Lotus partners up with Mansory

Lotus has announced that Swiss tuner Mansory will be the carmaker's ‘official customisation studio'.

The infamous tuning house - yes, that one - will collaborate with Lotus in an official capacity, contributing bodywork, trim and special finishes for the Elise, Exige and Evora, as well as preparing "an exciting new model variant" at the Paris motor show in September this year.

The two companies have worked together before, most notably on the hardcore 440bhp Evora GTE, and thus the official tie-up will upgrade Mansory's hand in customisation that will "scream individuality and quality".

See more pics of the new Lotus Evora GTE

Naturally, some of you may have reservations with Mansory's ‘screaming', what with its previous record. But set aside your aspersions for a moment, and remember that the company certainly knows how to knock together a luxurious cabin - something that could immediately elevate a Lotus' desirability.

Says Kourosh Mansory: "We have always been passionate about British cars, and the cooperation with Lotus meets our quality of production combined with masterly craftsmanship and the most precious materials."

And there is an acute commercial focus at work here too, as Lotus points out. Maurizio Parlato, commercial director for Lotus, tells us "there is a strong market for official customisation. For customers who are seeking Lotus' principals of speed, innovation and fun but with added exclusivity, our customisation studio is the answer."

Remember that Evora GTE? It was originally planned as a 25-run limited edition especially for the Chinese market. As soon as it went on display, orders shot up to 250 and Lotus confirmed it would be expanding its market...