The Lotus name dates back to 1952 when it started life as an engineering firm established by Coling Chapman; by 1958 it was involved on Formula One. Shortly after, Lotus released the ultra-light, iconic Lotus Seven kit car. Not resting on their racing success, the company then released its’ first production car, the miniscule Elite two seater. Lotus went on to greater heights with a succession of famous models all starting with the letter E - Europa, Esprit, Elan, Eclat and more.