Encor Series 1 by Encor Is A Modern Lotus Esprit Revival
Edited by Colin Smith — March 30, 2026 — Autos
This article was written with the assistance of AI.
References: motortrend
The Encor Series 1 is a limited-run reimagining of the Lotus Esprit created by Encor, featuring a one-piece carbon-fiber body and a rebuilt mid-mounted 3.5L twin-turbo V-8 producing 400 hp. The car repurposes the Esprit V8 donor chassis, with the original backbone galvanized, strengthened rear hub carriers and a new stainless-steel exhaust, designed to deliver modern durability while honoring the original geometry.
Encor updated suspension, a reworked five-speed transaxle by Quaife and refined interior tech—including a central portrait touchscreen and driver-focused displays—blend classic layout cues with contemporary components. Built to a run of 50 cars with production slated to begin in 2026, the Series 1 aims to give collectors a lighter, better-built Esprit experience with improved rigidity, modern electrics and enhanced daily usability compared with unrestored originals.
Image Credit: Encor
Encor updated suspension, a reworked five-speed transaxle by Quaife and refined interior tech—including a central portrait touchscreen and driver-focused displays—blend classic layout cues with contemporary components. Built to a run of 50 cars with production slated to begin in 2026, the Series 1 aims to give collectors a lighter, better-built Esprit experience with improved rigidity, modern electrics and enhanced daily usability compared with unrestored originals.
Image Credit: Encor
Trend Themes
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Carbon-fiber Monocoque Restorations — The adoption of single-piece carbon-fiber bodies for classic platforms indicates potential to reimagine heritage vehicles with modern stiffness and weight savings that outperform original constructions.
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Heritage Supercar Reimaginings — Increasing interest in limited-run revivals of iconic models suggests a market for blending original geometry and design language with contemporary engineering and electronics.
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Bespoke Limited-run Manufacturing — Small production series that combine donor-chassis reuse with extensive rebuilds and premium materials point to scalable custom manufacturing models targeting collectors and enthusiasts.
Industry Implications
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Automotive Restoration and Rebodying — Enhanced restoration workflows that integrate modern materials, galvanized reinforcement and reworked drivetrains create opportunities for higher-value, longer-lasting heritage vehicles.
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Advanced Composite Materials — Demand for one-piece carbon structures in low-volume applications highlights a space for tailored composite tooling, rapid layup methods and novel repair technologies.
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Luxury Collector Automobile Market — Collector-focused offerings that combine provenance, limited availability and modern usability signal new product tiers that command premium pricing and aftermarket services.
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