Lotus is gearing up for a broader future at its iconic Hethel facility in the UK, with plans to diversify beyond its own sports car lineup. The brand is exploring the possibility of manufacturing models from other marques within the Geely family — and the Polestar 6 could be among the first.
Matt Windle, CEO and President of Lotus Cars Europe, hinted at the shift during an interview, noting the transformation the company is undergoing. “I think we could build it,” Windle said of the Polestar 6, acknowledging that a transition is necessary. “At the moment it’s just internal combustion engine models being produced at Hethel, but we’re going to have to go on that journey.”
That journey reflects a deeper evolution within the brand. Windle recently took on his new role following the merger of Lotus UK, the manufacturing hub, with Lotus Tech — the Geely-backed design and R&D arm focused on electric vehicle development. “It’s better for the business,” Windle explained. “It gives us a solid link between manufacturing and commercial on sports cars but allows me to work more broadly across the company.”
The move comes as Lotus aims to revitalise Hethel’s output, particularly following a downsizing earlier this year that saw 270 jobs cut. Windle sees an opportunity to not only boost production but to reintroduce a model the brand has successfully pursued before: contract manufacturing.
Hethel famously built the Vauxhall VX220 and Tesla Roadster — both based on the Lotus Elise — in the late ’90s and early 2000s. Windle believes a return to that kind of partnership makes sense in today’s dynamic EV market.
While Hethel could soon welcome new faces under the Geely umbrella, Lotus’ own EV ambitions are taking a breather. The much-anticipated Type 135 electric sports car is currently on hold. The reason? Market uncertainty. “Is the market ready for an electric sports car? I don’t really know the answer to that yet,” Windle admitted.
In the meantime, the brand appears to be focusing on shoring up its manufacturing strategy, leveraging group synergies, and evaluating the true demand for EV performance machines. Whether the Polestar 6 makes its way to Hethel or not, it’s clear Lotus is preparing for a more flexible and collaborative future.
(Source: Paultan.org)
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