U.S. Update: Allocation & Order Date

[TXEMIRA]

@Pegasi and @Magma - please stay connected here.

This will all shake out, and when the dust settles, and only then, will we truly know what the heck is going on.

I have a good feeling Lotus wants all enthusiasts in their driver’s seats (even if it’s LHD).

This one isn’t only #ForTheDrivers but also #ForLutusFuture.

Sounds like ~3,000 Americans shelled out $2,500 for an opportunity to buy this car. $7.5m got Lotus attention.

 

[DJS]

What do you guys state side think about Emira mark up premiums due to the limited numbers in 2022?

I think 10k comfortably here in the uk.

 

[edwardbradley]

What do you guys state side think about Emira mark up premiums due to the limited numbers in 2022?

I think 10k comfortably here in the uk.

You make some what of a deal for a fixed price. Can’t get any information. And now for x Dollars you get what. How is this fair to anybody. More salt on the wound
At what point does the greed stop!!!

 

[Guest142]

We all know communication has been poor and we are all super excited (especially us forum member enthusiasts). When my dealer called me earlier this week to [finally] update me on ordering and delivery timeframe, I told him how nice it was to actually get an update and we've had basically radio silence since making the deposit and then getting the official pricing email from Lotus on October 1st. It was somewhat reassuring when he replied that they only contacts customers when there is 100% solid information to relay directly from Lotus and that they know there is a ton of information on these forums (some rumors and speculation and some only apply to certain regions), but when there is solid information to share, we'll get it.

I think the US dealers have their hands tied a bit. Not only are they few and far between here in the states, but Lotus corporate is clearly overwhelmed with the Emira response and doing everything they can to get production ramped up and working smoothly. Not to mention getting the press cars out and handling everything with PR and customer service. They're a small company and the demand is HUGE!!!

I think the car will be worth the wait and hoping there won't be any more major delays or hiccups along the way. Maybe we'll even get an earlier than expected production update! The pessimist inside is 100% certain these Oct-Dec deliveries will surely be pushed to 2023, but I'm really trying hard to stay positive here.

This is spot on.
My dealer has been amazing. Gator Motorsport have been quickly responsive, shares accurate information, has been completely transparent, and at no point have they done anything unethical or pushy. I have an amazing saleswoman who has done a remarkable job with every request I've made.

The truth is, Lotus has done it. The car has sold itself. The buzz, excitement, and demand for this car is exactly what I expected when I initially saw the reveal video. It's a car that people are going to want, and will be able to enjoy. That's the key part, drivers can enjoy this car. With a little smart budget planning it will be very affordable.

I'm excited...for Lotus and what other manufacturers can learn from Emira. This is a legacy car homerun. Certain to be a classic in the future. Just a phenomenal job by the British. Hats off. Statement car engineering. This was about nothing other than passion and brand longevity...and they really nailed it. It's going to take people a while to fully understand what the Emira is.

 

[Guest142]

What do you guys state side think about Emira mark up premiums due to the limited numbers in 2022?

I think 10k comfortably here in the uk.

I wouldn't do that to a buyer. Thats just me. I wouldn't be a part of anything like that if it was my decision and something I could control. What other people do, that's them. Personally, I honestly would get more joy from knowing I did a fair deal and the buyer got a driving experience few can enjoy. But again, that's just me.

For me, its all about people at the end of the day. My fulfillment doesn't have to come at the expense of others. We all can win.

 

[DJS]

I wouldn't do that to a buyer. Thats just me. I wouldn't be a part of anything like that if it was my decision and something I could control. What other people do, that's them. Personally, I honestly would get more joy from knowing I did a fair deal and the buyer got a driving experience few can enjoy. But again, that's just me.

For me, its all about people at the end of the day. My fulfillment doesn't have to come at the expense of others. We all can win.

Im only asking about values due to the cars popularity not actually selling it, Just a bit of fun.

Definitely the politically correct thing to say though.

 

[Guest142]

Im only asking about values due to the cars popularity not actually selling it, Just a bit of fun.

Definitely the politically correct thing to say though.

Understood.

 

[DJS]

Understood.

Im with you hate the thought of someone flipping it when the wait is so long.

 

[TXEMIRA]

How ‘bout those cup holders though?

amiright?

 

[LotusB]

This issue of pricing now takes on substantial meaning for many people who don’t make the FE cut. If they now have to order a base V6 and configure it like a FE they will loose out on the pricing benefit of getting a FE car with special package pricing. For those who placed their deposit (which is all they could do) in July shortly after the reveal and yet didn’t get a FE car, I can understand them being very upset. Their car will be more expensive than the FE car ordered by someone else just days earlier and yet they will be waiting substantially longer for their car. Perhaps lotus should consider honoring FE pricing for those customers who placed an early deposit (say within a month of the reveal) and configure their car as a FE. If they did that, I don’t think anyone would mind the wait, as they would get the car they want for the price they were expecting on a timeline that is the best lotus could achieve under the circumstances. Otherwise, some of these buyers may just feel cheated and drop out. I hope lotus is thinking very carefully about this to avoid alienating the very buyers whose loyalty they are trying to secure. @TomE, any way to transmit this message to leadership?

Lotus made no promise of delivering everyone an FE, they said they were going to deliver 500 to North America. Now it's 700.

That's life! Grow up! There are people who camp outside of Best Buy for a week to get the latest PlayStation (or what have you). You could also camp in the same line for the same week, but not be able to get that PS because there were just 3 and you happened to be 4th in line.

If you feel cheated, drop out. I'm sure the people higher on the list will be happy to move up the list. In today's climate even getting a car is tough. If I were you, I'd be more concerned about being able to get the car at MSRP. There are pro's and con's to being first and we don't yet know which is more advantageous, but you want your cake and eat it too.

I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, but I literally deal with this crap with my kids all the time. They think life is just full of participations trophies. Not the case. Personal example: after I bought my Tesla Model 3 the price was dropped. Then a few months later it was released with a new computer for less money. Then a color that used to cost $2k (white) became available as a free option. Was looking for a Model S for my wife and before I pulled the trigger the price went up $10k. That's life.

 

[DF_Toronto]

Lotus made no promise of delivering everyone an FE, they said they were going to deliver 500 to North America. Now it's 700.

That's life! Grow up! There are people who camp outside of Best Buy for a week to get the latest PlayStation (or what have you). You could also camp in the same line for the same week, but not be able to get that PS because there were just 3 and you happened to be 4th in line.

If you feel cheated, drop out. I'm sure the people higher on the list will be happy to move up the list. In today's climate even getting a car is tough. If I were you, I'd be more concerned about being able to get the car at MSRP. There are pro's and con's to being first and we don't yet know which is more advantageous, but you want your cake and eat it too.

I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, but I literally deal with this crap with my kids all the time. They think life is just full of participations trophies. Not the case. Personal example: after I bought my Tesla Model 3 the price was dropped. Then a few months later it was released with a new computer for less money. Then a color that used to cost $2k (white) became available as a free option. Was looking for a Model S for my wife and before I pulled the trigger the price went up $10k. That's life.

I think you’ve missed the plot. There’s a huge difference between not getting something you want and putting a deposit down for something you’ve been told you’d get and then finding out 8 months later people who put their money down after you have been moved in front, and on top of that you are going to now get less for more money. That is unethical and Lotus are about to lose half their potential future customer base if they don’t prioritize addressing and resolving this before it costs them dearly.

 

[LotusB]

I think you’ve missed the plot. There’s a huge difference between not getting something you want and putting a deposit down for something you’ve been told you’d get and then finding out 8 months later people who put their money down after you have been moved in front, and on top of that you are going to now get less for more money. That is unethical and Lotus are about to lose half their potential future customer base if they don’t prioritize addressing and resolving this before it costs them dearly.

Not to get technical, but 8-months ago was June 3rd. Anyone who put a deposit before the reveal is essentially assured a FE.

Lotus never promised anything when you put a deposit down. It was the dealer who promised you a place in line. So if you're #20 on the list and the dealer has 15-cars. That's that!

You think that's unethical? I went to the Chevy dealer to put a deposit on a Z06. This was prior to the reveal, but not quite years ago like some of the customers on his books. I was told I'm #40-something. Oh.... and by the way, that's with a $30k markup. My number will go up if I'm not willing to pay the adjustment.

Or how about this... I was promised a Tesla Roadster 2 in 2020, here we are in 2022 and it's not even on the radar.

Let's hope Lotus can deliver the cars, on time and for all of us at MSRP. I seriously think that anyone who doesn't already have a deposit will be looking at market adjustments. If you think I'm joking, go to any dealer right now and try to buy a car. They have low to no inventory and the prices are above MSRP for almost everything.

 

[VL3X]

First... World... Problems

But seriously.. I agree any signed paperwork from dealers should have stated something like... "Deposit for First Edition or next available base/custom spec model if FE is no longer available. First Edition availability based on dealer allocation."

If anyone is upset, I suggest contacting Lotus of US. They've been good about responding to me. And in the meantime.. Go buy a Cayman or something until your Emira arrives.. That's what I plan to do.

 

[DF_Toronto]

Sorry, didn’t do the math and just guessed it had been 8 months. I can just speak for myself and say that I registered my interest on July 8 when I learned about the car 2 days after Goodwood. If they sold out on July 6th that’s my loss and too bad. I’ve got zero issues with the car getting delayed or supply chain issues etc I can go on, if cars don’t get delivered until 2024 or if I get mine a year after the first deliveries I’ve got no complaint. I will however take issue if it turns out that I said I want the FE model if I can get one the day I put my deposit, before there was info on it and was told I would. If Lotus at some point said only the first ____ will be FE and I was too late, oh well. But, if it turns out that customers put down deposits later and or gave bribes - and I’m told my allocation will be a year later than that person getting an FE and I will be getting a non-FE that will cost more to spec as an FE. Well, as someone who’s always loved Lotus since they were a kid and is a potential duel Lotus owner for life. I just cannot support a company that accepts their clients being treated unethically, that’s the deal breaker for me.

Anyway, that‘s fine if Chevy or Ferrari or Lotus behave arrogantly or unethically. That’s their choice, and as customers we also have a choice to say I’m going to take my business elsewhere if you behave like that. It’s a bit of a shame because I don’t think that is in Lotus’ nature from what I know, or what they want. But it seems like their North American customers (and maybe elsewhere) are getting the screw job seeing how the local UK clients are being looked after.

Not to get technical, but 8-months ago was June 3rd. Anyone who put a deposit before the reveal is essentially assured a FE.

Lotus never promised anything when you put a deposit down. It was the dealer who promised you a place in line. So if you're #20 on the list and the dealer has 15-cars. That's that!

You think that's unethical? I went to the Chevy dealer to put a deposit on a Z06. This was prior to the reveal, but not quite years ago like some of the customers on his books. I was told I'm #40-something. Oh.... and by the way, that's with a $30k markup. My number will go up if I'm not willing to pay the adjustment.

Or how about this... I was promised a Tesla Roadster 2 in 2020, here we are in 2022 and it's not even on the radar.

Let's hope Lotus can deliver the cars, on time and for all of us at MSRP. I seriously think that anyone who doesn't already have a deposit will be looking at market adjustments. If you think I'm joking, go to any dealer right now and try to buy a car. They have low to no inventory and the prices are above MSRP for almost everything

 

[DF_Toronto]

First... World... Problems

But seriously.. I agree any signed paperwork from dealers should have stated something like... "Deposit for First Edition or next available base/custom spec model if FE is no longer available. First Edition availability based on dealer allocation."

If anyone is upset, I suggest contacting Lotus of US. They've been good about responding to me. And in the meantime.. Go buy a Cayman or something until your Emira arrives.. That's what I plan to do.

I don’t remember when the FE was officially announced but there was no word on it other than talk about whether they might do one back in July.

 

[LotusB]

But, if it turns out that customers put down deposits later and or gave bribes - and I’m told my allocation will be a year later than that person getting an FE and I will be getting a non-FE that will cost more to spec as an FE.

Now that would be terrible and in that case I agree with you.

In other-words, if the dealer told you that you're #7 in line, they have 15 allocations, but they somehow don't have one for you? That, I agree, is disingenuous. You'd have every right to be pissed off and I would expect Lotus to do something to that dealer. I don't expect that would make you whole, but I would expect reduced allocation or some other way of punishing the dealer if they screw with [ultimately] Lotus customers.

But to be clear, I've yet to hear (and it's too early) of someone who's "X" on the list, the dealer allocation is "X + Y" and yet they aren't getting one.

Anyway, that‘s fine if Chevy or Ferrari or Lotus behave arrogantly or unethically. That’s their choice, and as customers we also have a choice to say I’m going to take my business elsewhere if you behave like that. It’s a bit of a shame because I don’t think that is in Lotus’ nature from what I know, or what they want. But it seems like their North American customers (and maybe elsewhere) are getting the screw job seeing how the local UK clients are being looked after.

I think the issues here aren't the constructors, but rather the dealers. This is exactly why both Ford and Chevy presidents/VP's recently came out with harsh words against these dealer games. But this is exactly why so many people on these forums have gone with Gator as an example. Honesty is worth a whole lot and it may be that those people gave up an earlier allocation elsewhere to do so. But Gator is high enough volume the difference should only be measured in months.

 

[DF_Toronto]

Now that would be terrible and in that case I agree with you.

In other-words, if the dealer told you that you're #7 in line, they have 15 allocations, but they somehow don't have one for you? That, I agree, is disingenuous. You'd have every right to be pissed off and I would expect Lotus to do something to that dealer. I don't expect that would make you whole, but I would expect reduced allocation or some other way of punishing the dealer if they screw with [ultimately] Lotus customers.

But to be clear, I've yet to hear (and it's too early) of someone who's "X" on the list, the dealer allocation is "X + Y" and yet they aren't getting one.



I think the issues here aren't the constructors, but rather the dealers. This is exactly why both Ford and Chevy presidents/VP's recently came out with harsh words against these dealer games. But this is exactly why so many people on these forums have gone with Gator as an example. Honesty is worth a whole lot and it may be that those people gave up an earlier allocation elsewhere to do so. But Gator is high enough volume the difference should only be measured in months.

Nothing official but there are now stories of this happening spreading online. This is what happens in the age of social media when you have one region you’re inviting to dealership events and communicating with. While the other region gets a single e-mail in October “as a priority customer, we promised you would be the first to hear about Emira updates” and then go on to provide the price of the FE “There’s still plenty of time to perfect your configuration before dealers collect orders in due time”. And are then left to rely on word of mouth in this forum.

 

[jmn444]

yeah, I could be wrong, but I don't believe (most) dealers are bumping people down the list, I think two things are happening:

1. people are dropping out to wait for colors or i4 or found a diff car, which potentially opens a spot within the allocation range, and the dealer is filling that with dealer stock and charging adm or msrp at their choice to any customer they choose. Not ideal by any means, but still "fair" if they didn't specifically promise you you'd move up and you are not being pushed down the line.

2. dealers that didn't commit to msrp are now telling their allocations that there's an adm, and if they decline and opt to wait for a base at msrp, they start moving down the list and offer the spot at the markup they are looking for. also not "great", but same concept in a way, and realistically anyone putting a deposit down should have clarified the pricing as adm's aren't new by any means and certainly msrp is a "deal" in the current market...

none of this IMO is Lotus's fault. it's not new. TONS of posts back when this all started about adm's vs msrp.

it's also somewhat ironic IMO, that I would bet every person that has complained, has also previously bought a car at LESS than msrp or or asking price, or at least tried to, and yet THAT is somehow fair to a dealer/seller... negotiations and market work both ways in life.

just my 2 pennies and i'm not getting a FE either. hoping I get to see all the colors on real cars before I have to place an order, which for the non FE receiving folks, is probably sooner than you'd think if you read between the lines as to how everything is going down.

 

[Mike-engel]

Lotus made no promise of delivering everyone an FE, they said they were going to deliver 500 to North America. Now it's 700.

That's life! Grow up! There are people who camp outside of Best Buy for a week to get the latest PlayStation (or what have you). You could also camp in the same line for the same week, but not be able to get that PS because there were just 3 and you happened to be 4th in line.

If you feel cheated, drop out. I'm sure the people higher on the list will be happy to move up the list. In today's climate even getting a car is tough. If I were you, I'd be more concerned about being able to get the car at MSRP. There are pro's and con's to being first and we don't yet know which is more advantageous, but you want your cake and eat it too.

I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, but I literally deal with this crap with my kids all the time. They think life is just full of participations trophies. Not the case. Personal example: after I bought my Tesla Model 3 the price was dropped. Then a few months later it was released with a new computer for less money. Then a color that used to cost $2k (white) became available as a free option. Was looking for a Model S for my wife and before I pulled the trigger the price went up $10k. That's life.

Why the hostility? I was just making a point that for some this could be a barrier that would lead them to turn away from the car and the brand. In the long run that doesn’t sound good for the company. In the setting of the current largesse…deposits out into the foreseeable future…. it seems like there are no consequences to disregarding your customers. I’m not so sure that’s true, at least not universally so. And please refrain from remarks telling others to grow up or comparing them to your five year old children simply for making a comment contrary to your opinion. It’s not welcome.

 

[LotusB]

Why the hostility?

No hostility at all...

I was just making a point that for some this could be a barrier that would lead them to turn away from the car and the brand.

Which point and what is "this?"

In the long run that doesn’t sound good for the company.

What is "that?"

In the setting of the current largesse…deposits out into the foreseeable future…. it seems like there are no consequences to disregarding your customers.

How has Lotus disregarded its customers?