Translated as 'dark' from Italian, the name 'Scura' reflects the stealth character of this already fierce looking Lotus and its stunning soft-feel matt black paint finish. Limited to just 35 cars globally, this Exige evokes a desire to 'indulge your dark side'. This is a serious looking car and enhancements to performance and a reduction in weight from the production level Exige S means that the Exige Scura demands to be driven by a serious driver.

Contrasting high gloss 'Phantom Black' triple stripes run the length of the car and a carbon fibre front splitter, oil cooler inlet vanes, side airscoops and rear spoiler enhance the stunning distinction between the different textures and exaggerate the tactile quality of the velvety touch to the matt black paint finish.

Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars said, "The Exige Scura is a stunning vehicle which offers an adrenaline fuelled experience and is a real head-turner! Our Exige customers choose Lotus because we deliver thrilling performance and dynamic design and this special edition fits the bill on both counts."

Continuing the dark 'Scura' appearance into the interior, carbon fibre is used extensively to compliment the exterior theme and reduce weight. The seats and centre console are crafted from carbon fibre and the handbrake and gear knob have a special anodized treatment which leaves the metal with an anthracite colour finish. All carbon fibre components have been beautifully finished in high-gloss clear lacquer allowing the weave to remain exposed which gives the cabin a raw and racy ambiance.

Whilst there is no doubt that this is a visually stunning car, the Exige Scura is not just about its looks – it begs to be taken on track, and its racing character encompasses poise, power and technology to make it a serious contender. Equipped with the most powerful engine in the Exige range and generating 260PS, the Exige Scura achieves a top speed of around 245 km/h and reaches 0-100 kmh in just 4.1 seconds.

Other equipment fitted as standard to boost the Exige Scura's track credentials include:

*

Launch control to ensure optimum performance from a standing start

*

Variable slip traction control, enabling the driver to tune the car to track surface conditions and their own driving style

*

Ohlins 2-way adjustable dampers for personalised ride and handling characteristics

Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director, highlighted the performance of the Exige Scura, "There are very few cars in the world that turn in the performance of the Exige Scura without the penalty of very high fuel consumption and emissions. As with all Lotus sportscars we offer the best of both worlds – a zero to 100 km/h time of just over 4 seconds and a CO2 figure of 199 g/km; all this is down to light weight and a strict adherence to Lotus' core brand values."

Considering the performance on offer, the Exige Scura boasts impressive all round fuel economy with an Official European Combined Cycle figure of 8.5 litres/100 km and 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle and emissions of 199 g/km of CO2.

Orders for the 'Lotus Exige Scura' will be accepted from 21 October 2009 in Europe, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Indonesia and Malaysia. This special edition will be available on the same basis in Japan known as the 'Lotus Exige Stealth'.

Limited to just 35 cars globally, the Exige Stealth is a serious looking car and enhancements to performance and a reduction in weight from the production level Exige S means that the this Exige demands to be driven by a serious driver. The name 'Stealth' reflects the dark character of this already fierce looking Lotus and its stunning soft-feel matt black paint finish gives this car an exceptional appearance.

Contrasting high gloss 'Phantom Black' triple stripes run the length of the car and a carbon fibre front splitter, oil cooler inlet vanes, side airscoops and rear spoiler enhance the stunning distinction between the different textures and exaggerate the tactile quality of the velvety touch to the matt black paint finish.

Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars said, "The Exige Stealth is a stunning vehicle which offers an adrenaline fuelled experience and is a real head-turner! Our Exige customers choose Lotus because we deliver thrilling performance and dynamic design and this special edition fits the bill on both counts."

Continuing the dark 'Stealth' appearance into the interior, carbon fibre is used extensively to compliment the exterior theme and to reduce weight. The seats and centre console are crafted from carbon fibre and the handbrake and gear knob have a special anodized treatment which leaves the metal with an anthracite colour finish. All carbon fibre components have been beautifully finished in high-gloss clear lacquer allowing the weave to remain exposed which gives the cabin a raw and racy ambiance.

Whilst there is no doubt that this is a visually stunning car, the Exige Stealth is not just about its looks – it begs to be taken on track, and its racing character encompasses poise, power and technology to make it a serious contender. Equipped with the most powerful engine in the Exige range and generating 260PS, the Exige Stealth achieves a top speed of around 245 km/h and reaches 0-100 kmh in just 4.1 seconds.

Other equipment fitted as standard to boost the Exige Stealth's track credentials include:

* Launch control to ensure optimum performance from a standing start

* Variable slip traction control, enabling the driver to tune the car to track surface conditions and their own driving style

* Ohlins 2-way adjustable dampers for personalised ride and handling characteristics

Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director, highlighted the performance of the Exige Stealth, "There are very few cars in the world that turn in the performance of the Exige Stealth without the penalty of very high fuel consumption and emissions. As with all Lotus sportscars we offer the best of both worlds – a zero to 100 km/h time of just over 4 seconds and a CO2 figure of 199 g/km; all this is down to light weight and a strict adherence to Lotus' core brand values."

Considering the performance on offer, the Exige Stealth boasts impressive all round fuel economy with an Official European Combined Cycle figure of 8.5 litres/100 km and 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle and emissions of 199 g/km of CO2.

Orders for the 'Lotus Exige Stealth' will be accepted from 21 October 2009 in Japan. This special edition will be available on the same basis in Europe, South Korea, Australia, South Africa, Thailand, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, New Zealand, Indonesia and Malaysia under a different name.

The 2009 Performance Car of the Year comprised 30 cars, and included exhaustive subjective and objective testing. The feature incorporated testing on some of the greatest driving roads in Britain, with objective testing at the Rockingham Motor Speedway, where Darren Turner, a Le Mans winning racer, put the cars through their paces.

Chris Chilton, Assistant Editor at Car Magazine was so taken with the Lotus Evora during the first drive activity in Scotland that he said he would eat his Apple Mac if the Evora didn't win this year's Performance Car of the Year.

In saving his Apple Mac, Chris commented, "There are executive saloons that don't ride this well, supercars that don't turn in so crisply, and surely no car on the planet steers like this". To further safeguard his constitution, Chris added, "Lotus has managed to transfer everything that we love about the Elise to a bigger, more refined, more grown up platform...It couldn't really be much better to drive - the Evora is nigh-on perfect. A winner on every conceivable level".

Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director said that "It is very rewarding to win the well established Car Magazine, Performance Car of the Year award against such tough competition. I am personally very pleased that Chris Chilton so accurately informs on the character and performance that we set out to achieve in the Evora: They are all you would expect from a modern everyday Lotus. The Evora is a great ownership proposition, offering the great Lotus driving experience in a very comfortable, practical, refined and efficient package."

He added "It is a great validation of the expertise at Lotus to win this title against incredible competition from such a highly regarded publication and very pleasing to continue Lotus' outstanding record in this competition".

Lotus Evora: 205 g/km CO2

32.5 mpg (8.7 litres / 100 km) - Combined Cycle

22.8 mpg (12.4 litres / 100 km) - Urban Cycle

43.5 mpg (6.5 litres / 100 km) - Extra Urban Cycle

NOTES

For more details about Car Magazine's, Performance Car of the Year feature check out the Car Magazine and www.carmagazine.co.uk .

About the Lotus Evora

The Evora enters the sports car market as the world's only production mid-engined 2+2, and provides a tremendously rewarding driving experience; the mid-engined layout gives exceptional agility and the Lotus engineered suspension ensures incredible ride, handling, and steering performance. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS/ 206 kW / 276 hp @ 6400 rpm, and weighing just 1382 kg, the Evora delivers an exhilarating experience true to the Lotus DNA characteristics.

With the zero to 60 mph sprint taking just 4.9 seconds (100 km/h in just 5.1 seconds) a top speed of 162 mph (261 km/h) and an Official European Combined Cycle fuel economy of 32.5 mpg (8.7 litres / 100 km) and emissions of 205 g/km CO2 the Evora stays true to the ethos of performance through light weight. The other economy figures are Official European Urban Cycle of 22.8 mpg (12.4 litres / 100 km) and 43.5 mpg (6.5 litres / 100 km) for the Official European Extra Urban Cycle.

Production of the Evora is currently ramping up to a build rate of 2000 cars per year, which is forecast to be achieved in November 2009, and will mean that total production of Lotus vehicles will be over double that of November 2008.

About Lotus

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Limited, which has two operating divisions - Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany and Japan.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide market and customer requirements to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, Exige, Europa and Lotus' latest model, the Evora. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

PDF attached.

Elise SC

Elise S

Exige S

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The British Engineering Excellence Awards recognise the design engineering excellence of industry and show the world the depth of variety of engineering design innovation throughout the UK. The Judges' Special Award was presented to acknowledge a company that epitomised the aim of the British Engineering Excellence Awards by being recognised globally as a world leader in its chosen field of engineering.

Paul Newsome, Managing Director of Lotus Engineering said: "We are delighted by this recognition from the British Engineering Excellence Awards, a testament to the hard work of our talented, visionary work force. Lotus Engineering is revered for innovation, outstanding driving dynamics, exciting niche vehicles and efficient performance engineering and continues to offer a unique blend of technical expertise and proven ability to create successful products that stand out in the market place. Lotus Engineering has seen a 23% sales increase over the last financial year, an incredible achievement in what is a challenging market, firmly reinforcing our position as one of the world's leading automotive consultancies."

The judges looked at recent projects that had been undertaken and assessed how Lotus Engineering has been able to diversify its knowledge base and to deliver world class engineering solutions. They were impressed that the company had continued to thrive despite the economic problems experienced by the sector in the last 18 months.

In summing up Lotus Engineering's achievements, the panel of Judges said: "Most of its business is derived from engineering services and it is even more impressive when you think about the size of some of the companies that have gone to Lotus for its help. Lotus is a truly excellent organisation and an obvious flag bearer for all that is good in UK engineering."

In attendance to greet both the King and Queen of Malaysia were PROTON Holdings Berhad and Lotus Group Plc Chairman Dato' Mohd. Nadzmi Mohd. Salleh, Group Managing Director Dato' Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir and Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc Dany Taner Bahar. Also present were Her Majesty The Queen of England's Lord Lieutenant of Norfolk, Mr. Richard Jewson, JP; the Malaysian High Commissioner to Britain, His Excellency Dato' Abdul Aziz Mohammed; Board Members of PROTON Holdings Berhad and Group Lotus Plc.

"It is an honour for us to have His and Her Majesty's presence here at our Lotus facility and this indeed is a meaningful occasion for all of us, both in Lotus and PROTON. I am certain that it will definitely inspire us to further strive and work harder in bringing Lotus to greater global prominence and in realising PROTON's vision to become Asia's premier automotive company," said Dato' Mohd. Nadzmi.

"With Lotus' proven strength in producing iconic cars such as the Elite, Seven, Elan, Europa, Esprit, Elise and Evora, PROTON's decision to acquire Lotus in 1996 obviously has been proven to be a good one. Its acquisition was also important as it has changed the future of PROTON as a car manufacturer in the automotive industry," he added.

"Lotus has contributed immeasurably to the technological development and engineering capabilities of PROTON. An unmistakable legend in the world of automotive industry, Lotus thrives on its strong foundation built by its founder Colin Bruce Chapman in 1948, and now after 61 glorious years, Lotus still holds reign as one of the few esteemed sportscar makers, distinguished especially for its lightweight engineering prowess and performance superiority," said Dato' Syed Zainal Abidin.

During the visit, PROTON and Lotus were honoured to have the King and Queen of Malaysia unveiled the new Proton Higher Performance Engine, a new high-torque pressure-charged engine to support future product introductions. The engine, developed in collaboration between PROTON and Lotus Engineering with active involvement of Malaysian engineers and vendors, boasts an improved rate of emission and performance quality. The engine, produced within 18 months from approval of engineering proof of concept, promises a high torque for enhanced driveability with improved economy, performance and emissions.

The King and Queen of Malaysia spent the morning taking in various exhibits from Lotus Cars including a brief on classic Lotus cars by Clive Chapman, the son of Lotus founder, Colin Chapman. The King and Queen were also escorted on a guided tour of the Lotus Cars assembly line, and were briefed about the latest Lotus Design projects. The King also took time to test drive the award winning Lotus Evora as well as the Tesla and Exige models.

About PROTON

PROTON, established in 1983, is Malaysia's largest manufacturer of automobiles. With operations in key market centers from UK and Western Europe to the Middle East, and across South-East Asia and Australasia, PROTON produces cars to suit a range of consumer demands and preferences. The offerings include versatile and reliable four-door family vehicles, two-door hatchbacks for the young-at-heart, luxurious and stylish executive sedans, spacious and affordable multi-purpose vehicle, as well as the world-renowned sports cars from Lotus.

PROTON's inception as a key driver of national development has seen the brand accelerate its learning curve through technology transfer with strategic partnerships and technical collaborations. PROTON cars are now steadily on track to achieving the mission for the future, gearing up to achieve the promise of a marque which builds cars with passion and soul; cars which are a delight to drive and a pleasure to own.

About Lotus

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Limited, which has two operating divisions - Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, Exige, Europa and the new award winning Lotus Evora. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

Making its debut at the I.A.A. in Frankfurt 2009, the Special Edition Lotus Elise Club Racer introduces new and exclusive colour schemes, bespoke interior and lightweight components all in a world class, high performance and low emission sportscar.

• 179 g/km CO2

• 0-60 mph in 5.7 seconds

• 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds

• Combined cycle fuel consumption: 37.2 mpg or 7.6l/100km

Lotus has taken four of the classic colour schemes used by Lotus in the 1960s (Elite Yellow, Carbon Grey, Sky Blue and Old English White) and combined them with exclusive Club Racer interior design features to give a stunning sportscar that beautifully morphs function and form.

The firm and supportive Elise seats are clad with lightweight microfibre comfort pads perfectly positioned to give the right amount of support with the minimal amount of weight, but still keeping the body coloured seat shell partly exposed.

The exterior body colour theme is carried over to the transmission tunnel and combined with silver and black paint highlights, bisecting the cockpit and tying together the whole sporty theme unique to the Club Racer.

Other exclusive interior design features of the Club Racer are the anthracite anodised gear knob and handbrake sleeve, the Club Racer (CR) logo hand embroidered on the seat headrest and the unique anodized aluminium flooring in the driver's and passenger's footwell. The small 320 mm diameter leather rimmed steering wheel has an on-center marker, enabling the more spirited driver to quickly and safely identify the straight ahead position of the front wheels.

The lightweight six spoke alloy wheels, shod in bespoke Yokohama AD07 LTS tyres are also anthracite anodised, complementing the key interior components.

Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars said, "Special Editions of the award winning Elise have always proved popular with our customers around the world, and I expect the Elise Club Racer to be no different. We have taken colour schemes from our past, used on the Elite and Elan in the 1960s and cleverly brought them up to date with a modern feel to the interior. The whole design package is modern with a classic twist, which of course matches the peerless ride and handling of a Lotus and the convertible experience of the Elise perfectly."

The Lotus Elise Club Racer is based upon the 134 hp Elise S and goes on sale on 15th September 2009 priced as set out below.

Recommended retail prices for the following markets (MSRP) (including transport, local taxes and first service (but excluding registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

Belgium € 34.475

France € 34.175

Italy € 34.770

Switzerland CHF 48.820

Recommended retail prices for the following markets (MSRP) (including local taxes (excluding transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

Germany € 33.125,--

Retail prices for the UK (MSRP)

Recommended retail price (including VAT) in the UK is £25,712, (an additional £950 is charged for on the road costs. These include delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months Road Fund Licence and a full tank of fuel.)

Recommended retail prices for Euro Zone Countries (MSRP) (excluding local taxes, transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

Euro Zone Countries € 27.822,--

Lotus Engineering, the world-renowned automotive consultancy division of Lotus, unveils its Range Extender engine at the 63rd Frankfurt International Motor Show. In a series hybrid vehicle, the Range Extender engine is attached to an electricity generator and provides a highly efficient source of energy to power the electric motor directly or charge the vehicles battery. The battery can also power the electric motor which enables the design of a drivetrain that has low emissions, optimised performance and acceptable range.

The Lotus Range Extender engine features an innovative architecture comprising an aluminium monoblock construction, integrating the cylinder block, cylinder head and exhaust manifold in one casting. This results in reduced engine mass, assembly costs, package size and improved emissions and engine durability.

The three-cylinder 1.2 litre Range Extender engine is optimised between two power generation points, giving 15 kW of electrical power at 1,500 rpm and 35 kW at 3,500 rpm via the integrated electrical generator. Its low mass of 56 kg makes it ideal for the series hybrid drivetrain configurations for which it is designed. The engine uses an optimised two-valve port-fuel injection combustion system to reduce cost and mass and, in line with Lotus Engineering's extensive research into renewable fuels, can be operated on alcohol-based fuels or gasoline.

For successful market uptake of series hybrid vehicles with acceptable driving range, vehicle manufacturers must overcome the challenges of high vehicle cost. The Lotus Range Extender engine not only offers the advantage of a cost effective design, but also its high efficiency and low mass will enable the downsizing of expensive batteries whilst maintaining vehicle efficiency and range. The engine has been designed using production methodologies and the parts procured from low volume potential production suppliers, offering a fast route to market for original equipment manufacturers wanting to source a dedicated range extender for series hybrid vehicles.

Paul Newsome, Managing Director of Lotus Engineering said: "As the world changes, Lotus Engineering continues to change with it, continuously developing solutions for more sustainable transportation. The Lotus Range Extender engine is another example of Lotus Engineering developing new technologies for efficient performance, this time in the area of series hybrid vehicles. The engine concept we have created with its optimised combustion and compact, low mass, low cost construction is a clear demonstration of the expertise and progressive approach Lotus takes for its own research and for its clients."

The Lotus Range Extender engine has been developed as part of the 'Limo-Green' project funded by the UK's Technology Strategy Board, a collaboration between Lotus Engineering, Jaguar Cars Ltd, MIRA Ltd and Caparo Vehicle Technologies, demonstrating a large, lightweight, prestigious executive saloon with less than 120 g/km CO2 emissions.

Simon Wood, Technical Director of Lotus Engineering said: "Most series hybrid vehicles that are currently being developed will use adaptations of existing, conventional engines which are therefore compromised in the efficiency that they can achieve, designed as they are for a wide range of operating conditions. Designing the Lotus Range Extender purely for use in series hybrids has allowed us instead to develop an optimised engine that has high thermal efficiency, low fuel consumption, multi-fuel capability and a 35 kW peak output from a 1.2 litre, low cost architecture over the precise operating range required by a series hybrid drivetrain."

Technical details:

Technical specification of the Lotus Range Extender engine

General - 1.2 litre 3-cylinder with 2 valves per cylinder, SOHC

Belt driven

Construction - Monoblock with Integrated Exhaust Manifold

All aluminium

Balance shaft (optional)

Direct-coupled generator

Bore and Stroke - 75.0 mm x 90.0 mm

Compression ratio - 10:1

Maximum power - 35 kW (47 bhp) at 3500 rpm via integrated electrical generator

Peak torque - 107 Nm at 2500 rpm

Maximum BMEP - 11.2 bar

Maximum Engine Speed - 3500 rpm

Fuel System - Port fuel injection, Lotus EMS

Fuel - 95 RON ULG / ethanol / methanol

Dry weight - 56 kg

Key features of the Range Extender engine in detail:

Monoblock

The Range Extender features a novel engine architecture incorporating a monoblock construction that blends the cylinder head and block together eliminating the need for a cylinder head gasket, improving durability and reducing weight. Approximately 17 parts are eliminated using this approach and the water jacket is better optimised.

Integrated Exhaust Manifold

Lotus Engineering designed and developed a new advanced cylinder head design featuring an integrated exhaust manifold. The production-ready technology can significantly reduce manufacturing costs, emissions and weight. An integrated exhaust manifold has potential to:

o Reduce parts count: 18 fewer components resulting in lower inventory, production, logistics and aftermarket costs

o Weight reduction: total system mass reduction resulting from elimination of separate exhaust manifold

Improved engine durability

Generator

Attached to the engine via the crankshaft, the generator sustains vehicle operation beyond the range provided by the batteries.

Additional Benefits

The Lotus Range Extender engine generates a reduction in emissions through faster light-off of the close-coupled catalytic converter with a reduction in heat loss between the exhaust port and catalyst inlet. Engine operating range is optimised to deliver more efficient running, which also aids underhood thermal management.

Utilisation of the monoblock construction results in an assembly cost reduction, while there is also a reduced catalyst loading requirement because less heat is lost on engine start-up between the exhaust port and catalyst inlet.

Increased vehicle integration flexibility is achieved because of the reduction in mass and the reduced package size leads to reduced space requirements. Particular emphasis has also been placed on the coupling of the generator and NVH signature.

The Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar has been developed from the award-winning Evora road car and is built to FIA regulations and safety standards.

The Type 124 (pronounced One Twenty Four) Endurance Racecar is the next step in the evolution of the Evora. The car will make its 24 hour racing debut at the ADAC Nürburgring 24 Hours which provides a great test for the Evora's performance, efficiency and durability under tough and demanding endurance race conditions.

Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar

The Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar has been developed from the award-winning Evora road car and is built to FIA regulations and safety standards.

The Type 124 (pronounced One Twenty Four) Endurance Racecar is the next step in the evolution of the Evora. The car will make its 24 hour racing debut at the ADAC Nürburgring 24 Hours which provides a great test for the Evora's performance, efficiency and durability under tough and demanding endurance race conditions.

At the heart of the Lotus Evora are fundamental racecar elements: mid-engine layout, high-tech and super-stiff extruded and bonded aluminium chassis and very strong lightweight forged aluminium wishbones. All these elements mean that it is a natural evolution from the road going Lotus Evora to a competitive endurance racecar.

From the outset the design team had intentions to take the Evora racing and the chassis was designed with this in mind. Endurance races are the perfect events to showcase the efficiency, handling and durability characteristics that have been fundamental to the concept of the Evora.

The Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar has a race-tuned version of the mid-mounted Toyota V6 engine, with power increased to over 400 ps (depending on race regulations). Vehicle mass is expected to be reduced by up to 200 kg, bringing the weight of the racecar to less than 1200 kg (depending on race regulations).

Further changes for the Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar include a six speed sequential paddle shift racing gearbox, full FIA specification roll cage, FIA-compliant 120 litre ATL fuel system, FIA fire extinguisher system, competition carbon fibre rear wing, diffuser and front splitter.

The racecar is fitted with AP Racing 6 piston callipers front and rear, with a race-tuned Bosch ABS system, 4-way adjustable dampers and adjustable anti-roll bars. The racecar runs on 18" rims shod with Pirelli racing slicks and the wheels widths have been increased over the roadcar to 9 ½ J on the front and 11 J on the rear.

The aerodynamically efficient Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar body design, made from lightweight composite and carbon fibre panels, remains predominantly unchanged from the road car, with the only modifications being to the lower sections of the front and rear clamshells and the side sills.

Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars Limited, said, "Motorsport has been in our blood ever since our founder, Colin Chapman, built the first Lotus back in 1948. We are proud of our motorsport history, which includes victories in Formula One, Le Mans, saloon car, rally car and sportscar racing around the world; more recently, we won the British GT3 Championship in 2006 with the Lotus Exige. The Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar is from the same unique stable and we expect it to be a competitive racecar when we enter various endurance races next year."

Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director for Group Lotus Plc said, "Every Lotus car is designed to be at home on the race track as well as the road, and the Evora is no different. Designed primarily as an everyday road car, the Evora's lightweight and stiff structure, its aerodynamics and performance means that it is perfectly suited to taming race tracks around the world, and we are looking forward to seeing the new Lotus Evora Type 124 Endurance Racecar line up on the grid for the 2010 season."

The racecar is expected to compete in a number of endurance races in 2010/ 2011 forming part of a factory-supported race program. The races that are targeted are: The 2010 ADAC Nürburgring 24 Hours (Nürburgring Nordschleife, Germany) in May 2010, Merdeka Millennium 12 Hours (Sepang, Malaysia) in August 2010, BritCar 24 Hours (Silverstone, UK) in October 2010 and the Dubai 24 Hours (Dubai Autodrome, UAE) January 2011.

Significant price re-alignment for all small platform models (Elise, Exige and Europa) for Euro and Swiss zone territories for the Model Year 2010.

With effect from the 17th September 2009, the official Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) in the Euro zone and Switzerland territories have been realigned on the Lotus Elise, the Lotus Exige and the Lotus Europa. Only the MSRP for the Elise S remains unchanged. The option prices have also been realigned at the same time.

Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars Limited said, "There is a no better time to buy a Lotus, as the strong Euro currency means that we can pass these currency savings on to our Euro-zone customers. The Euro-zone market is so important to us and realigning our prices ensures that we remain as manufacturer of some of the highest 'performance-for-the-money' sportscars on the market."

Lotus defies economic gloom with a 30% increase in its manufacturing workforce and over £20m earmarked for product investment in 2009/10 to fuel continued growth. This is in addition to the £28m already invested in 2008/09.

Lotus Invests and Recruits for Growth

Lotus defies economic gloom with a 30% increase in its manufacturing workforce and over £20m earmarked for product investment in 2009/10 to fuel continued growth. This is in addition to the £28m already invested in 2008/09.

First customer deliveries of the new multi-award winning Lotus Evora have already started and there is already a substantial order bank of five months' production. To cope with this demand, Lotus has recruited 150 additional manufacturing staff (a 30% increase) over the last six months. Planned sales volumes of the Lotus Evora for FY 2009/10 are in excess of 1200 with the production rate reaching 10 cars per day by the end of November 2009. The current production rate of Lotus' small platform products (Elise, Exige, 2-Eleven and those for third parties) remains stable.

Investment for Lotus Cars will be in future variants of all Lotus products including an automatic gearbox version the Evora for the 2011 model year. Research earmarked by Lotus Engineering includes range extender engines for series hybrids, lightweight vehicle structures, super-efficient internal combustion engines and hybrid and electric vehicles, all areas where Lotus is recognised as being a world leader.

Luke Bennett, director of Lotus Cars, said: "We must be one of the few car companies in the world that is increasing production and recruiting staff to support increased demand for its products. Lotus has not been immune from the effects of the global economic downturn, but fortunately we are better placed than most due to the timely launch of the new Evora."

Last financial year Lotus increased its sales by 2% to £111m in the face of a challenging market. A major contributor to sales growth was Lotus Engineering, the high tech engineering consultancy, which increased sales by 23% despite the curtailment of new product plans by clients in the automotive sector.

Paul Newsome, Managing Director of Lotus Engineering, said: "I am delighted with our sales growth which stems from developing new markets, growing the existing client base and focussing on green technologies, specifically those that are aimed at reducing CO2 emissions of vehicles. Lotus is unique in the automotive industry, not only as a manufacturer of vehicles both for itself and third parties, but also providing engineering consultancy services to other car companies around the world."

On 1st of October 2009, Dany T. Bahar joins Group Lotus plc as its new CEO, replacing Michael J. Kimberley, who retired in July. Prior to joining Lotus, Dany held the position of Senior Vice President, Commercial & Brand for Ferrari SpA and before that was the Head of Corporate Projects Business in Red Bull GmbH. Complementing the already strong Lotus management team Dany brings skills, expertise and leadship which will enhance Lotus' image, brand and reputation as a world class sportscar and engineering company.

Led by a strong management team and supported by investment, Lotus has a robust and strategic business plan, a comprehensive high technology portfolio, a healthy order book for its iconic and award winning sportscars and a growing Engineering business, Lotus is better placed than many to capitalise on the rapidly changing automotive market.

Dany Bahar joins Lotus as Chief Executive Officer

Dany T. Bahar has been appointed as the new CEO of Group Lotus effective 1st October 2009, replacing Michael J. Kimberley, who retired in July.

Prior to this appointment, Dany Bahar was Senior Vice President, Commercial & Brand for Ferrari SpA where he was responsible for worldwide road car sales and after sales business, overall road car and F1 marketing activities, licensing, and merchandising business.

Before joining Ferrari SpA, Dany Bahar was the Head of Corporate Projects Business in Red Bull GmbH. He was responsible for the overall corporate project business development, with emphasis on diversifying the business such as setting up their F1 strategy with Red Bull Racing and Scuderia Toro Rosso and the US based Nascar Team operations, acquiring football clubs in Salzburg, New York and Ghana for commercial purposes.

On his appointment, Dany Bahar said, "I am looking forward to taking on the challenges as CEO of this legendary and iconic company with a peerless motorsport history. Lotus has a worldwide reputation for innovative engineering and superb sportscars that lead the world in efficiency, design and dynamics. With the recent launch of the award-winning Evora, there is proof that Lotus is better placed than many to capitalise on the rapidly changing automotive market. I can't wait to get my plans underway in October."

In welcoming Dany Bahar, Dato' Mohd Nadzmi Mohd Salleh, the Chairman of Lotus Group, stated "With Dany's track record in motorsports and Ferrari, we strongly believe that we have found the right CEO to enhance the Lotus image, brand and reputation as a world class sportscar and engineering company. With a strong management team already in place, we are confident this objective can be attained."

Dany Bahar, a Swiss National, holds an MBA and is married with two children.

The 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260

Increased specification, improved efficiency and enhanced handling

The track focussed homologated-for-the-road 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260 takes design clues and technical innovations from the Lotus Exige GT3 racecar and combines with class leading emissions of just 199 g/km CO2 and exhilarating performance of 0-100 km/h in just 4.1 seconds.

• Extensive use of carbon fibre

• Motorsport lightweight wheels

• Ohlins 2-way adjustable dampers

• Rear chassis stiffness increased by 30%

The Lotus Exige Cup has developed a cult following and a dedicated fan base since the first Lotus Exige Cup 240 was unveiled in 2006. Over the last 4 model years several hundred Exige Cup Cars have been sold, either specifically for race and track use or for a pure road going driving experience. The latest Exige Cup 260, with 260 PS, takes the 38 kg weight savings introduced in the last years model, combines them with the extensive body and aerodynamic improvements and revisions introduced on the 2010 Exige in March 2009 and tops them off with new components and technologies to produce the most focused and pure Exige yet.

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering for Lotus said, "The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is the epitomy of the Lotus brand philosophy of performance through lightweight. Colin Chapman, founder of Lotus, once said "Adding power makes you faster on the straights; subtracting weight makes you faster everywhere" and the Exige Cup 260 totally proves this, being one of the most exhilarating, focussed and pure sportscars on the road today."

The 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 is fully homologated for road use in Europe and key markets in Asia and North America - a must have for many race competition programmes where a road legal car has to be entered. The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is also eligible to compete in the Lotus Cup Europe race series, organized and run by LoTRDC.

The 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 takes the design and aerodynamic changes first introduced on the Exige S earlier this year to enhance the look and improve aerodynamic performance.

The lightweight, unpainted carbon chord composite rear wing is based on the design from the Exige GT3 road car concept shown at the Geneva Motorshow in 2007. Compared to the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 tailgate-mounted wing, it is 181 mm wider and mounted 46 mm higher and 61 mm further back. It is attached to the rear bodyshell clam via rear end plates which not only increases the stiffness of the whole structure but also ensures that as much of the airflow as possible passes over the rear wing. This careful airflow management increases stability, reduces drag and, most importantly, maintains the impressive downforce figures of 42 kg at 160 km/h.

The restyled front end includes a larger, more angular air intake to help funnel more air through the radiator, to improve the efficiency of the engine. Ahead of the front wheels on either side of the main aperture, two larger air intakes increase the airflow to the twin oil coolers. Horizontal vanes, made from lightweight carbon fibre bisect these oil cooler air-intakes to stabilise the airflow to further increase the cooling efficiency.

Mounted below the three air intakes is a new aerodynamic splitter for the 2010 Model Year Exige. Made from lightweight carbon chord composite, the splitter is extended to wrap around the whole of the front end and chiseled side lips are raised to deflect air around the tyres to reduce drag.

Rear chassis stiffness increases by 30%

The Exige Cup 260 now has an evolution of the rear diffuser and structural shear panel based on the version developed for the Exige GT3 race car, which increases the lateral stiffness of the rear subframe by 30% further enhancing its outstanding handling.

The rear diffuser and structural shear panel links the subframe to the main chassis to give greatly increased lateral stiffness to the rear subframe suspension pickup points, resulting in better tyre contact patch control.

This stiffness is also more applicable to those drivers who race or take part in track days using slick tyres that can also be fitted to the Exige Cup 260.

Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers are now fitted as standard, adding even more personalisation of the driving characteristics so the driver can tune the Exige Cup 260 to their driving style and road or track conditions.

A restyled front end and new larger, rear wing that not only reduces drag, but also gives a more muscular stance enhancing the lightweight shrink-wrapped look of the whole car.

Like the 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige S, the 2010 Model Year Exige Cup 260 exploits the Lotus philosophy of using weight reduction to increase performance and reduce emissions. Fuel economy is impressive with an Official European Combined Cycle figure of 8.5 litres / 100 km (reduced from 9.1 litres / 100 km (combined) for the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260), a frugal 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle and just 199 g/km of CO2 (reduced from 216 g/km of CO2 for the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260). Continuous engineering improvements over the last year including careful whole vehicle optimisation has enabled this sportscar to be even better for fuel economy and emissions.

Luke Bennett, Operations Director for Lotus Cars said, "The best thing about the Lotus Exige Cup 260 is its performance, on the track it's sensationally quick in a straight line and attacks corners with razor-sharp precision. With the lightness and agility you'd expect from a Lotus and the almost telepathic feedback to the driver, this car produces an outrageously fun drive."

The Exige Cup 260 follows this lightweight philosophy closely. Taking the already lightweight Lotus Exige S, the weight saving programme has looked at all areas of the car where components can be replaced with a lighter version (without pushing the costs beyond the reach of the serious track day driver or clubman racer) or where components can be removed completely without detracting from the purity of the driving experience:

Carbon fibre (resulting in a weight saving of 12kg):-

• Roof Panel

• FIA and HANS compliant driver and passenger seats*

• One piece carbon fibre dash top panel

• Rear tailgate

• Centre tunnel

• Front access panels

• Front splitter (carbon chord)

• Side air intake ducts

• Rear spoiler (carbon chord)

(* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option).

Lightweight components (resulting in a further weight saving of 22kg):-

• Lightweight 'motorsport' battery

• Ultra-light five spoke forged alloy wheels

• Revised rear engine subframe with lightweight coating

• Lightweight fly wheel

• Lightweight composite bulkhead panel replaces rear window

• Alloy supercharger U-bend pipes

Removing some other non essential components and equipment such as the interior and boot carpets, front mudflaps, battery cover, interior mirror, sunvisors, rear tailgate gas strut, results in a further weight saving of 4kg.

However, as optional extras should a customer wish, air conditioning and an interior noise reduction pack are available, together with the complete range of Lotus metallic, lifestyle and premium paint colours

The MY2010 Exige Cup 260 weighs in at just 890 kg, giving an impressive power to weight ratio of 288 hp / tonne (291 PS / tonne). But, of course, power to weight alone does not make a highly competitive race or track car, so in addition, the Exige Cup 260 has a formidable list of standard performance focused equipment, as follows:-

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control – additions recommended for track driving

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control was originally developed for the Lotus Exige GT3 racing programme

The launch control allows the driver to determine the number of revs they wish to use during a standing start. Having programmed that limit, the driver then holds their foot down fully on the throttle pedal and sidesteps the clutch pedal for a very quick departure from the line. The clutch damper cushions the severity of the clutch to transmission engagement to minimise the stresses to the drivetrain. The launch control also keeps wheel-spin at bay until 10 km/h (6 mph), after which the traction control assumes its duties.

As with launch control, the amount of traction control required can be dialled in from the driver's seat and altered on the move to suit the characteristics of particular corners. The amount of traction control can be varied in over 30 increments from an optimum 7 percent tyre slip to completely inactive. The message display in the new instrument pack displays what degree of traction control is being currently utilised.

Wheels and Tyres

All new Lotus Sport lightweight forged alloy wheels, thought to be the lightest original equipment wheels in the world, weigh just 5.65 kg (front) and 7.75 kg (rear). These ultra lightweight wheels reduce the unsprung mass therefore further improving the handling and contribute a weight saving of approximately 800 g over the already super light forged 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 wheels. The wheels are shod with Lotus specific LTS construction and compound Yokohama A048 tyres† to maximise grip and achieve the ride and handling targets set by Lotus engineers.

† For GCC States Yokohama A048 LTS tyres are replaced with Toyo Proxes R888 tyres.

Safety Equipment

Lotus Exige Cup 260 cars have the safety equipment expected of a race car, with FIA and HANS compliant carbon fibre lightweight sports seats*, normal 3-point "Webb Lock" harnesses (four or six point driver and passenger seat belt harnesses are available for track use only).

(* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option).

A high tensile steel roll over hoop is now fitted with a body coloured Lotus Sport A-Frame as standard and the chassis is already pre-drilled to fit a full front roll cage – a simple dealer fit process involving just the removal of the roof panel for access prior to fitting. Completing the additional safety equipment is a FIA compliant electronic ignition kill switch, with cockpit and external activation, and a FIA compliant plumbed electrically activated fire extinguisher system, again with cockpit and external switches.

Like all current Lotus cars, the Exige Cup 260 is built around a very strong extruded and bonded aluminium chassis tub. Attached to the chassis is a sacrificial energy absorbing composite front structure designed to help absorb crash energy in the event of impact.

Suspension

To suit individual driving styles and road conditions, drivers will now be able to tune the Exige suspension with the Ohlins two-way adjustable dampers (which have 60 compression and 22 rebound settings) and ride height adjustment to reduce the ride height from 130 mm to 120 mm. An adjustable front anti-roll bar allows customers to tailor the handling characteristics of the car to their own requirements.

As the Exige Cup 260 cars are equipped for track use, a double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during track racing or hard track day driving.

Brakes

The brake system includes large diameter 308 mm 2-piece cross-drilled and ventilated front discs and 282 mm cross-drilled and ventilated discs at the rear, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (AP Racing two piece radially mounted, 4 piston at the front and Brembo sliding at the rear), and stainless steel braided brake hoses - all linked to the proven Lotus track-tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system that enhances braking performance and minimizes stopping distance without taking over from the skill of the driver.

Performance, Economy and Emissions

The Exige Cup 260 is one of the quickest road cars around a circuit. Key to this incredible track performance is the aerodynamic package, which produces 42 kg of downforce at 160 km/h (100 mph) increasing grip and stability at higher speeds. With a top speed of circa 245 km/h (152 mph) and a zero to 160 km/h (100 mph) in circa 9.9 seconds, 0 to 100 km/h in circa 4.1 seconds (0 to 60 mph in circa 4 seconds), the MY2010 Exige Cup 260 is the perfect partner for the serious racer. Combined Fuel Consumption is 8.5 l/100km and the CO2 emissions 199 g/km.

Engine

The supercharged and intercooled engine in the Exige Cup 260 has a maximum power output of 260 PS (257 hp) at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of 236 Nm (174 lbft) at 6000 rpm. This significant amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear delivery of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm (8500 rpm transient for 2 seconds). The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine's oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Charge air (air under pressure from the supercharger) is cooled through an air-to-air intercooler (the air enters via the enhanced roof scoop) before being fed into the engine itself. All charge air ducting has been kept as short as possible with large diameter pipes to minimise restriction and maximise throttle response and efficiency. Four high capacity injectors and an uprated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or continuous high speed driving – only on the track of course!

A lightweight flywheel is fitted (giving even greater flexibility and response to the gear change), a sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) – with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Exige S. A torque-sensing limited slip differential is fitted as standard, with a plate type limited slip differential available as an option. An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant.

Electrical supply is provided by a lightweight motorsport battery which saves a massive 5 kg of weight sitting behind the rear axle – again weight saving is not just the removal of mass but ensuring that this mass is removed where it most affects performance and handling.

Roof Scoop

The Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 has a high flow, full-length carbon roof scoop as part of the lightweight carbon roof panel, which not only saves 4 kg but also ensures efficient cooling through the intercooler, which in turn allows the Exige Cup 260 to gain a higher charge density in the cylinders improving efficiency further.

Specification

The standard specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 is road legal within the European Union, and can be registered for road use.

The Exige Cup 260 is available now for sale in Europe. Individual recommended retail prices for some major European markets are listed below:

Recommended retail prices of the standard road specification Lotus Exige Cup 260

UK (MSRP)

Recommended retail price (including VAT) is £45,000, (an additional £950 is charged for on the road costs. These include delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months Road Fund Licence and a full tank of fuel.

Recommended retail prices of the standard road specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 for the following markets (MSRP) (including transport, delivery, local taxes and first service (but excluding registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

Belgium € 64.825

France € 64.200,--

Italy € 64.900,--

Switzerland CHF 94.700,--

Recommended retail prices for the following markets (MSRP) (including local taxes (excluding transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

Germany € 62.950,--

Recommended retail prices for Euro Zone Countries (MSRP) (excluding local taxes, transport, registration, license plates and or a full tank of fuel):

Euro Zone € 52.899,--

Warranty

The Lotus Exige Cup 260 will have a limited manufacturer's warranty. The manufacturer's warranty will be void if the car has ever been used on road or on track with "slick" or equivalent racing tyres. If the launch control facility is utilized, the warranty on related powertrain components is void. Clutch assembly and brake discs are excluded from the manufacturer's warranty. The manufacturer's warranty will not apply to any car which is subjected to race or competition use including but not limited to timed runs or laps. Purchaser's Statutory rights are not affected.

Official European Combined Cycle = 8.5 litres / 100 km (33.2 mpg)

Official European Extra Urban Cycle = 6.5 litres/100 km (43.5 mpg)

Official European Urban Cycle = 11.9 litre/100 km (23.7 mpg)

199 g/km of CO2

More Photos here:

http://www.midlandslotus.co.uk/forum/index...=sc&cat=166

Owner Sacha Marcassus was keen to provide prestigious surroundings for the new Evora, and moved to new larger premises in Toulouse.

Sacha originally joined the Lotus network as a member of his father's dealership staff, but has since developed the business into a solus Lotus franchise of his own.

"Moving to new more prestigious premises with improved workshop facilities was the next logical step in the evolution of the business," says Sacha.

"It is important to provide not only a welcoming showroom environment for customers, but we have to ensure that we can offer a comprehensive range of after sales services and a wide range of replacement parts, so that customers cars can be repaired efficiently and quickly."

Marcassus Sport are sponsors and participants in the Lotus Cup Europe race series, with Sacha taking part personally in the current series.

Sacha would be happy to welcome you to his new showroom, and tell you all about the amazing new Evora. Please contact him to arrange a test drive.

Marcassus Sport S.A.R.L.,

26 Avenue du Louron, ZA En Jacca, 31770 Colomiers, France

Tel: +33 562 12 29 00 www.marcassus-lotus.com

The competition included rigorous road and track assessment, using the stunning roads around the South Downs and the fantastic high speed corners at the Goodwood race circuit. The feature included driver's cars from Aston Martin, Nissan, Porsche, Audi, Lamborghini and Jaguar.

Chas Hallet, Autocar Editor said about the Evora, "The best here. Brilliant on the track. Nimble, delicate and forgiving. Even better on the road."

Autocar magazine in summing up the competition added, "Decisions don't come much more clear cut than this, with nine out of 10 judges placing the Evora first. This contest is about finding a car that is not only technically capable, but also thrilling and engaging wherever you drive it, and the Lotus nails those criteria".

The unique mid-engined 2+2 Lotus Evora combines a super stiff extruded and bonded Aluminium chassis with decades of vehicle dynamics knowledge employed to tune its race car derived double wishbone suspension. The result is a great driver's car that offers exceptionally high levels of ultimate grip, with performance and braking to match.

Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director said, "The dynamic ability and driving experience of the Evora were the foundation of the engineering process and we are delighted that Autocar has recognised this by giving the Evora this accolade. The Evora offers the great Lotus driving experience in a very comfortable, practical, refined and efficient package, and with only 205 g/km of CO2 it shows that the Evora is a supercar for the 21st century."

Luke Bennett, Director of Lotus Cars commented, "We are really pleased to win this title as it not only demonstrates the engineering expertise and brilliant manufacturing at Lotus, but also asserts our position in this very exclusive and competitive sector. There is huge global demand for the Evora and to cope with this high demand we are taking on over 150 manufacturing staff, which is roughly a 30% increase."

Lotus Evora: 205 g/km CO2

32.5 mpg (8.7 litres / 100 km) - Combined Cycle

22.8 mpg (12.4 litres / 100 km) - Urban Cycle

43.5 mpg (6.5 litres / 100 km) - Extra Urban Cycle

For more details about the Britain's Best Driver's Car 2009 feature check out the Autocar magazine article, photos and videos.

http://www.autocar.c...AllCars/242429/

"Lotus has a fantastic history here at the Nürburgring," says Ron Simons, Chief Instructor and Company Director. "Some of the marque's most famous victories were fought over the old Nordschleife. Now customers from all over the world can learn for themselves why the perfect balance of power and light weight of Lotuses makes them so capable and so much fun."

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering for Group Lotus, said "the Lotus Exige is the perfect sportscar to learn the famous and challenging Nordschleife circuit. The Exige S is a phenomenal tool that flatters and encourages the less experienced driver and challenges those with higher skill levels with a perfect combination of safe and secure handling, unparalleled performance and peerless driver feedback to give a brilliantly rewarding driving experience."

RSR has over 10 years of experience at the Nürburgring Nordschleife and are excited to be producing a program working in conjunction with Lotus Cars.

Courses are expected to retail for around €945 per person, based on two drivers sharing one car for 6-hours of tracktime. Courses begin with RSR's famous Convoy Training, where an instructor leads small groups over the course on the correct line.

The 21km Nürburgring Nordschleife is not only the world's longest permanent race circuit, but also one of the world's toughest. With around 170 individual corners and a drop and rise of 1000ft every single lap, it's one of the most challenging tracks ever devised. As such radios are used to communicate with each driver in the convoy, pointing out all the visual cues used to position the car on the ideal line. After convoy training is finished, instructors take the passenger seat and provide personal training for each driver. The day finishes with a high-speed taxi lap, in which an experienced instructor shows the student just what the car is capable of.

As well as August 10th and 28th, dates are also being set in September, October and the first week of November. There will be also be two day packages including the Nordschleife, a road tour through the Eifel and Ardennes mountains and ending with at the 7km Spa Francorchamps circuit.

For more information on driving these exciting cars, please contact sales@rsrnurburg.com.

For more detailed information regarding coverage or editorial opportunities, please contact Dale Lomas using the information at the top of the page.

BACKGROUND INFO

• RSR Nürburg has been supplying training courses on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and Spa Francorchamps since 1998.

• RSR is a truly international company, with instruction possible in many different languages.

• Both individuals and large groups can be catered for, with everything from catering to accommodation being arranged for you by RSR's team.

• The 2010-spec Lotus Exige is a supercharged 218 bhp sportscar with traction control and is renowned for its superb chassis and handling characteristics

Mike, who will be 71 in August, has been suffering from severe back pain for a number of months and underwent surgery in late 2008 which was only partially successful. His doctors have now advised him to retire so as not to jeopardise his long term health. Under these circumstances, the board has regretfully accepted his resignation.

Dato' Syed Zainal, Managing Director of Proton Holdings Bhd, said: "It is a great shame that Mike's health has forced his departure earlier than any of us would have liked. He has been a great asset to Lotus over four decades. Since his return in 2006, we have seen a huge turnaround in the fortunes of this great company. He leaves Lotus with our deep gratitude and our very best wishes for his retirement."

Under Mike's leadership, Lotus has produced the award-winning Lotus Evora, which was recently launched to the world's press with universal acclaim. He has also overseen the expansion of Lotus Engineering, one of the world's most respected high-technology engineering consultancy businesses. Group Lotus now has a positive and stable platform despite the global economic downturn and is delivering against its defined growth targets in the company's strategic business plan.

Mike Kimberley said: "Sadly, it is on doctor's orders that I am stepping down but I will leave confident that Lotus is in great shape with a strong management team fully supported by our shareholder in Malaysia. It'll be very hard to leave knowing that there are such exciting times ahead but I'll take with me many very happy memories. I want to extend my thanks to the company's shareholder for their unfailing support, my management team and the wonderful staff both at Hethel and at our various operational locations throughout the world. Most of all I want to thank our Lotus customers and loyal fans worldwide for their support over the years."

Mike will leave Lotus on 17 July 2009.

Mike Kimberley – a Very Brief Resume

Michael J. Kimberley ("Mike") C.Eng., F.I. Mech. E., F.R.S.A., F.I.E.D, F.I.M.I has had a remarkable career in the motor industry over the last 56 years, working with some of the great engineers, innovators and leaders of the worlds motor companies.

Mike started as an apprentice with Jaguar in 1953 before rapidly progressing to becoming in Section Leader, Special Projects at Jaguar in 1965 where he lead the team developing the Jaguar XJ13 Le Mans car, under such famous names as Jaguar founder Sir William Lyons and Jaguar race director Frank (Lofty) England.

In 1969, he joined Lotus as Manager of Continuous Engineering, with the Lotus Europa Twin Cam being one of his most notable projects. Mike rose steadily but rapidly through the Lotus ranks, joining the Board of Lotus aged 37, and becoming Managing Director of Lotus Cars in 1976 and Managing Director of Lotus Engineering by 1980, being responsible for such Lotus icons as the Esprit, Eclat and Elite.

During the 1970s and 80s, Mike had the unique experience of having worked closely with the company's founder Colin Chapman, with whom Mike set up the world class Lotus Engineering consultancy to enable Lotus to work for many other cars companies around the world. Lotus Engineering is now a globally recognised high technology engineering consultancy and serves many of the world's car companies.

After Colin Chapman's tragic and untimely death in 1982, Mike became C.E.O of Group Lotus plc, as well as holding board positions with a number of Lotus associated companies such as Chairman of Millbrook Proving Ground and President of Moog Systems Inc. With Lotus under General Motors ownership, Mike became Chairman of Group Lotus plc before leaving Lotus in 1992 to become Executive Vice President (General Motors Overseas Corporation) based in South East Asia. Two years later, Mike became director of the Vector Aeromotive Corporation, and in 1994, he became President & Managing Director of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A, being responsible for the rebuilding of Lamborghini after Chrysler's ownership and prior to its sale to Audi AG, as part of the VW Group.

In the mid 1990s, Mike left Lamborghini and worked directly for Tommy Suharto as a board member of Timor Putra Nasional (owners of Lamborghini) until retiring with an undiagnosed tropical fever.

Returning to the automotive industry a few months later, Mike worked in a consultancy role for a number of organisations including Tata Motors Ltd.

In August 2005 Mike was appointed to the Lotus Group International Limited and Group Lotus plc Boards as well as other Boards of Proton. He was appointed acting Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc in May 2006, confirmed as Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc in September 2006.

During his second tenure at Lotus, Mike has been responsible for the creation and execution of a new 5 year strategic business plan, and the new, already award-winning Lotus Evora is the first of the range of new Lotus cars to be designed, developed, manufactured and sold by Britain's most iconic and innovative sportscar company. Lotus Engineering has expanded to become a world-class consultancy employing over 500 highly qualified engineers in five technical centres around the globe. It is revered for innovation, outstanding driving dynamics, exciting niche vehicles and efficient performance engineering.

Mike (70) is married with 3 children and 6 grand children and lives in Norwich.

About Lotus

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Limited, which has two operating divisions - Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, and the Exige and Europa. Lotus' latest model, the Lotus Evora, goes on sale from Spring 2009. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

Singer with Blake and self confessed car nut Stephen Bowman, recently joined leading car journalists in Scotland to be amongst the first to drive the brand new Lotus Evora. The singer, who has previously owned a Lotus Esprit V8 said that the Evora would be his highlight at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

"It's an honour to be taking to the hillclimb course with the Evora.

The first time I put my foot to the floor in this car, I was massively impressed. The Lotus Evora is astoundingly smooth and brilliantly responsive."

Winners of the 2008 Brit Award for Best Album, Blake are currently busy recording their third studio album which comes out in September. The boys join Lotus at the Goodwood Festival of Speed with international model, TV presenter and fashion label owner Hofit Golan, known worldwide for her red carpet glamour and views on luxury fashion.

How wrong we were! Hockenheim was another superb weekend, a great circuit, fantastic weather, brilliant organisation by AVD and even with a reduced grid some fabulous racing.

http://www.lotuscupe...ce-report3.html

http://www.lotuscupe...to-gallery.html

Further details about other activities in the show can be found here:

http://www.bbc.co.uk...t_episode.shtml

Series 13 is GO!

Start your engines, don your crash helmets and look both ways before crossing the street - Top Gear is back!

The brand new series begins this Sunday at 8pm on BBC Two and, even if we do say so ourselves, it's going to be a bit of a corker.

Kicking things off on the very first show, we fire up the time-machine and discover what Top Gear would have looked like if it had been made in the 1950s. Fortunately this doesn't mean the return of rationing and TB, but rather a massive race from London to Edinburgh between a glorious vintage Jaguar, a Vincent Black Shadow motorbike and a chuffing great steam locomotive.

Not to give too much away, but the sight of Clarkson shovelling a small mountain of coal by hand is not one you want to miss.

Other treats we have in store during the series include our attempt to solve the problem of airport delays, a guide to ice-racing on a budget and the usual blend of news, reviews and celebrity chat you've come to know and love.

Never has a show that's basically about three men in a tin shed been so much fun...

The new series of Top Gear begins Sunday 21st June on BBC Two

Lotus Cars USA Inc. said it will become the title sponsor of the Lotus Challenge Series.

Lotus Cars spokesman Kevin Smith would not say how much money the company is giving the race series, but said it will go toward areas such as logistics support, track rentals and awards.

"We have an increasing number of some of our most enthusiastic and loyal Lotus customers participating n the Lotus Challenge Series, and this is one of our ways of showing them how much we appreciate them," Smith said.

The season was expanded from eight races in 2008 to 10 events this year, and four races remain on the schedule. The series is trying to add four race dates in Texas this year.

Lotus enthusiast Jim Navarro started the series to give owners a chance to compete and improve their driving skills.

The series is comprised of several classes which cover street cars such as the Elise and the Exige as well as track-only vehicles such as the Exige Cup Car 255 and the 2-Eleven.

For more information, visit www.lotuschallengeseries.com.

http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090626/M...PORTS/906269993

Lotus Cars Limited is delighted to announce that it has selected Pirelli as the principal supplier of tyres for the stunning new Lotus Evora.

The Evora is the first all new Lotus to be released since the iconic Elise roadster in 1995. The recent launch at Loch Lomond in Scotland gave the press a perfect opportunity to drive the exhilarating Evora on the Pirelli P ZerosTM , experiencing first hand how well the partnership between the car and tyres really works.

Since its introduction the Pirelli P Zero TM has become a reference point for many high performance vehicles as it provides cars with superior grip as well as sharper steering response and feel. The homologated size on the Lotus Evora is the 225/40ZR18 on the front and 255/35ZR19 on the rear.

Matthew Becker, Executive Engineer of Vehicle Dynamics for Lotus believes that the Pirelli P Zero TM enhances the dynamic performance of the Evora. "The Lotus Evora has been developed to deliver class-leading steering and handling performance whilst maintaining excellent ride quality. The exceptional abilities of Pirelli's P Zero TM enhances these vital elements and we have been impressed with the excellent steering linearity and consistent grip levels that this particular tyre provides in all conditions."

Experts at Pirelli testify that the P Zero TM is its most technologically advanced product yet and offers even the most demanding drivers unprecedented performance in multiple areas including sports handling, comfort and safety thanks to a range of ground-breaking features developed by Pirelli research and protected by 5 patents. Pirelli also say that their tyre's innovative asymmetric tread pattern features a design that gives both increased levels of safety and enhances the performance of the car. Developed to be precise in the dry and resolute in the wet, Pirelli says that their P Zero TM maintains remarkable consistency between its static and dynamic footprint whilst the tread pattern ensures durability and consistent performance throughout the life of the tyre.

Lotus demands that the tyres for the Lotus Evora respond to rolling stresses without transmitting tension through to the steering wheel, and the active structure of the P Zero TM contributes to the excellent steering performance with which the Evora has been credited. The tyres use compounds that respond immediately, giving the same high degree of performance from cold as when the tyre is up to temperature enabling the tyres to fit the Lotus ideals of durability and efficiency. These desirable characteristics make the Pirelli P Zero TM a perfect tyre choice for the Lotus Evora.

ENDS

NOTES

P ZeroTM Sizes used on the Lotus Evora:

Front: 225/40 ZR18 92 Y XL

Rear: 255/35 ZR19 96 Y XL

In recognition of its handling qualities both in the dry and in the wet the P ZeroTM has recently been awarded Tyre of the Year 2009 by Auto Express.

About Pirelli

Pirelli is a leading tyre manufacturer with a Worldwide presence, developing and growing since the formation of the first Pirelli company outside Italy in 1902. Now Pirelli spans the globe with it's Industrial and Commercial presence and invests in product research and development all over the world to ensure it has class leading products to satisfy specific market requirements.

Pirelli UK Tyres Ltd has two factories in the UK (Burton on Trent and Carlisle), plus its UK Headquarters are based at Burton on Trent.

Pirelli also applies worldwide quality policies and assurance techniques in all of it's plants to guarantee the consistent levels of quality demanded by today's consumers.

Pirelli is credited with the invention of the low profile car tyre in the early 1970's and the company has been at the forefront of product and process innovation ever since.

Today's P Zero range of car tyres are the pinnacle of this achievement.

About Lotus

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Limited, which has two operating divisions - Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, and the Exige and Europa. Lotus' latest model, the Lotus Evora, goes on sale from Spring 2009. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

To celebrate the launch of the new Lotus dealership there is an extensive range of events planned over the weekend of the 6th and 7th of June. The Lotus Evora, fresh from the global press first drive event, will be on display along with its smaller siblings, and test drives will be available with Silverstone driving instructors on hand to exhibit the handling dynamics that make Lotus ownership such a special proposition. Lotus Silverstone is situated in an enviable location on the world renowned Silverstone circuit.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, states "I would like to welcome Lotus Silverstone to the Lotus family. We are delighted to have teamed up with such a well established, iconic, British brand. Silverstone is historically a place where Lotus has enjoyed a lot of success, and I am certain this will continue in the future".

Mike Kimberley continued, "Lotus cars are exceptionally well regarded as drivers' cars and Silverstone is the perfect environment to explore the agility and impressive performance that they offer. However, staying true to the mantra of "performance through light weight", Lotus cars offer exceptional green credentials for such accomplished performance cars and the new Evora has great cruising capabilities too".

Ed Brookes, Finance Director for Silverstone Circuits Limited said "This is an exciting new venture for Silverstone and an important step in the diversification of our business. The Silverstone track activities and showroom together offer a novel way to showcase the multi-award winning, high-tech Lotus products and display the unique Lotus brand of style, performance and technology. The Exige and 2-Eleven have been very popular with Silverstone customers on track and we believe that the entire Lotus range will be equally popular in the new showroom".

Both Silverstone and Lotus, names synonymous with Formula 1 and top level motorsport, were founded in 1948 and each has a prestigious heritage. The two high profile British brands have enjoyed a good relationship, especially in recent years with the exceptional Exige and 2-Eleven models being used as part of a number of Silverstone Driving Experiences and Motorsport Academy Courses.

Link to Lotus Siverstone's website: www.lotussilverstone.co.uk

Owner Thierry Verhiest of Lotus Th. Verhiest was keen to extend his showroom to provide further space for the expanding range of Lotus cars, including of course star of the show, The Evora. Thierry is keen to provide customers with the right car to meet their needs and stocks a wide range of cars at the showroom. He also stocks one of the most comprehensive range of parts outside of the factory. Lotus Th. Verhiest are sponsors and participants in the Lotus Cup Europe race series, with their own team of drivers racing in the current series.

Lotus Roma had outgrown their showroom, so proprietor, Andrea Manni, moved the Lotus franchise to a new, completely refurbished showroom in prestigious Via Salaria, Andrea and his team now offer a warm welcome to customers to browse their superb range of new and used Lotus in congenial and distinguished surroundings. A few minutes away from the new showroom Lotus Roma offers its clients a large workshop dedicated to technical assistance and spare parts of classic and modern Lotus.

Why not call by and over a coffee they can tell you all about the amazing new Evora. Better still book a test drive and see for yourself.

All Lotus Evora dealers will soon be similarly adopting this new Lotus brand image.

Lotus Roma:

Via Salaria 1313, 00138 Roma Tel: +39 06 888 95 74

www.lotusroma.eu

Lotus Th Verhiest:

Joseph Plateau Straat 5, 8400 Oostende Tel: +32 59 51 81 55

http://www.lotus-verhiest.com