Geely Buys Lotus - Can The Brand Be Resurrected Like Volvo?

China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Company has decided to purchase a 49.9 percent stake in Proton from Malaysian conglomerate DRB-Hicom and a majority share of the United Kingdom’s Lotus Cars.

Geely seems to have an affinity for other manufacturers and eclectic tastes — not just because it has received criticism for modeling its own cars after everything from Roll-Royce to Toyota, but because it also purchased Volvo Cars and the London Taxi Company. This could be extremely good news for Lotus, which always seems to be in a bit of a bind. Whether or not you like the idea of a Chinese company owning distinctively European brands, Geely helped Volvo come back from the brink and has committed to doing the same for Lotus.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 5/24/2017 2:03:57 PM

+3 Boost

This is great news. Geely ownership has certainly helped Volvo. Current Lotus CEO should be tossed as I don't think he gets what the brand is about. Bring back the Danny Bahar plan and create the new Esprit as well as Elan and Elise. Modular engine V8/V6/V4 with super or turbo charging. Maybe repurpose Volvo engines. Who knows. Make it happen!

malba2367 - 5/24/2017 3:46:52 PM

+3 Boost

Hopefully they will have the $$ to resurrect that amazing looking esprit concept from a couple years back

malba2367 - 5/24/2017 3:48:36 PM

+3 Boost

Hopefully they will have the $$ to resurrect that amazing looking esprit concept from a couple years back

MDarringer - 5/24/2017 7:00:36 PM

-1 Boost

Lotus is of dubious value at best. Proton was what Geely was after. Not the maker of esoteric sports cars. Resurrecting Lotus should be LAST on their list and instead they should be looking to Proton to strengthen their southeast Asian/Indian market penetration.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 5/24/2017 8:28:08 PM

+3 Boost

You are likely correct. If you read the article it talks about their global strategy and Proton is the key to unlocking value in that part of Asia for the Geely brand. Lotus may be just part of the sale. Or they may have other plans. they have my blessing to sell it to Tata so it can be combined with Jaguar and Land Rover.

PUGPROUD - 5/25/2017 2:54:26 PM

+1 Boost

This could be very good news...in any event Lotus is a cat with nine lives!