Between 1997 and 1999, Megastar Veículos Ltda., based in Pindamonhangaba, São Paulo, produced the luxurious and enigmatic EMME sedan. This sophisticated four-door car, created in limited numbers, has a history shrouded in mystery and intrigue.
The first whispers of the EMME emerged in 1993, suggesting an exclusive new Lotus model was being designed for production in Brazil. By 1995, it was revealed that Megastar, a subsidiary of New Concept AG from Liechtenstein, was behind this ambitious project. New Concept AG, owned by Swiss investors, had patented the veXtrim injected plastic material used for the EMME's body, which bore a striking resemblance to the Volvo ECC prototype.
The EMME Lotus made its grand debut at the Brasil Motor Show in October 1997, showcasing its impressive technical specifications: a tubular chassis in zinc-plated steel, a five-speed manual gearbox, and a multi-point electronic ignition system with self-diagnosis. Its advanced mechanics included rear transmission with a limited-slip differential, independent four-wheel suspension, a self-steering rear axle, hydraulic steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.
The EMME was offered in three versions—420, 420T, and 422T—each featuring different engines. The engines ranged from a 2.0-liter 16-valve engine, available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions, to a 2.2-liter turbocharged engine imported from Lotus, delivering up to 264 horsepower. However, despite Megastar's initial plans to "nationalize" the 2.0 engine, the limited production models used VW AP-2000 engines.
Inside, the EMME was designed to impress, featuring luxurious leather upholstery, programmable air conditioning, remote-controlled locking, and a plethora of electronic controls developed by a Portuguese firm. Despite these high-end touches, the car lacked modern safety features like ABS, airbags, and traction control.
Megastar had ambitious plans for the EMME, aiming to produce 50 units per day and export 60% of them to Mercosur, the USA, and Europe. However, the car's development was rushed, leading to numerous electrical and electronic issues. Coupled with a high price tag and a lack of authorized dealerships, sales were disappointing. The economic situation worsened with the unexpected rise in the dollar in 1999, ultimately leading to the company's bankruptcy in 2000 after producing just 15 vehicles.
The EMME remains a fascinating chapter in automotive history, a blend of high aspirations and challenging realities that left a lasting legacy in the world of luxury sedans.
