Team Lotus could be rebranded for a third time in a year following news that owner and team principal Tony Fernandes, has acquired sportscar manufacturer Caterham.
A Team Lotus invitation sent to the media on Wednesday stated that “an incredibly exciting announcement about the future of the team” would be revealed on April 27th.
Team Lotus is currently stuck in a legal battle with Group Lotus, a subsidiary of Proton Cars and title-sponsor of the Lotus-Renault outfit.
A decision was expected next week on whether Team Lotus or Group Lotus had the rights’ to the ‘Lotus’ name within Formula One. However, it has become apparent that a verdict isn’t expected for several weeks now.
If the decision goes in the way of Group Lotus, Fernandes’ outfit will be forced to drop its current name.
Many believe the Malaysian businessman, owner of several companies including AirAsia and Tune Group, has had his eye on acquiring Lotus Cars from Proton, however this plan was scuppered when Dany Bahar became CEO of Lotus Cars PLC with a plan to relaunch the brand with several new models.
The next best option? Acquire a competitor with a rich history. Not only would that fulfil his desire to own a car manufacturer with the ability to expand it further, worldwide, but it would also give Team Lotus a new brand if it is forced to rename as a result of the Lotus vs. Lotus court case.
Update: Documents from Companies House show that Fernandes became Director of Caterham Cars Ltd on April 12th.
Discussion about this post