So what, exactly, is Bob Lutz doing pontificating on the probabilities of Proton-owned Lotus' likelihood of success? He's an member of the senior advisory board, invited by new CEO Dany Bahar. And he's guesstimating a 60 percent chance of success for Lotus' new model line and product direction.
We're not sure where Lutz gets his numbers from, but we're guessing it's traditional Lutzian gut instinct. His gut has proven a reliable companion over the years, so we're inclined to believe him. But we're still a bit perturbed at the company's metamorphosis.
Lutz says his 60-percent rating is a better chance than he would have given the previous tack, however, which he says would "eventually lead this great brand into terminal decline." We can't disagree with that, either, as niche sportscar makers are a thing of the past. See, e.g., Porsche.
For more on the cars that form the new Lotus Lutz is talking about, check out our previews of the 2013-2015 Elan, Esprit, Eterne, Elite, and Elise.
[Autocar]
