The Lotus Emira Receives CARB Approval for U.S. Sales

Introduction

The highly anticipated Lotus Emira has finally received certification from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), allowing deliveries of the mid-engined sports car to begin in the United States.

Deliveries Resumed

Lotus had previously shipped hundreds of Emiras to U.S. dealerships, but they were held back due to pending emissions approval. Despite only 14 states following CARB standards, Lotus delayed deliveries nationwide to prevent vehicles from being resold to CARB states.

CARB Approval

In January, Lotus announced that final checks were needed for CARB approval, with an update pending. Recently, a member of the Lotus Talk forum obtained documentation confirming CARB approval on February 29 through a public records request.

U.S. Specifications

The Lotus Emira is a significant model for the brand, replacing the Exige, Elise, and Evora. It marks the final combustion-powered car from Lotus and is available in the U.S. with a 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine, producing 395 hp and 317 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic or manual transmission.

Dealership Update

One Lotus dealership revealed it had received over 100 Emiras and was awaiting CARB approval to deliver them to customers.