Lotus Update: Evora 400 Roadster Due This Year, 2019 Elise Will Be More Practical

The replacement of the Elise is still a few years away, but there are already info dripping on the web.

The new Elise is expected to get narrower sills, to improve access, and add aluminum instead of some fiberglass panels, a trick used to save approximately 70kg (154lbs) of weight.

Speaking with AutoExpress, the company’ CEO, Jean-Marc Gales, hinted towards some significant updates that will make it more suitable for everyday journeys: “There are maybe five or six points that define usability, and that’s what we’ll improve.”

The compact roadstere will reportedly stick to the aluminum-bonded chassis. Styling-wise, it won’t be radically different; it will just have some updates to give it a more modern look, yet remain instantly recognizable as a Lotus.

Its launch is scheduled for 2019, and it should be followed by a brand new SUV the very next year. These aren’t the only changes made in the firm’s vehicle lineup. Lotus plans a replacement for the Exiget, too, and this time it will be federalized and made available in the US.

Before the aforementioned models, though, Lotus will introduce a roadster version of the Evora 400 that’s expected by the end of 2016. Of course it will be based on the 400hp coupe, only instead of a fixed top it will feature a two-part carbon fiber roof that can be stowed between the engine and the seats.