In a statement released on Friday, Lotus confirmed that Bahar had been ‘terminated from his employment as Chief Executive Officer of Lotus with immediate effect’.
The move follows news of his suspension two weeks ago after Proton owners DRB-Hicom started an ‘investigation into a complaint about his conduct’. The details remain under wraps, but it was reported that the inquiry may have concerned expenses.

Bahar is replaced by Aslam Farikullah, an engineering graduate with many years working within the automotive industry.

The departure of Bahar follows a tumultuous year for the sports car firm which was acquired by DRB when it bought Lotus’ owner Proton in January. Since then, there has been repeated speculation that the firm was considering selling loss-making Lotus to the Chinese.

After being acquired by DRB when it bought Lotus’ owner Proton in January, there has been much speculation over the possibility of the firm selling.

Mohd Khamil Jamil, group managing director of DRB-HICOM Berhad and chairman of Lotus said: “I would like to assure you that we remain committed to ensure the ongoing and future business operations of the Lotus Group as we take the Lotus Group to the next level to remain relevant in the global automotive industry.’

He continued: ‘I look forward to bringing mutual benefits to not only DRB-HICOM and PROTON Holdings Berhad but also the Lotus Group and its employees as well as contribute to the growth of the British automotive industry.’