Geely Poised To Infuse Almost $2 Billion In To Lotus Making It A World Class Player

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group is considering an investment of at least 1.5 billion pounds ($1.9 billion) to revive the British brand Lotus, according to people familiar with the matter.

The Chinese automaker, which also controls Volvo Cars, plans to add production facilities and research centers for Lotus in the UK, one of the people said, asking not to be identified because the deliberations are private.

Geely is also in talks to increase its 51 percent stake in Lotus with its Malaysian partner Etika Automotive, which holds the remainder, another person said.

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dlin - 8/9/2018 12:05:04 PM

+3 Boost

Looking forward to it!

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 8/9/2018 1:17:44 PM

+4 Boost

Good to hear. But $1.9B does not go as far as it used to in the car business.

runninglogan1 - 8/9/2018 3:13:40 PM

+2 Boost

Prepare for Lotus SUVs!

MDarringer - 8/9/2018 3:27:30 PM

-1 Boost

Lotus will never be a world-class player.

CANADIANCOMMENTS - 8/9/2018 11:45:58 PM

+2 Boost

What some might of missed is the 10% stake Li has in Mercedes Benz. Mercedes tech and engines would be a better fit for Lotus versus anything Volvo has. A reborn Esprit needs a bespoke engine if possible like the unit they were working on during the Bahar years.

TomM - 8/10/2018 7:01:54 AM

+2 Boost

China is now the worlds largest auto market - so it is possible that Lotus could become a player there

However - around the rest of the world - Lotus is known for its very small - lightweight little sports cars - and while they are a fun drive - they do not reach the level of many other Exotic car manufacturers.

PUGPROUD - 8/10/2018 8:36:26 AM

+1 Boost

Very optimistic based on way Geely has managed Volvo by infusing cash, supporting local management and being true to its brand values. This could be the start of something grand. Hope so. Was a big Lotus and Jim Clark fan in my youth and now rooting for resurgence.