy involves its sales and service network. Despite carrying the Gazoo Racing badge, the GR GT will not be sold through standard Toyota dealerships. Instead, Toyota has confirmed that the vehicle will be exclusively available at select Lexus dealerships in the United States. This decision is rooted in the understanding that the GR GT, with its anticipated price tag exceeding $200,000, demands a premium ownership experience that aligns with its high-performance nature and advanced engineering. The complexity and expected cost of the vehicle necessitate a specialized level of customer service that most Toyota dealerships may not be equipped to provide, ensuring that buyers receive comprehensive support tailored to a luxury performance car.

By integrating the GR GT into the Lexus retail and service infrastructure, Toyota aims to guarantee that owners benefit from specialized support, maintenance, and an overall ownership experience befitting a flagship model. This move reflects a commitment to upholding the vehicle's prestige and ensuring that customers receive the elevated attention typically associated with high-end luxury and performance brands. While the GR GT may not bear a Lexus badge, its association with the Lexus network ensures that the customer journey, from purchase to long-term ownership, will be one of superior quality and specialized care. This strategic alignment underscores Toyota's vision for the GR GT as a high-value performance offering that delivers both exceptional driving dynamics and an unparalleled ownership experience, even if it is not as astronomically priced as its LFA predecessor.