Shock as Lotus deliveries halted after Drivalia cancels finance deals
Hundreds of Lotus customers, many just days away from taking delivery of their new cars, have been left stunned after finance provider Drivalia suddenly cancelled all UK business lease and personal purchase finance agreements.
The abrupt move has cast a shadow of uncertainty over scores of buyers who had arranged to receive their vehicles before the end of the year.
The shock cancellations coincide with a strange development at sea. The Blanco Ace, a container ship carrying hundreds of Lotus cars intended for UK customers, was due to dock in Bristol yesterday. Instead, it unexpectedly turned around and is currently sailing in circles in the Bristol Channel. Buyers who were counting on the shipment’s imminent arrival now face added anxiety over when, or if, their cars will be delivered.
Among those affected is Richard Alvin, Managing Editor at EV Powered, who placed his order for a Lotus Eletre S in July—over six months ago. Expecting a late December delivery, Alvin’s eagerly anticipated new car is reportedly on board the Blanco Ace. “The disappointment is immense,” he said. “I’ve spent months looking forward to the day I can take possession of my Eletre, only to find both the financing and delivery have collapsed at the final hurdle. The lack of clarity and communication is truly unsettling.”
The unexpected cancellation of finance agreements leaves prospective owners grappling with questions. Some had arranged their lease and purchase deals through Drivalia, which had previously assured customers of smooth financing processes. Now, these buyers are left high and dry, with no explanation provided thus far.
Market commentators suggest the problem may be financial or logistical. The sudden departure from plans and the Blanco Ace’s peculiar detour in the Bristol Channel have sparked speculation that behind-the-scenes issues—either at Lotus, Drivalia, or related supply chain partners—are causing the disruptions.
Lotus provided an initial response to say that the delay to Blanco Ace docking in Bristol was down to bad weather and that they did not anticipate any customer delays as a result.
Following on a joint statement Lotus and Drivalia said: “Lotus and Drivalia have been working together to mitigate against any customer effects due to leasing offer timelines and delivery dates. All contract hire quotes provided to customers, before delivery dates are finalised, are subject to fluctuating market values. Lotus has kept dealers informed of the possible need to revise quotations, once delivery dates are confirmed. We are working closely to minimise any potential changes and resolve this issue as quickly as possible.”
