It seems Lotus’ former CEO, Dany Bahar, is not in the habit of making idle threats. Bahar, who was dismissed with immediate effect in early June after allegations of mismanagement, was rumoured to be building a case of unfair dismissal against his former employer. The latest news in the Lotus saga is that DRB announced yesterday, that Bahar is seeking £6.7 million from the group for alleged unlawful early termination of his employment.
DRB-Hicom was quoted in a Kuala Lumpur stock exchange filing as saying, “Dany Bahar was dismissed after an investigation into his stewardship of Lotus. We believe we have acted properly at all times.” DRB also stated that they and Lotus would “vigorously” oppose and defend the claim, meaning a counter-claim against Bahar is almost certain. It looks like further news on the matter will be arising from the courtroom in future.
Bahar came to Lotus in 2009 after a career that saw him involved on the commercial and marketing side of Sauber, Red Bull and Ferrari. During his tenure at Lotus, Bahar instigated a number of motor-racing programs at Lotus, including the sponsorship of the Lotus F1 team. At the 2011 Paris Motor Show, Bahar unveiled an ambitious product development plan, which involved five new models for Lotus’ future.
