After a nearly three-year wait, Lotus enthusiasts in the United States can finally rejoice. The highly anticipated Emira sports car has received certification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), paving the way for its long-overdue arrival in the American market. Since its global debut in July 2021, the Emira has been tantalizing driving enthusiasts with its promise of pure, unadulterated driving pleasure, and now, it’s ready to conquer the roads of the US.
Navigating Regulatory Hurdles
The road to the Emira’s US launch has been a winding one, with Lotus navigating a complex web of emissions regulations. While only 14 states follow CARB rules, Lotus wisely chose to wait for CARB approval before commencing sales in any part of the country. This strategic decision prevented potential issues with customers flipping cars to buyers in CARB states, where the Emira could not be registered without proper certification.
Retuned for Excitement
At the core of the Emira V6 lies a familiar powerplant – a 3.5-liter Toyota V6 supercharged to produce an exhilarating 400 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. While this engine has been a staple in Lotus’ lineup since the Evora S debuted in 2010, the Emira’s iteration features a slightly different state of tune compared to the last US-spec Evoras. With a lower rev limit but only a minor decrease in output compared to the Evora GT, the Emira promises to deliver a thrilling driving experience while meeting stringent emissions standards.
Supply Chain Challenges
Lotus’ journey to bring the Emira to the US has been further complicated by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on supply chains. Despite these hurdles, the company persevered, commencing deliveries to European and Asian buyers in 2022. Now, after a prolonged wait, American enthusiasts can finally savor the fruits of Lotus’ labor.
A Diverse Lineup
While the Emira V6 marks the initial offering for the US market, Lotus has plans to expand the lineup with a four-cylinder variant. Powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine from Mercedes-AMG, this model promises to deliver 360 horsepower of thrills, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. As the Toyota V6 eventually phases out of production, the Emira will transition to a solely four-cylinder offering, ensuring a future-proof lineup for Lotus in the American market.
Lotus Legacy
With the Emira’s arrival in the US, Lotus continues its legacy of delivering pure driving experiences that prioritize performance, agility, and driver engagement. As the brand’s latest creation, the Emira represents the culmination of Lotus’ expertise, blending cutting-edge technology with the company’s unwavering commitment to driving thrills. For American enthusiasts, the wait is finally over, and the roads are about to be graced by a new chapter in Lotus’ storied history.