Lotus Nears SUV Decision

China-based Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. has big plans for its new Group Lotus unit, possibly including adding a crossover/SUV to its current lineup of lightweight sports cars.

A decision on a crossover model is expected to be made “very soon,” Autocar reports. The U.K.-based enthusiast magazine notes that Lotus likely would use the “compact modular architecture” platform developed by Geely’s Volvo Car unit that carries the new Volvo XC40 and Lynk&Co. 01 models.

Lotus reportedly had been considering a crossover/SUV prior to the Geely acquisition. After the deal was completed in September, Lotus CEO Jean-Marc Gales told Autocar there was a room for a lightweight, aerodynamic Lotus crossover that “handles like nothing else.”

Geely has pledged to revive Lotus by upping product development and investing in manufacturing and marketing. Noting that Lotus once competed against Ferrari and Porsche, Geely chief An Cong Hui says the company is working to make the marque “one of the top performers in the luxury sports car segment."