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
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Sectors Adopting This
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
