The New Lotus Evora GT410 Sport
• New, aerodynamically optimised GT series model
• Succeeds highly acclaimed Evora Sport 410
• Comprehensive carbon-fibre components as standard
• Weight from 1,256 kg (dry)
• 0-60 mph in 3.9 secs, 410 hp and from 326 hp per tonne
• Top speed 190 mph (305 km/h)
Relentless in its development of world-class sports cars, Lotus has unveiled the new Evora GT410
Sport to complete the revised line-up of Hethel’s fastest model.
Launched in Lotus’ 70th year and ahead of its anniversary celebrations, the new Evora GT410
Sport takes one of Lotus’ success stories, and refines it through the application of enlightened
design. Available in both 2 seat and 2+2 configurations, and in manual and automatic
transmissions, the Evora GT410 Sport draws from the phenomenal Evora GT430 to provide
advanced aerodynamics to an already celebrated sports car.
Combining the latest design philosophy with a car acclaimed by both critics and customers, it
packs raw performance with Lotus’ latest aerodynamic developments, to provide a first-class
replacement for the Evora Sport 410 model.
Employing key elements of the GT430’s sculptured body style, including specifically designed new
composite front and rear body panels, but without some of the high downforce elements, the new
Evora GT410 Sport enjoys a far subtler and sleeker silhouette. However, as with all Lotus sports
cars, aerodynamic downforce is a requirement and this new GT-class coupe generates up to 96kg
of downforce (50% more than the Evora Sport 410) making it the new benchmark when compared
to similarly priced rivals.
The Evora GT410 Sport is powered by a specially calibrated and tuned higher-output version of
Lotus’ supercharged, 3.5-litre 6-cylinder engine with integrated water-to-air charge cooler,
producing 410 hp at 7000 rpm and 420 Nm of torque from 3500 rpm. It powers the GT410 Sport
from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds (automatic) and the manual version in 4.0 seconds.
The development of the new Evora GT410 Sport afforded Lotus the opportunity to optimise mass,
resulting in an unladen weight of 1,297 kg and a lightest possible dry weight of 1,256 kg (including
all the optional titanium exhaust, saving 10 kg, and the Lotus-tuned Öhlins TTX aluminium two-way
adjustable dampers, saving 13 kg) – a total saving of 98 kg when compared to the Evora 400
benchmark, and up to 28 kg less than the already featherweight Evora Sport 410.
Launching the new Evora GT410 Sport, Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “We are
continually exploring new ideas, innovating and evolving our cars in pursuit of perfection. The new
Evora GT410 Sport takes the lessons learnt from the development of the GT430 to deliver
something outstanding and highly capable.”
Lotus Evora GT410 Sport in more detail
Lotus’ newly defined GT-class sports car captures the essence of the company’s headline model.
The application of top-down evolution introduces the new front and rear aesthetic, first seen on the
GT430. As a result, the car’s design combines considerable physical presence with natural
aerodynamic ability.
The revised front panel features two enlarged carbon fibre ducts, with integrated air blades, to
efficiently move air around the front wheels reducing turbulence and decreasing drag. Additional
downforce is created by the combination of the deep front splitter and new motorsport-derived rear
diffuser, mounted beneath the new style metal mesh grille which gives a cleaner finish. Sculptured
carbon fibre ducts behind each rear wheel vent high pressure air as quickly as possible from the
rear wheel arches, balancing downforce.
Cumulatively this all works to boost downforce to 96 kg at 190 mph, a sizable jump of 50% over the
outgoing Evora Sport 410, and a massive three-times that of the Evora 400 with an improved drag
coefficient. This elevates the Evora GT410 Sport to the top ranks of Lotus’ most aerodynamically
efficient road cars.
As with all high-performance Evoras, carbon fibre plays a considerable role in the car’s
construction. Standard carbon composite components include the front access panel, roof panel
and a one-piece louvered tailgate with integrated spoiler, as well as the elements within the front
air blade system and rear wheel exit ports.
This focus on the car’s critical mass delivers its headline power-to-weight ratio of 326 hp / tonne
and the top speed to 190 mph (305 km/h).
Despite the car’s low mass, a range of lightweight options can be specified for the Evora GT410
Sport. This includes a titanium exhaust, cutting 10 kg from beyond the car’s rear axle.
Making the most of the traction on tap, the Evora GT410 Sport uses Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2
tyres (235/35 R19 at the front and 285/30 R20 at the rear) with a sports suspension package of
Eibach ultra-light, low-sideload springs and Bilstein sports dampers – all fitted as standard.
A touring suspension package is available as a no cost option, featuring Bilstein® non-adjustable
dampers, with touring specification, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.
For full damper adjustability, a race suspension package using Lotus-tuned lightweight Öhlins TTX
aluminium two-way adjustable dampers (twenty click adjustment compression and rebound) which
save 13 kg, can be specified to tune the Evora GT410 Sport to precisely suit particular road or
track conditions.
Reducing un-sprung mass, ultra-lightweight, fully machined, forged aluminium wheels (19" 8J front
and 20" 9.5J rear 10 spoke alloy wheels) are available in either silver or matt black. The option of
upgrading to one inch wider (10.5J) rear wheels as used on the Evora GT430, is available and
stopping power comes courtesy of AP Racing four-piston calipers front and rear with lightweight 2-
piece cross-drilled and ventilated brake discs (front 370mm x 32mm, rear 350mm x 32mm).
In addition to Lotus’ slick, six-speed manual gearbox with a Torsen type limited slip differential
(LSD), the Evora GT410 Sport is also available with an automatic transmission option. Slightly
quicker through the gears, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.9 seconds, the six-speed automatic
transmission utilises an optimised gearbox ECU for ultra-fast changes. Gear selection is made via
lightweight aluminium paddles mounted to the steering wheel.
The new Evora GT410 Sport features four driver selectable ESP modes – selected via a
dashboard switch. ‘Drive’, ‘Sport’, ‘Race’ and ‘Off’. Sport and Race settings increase throttle
response, respectively increasing traction slip - allowing the driver a finer degree of control before
intervention.
As with its Evora stablemates the Evora GT410 Sport cabin includes Lotus’ beautifully detailed
carbon race seats (2+0 configuration only) and carbon door sill inserts. The steering wheel,
dashboard, door panels, transmission tunnel, centre console and instrument binnacle are all
trimmed in black Alcantara®, complemented by contrast twin colour stitching. Optional Sparco race
seats are available in both 2+0 and 2+2 configurations with the latter requiring either the optional
wider 10.5J rear wheel option, as featured on the Evora GT430, or the lightweight forged wheel
option from the Evora 400, which benefits from a 9.5J rear wheel size. An integrated 7” touchscreen
infotainment system with AppleCarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth® functionality, satellite
navigation and reversing camera can also be specified.
Jean-Marc Gales concluded, “Starting 2018 in style, the Evora GT410 Sport is just the beginning of
an incredibly strong year for Lotus. The core principles of Lotus and our founder Colin Chapman
remain paramount as we work on the next generation of vehicles whilst building our best sports
cars yet.”
Every new Lotus Evora GT410 Sport can be personalised through the increasingly popular Lotus
Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team to inspire customers, it combines
traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design, and allows owners to tailor
vehicles to their personal taste. Since its introduction last year, roughly a third of all new Lotus cars
now undergo some form of customisation.
The new, fully homologated Lotus Evora GT410 Sport range can be ordered now in European and
Asia Pacific markets, following in summer 2018 for the USA and China.
 

• Full-production model is most extreme Exige ever conceived
• New engine installation, delivering 430 hp and 440 Nm
• New design generating 220 kg of downforce
• 407 hp per tonne provides unrivalled performance
• 0-60 mph in 3.2 secs, dry weight from 1,056 kg

Unlimited in every sense, the new series production Exige Cup 430 is Lotus’ wildest incarnation of its fire-breathing, point-to-point two-seater sports car.

New to the Exige, the Cup 430 sees the introduction of a savage, high-performance engine installation, mated to a new supercharger and chargecooler, designed specifically for the unique demands of this vehicle.  A development of the powertrain recently used on the phenomenal Lotus Evora GT430, it’s perfectly paired with a newly-designed body, which delivers enhanced aerodynamic performance to reveal the model’s true potential. The result is a strikingly different beast of pure performance, that’s not for the faint of heart.

With 55 hp, or 13%, more power than the limited production Exige Cup 380 model it succeeds, and 220 kg of downforce, it’s a monster of a car. Compared to the Exige Sport 350, it has 24% more power and generates the same downforce at 100 mph as the Exige Sport 350 does at its maximum speed of 170 mph.

Lotus’ expertise in lightweight design has played its part in reducing the overall dry weight by 12 kg to 1,059 kg, with the vehicle down to 1,056 kg in its lightest configuration. This, combined with the dramatic jump in raw power, raises the Cup’s power to weight from 355 hp / tonne (Cup 380) to 407 hp / tonne.

With 430 hp at 7,000 rpm and 440 Nm (325 lbft) of torque from 4,000 rpm, 0-60mph is dispatched in 3.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 3.3 seconds) with a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h). Helping to harness all that power, the Cup 430 benefits from a comprehensive range of new aero elements. A new ultra-lightweight front clam with unique carbon fibre ducts has wider radiator apertures and a new mesh pattern grille to provide a more combative aspect and to allow for a new front splitter and air curtain mechanism to reduce drag. The lightweight rear clam panel supports the larger, straight motorsport wing to increase downforce without impacting upon the car’s overall drag coefficient. The new design front and rear clam panels are 6.8 kg lighter than those on any other Exige.

Focused fairly and squarely on aggressive track performance and point-to-point supremacy, the new Lotus Exige Cup 430 is capable of covering the Hethel circuit in 1 minute 24.8 seconds – the fastest production car to lap the famous circuit – 1.2 seconds faster than the Lotus 3-Eleven (Road).

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “This is the car that we have always wanted to build, and I am sure that all Lotus enthusiasts will be delighted with the end product. As well as a significant power hike, the Cup 430 has benefited from extensive development in areas essential to Lotus’ DNA, in order to ensure that the full potential of the Exige’s incredible chassis can be exploited. This car has no rivals – inside or outside of its price bracket - and it’s no exaggeration when we say that nothing can keep up with this Exige on the road or track.”

Lotus Exige Cup 430 – carbon based light form

Lotus’ most extreme Exige packs the company’s most potent powertrain into its smaller vehicle architecture to provide a level of performance that is a step beyond what most drivers can exploit. The car’s distinctive and aggressive new styling perfectly matches the character of the new Exige Cup 430. 

Signaling the most motorsport focused models in Lotus’ range, the Cup variants are centered on only the essential. Extending this philosophy to its limit, the new Cup 430 is at the apex of the Exige line-up – with only a track-only racer capable of exceeding the car’s abilities.

With the Exige already regarded as the standard for purity of purpose, Lotus’ engineers have built upon this benchmark, ensuring that the application of more power is complemented by a class-leading handling balance, characterised by precision and tactility.

At the heart of the car lies Lotus’ most formidable engine, a 3.5-litre supercharged and charge cooled V6 producing 430 hp and 440 Nm.

Unapologetically aggressive, the Exige Cup 430’s 220 kg of downforce is developed through the careful management of airflow under and over the car. Vital in keeping the Cup at the top of timing sheets, it’s designed to make the most of 440 Nm (325 lbft) of torque delivered from 4,000 rpm, and delivering the lowest of lap times not matter the track. This not only includes the new front clam panel, incorporating a new design of splitter and carbon fibre air blades, but also the high mounted rear wing.  The new body introductions combine form and function, with the new hybrid carbon composite panels not only saving weight, but also delivering the car’s distinctive new styling and aerodynamic set up.

Balancing downforce over the entire car was a priority with, when compared to the Exige Cup 380, a greater percentage of downforce allocated to the front to ensure accurate high-speed turn in (36% increased to 45%). The new front splitter with trailing lip helps separate and speed airflow under the car and the inclusion of new air curtain elements into the front clam panel efficiently moves air though to the front wheel cavities to help reduce turbulence and drag generated by the front wheels. The front louvers reduce the pressure within the front wheel arches, increasing downforce. The cut-out sections behind the rear wheels, also reduce wheel arch pressure, whilst the new lightweight aluminium diffuser is 1 kg lighter. Crowning all of this is the carbon fibre straight rear wing, raised higher to further boost downforce, clearly signaling the car’s aggressive intent and pursuit of aerodynamic excellence.

As you would expect, the intense use of ultra-lightweight carbon fibre only adds to the overall performance, as well as reinforcing the Exige Cup 430's physical presence. The hand-made composite components include front splitter, front access panel, roof, diffuser surround, large aperture air-intake side pods, one-piece tailgate and the race derived rear wing.

Scratch the surface of the Cup’s capabilities, and you’ll find its motorsport-derived credentials. In addition to revised steering arm geometry, to increase bump steer, the car’s handling characteristics can be altered via the introduction of new Nitron three-way adjustable dampers (adjustable for rebound and low and high-speed compression, giving the ability to fine tune the damping) and Eibach adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars, both as standard.

The substantial Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres (215/45 ZR17 front and 285/30 ZR18 rear) are fitted to ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels, available in red, black or silver as standard.

The faster the car, the better the brakes need to be, and the Exige Cup 430 uses some of the largest calipers and rotors of any Lotus road car. With forged, four-piston AP Racing brake calipers and new performance two-piece, J-hook brake discs (with higher thermal capacity) front and back, the system is designed to give improved bite and debris clearance and reduce distortion and vibration and to deliver consistent pedal feel and stopping power lap after lap.

The Cup 430 also comes with a tremendously strong, yet light, T45 steel roll over bar, new seatbelt anchorage frame (saving 1.2 kg), a Lithium-Ion battery and front towing eye as standard, as well as a host of options including, a dealer fit FIA compliant roll cage, electrical cut-off and fire extinguisher controls, airbag deletion and a non-airbag steering wheel.

Key to the Cup’s potency is the Exige’s newly-developed powertrain. Based on the benchmark engine from the recently launched Evora GT430, it features an Edelbrock supercharger and water to air charge cooler to generate more power through cooling the higher pressure charged intake air. Specifically developed for the Exige, the engine’s calibration allows for a redline of 7,000rpm, helped in part by a new intake system and larger throttle body. In order to handle the extra power, a new oil cooler configuration and uprated clutch are required.

Available as standard with a close-ratio, six-speed manual transmission, the Exige range features Lotus’ acclaimed open-gate manual gearbox design. Precisely aligned for fast and seamless shifts, it has recently established itself as a favourite of Lotus customers. To transfer the increased power and torque from the engine to the gearbox, a new 240 mm diameter clutch has been fitted (up 12 mm compared to the Exige Cup 380) which increases the clutch surface area by 11%.

Engine note and tone also play big parts in the Cup’s repertoire. With the new induction and supercharger configuration, and a high-flow titanium exhaust system as standard, the Cup 430 sounds like no other Exige at speed. In addition, the titanium exhaust removes 10 kg from beyond the rear axle.

The Lotus Exige Cup 430 includes a variable traction control function, linked directly to the ECU. The six-position rotary switch is located on the steering column, and only active with ESP switched to off, with five pre-set traction levels (1%, 3%, 6%, 9%, 12% slip) as well as “off”, displayed via the instrument cluster.

The composite concept continues into the Cup’s cabin with visible-weave, handmade sections including a new lightweight carbon fibre binnacle surround, Lotus’ bespoke carbon race seats, with new lightweight seat runners, and carbon door sills. Colour keyed inserts for the revised lightweight sports seats, transmission console, HVAC surround and window switches are also standard, along with a centre console, door cards and dashboard trimmed in Alcantara®, with leather or tartan as a no cost option, along with contrast stitching and an Alcantara® steering wheel. In total, the lightweight interior of the Exige Cup 430 is 2.5 kg lighter than on the Cup 380.

All the lightweight standard items help reduce the total mass by 29 kg which more than offsets the increase in weight from the chargecooler and cooling system (+15 kg), new higher rated clutch (+0.8 kg) and wider brake discs (+1.2 kg) resulting in an unladen weight of 1,093 kg and 1,059 kg dry.  By selecting the airbag deletion option, the customer can take the lightest possible dry weight of the Exige Cup 430 to 1,056 kg.

For owners wanting to brand the new Exige their own, the Cup 430 can be personalised through Lotus’ Exclusive programme. Combining traditional British craftsmanship with modern design, the service inspires customers to spend time tailoring the character of their Lotus with a comprehensive array of options. Since its introduction this has proved increasingly popular, with over 25% of all new cars undergoing some form of personalisation.

Launching the new Lotus, Jean-Marc Gales said, “The Exige continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in terms of performance, agility, aerodynamics and rapid covering of ground from A to B in a production road car. There isn’t another car on sale that can match the new Exige Cup 430; it will go down as a ground-breaking car in the history of Lotus.”

To find out more about Lotus Exige Cup 430: www.lotuscars.com/about-exige.

The Exige Cup 430 is available as a series production car and can be ordered now, priced £99,800 including VAT (UK) and €127,500 (Germany) and €128,600 (France).

• New ultra-rare edition with just 30 examples worldwide
• Race-car derived ultimate Elise
• Advanced aerodynamics generate 180 kg of downforce
• Lightweight carbon fibre components included as standard
• 0-60 mph in 3.8 secs and 250 hp, dry weight from 862 kg

Rare and race-bred, the extreme limited-edition Lotus Elise Cup 260 packs the company’s passion for motorsport engineering into one of the most accomplished cars it has ever produced. Taking what’s widely regarded as the benchmark for intuitive handling and driver involvement, Lotus has integrated some of the latest design philosophies from high-performance stablemates including the Exige Cup 380, and the mighty Evora GT430, as well as building upon the track and competition only Elise Race 250.
Setting a standard for outright track pace and low lap times, this ultimate Elise has been unveiled as the company prepares for the 70th anniversary of when founder Colin Chapman built his first car in 1948. Referencing Lotus’ motorsport successes, the new Elise Cup 260 has a laurel wreath decal on the left buttress and the Union Jack on both the rear wing end plates together with the option of finishing the car in iconic Championship Gold.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “Our philosophy for producing extraordinary vehicles is world famous, but the new Elise Cup 260 goes beyond what many believed possible from our smallest car. It is directly developed from the Elise race cars that are competing in series around the world, giving the ultimate Elise experience on the road. More power, motorsport components and the introduction of aerodynamics unheard of in its class make driving this Elise an unrivalled experience.”
Clive Chapman, son of Lotus founder Colin Chapman and Director of Classic Team Lotus, said, “Each and every one of the sports cars produced by Group Lotus today carries the true spirit of Lotus, laid down by my father nearly 70 years ago. I am extremely proud that his legacy and achievements are being acknowledged and celebrated in this iconic version of the Elise.”

Caption: Clive Chapman, son of Lotus founder Colin Chapman and Director of Classic Team Lotus
Taking a blend of exotic and lightweight materials to produce a truly noble sports car, the Elise Cup 260 is considerably greater than the sum of its parts. Building on the production Elise Cup 250 released earlier this year, and drawing heavily on the development the motorsport Elise Race 250, the Elise Cup 260’s performance is formed through a first-class combination of intelligent engineering and advanced aerodynamics as well as a boost in engine performance. Not only the lightest ever Elise Cup, it’s also the heaviest at speed – with the car’s design and aero configuration generating up to 180 kg of downforce at 151 mph. Key to this exceptionally high level of downforce are the new louvred front wheel-arch vents, lightweight carbon fibre front splitter and wide high mounted rear wing. With a no-holds-barred approach, the Elise Cup 260 includes nearly all of the lightweight Elise Cup options as standard, ranging from the sill covers, roll hoop cover, front access panel and engine cover which are all in carbon to the two-piece brake discs. With a race chassis developed by Lotus Motorsport, two way adjustable Nitron dampers – fitted to an Elise for the first time, a polycarbonate backlight glass and hand-trimmed interior with bespoke detailing, the Elise Cup 260 will earn its reputation as the ultimate Elise.

Lotus Elise Cup 260 – race proven
Lotus’ coveted Elise and Exige Cup versions represent a model’s most concentrated iteration – conceived, designed and constructed using the company’s unique sports car DNA – each with the express aim of providing an unrivalled driving experience on the road as well as the track.
Delivering big gains from focused development, the new Elise Cup 260 provides a sparkling blend of purpose with purity at the top of the Elise line up. With 250 hp from the supercharged engine, designed to make the most of the Elise’s exceptionally stiff extruded and bonded aluminium chassis, it endows the Elise Cup 260 phenomenal straight-line speed, agile handling and, with the significant downforce available and the wider, road-legal motorsport tyres, harder and faster cornering. These elements combine to deliver a lap of the Hethel track in just 1 minute 32 seconds, 2.5 seconds faster than the Elise Cup 250.
The Elise Cup 260 continues the new model’s visual styling, first introduced on the Elise Sport and Sprint models, but incorporates the aero lessons learnt from Lotus’ latest models, including the Evora GT 430. This includes louvred front wheel arch vents to reduce lift, and a new oversize motorsport-derived rear wing, developed from the Lotus 3-Eleven. Working with the redesigned lightweight front clam panel, with wider apertures, carbon front splitter and the rear diffuser, these generate up to 180 kg of downforce at the car’s top speed of 151mph. This is a 44% gain on the already impressive Elise Cup 250, allowing greater grip levels and higher cornering speeds.

As befitting the marque which was first to build and run a carbon fibre F1 car, the Elise Cup 260 comes with lightweight carbon fibre and composite components as standard. These include the large rear wing, the front access panel which saves 1.1kg, the engine cover saving 3.3kg, the roll hoop cover, 0.7kg and the side sill covers, 0.8kg. Ultra-efficient and lightweight two-piece brake discs save a further 4 kg. Standard lightweight parts carried over from the Elise Cup 250 include Lotus’ beautifully finished lightweight carbon race seats, weighing 6 kg each, a Lithium-Ion battery, saving 9 kg, lightweight forged alloy wheels and a polycarbonate rear screen. Collectively the Elise Cup 260 is 15 kg lighter than the Elise Cup 250, weighing in at just 902 kg (unladen) and 862 kg in the lightest possible dry configuration.
The all-alloy, chargecooled supercharged 1.8-litre engine has undergone development, with new induction components and revised calibration. Delivering 250 hp and 255 Nm of torque it’s mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with sports ratios. The change to the induction system including a race derived performance air filter and the Elise’s tuned exhaust note means that the Elise Cup 260 retains the crown for best-sounding forced-induction four-cylinder on the market. Overall, the fall in mass and rise in power boosts acceleration, with 0-60 mph dispatched in 3.8 seconds and a power to weight ratio of 290 hp / tonne (dry). Emissions figures are also impressive, at 175 g / km CO2.
Providing its trademark handling and steering feel, the Elise Cup 260 features fully independent double wishbone suspension with an adjustable front anti-roll bar, with Nitron coaxial coil springs and, for the first time on an Elise, adjustable Nitron high-performance dampers. With 24 settings for rebound and compression, the dampers allow owners to perfectly dial-in the car’s setup to their preference.
As standard, the Elise Cup 260 comes with ultra-lightweight motorsport forged alloy wheels (16-inch at the front and 17-inch at the rear) and are fitted with Yokohama Advan Neova AD08R tyres (205/45 R16 front & 235/40 R17 rear) which have been specifically developed for high performance track and road use. 10 mm wider front and rear than the tyres fitted to the Elise Cup 250, they provide the mechanical grip necessary to exploit the power and downforce the car generates. Braking is provided by AP Racing twin-piston front calipers and Brembo at the rear, which are perfectly matched to the lightweight two-piece brake discs.

The Elise Cup 260’s interior bears testament to the car’s handbuilt nature, with beautifully detailed components. Centre of attention is the detailed, manual gearbox’s open gate mechanism, which is both technically and aesthetically appealing. Developed by Lotus, it provides precise and direct gear changes for quicker shifting.

The finish of Lotus’ in-house manufactured carbon race seats, trimmed in black Alcantara® with contrast red or yellow stitching, is echoed by the door panels and face-level vents. Bodywork keyed colour inserts for the sports seats, transmission console, HVAC surround and window switches are both complemented by the cabin’s exposed aluminium and carbon fibre elements including a new carbon fibre instrument binnacle cover.

Interior options include an Alcantara® trimmed steering wheel and sill covers, leather or tartan trim packs for seats or door panels. Other options, including an in-car entertainment system, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality, can all be selected when ordering.
Summing up the new Lotus, Jean-Marc Gales said, “As we near the 70th anniversary of the inception of Colin Chapman’s engineering legacy, it’s only right that we build the very best cars as special editions, and the Elise Cup 260 is certainly worthy of that accolade. Our special editions have always proved extremely popular with our customers around the world, and we know they value the extensive development work that goes into each one. With just 30 examples to be built, there’s no doubt that the Elise Cup 260 is a future classic.”
The car shown is painted in Championship Gold to commemorate the forthcoming 70th Anniversary of Lotus. This colour is available across the whole Lotus range through the Lotus Exclusive programme, from November 2017 onwards.
To find out more about Lotus Elise Cup 260: www.lotuscars.com/about-elise.

- Geely Holding and Etika Automotive Announce Joint Board
- Mr. Daniel Donghui Li appointed Chairman of Lotus Board
- Mr. Jean-Marc Gales to continue in his role as CEO
September 29th, Kuala Lumpur. Zhejiang Geely Holding Group (Geely Holding) today completed
the transaction to purchase a majority stake in the British luxury sports brand Lotus.
Geely Holding now owns a majority stake of 51% in Lotus Advance Technologies Sdn Bhd (Lotus)
with a minority 49% being held by Etika Automotive (Etika), a Malaysian automotive group.
Company Structure
With the transaction completed, the Board of Directors for Lotus has been formally established,
consisting of five seats of which three are appointed by Geely Holding and two are appointed
by Etika.
Under this structure, Geely Holding has appointed Geely Holding’s Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Daniel Donghui Li as Chairman of the Lotus Board. Mr. Feng Qing
Feng, Geely Auto Vice President and Chief Technology Officer and also Mr. Nathan Yu Ning,
whom is the Vice President of International Business and Executive Advisor to the President at
Geely Holding will also join the board.
Etika have appointed Dato’ Sharil Tarmizi, a corporate consultant and a long term supporter of
technology companies to the Lotus board and will announce a further addition to the board in
due course.
Mr. Jean-Marc Gales will continue in his role at Lotus as the Chief Executive Officer since joining
the company in 2014.
In the first half of 2017, Lotus has already entered into a positive cash flow situation with sales
rising by 10% in the first half in year on year comparison. With the introduction of new models
over the course of this year, including the introduction of the fastest Lotus ever made – the
Evora GT430 and with further expansion into the US and Chinese markets, Geely Holdings are
confident that Lotus will continue to excel.
Mr. Daniel Donghui Li commented: “With the transaction completion we now look forward to
working with our partners to develop the Lotus brand into a globally competitive brand and a
well recognised leader in the sports car market. We are extremely confident that Lotus will go
above and beyond the expectations of the automotive industry and consumer base in the near
future.”
Mr. Jean-Marc Gales emphasised Mr. Daniel Donghui Li’s comments by saying: “Following a
successful business turnaround, the Lotus brand has never been in a stronger position and we
are now perfectly positioned for growth. We are producing the best cars in the company’s
history and are currently developing next generation of sports luxury vehicles which will
continue to demonstrate the Lotus brand values of class-leading vehicle dynamics, light
weighting, styling and aerodynamics by leveraging Geely Holding’s global strengths and
resources.”

• Evora GT430 Sport joins the line-up
• Available with both manual and automatic transmission and two body configurations
• Carbon-fibre and titanium components as standard
• Variable traction control and adjustable dampers
• 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds and 430 hp
• Fastest ever road-going Lotus - top speed 196 mph (315 km/h)

Following the stunning debut of the Lotus Evora GT430, Lotus has introduced an expanded Evora GT430 line-up designed to appeal to a wider range of customers who want the ultimate in high performance sports cars.

Adding to the acclaimed Evora 400 and Evora Sport 410 models, the new Evora GT430 range now includes two body options and a choice of manual or automatic transmission. Joining the recently announced Evora GT430 is the Evora GT430 Sport, a new member of the family that carries the same phenomenal firepower and sculptured body-style but without the additional downforce-creating aerodynamic elements. Both models are powered by the same 3.5-litre V6 supercharged and charge cooled engine, producing 430 hp and 440 Nm of torque (Automatic version: 450 Nm).

Without the aerodynamic elements, the Evora GT430 Sport weighs 10kg less at 1248 kg (dry), bringing the power-to-weight ratio to 345 hp / tonne and the top speed to 196 mph (315 km/h) making it the fastest Lotus production car ever.

The Evora GT430 is differentiated from the Evora GT430 Sport through the inclusion of motorsport derived aerodynamics provided by a carbon fibre splitter, a large, profiled carbon wing and louvers on top of each front wheel arch which reduce pressure within the front wheel arches together with wider wheels and tyres.

Automatic transmission will be available from January 2018 for both the Evora GT430 body configurations. With 10 Nm more torque (450 Nm), the Automatic version is even quicker, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission utilises an optimised gearbox ECU for ultra-fast changes, whilst gear selection is made via lightweight aluminium paddles mounted to the steering wheel.

Boasting a high specification, the new Evora GT430 range includes, as standard, Öhlins TTX two-way adjustable dampers, J-grooved and ventilated brake discs - paired with AP Racing four-piston calipers all round, a Torsen-type limited slip differential (LSD) and an adjustable traction control system.

Announced last month, the Evora GT430 has already proved a knock-out success. Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “The Evora GT430 already has cemented its place as a true collector’s car, but we know that many of our customers want the option of choosing a less aggressive version, with the same power, but without some of more arresting design and aero elements. With the Evora GT430 Sport, we have responded to this demand to add to the whole range of thoroughbred Lotus cars that are great on the track as well as supremely capable on the road.”

Lotus Evora GT430 line-up in more detail

The new Evora GT430 Sport makes full use of carbon fibre to help hit its low kerb weight. This means that standard components include full carbon front and rear bumpers, front access panel, roof panel, rear quarter panels as well as a one-piece louvered tailgate with integrated spoiler.

The whole of the Evora GT430 range also benefits from advanced aerodynamics, including two enlarged carbon fibre front ducts, with integrated air blades, to efficiently move air though to the front wheel cavities and reduce turbulence created by the wheels. The curved rear edges of the front wheel arch panels also play a role, channelling air along the side of the car, while sculpted ducts behind each rear wheel vent airflow as quickly as possible from the wheel arches, balancing downforce. As a result, the Evora GT430 Sport generates up to 100 kg of downforce at 196 mph, some 56% more than the Evora Sport 410. The Evora GT430 generates up to 250 kg of downforce at 190 mph.

Jean-Marc Gales continued, “This is a car that epitomises a purity of engineering that many car manufacturers fail to match. Lotus founder, Colin Chapman not only pursued lightweight design, and pioneered the use carbon fibre in F1, but he also led the way in the field of aerodynamics in road and race cars. The Evora GT430 range continues this legacy, combining our expertise in highly efficient engineering and aerodynamics with more power and torque to provide one of the most rounded and rewarding driving experiences on the road or track.”

Once inside, the use of visible-weave, carbon composite components continues. These include Lotus’ beautifully detailed carbon race seats, new carbon door sills and a new lightweight carbon instrument binnacle cover with a new design of graphic on the instrument panel. The steering wheel, dashboard, door panels, transmission tunnel and centre console are all trimmed in a combination of black Alcantara® and perforated leather, complemented by contrast twin colour stitching, in red and white, and matt black interior panels.

An integrated touch-screen infotainment system can be specified, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality, satellite navigation and reversing camera.

The variable traction control function, standard on all models, is linked directly to the ECU and allows the amount of wheel slip to be set by the driver whilst in ‘Race / Off’. The Evora GT430 has 10 mm wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres with 245/35 R19 at the front and 295/30 R20 at the rear, on one inch wider 10.5J rear wheels – these are optional fit for the Evora GT430 Sport.

Every new Lotus Evora GT430 Sport can be personalised through the increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team to inspire customers, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design, and allows owners to tailor vehicles to their personal taste. Since its introduction last year, roughly a third of all new Lotus cars now undergo some form of customisation.

The new, fully homologated Lotus Evora GT430 range is available in two-seater configuration only and can be ordered now.

• Most powerful road going Lotus sports car ever
• 0-60 mph in 3.7 secs, 430 hp and 1,258 kg
• 250 kg of downforce at maximum speed of 190 mph
• Just 60 editions planned for worldwide markets
• Available to order now

Following the successful introduction of the Lotus Evora 400 and Evora Sport 410 to global markets, Lotus has unveiled its most powerful road-going model ever – the Evora GT430.

A beautiful and pure combination of elegance and power, Lotus has lavished attention on hand-crafted carbon-fibre components to endow this fully homologated Evora with a level of precision engineering and design unseen before.

This focused evolution of the critically acclaimed Evora has resulted in a landmark model for the famous British manufacturer. Powered by a new development of the 3.5-litre V6 supercharged and charge cooled engine producing 430 hp, and benefitting from a significant hike in downforce, the rare breed Evora GT430 is a class apart from its competitors.

Underpinned by the company’s acknowledged eminence in lightweight engineering, and at a new benchmark weight of 1,258 kg (dry), the Lotus Evora GT430 is the manufacturer’s most powerful and accomplished road car to date. With such performance, and all the marque’s chassis expertise, the new Evora GT430 delivers tremendous real-world speed and handling unheard of in its class.

Given the car’s breath-taking design and phenomenal performance, the Evora GT430 is an instant classic. Just 60 editions of this supreme Evora will be hand built in Norfolk, England, for sale in select markets around the world and, following the popularity of Lotus’ recent limited run editions, it’s already in line to be a true collector’s car.

Marking the return of a famous Lotus badge, and acknowledging the Lotus Esprit V8 GT and the Esprit GT3 from the 1990s, this two-seater encapsulates the company’s approach to fast point-to-point sports cars. 0-60mph is dispatched in just 3.7 seconds and the car’s top speed is 190 mph (305 km/h).

With new and specifically designed body panels, featuring exposed carbon weave sections, front and rear, the Lotus GT430 generates up to 250 kg of downforce through advanced aerodynamics. Larger front apertures, a new carbon fibre splitter, air blades and louvers positioned on top of each front wheel arch clearly illustrate the supercar credentials of the Evora GT430 when viewed head on. At the rear, aero ducts behind each wheel reduce pressure in the wheel arch and offer visibility of the wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, and a large rear diffuser provides a sharp visual finish. Both are crowned by the large, profiled carbon wing.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “The Evora GT430 is a landmark car for Lotus. Lightweight engineering and class-leading handling, paired with Lotus’ aerodynamic expertise, define the Evora GT430 as a legendary Lotus. It’s a truly beautiful car, meticulously finished in hand-crafted carbon, and employing the latest aerodynamics and lightweight materials. This highly developed vehicle perfectly reflects Lotus’ attention to engineering and design. We expect the lucky owners to be blown away by its pure presence and staggering performance.”

Faster, lighter, sharper

Featuring unique bodywork and aerodynamic elements, as well as more power, the Evora GT430 further raises the bar for road-going sports cars. It delivers the balance and finesse for which the marque is famous, combined with blistering pace, supreme composure and agility at the highest speeds.

Every component of the Evora has been evaluated before inclusion to ensure that the car retains only the items essential for performance. Despite the addition of 9 kg increased specification components (lightweight carbon rear wing and larger wheels and tyres), overall dry weight is down by 26 kg, to 1,258 kg, compared to the already super light Evora Sport 410, making this the lightest road Evora to date.

In addition to the unique full carbon front and rear bumpers, which feature exposed visible weave sections, the car is comprehensibly equipped with high-gloss, visible carbon fibre components throughout,  including a new front splitter, front access panel, roof panel and full width rear wing. Also at the rear is a beautifully detailed, one-piece carbon tailgate, incorporating a louvered section which, together with composite quarter panels, affords the car an unmistakable profile.

All Lotus cars are regarded as the finest handling sports cars on the market and the new Evora GT430 takes dynamic performance to the next level. Damping is provided by Lotus-tuned, Öhlins TTX two-way adjustable units, with 20 click-adjustment compression and rebound settings and saving 10kg in mass compared to the Evora Sport 410 set-up.  New, ultra-lightweight, low-sideload Eibach springs provide an increase in spring rate and the car’s handling is improved further through the use of front and rear anti-roll bars.

Perfect for B-roads, but ballistically fast when needed, the new Evora GT430 can lap the famous Hethel test track in 1 minute 25.8 seconds – a record for an Evora. As fast as the famed Lotus 3-Eleven road car on the same circuit, the GT430’s performance envelope is derived from a combination of clever aero and dynamic developments as well as outright power. As a result, the car is manifest of Colin Chapman’s visionary quote: “Adding power makes you faster on the straights; subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere."

A superb example of this is the removal of critical weight from beyond the front and rear axles of the Evora GT430, reducing the car’s polar moment of inertia, resulting in improved transient response, overall agility and driver feedback.

Retaining a 3.5-litre supercharged and charge-cooled V6, the car’s reconfigured engine produces 430 hp (436 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 440 Nm (325 lbft) of torque from 4,500 rpm.  The increase in torque is facilitated through the introduction of an air-to-liquid gearbox cooler as standard, a feature which made its debut on the recently launched North American Evora 400.  As standard, the Evora GT430 also features a titanium exhaust, cutting 10 kg from beyond the car’s rear axle and further amplifying the car’s aural presence.

Also fitted as standard, the Evora GT430’s six-speed manual gearbox features a low-inertia, single-mass flywheel, to help ensure swift changes, while a Torsen-type limited slip differential (LSD) gives better traction, and faster exit speeds, when cornering.

The substantial aerodynamic revisions introduce bodywork elements that boost the downforce of the Evora GT430, up to 250 kg at maximum speed of 190 mph (305 km/h) and matching the Evora Sport 410’s maximum downforce of 64 kg at only 90 mph (145 km/h). Developed through motorsport applications, the aerodynamic modifications focus on the management of airflow over, under and around the car. The downforce generated makes its presence felt at even moderate speeds, allowing for higher cornering g-force and providing enhanced high-speed stability.

A new carbon fibre front splitter cleanly separates and speeds airflow under the car, and the two enlarged carbon fibre front ducts, with integrated air blades, efficiently move air though to the front wheel cavities, to help reduce turbulence and drag created by the wheels themselves. The lightweight curved rear edges of the front wheel arch panels channel air along the side of the car and the louvers positioned on top of each front wheel arch reduce pressure above the wheel.

The rear of the Evora GT430 has received the same attention to detail, with the deep, sculpted ducts behind each wheel that vent airflow as quickly as possible from the wheel arches, improving downforce. Dominating all of this is the large, high mounted aerodynamically efficient motorsport carbon wing.

To harness the increased downforce and power, mechanical grip is provided by 10 mm wider Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, with 245/35 R19 at the front and 295/30 R20 at the rear, on one inch wider 10.5J rear wheels. Ultra-lightweight forged aluminium wheels are standard, in either black or silver, with optional finishes available in gloss red or a gloss black machined rim design.

Dynamic stability modes (with ‘Drive‘, ‘Sport’, ‘Race’ and ‘Off’ settings) can be selected, which allow the driver enhanced vehicle control before the system intervenes. The Evora GT430 also includes a newly developed variable traction control function, linked directly to the ECU, which allows the amount of wheel slip to be set by the driver whilst in ‘Race / Off’ setting, with five pre-set traction levels (1%, 3%, 6%, 9%, 12% slip) and ‘Off’ displayed via the instrument cluster.

A fast car requires substantial stopping power, and the Evora GT430 uses two-piece J-grooved and ventilated brake discs at the front, paired with AP Racing four-piston calipers all round, while the rear uses three-piece discs with lightweight aluminium centres saving 2 kg.

“Lotus is famous for using its technical expertise to develop the lightest engineering solutions,” explained Jean-Marc Gales. “Yes, it is hugely powerful but, the GT430 is not about brutal performance. It’s an intricate balance of power, finesse and road holding, no matter the speed, and is a true track-and-back sports car, supremely focused and immensely fast.”

The external theme of carbon continues into the car’s exquisitely crafted cabin, with visible-weave, handmade components as standard. These include Lotus’ beautifully detailed carbon race seats, new carbon door sills and a new lightweight carbon instrument binnacle cover with a new design of graphic on the instrument panel.

Newly-designed carbon-backed Sparco seats with a unique trim design can also be ordered, whilst customers looking for a more race focused cabin can specify an optional driver and passenger four-point harnesses and titanium rear frame.

The steering wheel, dashboard, door panels, transmission tunnel and centre console are all trimmed in a combination of black Alcantara® and perforated leather, with a full leather or full Alcantara® trim option available at no additional cost.  All trim choices are complemented by contrast twin colour stitching, in red and white, and matt black interior panels.

An integrated touch-screen infotainment system can be specified, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality, satellite navigation and reversing camera.

Every new Lotus Evora GT430 customer can personalise their vehicle through the increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team, roughly a third of all new Lotus cars now undergo some form of customisation. Conceived to inspire customers, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design, and allows owners to tailor vehicles to their personal taste.

The new, fully homologated, Lotus Evora GT430 is available in two seater configuration only and can be ordered now. A version of the Evora GT430 for the North American market will follow in spring 2018.

Weight reduction in detail

The headline net weight reduction of 26 kg versus the Evora Sport 410 is derived from the standard titanium exhaust (-10 kg), carbon body panels (-4.7 kg), lightweight interior components (-2.5 kg), Öhlins and Eibach adjustable spring and damper assembly (-10 kg) and lightweight rear brake discs (-2 kg).  Additionally, careful attention to detail beneath the car’s surface has yielded significant benefits, further stripping out unnecessary mass; for instance, a thinner aluminium undertray (1.5 kg), the introduction of lightweight aluminium brackets (-1.3kg), lightweight polycarbonate backlight glass (-0.5 kg) and a re-profiled fluid fill system (-2.5 kg) all contribute towards the total weight reduction.

This total saving of 35 kg is offset by the addition of wider wheels and tyres (+5 kg) and the new curved profile rear wing (+4 kg).

To find out more about Lotus Evora range and the GT430 visit: http://www.lotuscars.com/evora-gt-430

More photos here:

• Lightweight as standard: from 2,910 lbs & 0-60 mph in 3.9 secs
• 132 lbs (60 kg) lighter than the already impressive Evora 400
• Evora Sport 410 GP Edition by Lotus Exclusive
• Aerodynamic downforce of 140 kg at top speed
• Fastest, most focused Evora on sale in US this summer

• New Lotus lifestyle range of stylish helmets for cats
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• Personalisation service available through Lotus Exclusive
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• Available to order until noon today
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Lightweight, optimised and ergonomically designed for four-legged friends, the new Lotus Pet Lids are the ultimate accessory for animal friendly sports car owners.
After extensive and hair-raising time trials, Lotus has developed its new lifestyle range of stylish helmets for cats to be both practical and desirable. Tipping the scales at a trim 25 grams, the wonderfully detailed lids can be personalised with your furry companion’s name and blood group.
Available in a choice of contemporary and historic colour schemes, the new Lotus Pet Lids are a perfect way to enhance the safety of cats for trips to the vet, visiting a cat show, or just a spirited Sunday drive.

Commenting on how Lotus has taken the lead in this new field, Head of Safety Felix Shepard said: “We were inspired by Clark, the Hethel factory cat who kept wanting to jump in the cars when we were track testing. As we take safety seriously, it was only proper that our furry friends should be afforded the same pedigree of protection that our drivers have.”
Launched in time for spring, the Lotus Pet Lids are now available for loyal Lotus fans and can be ordered until noon today. The helmets can also be customised through the company’s increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design. Conceived to inspire a new breed of customer, allowing them to tailor the helmets to their, and their pet’s, personal taste, it offers a comprehensive array of options and provides an alluring alternative to an off-the-peg pet helmet.

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• New iteration of handbuilt Lotus sports car launched with Sprint edition
• Sprint adds carbon fibre to cut 41 kg and hit 789 kg dry weight
• New front and rear design, and significant interior upgrades
• Available to order from Lotus dealers now

Evolved, energised and even lighter, a significant update for the legendary Lotus Elise has been unveiled ahead of its arrival in showrooms this spring.
Pride of place in the latest Elise line-up is the new Sprint edition, capturing the spirit of Lotus by offering the latest in efficient engineering to deliver a car that sets the standard at under 800 kg. Featuring a host of weight-saving items as standard, as well as the Elise's distinctive new styling, the new Lotus remains true to the company’s founding principles. Benefitting the range as a whole, all new Elise editions receive the car’s new look and new interior options, and every single one of the Sprint’s lightweight components can be specified on the standard Elise Sport and the Elise Sport 220 variants.

In the biggest weight cut to the car since the introduction of the first-generation Elise, Lotus has returned to its roots by employing the same intense engineering strategy as used on its most recent models. The Sprint edition of the Lotus Elise has removed 41 kg from the previous model, to reach a benchmark dry weight of just 798 kg.

Focusing on driver involvement, to provide an immersive experience, the new Elise reaffirms the company’s leading position in automotive engineering. A benchmark in purity and balance, the Elise is a favourite amongst drivers and enthusiasts, and to date nearly 33,000 examples have been hand built at Lotus’ famous Hethel factory. Distilled from the very essence of the company’s heritage, the Elise carries Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s vision of efficient engineering into the future and arrives as the company continues its return to form with its strongest ever line-up of vehicles.

Integrating a new front and rear aesthetic with Lotus’ established design language, this latest Elise also receives a wide range of cabin enhancements - including the lightweight open-gate gear select mechanism first introduced on the Lotus Exige Sport 350. The Sprint is available in both the 1.6-litre naturally aspirated and 1.8-litre supercharged versions. Delivering an exciting mid-point in the range, it broadens the car’s appeal by including lightweight and carbon components as standard.
Speaking of the new car Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc. said, “Once again, the Elise continues to redefine what is possible in terms of adding lightness to a sports car. Whilst other manufacturers try to keep pace with Lotus’ weight reduction achievements, we’ve raised the bar beyond their reach. An agile, lightweight sports car does not weigh just over a tonne. It should weigh substantially less and, it is a fantastic achievement from Lotus in ensuring that the fully type approved new Elise now dips below the 800 kg barrier.”
Jean-Marc Gales continued, “Enhanced by less weight, the Elise now provides even more driving purity, greater agility and higher all-round performance. As we say at Hethel: less weight equals more Lotus.”

The Sprint and the spirit of Lotus
Ensuring that this latest Elise remains true to the company’s DNA, the return for the Sprint badge - as used on historic models including the Elan - is designed to provide a highly attractive super-lightweight option sitting above the respective Elise Sport models, and below the top of the range Elise Cup 250.
The Sprint’s standard lightweight components include a Lithium-Ion battery, saving 9 kg, Lotus’ beautifully detailed carbon race seats, 6 kg, new lightweight forged alloy wheels, 5 kg, while the carbon access panel, roll hoop cover and engine cover, and polycarbonate rear screen save 6 kg. Collectively they cut an impressive 26 kg, compared to the previous Sport and Sport 220 models, and together with the improvements made to the whole Elise range bring the weight of the new Elise Sprint down to just 798 kg (dry). This includes new, optional two-piece brake discs, saving 4 kg, which will be available from May this year and optional carbon sill covers (-0.8 kg). This reduction in weight translates into quicker acceleration (with 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds and 4.1 seconds for the Elise Sprint and Elise Sprint 220 respectively), harder cornering and a power to weight ratio of up to 168 hp / tonne (Elise Sprint) and 257 hp / tonne (Elise Sprint 220).

Unlike some manufacturers, Lotus understands the importance of engine note, and Hethel’s acoustic engineers have spent time altering the aural appeal of the more powerful Elise Sport 220 and Elise Sprint 220 models. Providing the perfect soundtrack at any speed, the new exhaust makes the 1.8-litre supercharged Elise the best-sounding 4-cylinder car on the market.
External design touches for the Sprint range include a matt black transom panel, black wheels which come with custom contrasting metal spun rims, distinctive yet subtle side stripes on the bodywork and unique side and rear badging.
Other highlights comprise bodywork keyed colour inserts for the sports seats, transmission console and HVAC surround, along with Sprint badge stitching. The Sprint’s detailing continues inside with an array of optional Alcantara® trim panels on the doors, sills, seats and vents surrounds, all with contrasting stitching.

Less mass means more Lotus
As well as a new Elise Sprint edition, the whole of the new Elise line-up benefits from a range of improvements, which includes a 10 kg mass reduction thanks to a number of new components. Changes to the body including a redesigned lightweight front clam panel, with wider radiator apertures and mesh pattern grille provide a more aggressive aspect and 8.7 kg less weight. The new design of rear transom panel now has two rear light clusters, rather than four, with reversing and fog lights now mounted inboard so reducing weight by 0.3 kg and visually enhancing the rear design.
Modifications front and back are more than skin deep and have allowed the careful balancing of aerodynamic downforce across the whole car. Rubber elements mounted on the flat underside and ahead of the front wheel, together with an additional diffuser vane at the rear, help modify airflow under the car reducing drag and increasing stability.
In addition to injecting some visual drama into the new Elise’s cabin, Lotus’ beautifully detailed open-gate manual gearbox also provides a much more positive and direct operation - giving more precise and quicker shifting. Both technically and aesthetically appealing, thanks to the exposed open-gate design, it further reduces weight with a net saving of 1 kg. An evolution of the design first used on the Exige Sport 350, but specifically optimised for the Elise, it perfectly matches the Lotus’ personality.

The cabin also benefits from a new centre console, as seen on the Exige and optional carbon sill covers which reduce weight by 0.8 kg and increase the door aperture by up to 10 mm, aiding ingress and egress. The Elise’s instrument panel has also received attention, with new graphics making it easier to read and a new in-car entertainment system, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality, can also be selected when ordering.

Options for the new car include Alcantara® trimmed steering wheel, vent-surrounds and sills. Further enhancement can be specified, including a new paintwork colour: “Electric Light Blue” joining the Lotus core colour range.

The new Elise Sport and Sprint are available in two engine options: the 1.6-litre or the supercharged 1.8-litre. Offering 134 hp / 160 Nm of torque and 217 hp / 250 Nm of torque respectively, they have been specifically tuned to suit the Elise and both help to deliver a benchmark power-to-weight ratio and class leading efficiency. Being so lightweight, emissions are extremely low with 149 g / km CO₂ and 173 g / km CO₂ for the 1.6 engine and 1.8 engines respectively.

Stopping power is provided by AP Racing twin-piston front calipers and Brembo single-piston rear-calipers - optional lightweight two-piece brake discs are also available. All cars benefit from user selectable ESP driving modes - Drive / Sport / Off.
Retaining the elements that have always kept the Elise ahead of rivals, the car is built around an extruded and bonded aluminium chassis which is both tremendously strong and torsionally stiff - weighing just 68 kg.
The new Elise also carries over the same suspension setup as before, with fully independent double wishbone suspension and a front anti-roll bar, coupled with Bilstein high-performance gas dampers and Eibach coaxial coil springs front and rear. Being lighter than the preceding model, the effective spring rate is marginally increased, retaining the compliant ride for which all Lotus cars are legendary.
Designed to continue the legacy of the Elise as Lotus’ most popular model ever, the new range car can be ordered today with deliveries starting from April 2017.

A new Lotus Elise Cup 250
A new version of the Elise’s most popular model, the Cup 250, will be released in May 2017 with a list price of £47,400. Also, incorporating all the Elise range updates, the Elise Cup 250 model is a massive 23 kg lighter than its predecessor, with lightweight options including a Carbon Aero pack, front access panel, roll hoop cover and engine cover to take this to 40 kg, providing even more blistering performance. Further press information will be available closer to the car’s release, but customers can order the new Cup 250 today.

Lotus Exclusive
Every new Lotus Elise customer can personalise their vehicle through the Lotus Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design. Conceived to inspire customers, allowing them to tailor vehicles to their personal taste, it offers a comprehensive array of options and provides an alluring alternative to an off-the-peg sports car.
To find out more about Lotus Elise range visit: http://www.lotuscars.com/about-elise

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
Elise Sport £32,300
Elise Sprint £37,300
Elise Sport 220 £39,300
Elise Sprint 220 £44,300
Elise Cup 250 £47,400

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• Unique, one-off Evora Sport 410 created by Lotus Exclusive
• Tribute to one of Lotus' most famous liveries
• Lotus Sport 410 sales success continues

Representing the state of the supercar art, a one-off Evora Sport 410 has been commissioned through Lotus Exclusive as a tribute to one of its most famous ancestors, the Lotus Esprit S1.
Launched in October 2016, the Evora Sport 410 has wowed motoring press and customers with its combination of effortless pace and intuitive handling. With production limited to just 150 examples a year worldwide, the build schedule is filling up fast.
The benchmark was set by the original Lotus Esprit S1 as seen in the Bond film The Spy Who Loved Me, which celebrates its 40^th anniversary this year, and Lotus’ in-house personalisation department has crafted a special, one-off Evora Sport 410 in commemoration.

Combining the latest in Lotus engineering with period details, the new pure-bred supercar takes design cues from the iconic Esprit and integrates them into a car with class-leading performance. Packing 410 hp into a car that weighs just 1,280 kg, it sprints from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 secs.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc said, “So many of us recall the impact of the Lotus Esprit when it hit the big screen in The Spy Who Loved Me, and we wanted to honour that with a special Evora Sport 410. It’s the perfect tribute to such an influential Lotus, but a world away in terms of its abilities and performance. Supremely fast and agile, rivals’ cars look overweight and underpowered in comparison. Lotus was founded on the principle of lightweight engineering and, even today, nobody does it better.”

Lotus Exclusive
The work of the in-house personalisation department, Lotus Exclusive, this one-off Evora Sport 410 features many unique design touches. A special, colour-coded bumper modifies the car’s front end, while the one-piece carbon-fibre tailgate is part keyed white to give the illusion of a traditional liftback. In addition to a black coach line, delineating the car’s waist, it sports a bespoke badge script on the B pillar - in the style of the original Esprit’s graphics.

Nods to the Lotus Esprit S1 from The Spy Who Loved Me continue inside, with the insert panels of the carbon-fibre sports seats and door cards trimmed in the popular heritage Tartan, while red contrast stitching complements the Alcantara® dashboard and console finish.
Beneath the personalisation, this unique car retains all the engineering elements that make the Evora Sport 410 so formidable. From the supercharged, 3.5-litre 6-cylinder engine, producing 410 hp at 7000 rpm and 420 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm, to the highly advanced aerodynamics, which deliver up to 64 kg of downforce, it’s designed to deliver both on road and track.
The Evora Sport 410 remains refined on B-roads, but blisteringly fast when needed. The use of hand-made carbon-fibre components has been key in keeping mass to a minimum, with each specifically designed to enhance the car’s performance. Covering the car from nose to tail, they include front splitter, revised front access panel, roof section, tailgate, rear quarter panels, as well as the rear diffuser.

These lightweight carbon components not only reduce the kerb weight of the Evora Sport 410 but also help lower the centre of gravity, allowing for the recalibration of the suspension, which, along with re-valved dampers and a reduced ride height, provide better body and roll control - but not at the expense of comfort and composure.

This one-off Evora underlines the work of the increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive service. Combining traditional British craftsmanship with modern design, it inspires buyers to spend time tailoring the character of their Lotus with a comprehensive array of options. Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc continued, “Our customers have really embraced the Lotus Exclusive service, with 25% of new cars undergoing some form of personalisation. It is well established that Lotus cars come with benchmark performance as standard. Now, thanks to the skilled team at Hethel, responsible for hand building all Lotus cars since 1966, you can specify a Lotus that perfectly reflects your personal tastes.”

The Lotus Evora Sport 410 is limited to a global production run of one-hundred and fifty vehicles per year, and is on sale in Europe and rest of world markets now. A Federal version of the Evora Sport 410 for the North American market will arrive this spring.

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• Race only version of sensational Exige Sport 380
• 375 hp and 410 Nm
• Weight cut to just 998 kg dry
• 0-60 mph in just 3.2 secs
• Laps Hethel 1.5 seconds quicker than Exige Cup R
• Aerodynamic downforce boosted to 240 kg

Unapologetic, uncompromising and built to win, Lotus has announced the development of the mighty Exige Race 380 - the track-only sibling of what has been hailed as one of the marque’s most significant and sensational cars, the critically acclaimed Exige Sport 380.
Combining Lotus’ vehicle development skills with its motorsport pedigree, the class-leading competition car will set the pace when the first production cars reach owners in May 2017. As part of the current Exige’s development cycle, the Race 380 will become the race car of choice for teams as well as privateers for the 2017 / 2018 season.
Taking one of the world’s best supercars, the Exige Sport 380, the new model provides the ultimate in race-bred engineering and comes with a host of competition-focused components as standard.
Gearbox, suspension, aerodynamics and electrical systems are among the items that have been modified to reflect the car’s role but, despite the fact that the new Race model is not available in a road-legal specification, the majority of the original car’s configuration is retained, thanks to the Exige Sport 380’s highly advanced development.

Unveiled late last year, the Lotus Exige Sport 380 has proved to be one of Lotus’ most successful new models in recent years, with orders for the next four months’ production already allocated.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented: “The Lotus Exige Sport 380 is a real giant slayer on the road, and one of the quickest A to B supercars around. It gave us the ideal platform from which to develop the new Exige Race 380 - a peerless competition car designed to beat the best. By setting its weight below 1000kg, its power to weight is unsurpassed in its class. When lapping Hethel, it’s a phenomenal 1.5 seconds faster than the previous Exige Cup R - a massive performance gain. It’s an unparalleled race car that follows the philosophy of Colin Chapman and we can’t wait for customers to experience its capabilities.”
The Lotus Exige Race 380 in more detail
In keeping with its name, the new Exige Race 380 includes a wide range of competition-orientated options as standard, covering everything from drivetrain to driver information system – all designed to increase the car’s capabilities. Developed to be eligible for the world-wide Lotus Cup series and a number of clubman championships, this race car is every inch a winner.
Retaining the race-proven 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, the Exige Race 380 boasts 375 hp at 6,700 rpm and 410 Nm (302 lbft) of torque at 5,000 rpm. However, in order to extract every ounce of performance, the car comes with an Xtrac 6-speed sequential transmission, oil cooler, and cassette-type plate limited slip differential, and is operated by carbon paddles located behind the steering wheel. Opting for the full exhaust system in titanium removes a further 10 kg from beyond the rear axle. Extremely quick off the line, the Exige Race 380 sprints from 0-60 in just 3.2 secs, and laps the Hethel track in an outstanding 1 minute 23.5 seconds - the fastest ever for an Exige.
Generating even more downforce from the car’s aerodynamics, the Race 380 produces a phenomenal 240 kg at 170 mph, thanks to some careful revisions. Vents are incorporated into the front bodywork and rear bumper to reduce pressure around the wheels and increase downforce; and a grille mounted at the rear aids air circulation through the engine bay. A new front splitter reduces pressure beneath the Exige, whilst the rear diffuser and larger and a straight-cut motorsport rear wing mounted to the bodywork helps modify airflow at the rear of the car.

Helping the Exige exploit its performance, the Race 380 employs Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard (wider 215/45 ZR17 at the front; 265/35 ZR18 at the rear), renowned for their predictable handling and high grip, which are complemented by the car’s ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels. The same attention to detail has been applied to the brakes, with AP Racing forged, four-piston callipers and grooved two-piece brake disc providing the stopping power.
The Exige has long set the benchmark for handling and, to ensure it remains perfectly poised and agile, the Race 380 uses a revised suspension configuration, incorporating 2-way adjustable Öhlins dampers and adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars. This, together with the Lotus Traction Control System, where the amount of wheel slip can be adjusted by the driver from the cockpit, allows owners to fine tune the vehicle’s handling characteristics.
The Exige Race 380 features a full, integrated roll cage, lightweight FIA Carbon driver seat (HANS compatible) and a six-point harness, as well as ultra-lightweight polycarbonate side windows, competition specification fire extinguisher, battery isolator and front and rear motorsport towing eyes. An ultra-lightweight carbon fibre motorsport specific louvered tailgate panel is fitted over the engine and carbon fibre air intake pods are fitted to either side of the car forward of the rear wheels. As with other race cars in the Lotus range, headlamps are replaced by matt black covers and airbags are not included in the specification.

Helping the driver stay on pace, the new Exige Race 380’s colour TFT instrument cluster offers numerous user customisable and programmable screen configurations. Incorporating a track data logger and GPS unit, owners have the opportunity to upgrade this logger with professional data analysis software.
As well as being designed to win, the Exige Race 380 looks exceptional and retains many of the hand-made carbon-fibre components from the Exige Sport 380 including the front inspection cover, hard top and diffuser surround.
The Exige Race 380 is available to order now, priced £99,500 excluding VAT.
For more information on the Exige Race 380 visit www.lotuscars.com.

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• Fastest Exige ever: 0-60 mph in 3.5 secs
• 375 hp and 352 hp per tonne
• Weighs from 1,066 kg dry and 1,100 kg kerb
• Aerodynamic downforce of 140 kg at top speed
• Nose-to-tail carbon components as standard

High powered, highly evolved, and ferociously fast, the Lotus Exige Sport 380 is the most aggressive iteration yet for the Exige model line up.
Taking the fight straight to six-figure supercars, this new, top-of-the-range model carries over the lessons learnt in the development of the acclaimed Exige Sport 350, launched last year, but with significant revisions lowering weight, boosting power and enhancing aerodynamics.
Rather than relying excessively on electronics, or allow sterile interfaces to dull the experience, the extreme Exige Sport 380 offers a pure, undiluted drive that has to be experienced to be fully appreciated.

Unrivalled in its class: faster, sharper, and more direct than adversaries, the Exige Sport 380 is definitely not for the timid. With a dry weight of just 1,066 kg with lightweight options, and boasting a potent power-to-weight ratio of 352 hp per tonne, the new, pure-bred Lotus has been conceived to out perform and out manoeuvre so called supercars. The new Exige is blisteringly fast off the line, dispatching 0-60mph in 3.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 178 mph.
From the intricately engineered exposed-gear-change linkage, to the swathes of carbon-fibre components and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard, every inch of the Exige has been carefully cultivated. Firmly defined as a Lotus for the enthusiast, the car can be seen as an expression of intense engineering - challenging accomplished drivers to extract the car’s true potential.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented: “We’ve saved something special for our last new car of 2016. We have built upon the foundations of the excellent Exige Sport 350 and developed a perfectly proportioned, intuitive and attainable supercar for real roads. The cut in weight is nothing short of drastic and, combined with the hike in power and its enhanced agility, we’ve created something exceptional - far greater than the sum of its parts. The Exige Sport 380 is so good, that it is no longer the best in class, it’s now in a class of its own.”

Unashamedly analogue and unfiltered
Lotus’ approach to developing the perfect sports car has allowed the Exige Sport 380 to lay claim to the title of the best sports car under £100,000. A true supercar car for the road, the Exige focuses on the three key attributes that have made the company a firm favourite with driving enthusiasts: reduced weight, higher performance and honed aerodynamics.

Raised on the roads around Hethel, and exercised on the company’s famous test track, the new car can trace its lineage back to the very first Exige, launched in 2000. Now the headline car of the range, sitting above the Sport 350 model, it is instilled with Lotus’ DNA and packed with a potent 375 hp engine into Lotus’ acclaimed two-seater.

Weight less
While employing some of the high-performance components premiered on the Exige Sport 350, Lotus returned to the Lightweight Laboratory in order to cut kilos from the kerb weight. Infused with carbon fibre from front to back, the Exige Sport 380 features hand-made, high-gloss visible weave components as standard to deliver a weight saving when compared to the Exige Sport 350. This includes the front splitter, revised front access panel, new rear wing and rear diffuser surround, which together save 2.7 kg. A lightweight, transparent polycarbonate rear window saves 0.9 kg over the glass equivalent in the Exige Sport 350. In addition, the carbon race seats (-6 kg), lithium- ion battery (-10.3 kg), ultra-lightweight forged wheels and grooved two-piece brake discs (-10 kg) combine to cut a massive 26.3 kg. A new design of rear transom panel now has two rear light clusters, rather than the four on the Exige Sport 350, with reversing and fog lights now mounted inboard, cutting weight by a further 0.3 kg.

In line with its illustrious lineage, the Exige Sport 380 employs Lotus’ lightweight extruded and bonded aluminium structure, as the company continues to lead in the field of advanced automotive construction techniques. Lotus is working continuously to engineer out the excess mass from its cars, and the company’s chassis technology remains the benchmark.

Power play
The company’s powertrain division has left its mark on the car, with the uprated 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine generating 375 hp at 6,700 rpm and 410 Nm (302 lbft) of torque at 5,000 rpm. Refined from extensive testing and development, it’s a design that’s proved its mettle by powering some of Lotus’ latest supercars, including the track-focused 3-Eleven and the recently revealed Evora Sport 410.
The power boost comes from a revised supercharger pulley, which increases charge pressure, an uprated fuel pump, a recalibrated ECU and the introduction of a revised exhaust system – as used in the Evora 400 and Evora Sport 410. Allowing owners to enjoy the new Exige for longer between fuel stops, it also comes with an enlarged, 48-litre petrol tank.
Providing faster, cleaner changes, the Exige Sport 380’s six-speed manual gearbox uses Lotus’ acclaimed open-gate design. Eliminating lateral movement, by precisely aligning components, it features light-weight machined and cast aluminium parts. Aesthetically appealing, the open transmission mechanism also helps contribute to the car’s reduced weight. The manual gearbox has been further enhanced through the introduction of a new oil cooler, ensuring the gears operate at the optimal temperature no matter how hard they are performing.

The Lotus Exige Sport 380 is also available with an optional six-speed automatic gearbox, where drivers can select gears sequentially via the forged aluminium paddles located behind the steering wheel, or rely on the gearbox’s fully automatic mode. The automatic gearbox option will be available from Spring 2017.
The Lotus Exige Sport 380 features Lotus’ Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) which provides enhanced ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings. Proportionally increasing throttle response, lowering traction slip thresholds and removing understeer recognition, it provides the driver with a finer level of control before the system intervenes. DPM also utilises an engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds, further reducing back pressure to boost throttle response and engine performance in both ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings.

Aero advantage
As with all Lotus cars, aerodynamic efficiency plays a key role in the Exige, helping it to drastically expand its performance envelope. Extensive CFD modelling work has allowed Lotus’ design team to fine tune specific areas, in order to deliver a substantial overall improvement. The revised front access panel modifies the air flow exiting the car’s horizontally mounted radiators, before it travels over the car, while the carbon front spoiler and rubber lip spoiler combined with the carbon barge boards reduce pressure under the vehicle.

In addition, twin pairs of front canard wings, mounted forward of the front wheels, a carbon rear wing and air blades behind the rear wheels, all work to help raise downforce to a massive 140 kg at maximum speed - a 60% gain over the Exige Sport 350, which generates 88 kg at its maximum speed. This increase in downforce does not come at the penalty of drag which remains the same as the Exige Sport 350.

Favouring mechanical solutions over electronic systems, including key parts such as unassisted steering, means that the Exige Sport 380 delivers the driver an intuitive experience. The extensive use of carbon fibre on the bodywork has lowered the centre of gravity, helping contribute to the Exige’s exemplary steering feel and precision handling characteristics.

Making the most of its performance potential, the Exige Sport 380 is fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres as standard (265/35 ZR18 rear and 215/45 ZR17 front). Selected for their tenacity, and 10mm wider at the front that on the Exige Sport 350, the increased mechanical grip is complemented by the car’s ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels, which are available in either black or silver. Either option is complemented by AP Racing forged, four-piston brake callipers and grooved performance two-piece brake discs.

In addition to its already impressive credentials, it’s possible to sharpen the Exige further still. Opting for the full exhaust system in titanium improves the car’s overall balance, by removing 10 kg from beyond the rear axle. For customers who frequently go to the track, the optional Track Pack provides Nitron two-way adjustable dampers and Eibach adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars.
The optional Carbon Exterior Pack contains a one-piece carbon roof panel and a distinctive carbon louvered tailgate. The carbon roof panel is 2 kg heavier than the standard soft-top but this weight increase is offset by the carbon louvered tailgate which saves 2 kg.
As befitting such a stand-out car, the Exige Sport 380 is sprayed and hand finished in one of ten individual colours. Providing some drama and drawing the eye to the beautiful composite carbon components, an optional exterior accent pack is also available in one of five key colours to deliver some finer detailing to the car’s undeniable presence.
The car’s kerb appeal is enhanced by revisions to the Exige’s design front and back. Distinctive blackened headlamp surrounds provide a more aggressive demeanour, whilst to visually accentuate the width of rear of the car, a new rear transom features two lamp clusters rather than four.
The hand finished detailing continues inside, with the carbon fibre sports seats trimmed with either Alcantara®, leather or tartan, with all featuring contrast stitching.

The optional lightweight carbon fibre sill covers provide a motorsport theme when entering or exiting the Exige Sport 380 and, thanks to their lower profile and contoured finish, aid ingress and egress. The Interior Colour Pack provides contrasting surrounds to the transmission console, HVAC surround, carbon seat eyelets and electric window bezels in one of four colours. A new integrated entertainment system can also be specified, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality, along with air conditioning.
For owners wanting more, the new Exige Sport 380 can be personalised through the increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive programme. Combining traditional British craftsmanship with modern design, the service inspires customers to spend time tailoring the character of their Lotus with a comprehensive array of options.
The Lotus Exige Sport 380 is available as a roadster as standard and as a coupe as an option.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
UK (Pound Sterling)
£67,900

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• More focused variant of the class-leading Evora 400
• 1,270 kg dry weight through extensive light-weight engineering
• Aerodynamic downforce doubled at higher speeds
• Nose-to-tail carbon fibre components fitted as standard
• 0-60 mph in 3.9 secs and a top speed of 190 mph
Transformed, formidable and without equal, the new, class-leading Lotus Evora Sport 410 has been revealed after an intense development programme following its Geneva debut.
Massively lighter, with more power and huge gains in aerodynamic efficiency, this new generation of Evora is a pure-bred supercar, using Lotus’ DNA to deliver a spiritual successor to the marque’s most iconic models, including the Esprit Sport 300.
The Evora Sport 410 is the result of thousands of hours’ development by Lotus, across every aspect of the car. From the mass of carbon fibre components covering the car from nose to tail as standard, including a revolutionary one-piece tailgate, to the recalibrated and tuned supercharged V6 engine – every inch has been assessed to provide unrivalled performance.
Designed to deliver both on track and on the road, the Evora Sport 410 is truly formidable. The car’s vastly improved aerodynamic configuration delivers an unparalleled level of handing and high-speed stability, and the addition of performance orientated wheels, tyres and critical parts, including the new titanium exhaust, ensures that it draws on Colin Chapman's obsession with simplifying, and adding lightness. However, far from a stripped-out track special, the new model retains excellent road manners, remaining refined and composed on B-roads.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented, “Lotus has surpassed itself with the Evora Sport 410, and it defines a period in which we are producing our best ever cars. It can sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 secs, and its ballistic pace means that, in the right hands, it’s unbeatable. We have achieved so much in the development of the Evora platform, and the Sport 410 is possibly the most accomplished car we have ever built. It’s nothing short of superb, and delivers the power and precision that Lotus cars are renowned for. We’ve taken the war on weight to a new level, demonstrating perfectly our principle of intelligent engineering.”
A closer look at the Evora Sport 410
Over the last twelve months, Lotus’ engineering teams have brought their unmatched experience of advanced lightweight construction technologies, aerodynamic optimisation, vehicle dynamics and powertrain development to bear. The result is testament to the company’s continuous quest to improve, delivering a car that’s worthy of carrying Lotus’ Sport moniker - reserved for its lightest, most-evolved models.
Drawing from its iconic predecessors, the Evora Sport 410 uses design cues as well as drawing engineering inspiration to provide the context for this new car. The results are due to Lotus’ holistic approach to evaluating every component in isolation, as well as the car as a whole.
Key to the cut in weight, by more than 70 kg, has been the adoption of hand-made carbon fibre components. Rather than just replacing existing parts with lighter versions, each has been redesigned and enhanced in order to make the most of the composite’s properties. Covering the car from front to back, these include front splitter, revised front access panel, roof section, tailgate, rear quarter panels, and rear diffuser. These are joined by race-derived carbon sports seats, which themselves save 9kg each.
In addition to boosting acceleration, the car’s dry weight of just 1,270 kg (1,280 kg without the optional titanium exhaust) results in sharper and more intuitive handling. Lowering the centre of gravity, it has allowed for the recalibration of the suspension – with an improved geometry and revised setup. The re-valved dampers provide an increase in compression and rebound, while the effective rise in spring rate and a reduction in ride height by 5mm provide better body and roll control, yet ride comfort and composure are retained.
Inspired by some of Lotus’ most-famous heritage models, the one-piece carbon tailgate incorporates a louvered section which, together with carbon rear quarter panels, help provide the car with a sleek, fastback silhouette. However, the benefits of this are far more than aesthetic. A significant chunk of the development time was spent honing the car’s aerodynamic performance. The use of the new carbon components, and the careful modelling of air flow over and under the sculptured bodywork has effectively doubled downforce, now up to 64 kg, yet resulted in a slightly lower drag coefficient overall. Increasing stability at high speeds, it cements the Evora’s reputation as a genuine supercar and it joins a select group that can genuinely exceed 190 mph yet remain tractable.
Developed through the Lotus 3-Eleven project, the Evora Sport 410’s engine is a higher-output version of the supercharged, 3.5-litre 6-cylinder unit, producing 410 hp at 7000 rpm and 410 Nm of torque at 3500 rpm. Utilising an integrated water-to-air charge cooler, it’s undergone thousands of hours of development and testing, including performance evaluation at the infamous Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit. Tipping the car well over the 300 hp/tonne benchmark, at 320 hp/tonne it’s a vital contribution to the Evora’s credentials, with the addition of the titanium exhaust silencer improving this figure further still.
As befitting a car of such capability, the Evora Sport 410 is equipped with bespoke, ultra-lightweight forged aluminium wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres. The 10-spoke forged aluminium wheels reduce un-sprung mass and have been produced specifically to work with the Sport 410, while the addition of the high-performance Michelin tyres help provide detailed driver feedback and outstanding traction.
Purists will opt for the Evora Sport 410’s six-speed manual gearbox, which features a low-inertia flywheel, to help ensure swift changes, while a Torsen-type limited slip differential (LSD) gives better traction, and faster exit speeds when cornering. Available as an option, the six-speed automatic transmission utilises an optimised gearbox ECU for ultra-fast changes, while gear selection is made via lightweight aluminium paddles mounted to the steering wheel.
The new Evora Sport 410 also features Lotus’ Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) which, selected via a dashboard switch, provides ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings. Proportionally increasing throttle response, lowering traction slip thresholds and removing understeer recognition, it allows enhanced control before the system intervenes. Sport and Race settings also activate the Evora Sport 410’s variable-pressure exhaust system – sharpening performance and hardening the engine’s note at higher speeds.
Only available in a 2+0 configuration, the Evora Sport 410’s carbon fibre sports seats are trimmed with Alcantara® as standard, along with the steering wheel, lower dashboard, transmission tunnel and centre console. An integrated touch-screen entertainment system can also be specified, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality.
The rest of the Sport 410’s cabin received close attention during its development. In a deliberate nod to the Esprit GT3, the Evora’s interior has subtle design cues, such as the optional colour coded interior components, which reference the car's lineage. Weight saving measures include attractive one-piece door trim panels finished in Alcantara® with contrast stitching, the deletion of door arm rests and stowage pockets, the relocation of tailgate and fuel filler release buttons and the removal of speakers - if an entertainment system is not specified.
Adding an extra dimension to ownership, the new Evora Sport 410 can also be personalised through the increasingly popular Lotus Exclusive programme. Combining traditional British craftsmanship with modern design, the service inspires customers to spend time tailoring the character of their Lotus with a comprehensive array of options.
The Lotus Evora Sport 410 is limited to a global production run of one-hundred and fifty vehicles per year, and is on sale in Europe and rest of world markets now. An adapted version of the Evora Sport 410 for the North American market will follow in summer 2017.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
UK (Pound Sterling) £82,000
Germany (Euros) €108,500
Japan (¥ Yen) ¥15,000,000
Technical Specification:
PERFORMANCE - MANUAL
Max power 410 hp (416 PS, 306 kW) at 7000 rpm
Max torque 410 Nm (302 lbft) at 3500 rpm
0-60 mph 4.0 seconds
0-100 km/h 4.2 seconds
Max speed 190 mph (305 km/h)
Fuel Consumption mpg (l/100 km)
Urban 20.8 (13.6)
Extra Urban 38.7 (7.3)
Combined 29.1 (9.7)
CO2 emissions 225 g/km
Kerb weight 1,325 kg
Dry weight
without titanium exhaust 1,280 kg
with titanium exhaust 1,270 kg)
Aerodynamic downforce at 100 mph 18 kg
Aerodynamic downforce at maximum speed 64 kg
Technical Specification:
PERFORMANCE - AUTOMATIC
Max power 410 hp (416 PS, 306 kW) at 7000 rpm
Max torque 410 Nm (302 lbft) at 3500 rpm
0-60 mph 3.9 seconds
0-100 km/h 4.1 seconds
Max speed 177 mph (285 km/h)
Fuel Consumption mpg (l/100 km)
Urban 20.0 (14.1)
Extra Urban 39.8 (7.1)
Combined 29.1 (9.7)
CO2 emissions 230 g/km
Kerb weight 1,336 kg
Dry weight
without titanium exhaust 1,291 kg
with titanium exhaust 1,281 kg
Aerodynamic downforce at 100 mph 18 kg
Aerodynamic downforce at maximum speed 60 kg

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· Final anniversary edition celebrating 50 years at Hethel
· Based on the exceptional Exige Sport 350
· Distinctive lightweight options as standard, saving 26 kg
· Weighs 1,099 kg and delivers 314 hp/tonne benchmark performance

Saving the hardest until last, the new Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition is a fitting completion to the trilogy of Lotus 50th celebration editions.
Based on the most extreme Exige to date, the Sport 350, the new special edition adds a number of lightweight, performance-enhancing features, as well as unique paint and interior options as standard.
Long regarded as the enthusiast’s favourite, the new Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition takes the model’s benchmark handling and raw performance and adds a sense of occasion. Packing a supercharged 345 hp, V6 3.5 litre engine, and weighing 26 kg less than the Exige Sport 350, the new Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition accelerates to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds (0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds) before reaching a top speed of 170 mph (274 km/h). It’s also capable of the lapping the famous Hethel track in 1 minute 29.8 seconds.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented, “The Lotus Exige is the quickest point-to-point sports car on the road; nothing can match its levels of accessible performance and grip. It’s lightweight, responsive and exceedingly fast, with the purity expected of a Lotus. It is a real beast that needs taming but it won’t bite back. ”
Complementing this class leading performance, the car receives a revised front access panel cover, as first seen on the Exige Cup 360, lightweight carbon-fibre sports seats, lightweight forged alloy wheels, and a Lithium ion battery as standard to keep kerb weight at a minimum. A choice of four colours help the Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition stand out, while the interior offers the choice between black leather or Alcantara upholstery with bespoke contrast stitching.
Helping to celebrate the company’s 50 years in Norfolk, the special edition coupe is limited to 50 examples, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Like the already sold out Evora 400 Hethel Edition and Elise 250 Special Edition, this Exige is built to mark 2016 as this anniversary year.
Jean-Marc Gales continued, “This Exige 350 Special Edition joins the Evora and Elise editions that we have already produced to celebrate our half century in Hethel and our connection to Norfolk. Judging by the demand for the other models, I expect that the Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition will sell out quickly as it combines exclusiveness and limited production wrapped up in a great design.”

Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition in more detail
The new Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition features a number of changes to the accomplished Exige Sport 350. Lighter and faster than its predecessor, the Exige S, it packs performance-enhancing components and styling features as standard. Substantially cheaper than a similarly equipped standard model, it provides an outstanding ownership proposition for those to demand the purest driving experience.

Weighing just 1099 kg, the Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition has shed an impressive 77 kg, when compared to the previous generation Exige S. The result of a thorough re-evaluation, every component has been scrutinised in order for the car to possess the purity of drive and benchmark handling which all Lotus cars are renowned for.
Amongst the many enhancements, the use of a louvered tailgate panel, a lighter battery, lightweight engine mounts, a lightweight centre console featuring an exposed gearshift mechanism, lighter HVAC pipework and the optimised use of sound insulation have all contributed to the extreme Exige’s focused drive. A total of 26 kg has been excluded from the car through the careful application of performance components: a 5 kg saving from the use of forged wheels, 10 kg from the Li-Ion battery, 6 kg from the carbon seats and 5kg from the vented, two-piece brake discs.
To reflect its enthusiast-orientated personality, the Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition is only available with a slick, six-speed manual gearbox. Aesthetically appealing, as well as technically accomplished, the distinctive exposed gear-change mechanism perfectly embodies Lotus’ lightweight ethos. Employing machined and cast aluminium components, the linkage uses precision engineering to deliver faster, more precise gear changes. Stopping power is provided by AP Racing four-piston brake callipers, front and rear.
The aerodynamics of the Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition have received careful attention, including the use of a revised front access panel. This sculptured component improves air flow exiting the car’s horizontally mounted radiator and the light weight louvered tailgate improves engine cooling. The rear wing, combined with the flat underside and rear diffuser, help contribute to the 42 kg of down force generated at 100 mph (160 km/h).
The Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition also features Lotus’ Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) which, selected via a dashboard switch, provides ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings. Proportionally increasing throttle response, lowering traction slip thresholds and removing understeer recognition, it allows enhanced control before the system intervenes. DPM also utilises an engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds, increasing throttle responsive in both ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings.
The new car retains the Exige Sport 350’s excellent suspension setup, including firmer dampers and optimised geometry to deliver more responsive handling. Key weight-saving features, including the louvered tailgate, not only cut weight but also lower the car’s centre of gravity, contributing to its sharpened dynamics.
Available in four of Lotus fans’ favourite colours, the new Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition comes in Essex Blue, Old English White, Dark Metallic Grey, or Motorsport Black, all finished with contrasting racing stripes. The car’s bright red brake calipers are offset with black forged alloy wheels and, as standard, the front splitter, rear wing, front access panel, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear transom are finished in matt black.
In addition to the special interior, Lotus Exige 350 Special Edition customers will enjoy cruise control and floor mats as standard. An integrated in-car entertainment system can also be specified, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality along with full carpets and enhanced sound insulation.
The Lotus Exige 350 SE is on sale now.
Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price

UK (Pound Sterling)
£61,900

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· Visceral ride around the infamous Nordschleife circuit
· Never seen footage of most powerful production Lotus
· Experience the car’s test & development laps with two new videos

Marking the anniversary of its landmark lap times when testing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, two new videos of the Lotus 3-Eleven in full flight have been released, allowing enthusiasts to experience the car’s visceral, white-knuckle ride around the “Green Hell” for themselves.
Offering never-seen-before views, the 60 second videos provide a car’s eye view of the facinating track, as it’s piloted by Nordschleife expert and professional racer Marc Basseng, during its Nürburgring testing and development programme.
(Video One:

; Video Two:

).
The videos not only show the car’s blistering straight-line speed, but also how fast and composed it is when cornering, thanks it to its advanced aerodynamics. At 150 mph (240 km/h) the Road version produces 150 kg of downforce, while Race version with its twin front canards and adjustable rear wing produces 215 kg.

Since the car’s appearance at the Nürburgring, deliveries of the hypercar-humbling Lotus have begun with the first lucky owners finding out what this road-legal racer is truly capable of. Speaking about the car’s Nordschleife debut, Jean-Marc Gales, Chief Executive Officer, Group Lotus plc said, “The 3-Eleven’s time on the track gave us the perfect opportunity to demonstrate its phenomenal pace. It’s the fastest, most focused production road car to ever leave the Lotus factory, and remains true to our values of intelligent and efficient engineering. However, you don’t need to be a professional racing driver in order to tap its potential, and it will embarrass so-called hypercars with six-figure price tags. It remains the perfect template for how we will approach the design of all Lotus sports cars in the future”
With lightweight carbon composite bodywork as standard, the Lotus 3-Eleven has a dry weight of 890 kg and maximum power of 460 hp (Race version). This provides an enviable power-to-weight ratio of 517 hp per tonne, and the car is capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds ahead of a maximum speed of 180 mph (290 km/h). The Road version with a dry weight of 925 kg and a maximum power of 410 hp reaches 60 mph in 3.3 seconds before reaching a top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).
The videos also show how driver Marc Basseng had to deal with other cars also on the Nordschleife circuit during the evening public sessions. In what was its first turn of a wheel outside of Lotus’ Hethel HQ, Marc was one of three different drivers helping to develop the car – each one with individual areas of expertise and focussing on aerodynamics, engine calibration, chassis tuning and suspension geometry.
The Lotus 3-Eleven is the most powerful road car to wear a Lotus badge and Hethel’s quickest ever road car. It joins the ranks of those rare cars that can reach 60 mph in under three seconds and 100 mph in six seconds. To complement these figures, the Lotus 3-Eleven possesses a purity of the driving experience and the benchmark handling for which all Lotus cars are renowned.

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· 50^th anniversary edition celebrates founding of Hethel site

· 899 kg kerb weight delivers pure and precise driving experience

In a celebration of style and lightweight performance, and helping mark the 50^th anniversary of the company’s famous Hethel site, Lotus has revealed the latest addition to its collection: the exclusive Elise 250 Special Edition.

Based on the critically acclaimed Elise Cup 250 launched earlier this year, but featuring a raft of exclusive components as standard, the new Lotus Elise 250 Special Edition offers an outstanding combination of performance and panache. With a supercharged 243 hp engine, a 0-60mph time of 3.9 seconds, and a unique, hand-finished interior, it perfectly defines the quintessential British sportscar in this celebration year.

As an antidote to sterilised and staid modern cars, Lotus’ approach continues to deliver the purest, undiluted driving experience. Tipping the scales at just 899 kg, through the utilisation of advanced materials including carbon fibre and aluminium, the Elise 250 Special Edition remains true to the company’s philosophy of ‘Light is Right’ and is capable of humbling far more common, yet expensive, rivals.

Powered by a high-output, supercharged, 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine, the Elise 250 Special Edition boasts 243 hp (246 PS) at 7200 rpm and 250 Nm of torque between 3500 rpm and 5500 rpm. This, along with the car’s 899kg kerb weight, contributes to the impressive 270 hp/tonne headline figure.
However, far from being solely performance orientated, the Elise 250 Special Edition is designed to appeal aesthetically as well as dynamically. A selection of beautifully finished carbon-fibre components come as standard, including a front splitter, rear wing, tailgate and front access panel, all giving the car considerable kerb appeal.

Drawing inspiration from some of the company’s most alluring models, the new Elise is the perfect blend of both style and substance. As befitting a hand-built sports car from one of the world’s most famous marques, it’s beautifully detailed and conceived as a tribute to one of countless Lotus fans’ favourite cars. The Lotus Elan, launched in 1963, established itself as one of the icons of 60’s motoring and even became a star of screen in hit TV shows of the time, including the classic series The Avengers.

Draped in a composite body and finished in one of four of the firm’s favourite colours, the Elise 250 Special Edition is limited to just 50 examples. With a high specification as standard, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of contemporary design. From the hand-made carbon components, to the hand-finished leather seats, it sets the benchmark for exclusive sports cars.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented, “When we first introduced the Elise, it redefined how involving and exciting, yet civilised, a sports car could be. As the Elise was conceived, designed, engineered and is built at Hethel, we wanted a 50^th tribute that’s even lighter than the fastest road-going Elise we’ve ever produced. The new Elise 250 Special Edition achieves that, so it’s supremely quick and agile, but it’s also wonderfully finished and stunning to look at.”

Helping celebrate the company’s 50 years in Norfolk, the car is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The Elise 250 Special Edition is the latest in a series of unique products marking this significant milestone in the company’s history.

The performance and handling characteristics of every Lotus are developed on the famous site’s test track. Over the last 50 years it’s been responsible for honing all the company’s historic models, including the Elan, and Esprit, as well its fastest ever cars, the amazing Evora 400 and ballistic
3-Eleven.

Lotus Elise 250 Special Edition
The Elise 250 Special Edition is available in choice of four colours, each a long-standing favourite over the last 50 years. Classic metallic blue, red, yellow and white finishes are all complemented by ultralight forged wheels in silver, or black as an option. An optional carbon fibre hardtop roof panel is also available.

The same attention to detail continues inside, with the carbon-fibre sports seats finished in either dark blue or dark grey leather, and stitched with a choice of contrasting colours. The car’s door trim is afforded the same hand-stitched finish.

Despite its sophistication, the Elise 250 Special Edition is just at home on the track as it is on Bond Street. The new car laps the company’s Hethel test circuit in 1 minute 34 seconds, the fastest recorded time for a production road-going Elise. The car carries over the same suspension and braking components from the Elise Cup 250, including Bilstein sports dampers and Eibach coaxial coil springs and double wishbone suspension. AP Racing twin-piston front calipers, and Brembo single-piston rear calipers work in conjunction with the track-tuned ABS system.

Fitted with a slick, six-speed manual gearbox, the Elise 250 Special Edition includes an Electronic Differential Lock as standard to give better traction and faster exit speeds when cornering.

The new Elise also features driver selectable ESP modes, providing ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings. Proportionally increasing throttle response, lowering traction slip thresholds and removing understeer recognition, it allows enhanced control before the system intervenes.

An integrated in-car entertainment system can also be specified, including iPod® connectivity and Bluetooth® functionality, along with air conditioning, cruise control, auxiliary driving lights, full carpets, floor mats and enhanced sound insulation.

The new Elise 250 Special Edition can also be personalised through the Lotus Exclusive programme. Combining craftsmanship with modern design, the service inspires customers to spend time tailoring the character of their Lotus with a comprehensive array of options to suit any budget.

News of the special edition follows the Lotus Elise’s success as Readers’ Champion at the prestigious Autocar Awards. From a starting roster of 50, tens of thousands of motoring fans voted for the iconic car as part of an online competition.

The hand-built sports car from Norfolk has long been regarded as a benchmark within the industry, providing a level of precision and driver involvement that rivals can’t match. Perfectly tuned for British roads the Lotus Elise, intelligently equipped and surprisingly usable, allows owners to enjoy driving day in, day out.

RRP £47,900

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· New Carbon Pack, Lithium Ion battery and titanium exhaust options
· Lightweight options reduce the weight of the Lotus Evora 400 to 1,353 kg (2,983 lbs)
· Available on Lotus Evora 400 from now

Once again doing even more with even less, Lotus is pleased to announce a selection of new lightweight options, including a new Carbon Pack, Lithium Ion battery and titanium sports exhaust for the Evora 400.
No other car manufacturer can claim a better track record when it comes to light weight. Now in its 68^th year, Lotus still remains true to the ethos of the company’s founder Colin Chapman, and his approach to weight-optimised design and construction.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc said, “The Lotus Evora 400 is already the lightest car in its segment, with super car performance, benchmark handling and the purity of the driving experience expected of a Lotus. We are now giving customers an opportunity to drive an even lighter and more responsive car.”
Available in all markets, the new Carbon Pack uses a number of components already fitted to the ultra-lightweight Lotus Evora Sport 410 as standard. The Carbon Pack includes a front splitter section, roof panel, rear wing centre, rear diffuser finisher, front access panel and wing mirror caps.
The hand-made parts cut mass by 5kg (11 lbs) whilst at the same time providing a contrasting and aesthetically beautiful carbon finish. Reducing weight still further, a lightweight titanium sports exhaust and lithium-ion battery can be specified, which each save a further 10kg (22 lbs).
In addition, Lotus has introduced a cup holder and oddment tray to all Evora models. Fitted as standard to USA and Canada specification vehicles, it becomes an option for Evora 400 in EU and Asia. Weighing only 120 g (1/4 lb), the cup holder has an almost negligible effect on the overall weight of the car, and demonstrates perfectly how Lotus will bend to market demands whilst at the same time ensuring its core values of lightweight and purity are maintained.
The new lightweight options for the Evora 400 join a number of existing weight saving measures, helping customers make the most of the car’s already impressive power-to-weight ratio.
These include the deletion of the air conditioning system and specifying the 2+0 seating option. When combined, the lightweight options provide a combined saving of 42 kg (93 lbs) over the Evora 400’s already impressive low weight of 1,395 kg (3,075 lbs) * to 1,353 kg (2,983 lbs) and with 400 hp on tap, it offers a performance envelope that eclipses many of its substantially more expensive rivals.
The optional Carbon Pack costs £6,500, €9,000 (Germany), $10,000 (USD), the titanium sports exhaust £5,500, €7,000 (Germany), $8,000 (USD) and the lithium-ion battery £1,350, €1,890 (Germany), $1,690 (USD). The deletion of air conditioning and the selection of 2+0 seating is a no-cost option. All prices are MSRP.
* USA and Canada Evora 400 weighs 1,430 kg (3,153 lbs).

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· Most accomplished Elise racer yet from Hethel
· Broad range of track-specific options as standard
· Eligible for race series around the world

The latest race car from Lotus, the new Elise Race 250 distils the famous company’s engineering expertise into one hardcore, track-orientated package.
Eligible for many race series around the world, this sensational new Elise has been developed to meet the high demands of the track, with a raft of performance-orientated features as standard. Packing a supercharged, 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with a 6 speed manual gearbox, the Elise Race 250 boasts 243 hp (246 PS) at 7200 rpm and an impressive 250 Nm of torque between 3500 rpm and 5500 rpm.
Delivering a level of ability you’d expect from one of the world’s most famous racing marques, every aspect of the Lotus Elise Race 250 has been optimised to help slash lap times. This covers track-oriented features including Nitron adjustable dampers, uprated brake pads, FIA approved carbon fibre race seat with six-point racing harness, a removable steering wheel and a polycarbonate rear windscreen.
The Lotus Elise Race 250 also features a full aero package, including front splitter, rear diffuser, floor extensions and a rear wing. As a result, the car’s design generates substantial downforce, equal to 66 kg at 100 mph and 155 kg at maximum speed of 154 mph (248 km/h).
As befitting a race car, the cabin of the Elise Race 250 is fitted with an A-Frame harness bar and an FIA compliant front roll-cage section, fire extinguisher, battery isolator and front and rear towing eyes. The front headlamps are replaced with lightweight composite blanking panels.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented, “Lotus was established to build race cars and with 68 years’ experience, no one knows more about extracting the best performance possible. The Elise Race 250 is the fastest, most focused Elise we’ve ever produced and, judging by what it’s capable of on track, it looks set to become a favourite with our racers around the world.”

Building the fastest Elise racer yet
The new Elise Race 250 benefits from the continuous design philosophy of Lotus and its perpetual quest to evolve all constituent parts, lightening and optimising them.
At the core of the new car lies the company’s famous Lotus’ aluminium vehicle chassis technology. Employing strong and stiff lightweight extrusions joined by epoxy adhesive, it’s both immensely strong and torsionally stiff yet, the chassis for the Elise Race 250 tips the scales at just 68 kgs.
Specifically developed by Lotus’ famous Motorsport division the car has benefited through the company’s ‘Lightweight Laboratory’, and includes as standard, a Lithium Ion battery saving 10 kg compared to a standard battery, carbon fibre race seats (6 kg lighter than the equivalent composite seats) and ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels. Those wanting to cut weight still further, can opt for the Carbon Aero Pack which replaces the standard front splitter, rear wing, rear diffuser and side floor-extensions with lightweight carbon components and reduces mass by a further 10 kg. With these lightweight options, the Elise Race 250 weighs less than 900 kg (dry).
With the new car lapping the company’s Hethel test track in 1 minute 33.5 seconds, the Elise Race 250 is 0.5 seconds quicker than the previous Elise Cup 220 R and represents the fastest recorded lap time for a Lotus developed race-variant of the Elise.
Developed through Lotus’ extensive motorsport experience, the Elise Race 250 features an adjustable front anti-roll bar, Nitron one-way adjustable dampers and Eibach coaxial coil springs and double wishbone suspension providing optimum body and roll control, but not at the expense of composure or turn in and without sacrificing high-speed stability. AP Racing twin-piston front calipers, and Brembo single-piston rear calipers work in conjunction with the ABS system with ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels (16-inch, front and 17-inch rear) with Yokohama AO48 tyres (195/50/16 on the front and 225/45/17 on the rear).

The arrival the new Elise Race 250 coincides with the 50^th celebrations for the founding of the famous factory in Hethel, Norfolk, when in 1966, founder Colin Chapman moved Lotus to the purpose-built facility. Today, all Lotus cars are developed on the same test track responsible for the company’s famous Grand Prix racers. As the spiritual home of Team Lotus, its heritage includes seven World Constructors' Championship titles and six World Drivers' Championship.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price
£53,500

· Lotus fans select iconic blue & orange scheme for Evora 400

· Social media poll via Facebook and Twitter

· Highlights bespoke nature of Lotus Exclusive programme

· Latest limited edition sports car celebrating 50 years at Hethel

Car fans across the world have helped the Lotus Exclusive service by choosing one of the most famous racing colour schemes for a run of extremely limited Evora 400 Exclusive editions.
Challenging enthusiasts to pick their preference from a selection of carefully curated designs, penned by Lotus’ design team, the social media poll on Lotus’ Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages, saw modern interpretations of classic automotive colour combinations, as well as some established Lotus liveries.
The outright winner was revealed as the Blue & Orange edition, recalling the famous racing colour scheme first seen in the 1960s, with a complementary palette inside, setting black leather upholstery against orange contrast stitching.
The new Blue and Orange limited edition Evora 400 is the latest Lotus sports car to help mark 2016 as the 50^th anniversary since the founding of the Lotus Factory and Headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk.

With a special paint colour and orange and white decal stripes, the Exclusive design gave fans the opportunity to give the modern Evora 400 a thoroughly retro look. Black forged wheels and red brake calipers complete the car’s distinctive look.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc said, “Any one of the designs in the poll would have been a worthy winner. So now that the poll has finished and with thousands of votes cast, we have decided that the winner will make it into production. We only plan to build 10 of these Evora 400 sports cars in total so with their rarity, I expect them to quickly become very desirable.”
Developed by the team at Hethel, Lotus Exclusive inspires customers to further personalise the character of their Lotus cars. With the ability to tailor to their personal taste, it provides an alluring alternative to a standard specification sports car.
With such limited production numbers, the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it Exclusive edition is expected to sell quickly. However, customers can create their own, unique Lotus through the Exclusive programme today.
The ultra-low volume edition perfectly demonstrates the appeal of Lotus Exclusive, which offers buyers a unique ownership proposition by combining traditional British craftsmanship with modern design. Tailoring one of Lotus’ high-performance sports cars to suit personal tastes, it offers a customised alternative to an off-the-shelf car, covering everything from colour coding through to race car preparation.
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented, “A Lotus is all about the purity of the driving experience and benchmark handling and owning a Lotus is a statement that you value design, innovation and the skills of our craftsmen and women who hand build all Lotus sports cars in Hethel.”

About the Evora 400
As one of the most significant models in the company’s history, the Lotus Evora 400 drives home the company’s commitment to developing pure, driver-focused sports cars.
Developed through Lotus’ Lightweight Laboratory, the car’s low mass of 1,395 kg drastically enhances its performance. As a result, the Evora 400 accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds) and continues on to deliver a maximum speed of 186 mph (300 km/h).
Combining a lightweight revised aluminium chassis with a high-output engine, to deliver remarkable performance, its supercharged and charge-cooled, mid-mounted 3.5-litre V6 engine produces 400 hp and 410 Nm of torque. The car’s efficient composite body, flat-floor, rear diffuser, three-element rear wing all enhance aerodynamics, generating significant downforce of 32 kg at 150 mph (241 mk/h).
The Lotus Evora 400 enjoys a high specification as standard, including 370 mm composite two-piece brake discs from AP Racing, a Limited Slip Differential (LSD), automatic air-conditioning and infotainment system with satellite navigation. Options include automatic transmission and cruise control.
As an alternative to the 6-speed gearbox, with the torsen-type LSD as standard, a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic gearbox is available. With electronically optimised up-shifts. Drivers can change gears manually via forged aluminium paddles mounted to the steering wheel, or rely on the gearbox’s fully automatic mode.
As befitting a hand-built car, the cabin of the Evora 400 uses the highest quality materials, including Alcantara and leather, while the driver-orientated layout provides ergonomically optimised controls. Very much a usable 2+2 coupe, passenger space is improved on the previous model, with greater legroom and wider rear seats, and the chassis revisions have increased the size of the door aperture, making it easy to enter and exit the Evora 400.
Lotus Exclusive is available on all Lotus cars, including the new Elise Cup 250 and Exige Sport 350, and includes a full range of performance options making it truly “made to measure”. Lotus Exclusive is available for all Lotus customers through the Lotus dealer network.
The Lotus Exclusive brochure can be downloaded here: http://www.lotuscars.com/exclusive.

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• Honour recognises exceptional service to the motor industry
• Ceremony is part of Luxembourg’s National Day celebrations
Recognising his significant and ongoing contribution to the Motor Industry, Lotus CEO, Jean-Marc Gales has been awarded the title Commander of the Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg following a ceremony in the country’s capital.
Jean-Marc Gales received the Commander of the Order of Merit from His Royal Highness Henri, Grand Duke of Luxembourg. Held at the Luxembourg Philharmonie, during the country’s National Day celebrations, the honour was vested during the annual ceremony, and cited Jean-Marc Gales’ ‘distinguished international career’, ‘exceptional service’, and ‘stunning commitment’.
Speaking after the ceremony, Jean-Marc Gales said: “I’m very proud of my Luxembourg heritage and I am honoured to have received this title and be recognised in such a way. The automotive industry is a challenging, fascinating and exciting business to be in and I continue to thoroughly enjoy it. My current role at Lotus is certainly the most rewarding as, together with our dedicated and hardworking staff, we have succeeded in turning the Lotus business around.”
Growing up in the era of Team Lotus Formula 1 World Champions including Graham Hill, Jochen Rindt and Mario Andretti, Jean-Marc Gales enjoyed an early fascination with Lotus and its cars. He cites a childhood visit to a local Lotus dealer in Luxembourg as a pivotal moment, helping define his future path. Today, he retains strong personal links with the country and frequently returns.
Graduating with an MSc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Karlsruhe in Germany and an MSc in Management from London's Imperial College, Jean-Marc’s career has seen him work for many of the world’s best-known car marques.
Prior to his appointment at Lotus, Jean-Marc Gales was Chief Executive Officer of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (“CLEPA”), before which he was the President of Automobiles Citroen and Automobiles Peugeot. His other previous appointments include senior positions in Daimler AG, General Motors and Volkswagen AG.
Joining Lotus in 2014, Jean-Marc has implemented and overseen a plan which has overhauled the business. With the support of the team at Hethel, Norfolk and the company’s owners, DRB-HICOM, Group Lotus has now returned to strength. Expected to deliver a profit this financial year, it will be the first time in the company’s history that both the car and engineering divisions have made a positive contribution to the business.
As part of this return to form, production of cars at the company’s factory is expected to exceed 2000 vehicles this financial year.
With a heritage of efficient design, Lotus is the maker of some of the finest, lightweight, pure and most efficient sports cars sold today. No other car manufacturer can claim the design philosophy of ‘lighter and faster’ which is perfectly demonstrated in the current range of sports cars: Elise, Exige, Evora and 3-Eleven. Lotus sets the benchmark for performance and handling both on road and on track with hand-built sports cars which provide a level of precision and driver involvement that rivals cannot match.
Already in 2016, Lotus has launched the Exige Sport 350 (the fastest real world sports car), the Elise Cup 250 (the latest and quickest version of the legendary Elise) and the game changing Lotus 3-Eleven. The new Lotus Evora Sport 410, a lighter and quicker version of the Evora 400 will arrive in dealerships later this year.
Remaining true to the ethos of the company’ s founder Colin Chapman, Lotus continues to lead the field with its latest class-leading generation of sports cars, combining high-output engines with the company’s dedication to cutting mass, and so boosting performance through intelligent engineering.

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• First customer Lotus 3-Eleven leaves Hethel production line
• Production Lotus Elise Cup 250 ready for delivery to its first customer
• Latest Lotus legends arrive for 50^th anniversary celebrations
• Lotus 3-Eleven presented at the 2016 Goodwood Festival of Speed
  

Ready to humble some of the fastest cars that money can buy, two of the greatest, most extreme Lotus models ever produced, the Lotus 3-Eleven, finished in matt and gloss Black colour scheme and the Lotus Elise Cup 250 in Red, have driven off the production line for the first time at the famous Hethel factory.
The two, hard-hitting lightweights represent the latest generation of Lotus sports cars, combining high-output engines with the company’s dedication to cutting mass, and so boosting performance through intelligent engineering. Developed through the company’s Lightweight Laboratory philosophy, every component in each as been assessed, optimised and re-engineered as required.
Surrounded by some of the production and engineering teams responsible for the two cars, Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, commented: “The lucky owners of these will be the first to find out just how special the latest Lotus cars really are. We’ve raised the bar yet again, to produce two vehicles which the competition cannot hope to match. From the outright firepower of the 3-Eleven, to the sublime handling of the Elise Cup 250, these cars, better than any other, encapsulate our ‘light is right’ mantra.”

3-Eleven
Showing clear intent for the Lotus high-performance sports cars of the future, the 3-Eleven is the company’s quickest and most expensive series production car ever.
The 3-Eleven offers a giant-slaying power-to-weight ratio, thanks to a revised V6 supercharged engine developing 460 hp, to provide in excess of 500 hp per tonne. It is capable of sprinting from 0-60 mph in 2.9 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 180 mph (290 km/h).
Designed to deliver a pure, undiluted driving experience, the Lotus 3-Eleven utilises an all-new lightweight carbon composite body, and a bespoke chassis evolved from Lotus’ ground-breaking work with extruded and bonded aluminium sections.
As part of its development the Lotus 3-Eleven spent time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, where it was one of the fastest road going cars to ever tackle the track, capable of setting a sub-7 minute lap time.
One year on from its global unveiling, this matt and gloss Black 3-Eleven will be on display at this years’ Goodwood Festival of Speed with Bell & Colvill, the most successful and longest serving Lotus dealer in the world. A second giant killing Lotus 3-Eleven will be taking part in the Michelin Supercar run on all three days of the Festival.

Elise Cup 250
With the Lotus Elise recently crowned as Readers’ Champion during the Autocar Awards, this latest version of the legendary car is the faster ever - with a 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 154 mph (248 km/h).
Powered by a new higher-output version of the supercharged, 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine, the Elise Cup 250 boasts 243 hp. However, in order to make the most of its power, it’s shed 21kg compared to its predecessor, to weight just 931 kg. Customers wanting to cut weight still further, and so boost performance, can select the optional Carbon Aero Pack to reduce the vehicle’s mass to 921 kg.
The hand-built sports car has long been regarded as a benchmark within the industry, providing a level of precision and driver involvement that rivals cannot match. Capable of lapping the company’s test track in 1 minute 34 seconds, the changes and engineering adaptions to the Elise Cup 250 have taken an impressive four seconds off the previous Elise Cup 220’s best time.
The arrival the new cars coincides with the 50th celebrations for the founding of the famous factory in Hethel, Norfolk, when, in 1966, founder Colin Chapman moved Lotus to the purpose-built facility. Lotus is marking this milestone in the company’s history with special edition cars and events throughout the year.
Every new Lotus 3-Eleven and Elise customer can personalise their vehicle through the Lotus Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design. Conceived to inspire customers, allowing them to tailor vehicles to their personal taste, it offers a comprehensive array of options and provides an alluring alternative to an off-the-peg sports car.
To find out more about Lotus Elise range visit: http://www.lotuscars.com/lotus-elise-range

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• Lotus Elise crowned Champion as tens of thousands vote
• Award marks anniversary year of original Elise’s launch
• New Lotus Elise Sport starts from just £29,900
  

Beating some of the best cars ever built, the landmark Lotus Elise has been announced as Readers’ Champion during the prestigious Autocar Awards, after tens of thousands of motoring fans voted in an online competition.
From a starting roster of 50, the final shortlist of cars contained just ten contenders and voting was tight as the two-week competition drew to a close.
Receiving the award during the Autocar Awards ceremony on Tuesday evening at Silverstone, Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc said: “Winning the Readers’ Champion Award shows what a key role the Elise continues to play in the automotive industry. When it was launched it shook the rest of the automotive industry into acknowledging and understanding the importance of lightweight when producing class-leading sports cars – redefining the segment. It is one of the all time greats which is always copied but never equalled.”

Jim Holder, Editorial Director, Haymarket Automotive said, “The Lotus Elise is a car that embodies all that Autocar and its readers love about sports cars, combining pace, agility and a purity of purpose. Our testers named their favourite 50 cars and tens of thousands of readers proceeded to choose the winner. It was hotly contested, of course, but the Lotus Elise is a well deserved Readers’ Champion winner.”
The lightweight hand-built sports car from Hethel, Norfolk has long been regarded as a benchmark for handling and performance and providing a level of precision and driver involvement that rivals cannot match. Following the founder of Lotus, Colin Chapman’s engineering principles of performance through light weight, the Elise is perfectly tuned for demanding British roads, providing a pure yet involving and agile driving experience. The latest model, the Elise Cup 250 reaches 60 mph in just 3.9 seconds yet produces only 175 g/CO₂ per 100 km.
With prices starting at under £30,000 for the Sport edition, the Lotus Elise also proves that outstanding hand built British sports cars don’t have to cost a six-figure sum.
The Autocar Readers’ Champion Award not only coincides with the anniversary of the car’s first year on sale, but also with the 50^th celebration of the move to the company’s famous factory in Hethel. As the spiritual home of the Elise, it’s another reason for the company and its millions of fans to celebrate in 2016.

About the Lotus Elise
Unveiled at the Frankfurt motorshow in 1995, the Lotus Elise arrived on roads in 1996, winning praise from both journalists and enthusiasts for its pure and undiluted driving experience. Over 32,000 Lotus Elise sports cars have left the factory since launch, and the car remains the famous brand’s most enduring model.
The high tech chassis that underpins the Elise, was ahead of its time when introduced, and continues to represent a significant step forward in chassis design. Based on the use of extruded and bonded aluminium sections, the resulting chassis is both tremendously strong and torsionally stiff and weighs just 68 kg.
However, rather than rest on the car’s plaudits, Lotus has continually enhanced and evolved the Elise ensuring that today the 2016 models represent the ultimate iteration of the Elise to date, being lighter and faster than the cars they replace.
As the starting point of the range, the Elise Sport delivers outstanding performance for under £30,000, and is capable of 0-60 mph in 6.0 seconds. Employing lightweight construction, and aerodynamically optimised bodywork it provides pin-sharper handling, and great body control, but not at the expense of ride comfort and composure.
At the top of the range sits the fastest road-going Lotus Elise ever, the Lotus Elise Cup 250. Weighing just 931 kg, and capable of 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, it’s available as either a coupe or roadster. Customers wanting to cut the car’s weight still further, and so boost performance, can select the optional Carbon Aero Pack and Lithium-ion battery to reduce the vehicle’s mass to just 921 kg.
Every new Lotus Elise customer can personalise their vehicle through the Lotus Exclusive programme. Developed by the Lotus Design team, it combines traditional British craftsmanship with the best of modern design. Conceived to inspire customers, allowing them to tailor vehicles to their personal taste, it offers a comprehensive array of options and provides an alluring alternative to an off-the-peg sports car.
To find out more about Lotus Elise range visit: http://www.lotuscars.com/lotus-elise-range