Fifty years after the world premiere of the iconic Lotus Esprit S1, unveiled at the 1975 Paris Motor Show, Encor has announced the arrival of the Encor Series 1, a modern reinterpretation of the classic British sports car.
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Limited to just 50 units, the model combines timeless design, a carbon fiber body, and cutting-edge technology.
Based on the original Esprit S1, the Encor Series 1 preserves the philosophy of Colin Chapman, but with updated materials and engineering. The classic backbone chassis remains at the core of the car, while the fiberglass body has been replaced by carbon fiber panels, resulting in a lighter, stiffer, and more precise build.
The lines were refined in CAD, aerodynamics enhanced, and even the legendary pop-up headlights received a new interpretation: now they are sleek low-profile LED projectors.
“In every detail, we acted as guardians of Chapman’s ideals. Our mission is to elevate the Esprit into a new era without sacrificing its soul,” said Simon Lane, co-founder of Encor.
Engine and mechanics
Each unit begins with a donor Lotus Esprit V8. The engine is completely rebuilt and refined, with greater performance, improved drivability, and enhanced usability for everyday life. The original chassis, engine, and gearbox are preserved to maintain authenticity and the historical connection to the brand.
Reimagined interior
The Esprit’s immersive cockpit has been reinterpreted with fine leathers, Alcantara, and machined aluminum. The model also features Apple CarPlay, discreet 360° cameras, and modern climate control, balancing classic aesthetics with contemporary comfort.
Elite team
The Encor team brings together professionals with more than three decades of experience, having worked with brands such as Pagani, Koenigsegg, Aston Martin, Porsche, and Lotus. Previous projects include the Lotus Emira and customization programs from Q by Aston Martin and Lotus Advanced Performance.
“Anyone can modify a car. What sets us apart is how we treat the Esprit – not as a project, but as a responsibility. Progress should enhance, not replace,” Lane emphasized.
Launch and price
Further details, technical specifications, and official images will be released in November 2025. The Encor Series 1 will have a starting price of £430,000 (approximately R$ 3 million), excluding taxes, optional extras, and the donor vehicle.
Source and images: Encor design. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
