It’s amazing to think that it was way back in 1948 when Colin Chapman built the first Lotus racing car, his talent was so, that he could only be considered to be a pioneer in automotive engineering, this has been proved with the Lotus Formula One team which had such success for many seasons. It has to be said that he was a bit chancer and would take any opportunity to get one up on all of the other teams at the races.
But it was the road cars that really got the company name out there, these cars were innovative and designed with style and elegance. The Elan and Europa being the models that really set Lotus on the road to success.
But there were problems that affected the company in the later years, which in a way actually proved that Colin Chapman was a real person and not some machine set on making money. In celebration of the car and the man, there is to be a landmark event held at the Lotus Headquarters in Hethel, England on 14th September 2008 and will be opened by Hazel and Clive Chapman.
An invitation is extended to all to join Lotus on 14th September 2008 for a day’s celebrations and with it the chance to experience the majesty of the marque and be part of Lotus’ tomorrow.
Source [Auto Spectator]
I wish Hethel wasn’t over five hours away from my house, otherwise I’d certainly go along. If you’ve never driven a Lotus then you’ve missed a treat. Their poise, turning ability and sheer fun is quite something else.