The venue was Galpin Lotus, Los Angeles, California. At a special event held in showroom’s vault, the Emira V6 First Edition made its debut before a select group of US journalists and influencers from some of the largest automotive, tech and business channels.

With the car was a travelling team from the UK, including Lotus Cars MD Matt Windle, Design Director Russell Carr and Director of Vehicle Attributes Gavan Kershaw, who were happy to chat with guests and answer their questions. The trio even made a stop by The Smoking Tire studio to record a podcast with hosts Matt Farah and Zack Klapman that will go live here on December 2.

Later that evening, Galpin Lotus opened its doors to nearly 400 customers for an exclusive Emira unveiling party. Amidst a standing-room-only crowd, the cover was pulled back to give attendees their first face-to-face look at the Emira. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many asking when the car will be available for sale in the U.S. It was also an opportunity for prospective buyers to mingle and speak with Lotus executives about the Emira and the marque’s plans for the future.

The Emira concluded its Los Angeles visit with a surprise appearance at Malibu Cars & Coffee, where thousands of car enthusiasts had the chance to experience the car, take photos and ask questions, surrounded by a fleet of the outgoing Evora GT models. Among those who came out for a sneak peek was American entertainment and auto icon Jay Leno, as well as Spike’s Car Radio hosts Spike Feresten and Jonny Lieberman.

Q&A – Ivan Merino, Brand Manager, Galpin Lotus, Van Nuys, California

What was it like to have the Emira in the showroom?
It was so exciting! Everyone that passed by it stopped to take pictures and asked what it was. The Emira was like a star walking into a movie premiere with paparazzi all over it. Absolutely an incredible feeling to have a part of Lotus history in our showroom.

What was customer interest like before the event?
Demand has been high since the name was revealed. After the car was fully unveiled, the phone did not stop ringing with people trying to get every bit of information we had.

How was the event for you?
We had close to 400 attendees and the energy was electrifying. People had smiles on their faces and you could feel the excitement in the room. People were talking about specs, colours and what they wanted in their driveway. They just couldn’t wait to sit in the car, touch it, feel it and finally interact with what for a lot had just been an image through a computer screen up to that point. Truly, the whole experience has been one-of-a-kind for the Galpin team. Thank you Lotus!

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