Concluding a landmark year for the company, 2018 saw Lotus celebrate its 70th birthday, new majority ownership from Geely, substantial investment in product development and new facilities, and a number of senior appointments, with respected auto and luxury-sector leader, Phil Popham, joining as CEO.
Commenting on 2018's sales, Phil Popham said, "The year's results show success on many levels, in what is a new dawn for the brand and business. Strong sales and an increasing presence in many international markets underline growing confidence as new shareholder backing starts to shape our future. The many appointments to the company in the executive team and across the business demonstrate a real confidence and ability to deliver our ambitions for Lotus globally."
Sales highlights around the world include Sweden, up 87%; Japan, up 59%; Australia, up 50%; Middle East, up 39%; Italy, up 14%; Taiwan, up 33%, with a solid sales performance also delivered across most of mainland Europe and the U.K.
