Lotus green lights plug-in hybrid Ethos, production scheduled for 2013

Lotus has reportedly confirmed it will turn its pint-sized hatchback concept into a production vehicle by 2013. Unveiled at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, Lotus' city car concept, now called the Ethos, is confirmed for production. Lotus spokesman Alastair Florance told The Sydney Morning Herald:

It's being worked on right now – people out in Malaysia are working on that. It's bigger than a Smart or Toyota iQ, but it's still pretty small – it's probably a similar size to a Toyota Aygo.

The Ethos will reportedly be offered as a plug-in hybrid-only vehicle. In production form, the Ethos is expected to pack the same powertrain seen in the concept version. The concept employed a range-extended setup with a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine packaged within the vehicle's tight confines. Lotus says the Ethos will have an electric-only range of approximately 37 miles before that range extender swings into action, delivering occupants at least 165 miles further on down the road.

Throw in some dazzling looks, a top speed in excess of 100 miles per hour and a flex-fuel-capable engine and Lotus' Ethos appears set take the city car segment by storm, if it doesn't get slapped with an exorbitant, Lotus-like price tag.