Dany Bahar: Lotus naming verdict to cause confusion, Group Lotus will seek clarification – Formula 1
Group Lotus’ chief executive officer Dany Bahar has said that although the decision of the London court on ‘Lotus’ name is appreciated but still it will cause a lot of confusion among the Formula 1 world.
Bahar added that his team, with support from parent company Proton, will appeal to the court once again to clarify the rights of the ‘Lotus’ name.
After pending for more than four months in the British court, the decision on the ‘Lotus’ name was finalised recently. Team Lotus won the rights to use the ‘Lotus’ name for their Formula 1 team and Group Lotus will use the same name for their commercial
cars.
Bahar stated, “With the full support of our parent company, Proton, we are seeking leave to appeal so that this point can be clarified for the benefit of all interested in F1.”
He added that Group Lotus respects the decision of the court but not only the fans and viewers of Formula 1 are confused over the name but also the Formula 1 commentators who use the ‘Lotus’ name for both teams.
Bahar added that the company however is stronger than ever and ‘Lotus’ name verdict has not cost them much as people would expect.
“One of the most critical elements of this support has been assisting us in securing the funding for our future plans. I am happy to confirm that this is now all complete thanks to Proton's help and, together with Proton, we can focus on completing the five
year business plan to return Group Lotus to profit,” added Bahar.
He added that for Group Lotus, it is not at all about their Formula 1 car but also the commercial products which is why the name is crucial for company’s growth in future.
The off-field battle may have been won by the Team Lotus but the on field battle is clearly dominated by the Group Lotus supported Renault team.
The season continues in Canada on June 12, 2011 and it will be interesting to see how far the Group Lotus will go for the right to the ‘Lotus’ name.
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