The current Elise is more like 1000 kgs if some options are included, 951 kgs without options, to be precise.
The point seems to be that new light sports cars are increasingly difficult to build to conform with EC rules. It might be an interesting option to shorten an Aero, take out some of the high performance components and stuff a four cylinder engine into it. Lotus customers also donīt really appreciate the brightwork, woodwork and the leather quality, so cost could be cut in that sector.
But beware: Lotus customers are used to some level of build quality and reliability
