I reiterate my sentiments about the ownership experience. While the Elise is produced in greater quantities than the Esprit, it is still a handmade car produced by a low-volume manufacturer. As such, the Elise could not be as fully "developed" as cars offered by large-scale producers (such as extensive durability testing of minor components). The result is that owners new to the Lotus Experience should embrace the potential for little annoyances with their cars -- it's just part of the deal.
Parts availability in the US is still unknown. Although there are/will be several suppliers of add-ons and modifications, comprehensive (those who stock the entire parts list for the car) suppliers will probably be few. Again, acceptance of this situation should prevent any ugly surprises for owners new to the Lotus Experience. Currently, Dave Bean, Sports Car World, RD Enterprises and some others stock Lotus parts (in addition to Lotus and their dealers). Relative scaricity may keep part prices high for some time.
An interesting tidbit regarding the S1 Elise: The car uses mirror housings from another car (a Renault or something). To develop a lotus-specific mirror would have cost more than the entire development cost of the Elise!
I don't want to be a pessimist. I just want new Lotus owners to enjoy their Loti (Lotuses?) without any surprises that they might not have budgeted for. The Elise is still an "exotic" -- exotics can be costly to maintain. If I'm proven wrong on this issue (believe me I want to be), it will be a pleasant surprise.
