Included in the €499 entry price is entry on to the F1 circuit track evening, an exclusive TrackWalk, meal, drinks and 4-star accommodation, a photoshoot on the Karussell and a 5-hour trackday on the historic Nordschleife. In total there will be 7 hours of open pitlane driving time on both circuits.

Ever since Clark's famous victory in '63, the legend of the Lotus marque has been firmly etched into the history of the notorious Nürburgring Nordschleife. Back then Colin Chapman's lightweight Type 23 showed the dominant Porsches and Ferraris a clean set of heels, to the tune of 27 seconds on the first lap. Now it's possible to experience why the Lotus design philosophy has proven so devastatingly effective at the world's toughest track.

Drivers can join us as we introduce them to this amazing circuit over a day and a half. It takes the form of an exclusive tour of the Nordschleife, a photoshoot on the track, meal, hotel and a trackday the next morning.

Lotus Cars Ltd will be present with the new Evora and will host a technical overview and Q&A session on the exciting new model. Lotus factory test drivers will run demo-laps on the event in a range of new models, including the Evora.

RSR will be catering for all levels of talent on this event and it is not a race. Even if drivers have never been on a circuit before, the professional instruction and briefing will ensure that they will have a fantastic day. The price includes an hour of group instruction in the morning and personal instruction can be added on a one-to-one basis if they so desire. Over 200 cars can use this circuit at once, so 100 or so Lotuses will leave the track beautifully empty.

RSR Nürburg has been running for over 10 years, providing private tuition, TrackWalks and rentals at Spa Francorchamps and the notorious Nurburgring Nordschleife race circuit.

- 2 Days of LOTUS extravaganza

- 7 hours of open pitlane over 2 days on GP and Nordschleife

- Both Nordschleife and GP track driving included

- Demo laps from factory drivers in factory cars

- Technical overview of new Lotus Evora by Lotus, Q&A session

- All inclusive package includes Hotel, Dinner, track access and instruction

If drivers would like more information regarding the "Lotus at the Ring" event or secure a spot please contact:

Dale Lomas

RSR Nürburg Antoniusweg 1a 53520 Nürburg DEUTSCHLAND

Tel: +49 2691 931952 Fax: +49 2691 931666

Or follow the link below:

http://www.RSRNurburg.com/Lotus

29-05-2009, Nurburg

With the delivery of the first of these hand-built British cars only weeks away in early June, Lotus dealers will soon have Evora demonstrators available, so please contact your nearest dealer to arrange that long awaited test drive!

The Evora remains true to Lotus core values and the principles of our founder Colin Chapman. It achieves an outstanding combination of performance and efficiency together with our world renowned ride and handling, all in a unique and practical 2+2 mid-engined and beautifully styled package. The Lotus Evora - a true Lotus with true character.

Press Reviews of the Lotus Evora:

http://www.imotormag.co.uk/carreviews/2505..._v6_review.html

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/Search...-new-CAR-review

http://fifthgear.five.tv/jsp/5gmain.jsp?mn...amp;pageid=3321

http://www.pistonhea...sp?c=52&i=19871

http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/hot_li...st_drive_review

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/coupes...vora/index.html

http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/drive...vora/index.html

http://www.carenthusiast.com/reviews/artic...he+options.html

HARC who organise the State of Art Historische Zandvoort Trophy meeting have given permission for a maximum of 5 extra cars to start.

Local Lotus main dealer, Van der Kooi Sportscars, are supporting the event and have arranged for a separate parking area inside the paddock for 50 Lotus owners. Former Formula 1 World Champion, Alan Jones, was hugely impressed by the number of Lotus in the car parks at Brands so support should be strong again at Zandvoort. We also see a record number of entries in both the LCE 2-11 and Exige classes.

Spectator entry is available on the day with free practice, qualification and race 1 taking part on Saturday and race 2 on Sunday lunch time.

Vented brake discs are standard with cross-drilled brake discs forming part of the Sport Pack, (both are massive 350 mm diameter discs on the front and 332 mm diameter at the rear), which when combined with high performance bespoke Lotus AP Racing 4 pot callipers ensure impressive stopping power.

Everyone connected with the brake testing programme, conducted on the punishing corners, climbs and descents of the Nürburgring and Stelvio Pass, has described the brakes as 'phenomenal' with excellent thermal performance and outstanding feel even after extended sessions of extreme use.

Part of that testing programme was to finalise settings for the ABS system being developed in conjunction with Bosch. The system is tuned for performance driving and thus has very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also fitted as standard. HBA detects an emergency braking situation and increases brake pressure up to ABS activation threshold which results in shorter emergency stopping distances.

Lotus Evora: 205 g/km CO 2

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

Production Low Volume Versatile Vehicle Architecture

The Evora's chassis is a low investment cost evolution of the Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) from the Lotus APX concept vehicle previously showcased at the Geneva Motorshow, and allows for the development of a range of vehicles up to a gross vehicle weight of 1,900 kg. This architecture has been designed to be more applicable to mid-volume applications by utilising our low capital investment manufacturing processes. The Evora structure progresses the Lotus 'bonded and riveted' technology used in the Elise family of vehicles with new and unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing production build modularity and lower cost repairs.

The low volume VVA chassis has been designed for scalability so that it can be extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume VVA chassis can be modified cost effectively by varying the wall thickness of the extrusions, without altering the exterior dimensions. The ability to lengthen or shorten extrusions with the option to tailor the chassis stiffness, vastly increases the number of vehicles that can be developed from this vehicle architecture. Front and mid engine installations have been considered.

The Lotus Evora employs a composite roof as a stressed structural member to give an exceptional vehicle stiffness of 26,600 Nm per degree. This impressive stiffness is also thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis or tub and front and rear modules weight just 206 kg, helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1382 kg.

To deliver this high performance structure, bonded and riveted high grade aluminium extrusions and simple and elegant folded sheet elements are used in the lower structure, building upon award winning Lotus research projects in this field. Lotus pioneered the technology of bonded aluminium extrusions for use in road vehicles and has successfully developed high performance cars for other car companies around the world using these techniques.

The central tub is attached to an extruded aluminium subframe at the front and a lightweight welded steel subframe at the rear. These subframe modules also offer advantages in terms of convenience and low cost of repair, and during manufacturing can be brought to the production line fully assembled, ready to be attached thereby improving the overall efficiency of space and time of assembly.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis is manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures Limited (LLS) facility in Worcester, UK. LLS employs over 100 skilled engineers, technicians and sales staff and will manufacture all the Lotus aluminium structures, including those for the Elise, Exige, 2–Eleven and Europa and aluminium components for Lotus' extensive global client base.

With the Elise and its derivatives, the no-compromise character of the car makes getting in and out across a wide sill and through a comparatively narrow door/window aperture part of the charm of ownership. For the Evora and its remit for the serious daily driver, and to attract newcomers to the Lotus brand, greater convenience and practicality of ingress and egress is provided.

As a consequence the sill is now lower and slimmer (80 mm wide compared with 100 mm in the Elise), and the whole door aperture taller. The doors open wider than on the Elise and its siblings, while the height of the front seat is raised by 65 mm.

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

Over 2000km and 39 stages, the Cup 260 showed its potential in the wet and dry by running without a single problem in arduous conditions, with nothing more than tyre pressure changes and fuel. The car didn’t miss a beat, but the intercom system failed on day one (fixed for day two) which ultimately cost an outright top 10 finish.

After some excellent progress through the 2nd and 3rd days of the event the conditions worsened with heavy rain and poor light. Despite that the Lotus continued to progress through the field and ended 12th outright, whilst being the only true ‘showroom’ specification car in the Modern category. An outstanding result for Lotus, the car and Dean Evans and Simone Bachman.

Monday, 4th May 2009 saw the beginning of a two-week long press launch of the long-awaited new Lotus Evora at Loch Lomond in Scotland, a launch which has now been hailed as a huge success for the company.

Long-awaited for most companies might be a few years, but for Lotus it is the first all-new car in 14 years and all staff are extremely proud of achieving this exceptional product in just 27 months from a blank sheet of paper to start of production. That it is a car designed to meet the legislative requirements of, and be sold in 41 countries worldwide, including the USA, further underlines this achievement.

Now motoring editors and photographers have experienced the performance and specifications of the Evora for themselves in Scotland, Lotus also wanted to bring to the attention of business editors some key points which it believe to be extremely newsworthy in the current global business environment.

Increasing Production

The current global economic situation is well known to everyone and UK manufacturing is suffering especially. But partly through prudent long term strategic planning and partly through the efforts of its global team, Lotus is currently increasing production output to cope with demand for the Evora, the new 2+2 mid-engined sportscar, as well as the Elise and Exige small-platform cars. Lotus is recruiting a considerable number of new production and engineering staff to cover increased requirements both in vehicle production and its international high technology engineering consultancy business. Production in the 2009/10 financial year is planned with confidence to increase by 50% over the previous year and the number of direct production staff will increase by 30% during the same period.

Strong exports

Lotus is currently exporting very successfully, with over 80% of its revenues derived from overseas markets where its business is benefitting from the weaker Pound. The Group is supplying strongly into Europe and the Far East and already the demand at Lotus dealers for the Evora in the USA is significantly beyond initial expectations. Lotus sees this sector as the springboard of the recovery in the UK economy overall - in exciting world-class products, quality manufacturing and strong export sales.

British Technology and Manufacturing

Lotus remains focused, committed and very positive about the future of the company and British high technology and manufacturing. Lotus is recognised as a world-leader in new automotive design and specialist manufacturing technologies and remains one of the leading engineering consultancy companies in the world, once again, flying the flag for British design, engineering, innovation and technology. In recognition of this, Lotus was recently awarded the prestigious Dewar Trophy by the Royal Automobile Club for "outstanding British technical achievement in the automotive field" which recognized the development of our Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) chassis technology and its low volume application in the Lotus Evora.

Lotus Engineering remains one of the key technology pioneers in the research and development of electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles and alternative fuel vehicle research and application, all of which are aimed at guilt free enjoyable transport for the future. The company is expanding globally and as a result, Lotus Engineering expects to increase staff numbers by 10% this year.

"We see the headlines and are more than aware of the difficulties being faced by many other businesses worldwide, especially in our own industry." said Michael J. Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus PLC. "We're not claiming that we have the solution to all the world's economic problems, but our plans and efforts are working well for us right now. The Lotus story is very positive; new products, new customers, strong exports and new technologies and we know that this combination is a world-beating one".

The series will be organised and run by Lotus On Track Racing Drivers Club (LoTRDC) who, with MotorSport Vision Racing, also run the highly successful "Elise Trophy" race series in the UK.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc said: "I am very much looking forward to the Lotus Cup Europe program this year, and to the brilliant racing this series promises. Lotus cars are perfect for a race series of this type, as the drivers have the ability to race at a rewarding pace and drive the car to and from the event as well. The series, which has been created for Elise, Exige and 2-Eleven cars, means that our pan-european owners and drivers now have even more of an opportunity to exploit their cars and skills on the racetrack."

Paul Golding, LoTRDC Director and Series Coordinator commented, "The outstanding success of Elise Trophy from its inception just two years ago has shown there is tremendous enthusiasm out there for Lotus in racing - not just amongst the competitors but also from the many Lotus owners and fans who follow the series from circuit to circuit. Now with Lotus Cup Europe there is an added dimension, with the opportunity to both race and spectate at some of the greatest circuits in Europe. The opening round of Lotus Cup Europe in 2009 kicks off the new season in fine style at one of the world's great motorsport events. However, it's as the season goes on and as new drivers come in that we'll see the real enthusiasm across Europe for drivers wishing to race their Lotus cars."

The history of the Lotus Cup Europe:

The Lotus Cup Europe Series, now in its sixth year, started in 2004 as a direct response to customer and Lotus Dealer interest in a 'fun' but professionally run motorsport series in Europe. During that time it has attracted many competitors from all over Europe, a large number of whom have been new to Lotus cars and racing.

Who can enter the Lotus Cup Europe

Anyone holding a current driving licence and is living in Europe can compete in Lotus Cup Europe. All that is needed is a National Race Licence from the respective European Countries Motorsports authority and a Lotus, of course!

The Lotus Cup Europe aims to provide a friendly, safe and financially viable series for those wishing to race a Lotus Exige, Elise or 2-Eleven in Europe.

There are three classes within the Lotus Cup Europe series and all cars will run on Yokohama A048 'LTS' and 'M' control tyres.

 Production Class: For series 1 and 2 Elises with a maximum hub power of 151bhp (170bhp fly wheel) and a minimum combined weight of driver and car of 825kg. Also open to standard Series 2 Exige and 111R Toyota engined cars with a maximum hub power of 169bhp.

 2-Eleven Class: For standard and slightly modified 2-Eleven cars*.

 Exige Cup Class: For Exige S2 Cup cars and S2 Exige variants – For Exige variants up to a maximum of 235bhp at the hubs (260bhp at the flywheel) with a minimum weight of 850kg. includes Lotus Cup 260, Lotus Cup 255, Lotus Cup 240, Lotus Cup 190 and Lotus Exige S.

Costs – fantastic value

Entry costs per race are between £300 and £350 (tax exempt) per race meeting.

Format

A typical race meeting will involve a 20 minute practice session, followed by two 20 minute races. At some rounds free practice will be available and there will be an option of a test or track day. The second 20 minute race may be held in a "reverse top 10" format.

The Calendar for 2009

1. Brands Hatch GP (UK): 1st - 3rd of May

2. Zandvoort (Netherlands): 23rd - 24th of May

3. Hockenheim (Germany): 20th - 21st of June

4. Donington Park GP (UK): 15th - 16th of August

5. Dijon Prenois (France): 4th - 5th of September

6. Spa Francorchamps (Belgium): 2nd - 4th of October

7. Le Mans (France): 24th - 25th of October

*Full Event Regulations and step by step instructions on how to enter a race, together with paddock and track procedures can be found at www.lotuscupeurope.com.

The website has full details of the seven-round race calendar and an overview of each circuit including track layouts and directions on how to get there. Closer to each race date, the website will also show confirmed driver entries and give the race event timings. The site will be updated after each event with race results, reports and event images.

With class leading driving dynamics, fuel economy and

emissions of just 205 g/km of CO2, the new Lotus Evora

raises the bar for world class high performing sportscars.

The first all-new Lotus since the iconic Elise roadster made its debut in 1995,

the Evora enters the sports car market as the world's only production midengined

2+2. The Evora provides a tremendously rewarding driving

experience: the mid-engined layout gives exceptional agility and the Lotus

engineered suspension ensures incredible ride and handling. Powered by a

Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS, and weighing just 1350 kg

(prototype specification)*, the Evora delivers an exhilarating experience true to

the Lotus DNA characteristics.

With the zero to 100 km/h sprint taking place in just over 5 seconds, a top

speed of over 260 km/h (prototype specification)* and an Official European

Combined Cycle fuel economy just 8.7 litres / 100 km and emissions of just

205 g/km CO2 the Evora stays true to the ethos of performance through light

weight. The other economy figures are equally impressive with Official

European Urban Cycle of 12.4 litres / 100 km and 6.5 litres / 100 km for the

Official European Extra Urban Cycle all combined with exceptional ride and

handling.

Because one of the roles of the Evora is to attract new lifestyle customers, as well

as performance aficionado's to the Lotus brand, the Evora offers a more refined

ownership experience than Lotus' existing smaller four cylinder models. Its

elegantly styled cabin is beautifully trimmed and its equipment list includes

contemporary features such as an advanced touchscreen multi-media system

and electric power-fold door mirrors. Careful attention has also been paid to its

ease of use. with wider, taller door apertures, narrower sills and higher seating

position making getting in and out of the cabin a less athletic undertaking than it is

in Lotus' smaller sports cars (Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven), whilst the design

of the cabin itself will accommodate two 99th percentile (6ft 5in tall) American

males in the front seats.

The 'convenience factor' of the Evora extends to all areas of the car. For instance,

beneath the skin the entire front-end structure is a high tech aluminium "sacrificial"

modular unit, with bolt on attachment to the main extruded aluminium tub. This

modular unit is not only designed to deform for maximum safety, and to make the

production assembly process more efficient, but also to reduce repair costs in the

event of a frontal impact.

The Evora has been designed with global automotive regulations in mind, and

future derivatives are planned, these including amongst others, a convertible at a

later stage of the six year lifecycle span.

The Evora will be hand crafted and built on a dedicated new assembly line within

Lotus' advanced manufacturing facility at Hethel in the East of England; capacity

limitations will restrict production to less than 2000 cars a year, thus ensuring this

dynamic new sports car's rarity and exclusivity.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, has this to say about the exciting new

model: "The Evora is the biggest "milestone" Lotus has achieved since the Elise

was born 13 years ago and is the start of our bold five year strategic business

plan. A plan which includes the introduction of three new cars and advanced new

technologies to many more markets around the world. The Evora also represents

Lotus core values of performance through light weight and efficiency, proving that

you can have performance, fuel economy, elegant design and practicality all in a

class leading mid-engine 2+2 sportscar, whilst also meeting all global safety and

homologation standards"

Mike Kimberley continues, "Looking to the future, we will continue to research,

develop and produce lighter, more efficient vehicles which are linked to our

extensive and well-regarded work on all aspects of future fuels, alternative

engines and electric and hybrid vehicle propulsion system solutions. We all have

an environmental responsibility to future generations and the Evora is another

example where Lotus is seen to make significant steps towards improving the

efficiency and sustainability of the motorcar, helping 'UK Ltd' to the forefront of

high technology in the motor industry."

THE EVORA IN DETAIL

Style or function? Have both…

Designed in-house by Lotus Design, the sleek and athletic form uses fluid forms

and crisp surfaces to communicate velocity, agility and sophistication. Low and

wide with modern cab forward proportions, muscular rear haunches and function

optimised hip air intakes shows this is clearly a serious mid engined sportscar that

skilfully hides the practicality of its two plus two accommodation.

Russell Carr, Head of Lotus Design, led the Evora's design team with Steven

Crijns, Design Manager responsible for the exterior and Anthony Bushell, Senior

Designer, responsible for the interior.

"A cornerstone of the design's success was working closely with the technical

team and board to develop a package that allowed us to get the proportions

correct," says Head of Design Russell Carr, "The asymmetric wheel sizes, the

short rear overhang, long front overhang and cab forward visor screen all

contribute to giving the car visual movement and an agile stance. This is incredibly

important to us because we want the car's aesthetics to communicate its driving

characteristics"

Lotus products have always embodied a perfect balance between form and

function and the Evora successfully continues this heritage. "We never lost sight of

the fact that, although this car must provide real world useability, sportscars are

emotional purchases and that you have to seduce the customer through beguiling

looks and exotic persona. We are, therefore, very proud that we have been able to

use technical and user functionality to positively drive the design in key areas and

create some of the car's most distinctive features", says Carr.

Ingress and egress, for example, dictated a minimal "step-over" to get into the

Evora. We simply cut away the surface under the door and created a unique and

dramatic piece of sculpture that enhances the stance of the car as well as its

usability.

Elsewhere, aerodynamic considerations for drag, down force and cooling had

significant but positive influence on the overall form and details such as air

intakes. A desire to create balanced down force that increases cornering

performance led to the adoption of the Lotus "signature" top exit radiator vent, race

car inspired diffuser and "floating rear wing". Drag limitation, drove the dramatic

tear-dropped cabin layout and the curvaceous plan view has given the car a more

muscular rear shoulder and conveys a level of sophistication appropriate to this

market segment. "We believe that our designs should be honest as well as

dramatic and so we are really pleased with the fact that these iconic features all do

a real job" says Steven Crijns, Design Manager.

This inherent understanding of the relationship between the technical and the

aesthetic paid dividends the first time a full-scale model of the Evora was

windtunnel tested – only minimal adjustments were required to the car's

aerodynamic package to meet the targets for downforce and stability.

Steve Crijns continued, "Overall the design language shows a clear DNA link with

its Lotus siblings, whilst establishing its own distinctive and contemporary theme.

The undulating shoulder line is brilliantly mirrored in the lower part of the bodyside

by the cut -away sill that creates a torseau-like muscularity."

"The front three-quarter view is really powerful" Russell Carr continues, "Your eye

is drawn effortlessly, from our signature oval mouth, rearward by fluid surfaces

and fast lines that create a sense of speed even when the car is stationary. From

this angle you can also see how dramatically the visor screen sweeps around the

teardrop form of the cabin and the gently waisted plan shape perfectly

accentuates the muscularity of the rear fender. This is unmistakeably mid engined

language and the Evora is unmistakeably Lotus."

The view from the rear three-quarters is just as striking. The tapered cabin,

diffuser, floating wing, centrally mounted twin tailpipes and distinctive engine bay

vents all combine to create a completely unique look.

Moving right inside…

The design language of the interior reflects that of the exterior – simple, fluid

surfaces, soft forms and crisp feature lines wrap around the cabin cosseting the

occupants. Unlike recent Lotus products that use a race car inspired, technical

minimalism, the Evora employs a softer approach that utilises premium quality

materials and finishes to create a contemporary but luxurious ambience that is

unique to Lotus products, an elegance in its simplest form.

It is, according to Russell Carr, "A huge departure from what people might expect

based on Lotus' recent past. The CEO wanted the Evora's cabin to feel very

special and to be surprising as well as sporty. Precision engineered metal inserts

and quality edge-lit switches are brilliantly juxtaposed against soft hand-stitched

leather surfaces to give a modern interior with a classic twist."

Russell Carr continues, "The flat bottomed steering wheel, figure hugging sports

seats, contemporary instrumentation and ergonomically positioned controls

provide an intuitive environment that instantly forms a connection between driver

and car ensuring that it becomes an extension of his or her body."

Anthony Bushell, Senior Designer, explained about the choice of materials in the

Evora's interior, "'Tactile' quality is incredibly important within this segment so in

the Evora interior we use honest premium materials. Much of the switchgear is

bespoke, and every metallic component is, actually, metal."

For the Premium Pack focused courtesy lighting is used throughout the interior,

giving a spectacular illuminated feel to the sculpture design features of the cabin.

The extensive use of handcrafted, premium leather differentiates the Evora from

other Lotus products and such is its importance to the character of the car that an

entire new trim shop has been built at the Lotus Headquarters in the UK,

dedicated to its production.

Even the entry level versions of the Evora will feature leather seats together with,

upper door trim panels and facia upholstered in leather, but it is expected that

most customers will opt for the full hide treatment and accent lighting available in

the Premium Pack. Along with a range of four leather colours available in the

Premium Pack, customers will have the opportunity to personalise their Evora with

a wide range of paints in the Metallic, Lifestyle and Premium pallets.

High-tech treats

Contemporary technology also features in the Evora's cabin with the optional Tech

Pack and further standalone options. Part of the Tech Pack is a newly developed

Alpine multi-media system with a 7 inch touch-screen providing advanced audio,

satellite navigation, video, Bluetooth** hands-free telephone and iPod***

connectivity functions, the screen also serves as a monitor for the Evora's optional

reversing camera. A secondary handheld satellite navigation element of the

system is removable, allowing you to programme it from the comfort of your home,

or take it with you to continue your journey in an unfamiliar pedestrian location.

The optional IMPRINT Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated

automotive systems in the world. Using MultEQ sound enhancement technology, it

is able to cancel out sound imbalances, caused by the cabin window glass, that

creates echoes or carpets that suppress mid-range frequencies, resulting in

amazingly crisp, clear, undistorted sound reproduction wherever you are seated in

the car.

A bespoke air-conditioning system developed by Lotus and Bergstrom engineers

is standard on all models, and has been designed for the hottest climate or the

closest humidity to ensure maximum occupant comfort. Lotus traction control is

standard fitment and onboard tyre pressure monitoring will also be available

(except in Japan).

One size fits all

The front seats themselves are very supportive and leather clad with a lightweight

manual mechanism for fore and aft and rake angle adjustment, designed to give a

supported driving position.

The rear seats of 2+2 versions of the Evora are intended for children and smaller

adults. There will also be a two-seater derivative with a luggage shelf in the back

at a later date. To maximise comfort in the rear, there's a decent amount of

footroom under the seats in front, while both back seats feature ISOFIX mountings

for secure child seat fitment.

When unoccupied, the rear seats provide a convenient stowage area, adding to

the Evora's appeal as an everyday car. The 160 litre boot, which ingeniously

features a fresh air cooling system to reduce the effect of any heat ingress from

the engine bay, will also accommodate a full set of golf clubs.

Easy in, easy out

With the Elise and its derivatives, the no-compromise character of the car makes

getting in and out across a wide sill and through a comparatively narrow

door/window aperture part of the charm of ownership. For the Evora and its remit

for the serious daily driver, and to attract newcomers to the Lotus brand, greater

convenience and practicality of ingress and egress is provided.

As a consequence the sill is now lower and slimmer (80mm wide compared with

100mm in the Elise), and the whole door aperture taller. The doors open wider

than on the Elise and its siblings, while the height of the front seat is raised by

65mm.

But while The Evora is undeniably more 'lifestyle' in respect of its everyday

practicality, once you're seated behind its semi flat-bottomed steering wheel, it

feels every bit as exotic and sporting as you would expect a Lotus to be.

Safely does it

In common with the Elise and its derivatives, the Evora's bonded extruded

aluminium chassis tub has incredible inherent strength, particularly in regard to

front and side impacts. Additional torsional strength is given to the whole structure

by the tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame.

Deformable sacrificial aluminium front and steel rear subframe modules are

attached to the tub using joints which are designed to minimise damage to the tub,

protecting the main passenger cell in the event of an accident.

Driver and passenger airbags are standard. The airbag on the passenger side is

cleverly engineered to deploy vertically and then be deflected rearwards by the

windscreen, to provide protection for children as well as adults.

Anti-lock brakes are standard on all models, as is Lotus Traction Control (LTC);

these systems have been specially developed as a collaboration between Lotus

and Bosch engineers and enable up and coming drivers to consistently exploit the

braking and performance capabilities of the Evora, whilst allowing skilled

enthusiasts the freedom to enjoy the full Lotus driving experience.

The chassis: Production Low Volume Versatile Vehicle Architecture

The Evora's chassis is a low investment cost evolution of the Versatile Vehicle

Architecture (VVA) from the Lotus APX concept vehicle previously showcased at

the Geneva Motorshow, and allows for the development of a range of vehicles up

to a gross vehicle weight of 1,900 kg. This architecture has been designed to be

more applicable to mid-volume applications by utilising our low capital investment

manufacturing processes. The Evora structure progresses the Lotus 'bonded and

riveted' technology used in the Elise family of vehicles with new and unique

extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing production build modularity and

lower cost repairs.

The low volume VVA chassis has been designed for scalability so that it can be

extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume

VVA chassis can be modified cost effectively by varying the wall thickness of the

extrusions, without altering the exterior dimensions. The ability to lengthen or

shorten extrusions with the option to tailor the chassis stiffness, vastly increases

the number of vehicles that can be developed from this vehicle architecture. Front

and mid engine installations have been considered, as well as hybrid and Electric

Vehicle (EV) applications.

The Lotus Evora employs a composite roof as a stressed structural member to

give an exceptional vehicle stiffness of 26,000 Nm per degree. This impressive

stiffness is also thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame, and partly because

the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this

high stiffness, the complete chassis or tub and front and rear modules weight just

200 kg (prototype specification)*, helping to keep the weight of the whole car to

just 1350 kg (prototype specification)*.

To deliver this high performance structure, bonded and riveted high grade

aluminium extrusions and simple and elegant folded sheet elements are used in

the lower structure, building upon award winning Lotus research projects in this

field. Lotus pioneered the technology of bonded aluminium extrusions for use in

road vehicles and has successfully developed high performance cars for other car

companies around the world using these techniques.

The central tub is attached to an extruded aluminium subframe at the front and a

lightweight welded steel subframe at the rear. These subframe modules also offer

advantages in terms of convenience and low cost of repair, and during

manufacturing can be brought to the production line fully assembled, ready to be

attached thereby improving the overall efficiency of space and time of assembly.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis is manufactured at the new Lotus

Lightweight Structures Limited (LLS) facility in Worcester, UK. LLS employs 120

skilled engineers, technicians and sales staff and will manufacture all the Lotus

aluminium structures, including those for the Elise, Exige, 2–Eleven and Europa

and aluminium components for Lotus' extensive global client base.

Suspended & animated

To achieve exceptionally high driving dynamics and great levels of driver

involvement, Lotus has engineered and developed completely new suspension

systems for use on the Evora.

The Evora suspension wishbones are forged from aluminium to reduce the

unsprung mass. These are similar in weight to the steel items found on the much

smaller Elise, Exige and Europa vehicles, but are stiffer and have a much

increased vehicle weight capacity. They are attached to the front and rear

modules via Lotus designed bushes. The Evora will use Bilstein high performance

dampers and Eibach springs with unique dual path top mounts for optimised

vehicle refinement. Hydraulically assisted power steering is provided by a Lotus

tuned TRW steering rack to give renowned Lotus steering feel and precision to

place the Evora exactly where you want it to be when cornering.

All in all, the Evora delivers exceptional performance. It has incredible Lotus

handling and provides unsurpassable driving pleasure and confidence to drivers at

all levels of skill. In fact, word from the ride and handling team is that the new car

is likely to become a class standard-setter in respect to it's "over the road speed

and agility feel".

Stop right now…

Vented brake discs are standard with cross-drilled brake discs forming part of the

Sport Pack, (both are massive 350mm diameter discs on the front and 332mm

diameter at the rear), which when combined with high performance bespoke Lotus

AP Racing 4 pot callipers ensure impressive stopping power.

Everyone connected with the brake testing programme, conducted on the

punishing corners, climbs and descents of the Nürburgring and Stelvio Pass, has

described the brakes as 'phenomenal' with excellent thermal performance and

outstanding feel even after extended sessions of extreme use.

Part of that testing programme was to finalise settings for the ABS system being

developed in conjunction with Bosch. The system is tuned for performance driving

and thus has very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are

often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also

fitted as standard. HBA detects an emergency braking situation and increases

brake pressure up to ABS activation threshold which results in shorter emergency

stopping distances.

Safe. Fun. Lotus Traction Control

The Switchable Lotus Traction Control (LTC) system has been developed

simultaneously with the ABS and works through the engine management system

to reduce power to the rear wheels when required to maintain traction. To maintain

front end traction or to reduce understeer, the LTC will gently reduce engine

torque to stabilise the Evora bringing the front wheels back into line – known as

"Understeer Recognition". Unlike many traction control systems, LTC has been

tuned to complement the skills of the driver without taking over. The Lotus LTC is

active above 5 mph (8 km/h) and operates much more quickly than many brake

based systems. The system can be deactivated completely, giving no traction

control intervention.

A Bosch Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) is fitted as standard to the Lotus Evora.

This advanced technology controls the speed of individual rear wheels through the

precise activation of the rear brakes, slowing an excessively spinning rear wheel

to ensure that traction is maintained without causing detriment to the handling –

often the case with a mechanical limited slip differential.

The Sport Pack option comprises of a switchable sports mode, sports diffuser,

Titanium sports tail pipe, cross drilled brake discs, black callipers and an engine oil

cooler.

As with all Lotus cars, the Evora is very driver focussed and therefore all the

electronic intervention systems can be completely overridden by the driver (apart

from the ABS). In standard mode, all the systems above are in operation; pressing

the sport button (Sport Pack option only) sharpens the throttle response and

increases the engine rev limit. The sports mode traction control is adjusted to give

increased slip and yaw angle before intervening, and also removes the understeer

recognition.

Keeping a grip – 18 inch at the front, 19 inch at the rear.

Tyre choice is a vital component in the ride, handling and steering performance of

every Lotus and for the Evora, Yokohama was chosen as the development

partner. Lotus and Yokohama engineers developed bespoke tyres especially for

the Evora – a 225/40 ZR18 at the front and larger diameter 255/35 ZR19 at the

rear. Both have carcass construction and a rubber compound unique to Lotus and

are identified by the letters 'LTS' on the sidewalls.

The V6 Engine - dual VVT-i ('intelligent' variable valve timing)

The exceptional working relationship that Lotus has enjoyed with Toyota over

several decades, combined with the overwhelmingly enthusiastic reception for the

company's four-cylinder power units in the Elise and Exige, guaranteed the

Japanese giant's inclusion on the shortlist for the Evora engine supplier.

The final choice was Toyota's all-alloy 2GR-FE 3.5-litre V6 DOHC, with dual VVT-i

('intelligent' variable valve timing). Lotus has painstakingly developed its own T6e

engine management software for this engine to optimise its compatibility with the

unique requirements of the Evora to give a peak power output of 280 PS at 6400

rpm, while boosting its maximum torque to 342 Nm at 4700 rpm (prototype

specification)*.

Changes to the engine management and exhaust systems also allow the V6 to rev

more freely and provide rapid throttle response; feedback from the development

team shows that the strength of the engine's mid-range torque means that gutsy

performance will be easily accessible without having to thunder through to the

redline. This makes the Lotus Evora a thoroughly satisfying car for everyday road

use and a rewarding one when you just want to drive.

The 2GR-FE V6 engine is mated to a manual six-speed gearbox, again Toyotasourced.

A close-ratio version of this gearbox will be an option for the even more

sport-focussed driver. Many Lotus owners enjoy the blend of unique performance

and efficiency that the brand's cars offer. True to the Lotus value of "performance

through light weight" CO2 emissions are class leading at 205 g/km while fuel

consumption on the combined cycle is 8.7 l/100 km. Fuel economy for the urban

cycle is 12.4 l/100km with 6.5 l/100km on the extra urban cycle.

What'll she do?

The zero to 100 km/h sprint takes place in just over 5 seconds with a top

speed of over 260 km/h (prototype specification)*.

Test. Test. Then test some more

It's a global car, so the Evora has been tested around the world. From the icy

wastes of the Arctic to the heat of the Australian desert, the high altitude of the

Alps as well as the country roads around the Hethel factory.

A cross functional team comprising of design, CAE and test and development

engineers have been able to develop the Evora into a class leading vehicle in an

exceptionally short space of time. It has spent hours howling around the

Nürburgring and endlessly lapped Lotus's test track at Hethel. By the time the

Evora entered production in February 2009, prototypes had travelled for hundreds

of thousands of miles along some of the worst public roads in the world and been

tortured for as many miles on some of the toughest proving grounds the motor

industry has to offer, including extreme pave tests.

It has been flung into barriers at low and high speeds, at a multitude of angles, it

has even had its roof and doors compressed! By the time the Evora reaches the

UK and Europe Lotus showrooms from May 2009, it will be the most thoroughly

tested Lotus car in the history of Lotus. It will also be one of the company's great

milestones.

Lotus Evora: 205 g/km CO2

8.7 litres / 100 km (32.5 mpg) Combined Cycle

12.4 litres / 100 km (22.8 mpg) Urban Cycle

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

* Figures quoted are based on the prototype development cars and may not be

correct for production version of the Evora. Final figures for the production version

will be available from www.grouplotus.com once confirmed.

** Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. registered in the USA

and other countries.

*** iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. registered in the USA and other

countries.

Photos here:

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/front_website...0&id=302847

Lotus Engineering, the world-renowned automotive consultancy division of Lotus Cars Ltd and Harman Becker Automotive Systems, the automotive division of Harman International, have reached an agreement to jointly develop noise management solutions using Lotus' patented Active Noise Control technologies. Exclusive rights are granted to Harman Becker to manufacture the latest technology solutions for the worldwide vehicle OEM market. The agreement includes all of Lotus' Active Noise Control technologies comprising Road Noise Cancellation, Engine Order Cancellation, and Electronic Sound Synthesis.

The Road Noise Cancellation and Engine Order Cancellation systems will provide vehicle manufacturers with the ability to greatly improve in-cabin refinement, with additional design opportunities for optimising vehicle weight reduction and fuel economy.

Road Noise Cancellation and Engine Order Cancellation reduce both overall noise levels and specific audible frequencies which may be unpleasant in the cabin space. Electronic systems determine the signal needed to provide cancellation which is then seamlessly generated through the in-car entertainment system. The result is a quiet, controlled environment free of intrusive noises.

External Electronic Sound Synthesis provides specified electronic sound models which can be applied to an external speaker system to improve pedestrian safety. This is especially important for electric and hybrid vehicles which can be difficult to hear at lower speeds due to their drive mechanism. A synthesised sound, dependant on speed, is projected from speakers at the front and rear of the vehicle, making it instantly recognisable that the vehicle is in motion.

Internal Electronic Sound Synthesis allows sound contouring in the cabin, enhancing the driving experience by creating engine speed and throttle dependant sounds audible through the in-car entertainment system. The system delivers audible feedback to drivers even when the engine is silent or, alternatively, it can be used to reinforce an OEM 'sound DNA' to the end user.

Harman International, the world-renowned high-end infotainment systems provider, will be the production system integrator and supplier, and will work with vehicle manufacturers on model specific system architecture options. Lotus Engineering, which has over twenty years of experience in Active Noise Control technologies will assist manufacturers with system performance optimisation.

"We are delighted by this agreement with Harman International, which will allow motorists to benefit from the greater levels of refinement and safety in future vehicles which these Lotus technologies enable," said Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc. "The Active Noise Control technologies are part of a steady stream of ground-breaking innovations that Lotus has brought to the automotive industry and we are committed to pursuing further developments in vehicle refinement and environmentally friendly transport solutions."

"We are privileged to team up with Lotus for this new development initiative, which will reinforce our mission to deliver exceptional audio and infotainment experiences for automotive customers," said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman's Chairman and CEO. "The rich sounds of our in-car systems will be complemented by this technology, opening new opportunities for deployment and enjoyment."

"The utilisation of the Lotus suite of ANC technologies within our extensive product portfolio reinforces our commitment to support the increasing market demand for environmentally conscientious technologies," said Dr. Klaus Blickle, Chief Executive Officer and President of the Harman International Automotive Division.

The result of the Lotus and Harman International technology collaboration will be to generate Active Noise Control system solutions available to vehicle manufacturers in all worldwide markets. Working systems are ready for production implementation and manufacture. The introduction of affordable noise management systems offers multiple benefits to manufacturers and consumers alike, achieving eco-friendly optimization of vehicle weight reductions and improved CO2 emissions.

Owned and operated by John Eagle Dealerships, Lotus of Austin will be run by Dealer Principal Sonny Morgan who continues as the President of Aston Martin of Dallas and has now relocated to Austin to direct the startup, development and operation of the newest Lotus dealership in North America.

Lotus sales and service will begin in mid-April from a beautiful new showroom and stand-alone service facility to be shared with two other fine historic British marques – Aston Martin and Bentley. Housing these three revered automotive brands together on Research Boulevard in the heart of the hill country, Sonny and his team will offer the full spectrum of fine performance and luxury automobiles to the sophisticated and discerning clientele of Austin.

"With the success we've enjoyed in recent years with our Elise and Exige range of pure and visceral sports cars and the upcoming launch of our all-new 2010 Evora, the world's only mid-engined 2+2 performance car in production, Lotus is at a key growth point in the history of the company," said Arnie Johnson, Director of Operations, Lotus Cars USA, Inc. "It's more important than ever for Lotus to partner with the right retailers and we've found in John Eagle and Sonny Morgan the best possible partners to represent Lotus in Austin."

"We're very fortunate in Austin to enjoy great weather most of the year, spectacular scenery and some of the most enjoyable driving roads anywhere on the planet," said Sonny Morgan, Dealer Principal and Co-Owner of Lotus of Austin. "The true car enthusiasts of Austin and surrounding communities will thrive on the opportunity to enjoy the unparalleled driving experience of a legendary Lotus sports car in our driver's paradise. What a great city to be a Lotus owner!"

The Gadget Show entered into a contest to race the Lotus Soapbox 119c at Cadwell Park. The Gadget show team build a soapbox named "The Lotus Eater" with the help of Loughborough College and it makes for a really exciting feature.

Preview here:

http://fwd.five.tv/v...n-programme-4-2

Lotus Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) has been developed to exploit the benefits of producing at low to medium volumes but for niche markets. Engineering a bespoke low-volume platform is an expensive, time-consuming solution, whilst sharing a mainstream chassis normally results in compromises in performance and design. VVA exploits Lotus Engineering's expertise in aluminium, steel and composite body engineering, joining techniques, and vehicle systems integration. This innovative technology offers a fast-to-market, cost-effective approach without the compromise that stems from conventional 'platform sharing'.

The Lotus Evora enters the sports car market as currently the world's only mid-engined 2+2. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280PS, and weighing just 1350kg (prototype specification), the Evora promises breathtaking performance and uses a low volume application of Lotus Versatile Vehicle Architecture.

John Wood, Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club's Dewar Trophy Technical Sub-Committee, said: "The thing that particularly impressed the judges was the single minded determination with which the team at Lotus had sought to find the best possible solution to the particular problem of building an uncompromised lightweight chassis for a low volume road car, and then continually developed and refined that concept to respond to emerging requirements.

"What they have now is a platform system that is not only ideal for high performance sports cars, but also almost infinitely versatile and well suited to the needs of niche vehicle manufacturing in an era where environmental concerns are driving a demand for lightweight structures for a multitude of applications."

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc said: "I would like to thank the Dewar Trophy Technical Sub-Committee for the award, and all at Lotus are most honoured to receive this accolade. It is a fantastic achievement for Lotus to win such a prestigious and recognised award for our Versatile Vehicle Architecture technology which is used in our stunning new Lotus Evora sportscar. This award is for everyone at Lotus; those who created the VVA technology, those who delivered the Evora engineering programme and those who are building our car. With incredible hard work and dedication at Lotus, using this technology our excellent staff have delivered the Lotus Evora in 27 months from a clean sheet to the first production car driving off the line, a great achievement.

Mike Kimberley continued. "The automotive industry is changing fast, and technology needs to be robust, faster to market and more cost and mass effective than ever before, and Lotus will be there at the forefront of this exciting period for the future of personal transport."

The Dewar Trophy Technical Sub-Committee was set up to study automotive engineering excellence and determines if the candidates meet the strict terms of reference for the awarding of the Trophy in a particular year.

Dewar Trophy Technical Sub-Committee

John Wood (Chairman) Former Managing Director, Motor Industry Research Association

Ben Cussons Chairman, the Royal Automobile Club Motoring Committee

Alec Osborn MBE Past President, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Karl Ludvigsen Influential and highly respected motoring author and historian. Former Senior Executive with Ford, Fiat and General Motors

Steve Cropley Editor-in-Chief, Autocar Magazine

In total eighteen entries were considered in detail by the Dewar Trophy Technical Sub-Committee for 2008, representing a complete cross section of automotive development, covering all types of vehicles, components, engineering and systems and, throughout, technical innovation and development was evident in abundance. 2008 marks the 40th occasion the Dewar Trophy has been awarded since the first presentation to Dennis Brothers Limited in 1906.

The Evora provides a tremendously rewarding driving experience: the mid-engined layout gives exceptional agility and the Lotus engineered suspension ensures incredible ride and handling. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS, the Evora delivers an exhilarating experience true to the Lotus DNA characteristics.

The new Evora (production of which has now started) will be the main feature on the Lotus Cars Stand at the annual Club Lotus Show taking place at Donington Park on Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April.

Come along and and meet the Lotus team, take a look at our extensive current product range, and browse the range of Lotus Merchandise and accessories available for purchase. Opening hours are : Saturday, 10am - 4.30pm, Sunday 10am to 4.00pm.

For more photos, specification and the very latest information, please visit http://www.lotusevora.com/

The stunning new Lotus Evora continued its global tour with an exclusive preview evening at Trivett Lotus Sydney to a select group of more than 250 guests, VIPs and media, before its official release planned for Spring 2009.

Unveiled for the first time in the southern hemisphere at the Melbourne Motor Show two weeks ago, the Evora proved to be a star of the show, with tremendous interest and a significant number of expressions of interest taken for the high-performance 2+2 sports coupe.

The Trivett Lotus Sydney reveal evening took place on Wednesday 11th March and was hosted by Greg Duncan (Executive Chairman, Trivett Group) and John Startari (Managing Director, Lotus Cars Australia) who welcomed an array of guests including existing and prospect Lotus customers alongside many high-profile Sydney based personalities.

A range of Lotus vehicles were on display during the evening, from the entry level Elise S priced at $69,990 to the Lotus 2-Eleven track vehicle, and spearheaded by the new Lotus Evora which offered the ideal launch platform for the Lotus and Trivett partnership

The Trivett Lotus Sydney showroom places Lotus in front of thousands each day at the 52-58 William Street, Sydney premises and is now in full operation.

Jonathan Stretton, General Manager Lotus Cars Australia, has welcomed Trivett into the Lotus dealer family: "In the lead-up to the major launch of the Evora, it's both appropriate and encouraging that Lotus will be working in Sydney with such a professional and highly regarded organisation such as Trivett.

"Being located alongside Bentley in the William Street Showroom is prime positioning and, with Lotus offering a balance between sports and performance, it is a harmonious addition to complement Trivett's existing brands"

Greg Duncan, Executive Chairman said: "Trivett is delighted to represent Lotus in Sydney. We are proud to again represent Lotus in this market after doing so over a decade ago. It is fitting that as we celebrate 25 years of prestige motoring in 2009, we are reunited with such a dynamic brand that has been a part of our past - and will now be a part of our future.

"However, I can assure you that we don't only measure our success by the brands we represent. Our success comes from achieving customer loyalty - and we work hard in every business to ensure we earn it every day. We remain committed to representing the world's finest motoring brands simply because Trivett customers expect more choice." said Duncan.

The Trivett Group stable includes 15 brands such as Rolls-Royce, Aston Martin, Bentley, Harley Davidson and Bugatti employing a staff of more than 500, proving 'prestige motoring' really is about the company you keep.

The Trivett Group currently sells over 7000 vehicles every year with a turnover of half a billion dollars.

The 79th International Geneva Motor Show sees the introduction

of the exciting new 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige S with a newly

designed front end, a new rear wing and impressive emissions

of just 199 g/km CO2.

The Lotus Exige is a renowned high performance coupe that has a well earned

reputation of choice for drivers who demand uncompromised performance,

both on the road and on the track.

Lotus has always pursued efficiency and fuel economy and for the 2010 Model

Year Lotus Exige S, Lotus has reduced the emissions to only 199 g/km CO2

and increased the fuel economy to an impressive 8.5 litres/100 km on the

Official European Combined Cycle and a frugal 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official

European Extra Urban Cycle.

The 2010 Model Year also sees the introduction of a few key changes to the

Exige to enhance the look and improve aerodynamic performance.

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.

The 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 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 mouth to help

funnel more air through the radiator, to improve the efficiency of the engine

system. 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

bisect these oil cooler air-intakes to stabilise the airflow to further increase the

cooling efficiency.

Since the Exige S2 was launched in 2004, the power has increased from 190

hp through 220 hp to 240 hp in standard road form – more for the track centric

Exige Cup 260 - and the new larger air intakes improve engine cooling for

these current higher powered Exige variants.

Mounted below the three new air intakes is a new aerodynamic splitter for the

2010 Model Year Exige. Made from a lightweight composite, the splitter is now

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.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc said, “Over the years, the

Lotus Exige has developed a hardcore fan base around the world and its

popularity has placed it as one of the legendary sportscars of the 21st century.

So far, over 5000 Exiges have been hand-built at our high-tech manufacturing

facility making it a significant contributor to our global production. The

lightweight Exige has one of the highest specific power outputs of any globally

emissions certified car and 133 hp per litre is a perfect demonstration of Colin

Chapman’s philosophy of performance through light weight and of Lotus’

relentless pursuit of efficiency. The same technology that makes a lightweight

car a high performer also makes it efficient – how many cars have

performance figures of 0 – 100 km/h in 4.77 secs but produce only 199 g/km

CO2?”

Like all Lotus cars, the functional components of the car are also beautifully

designed as Russell Carr, Chief of Lotus Design, explains, “For 2010 we have

taken the already visually extreme Exige and given it even more visual drama.

The changes we have integrated into the front and rear of the Exige signal an

even clearer and purposeful intent. The purposeful rear wing is race inspired,

the new angular air intakes and full width splitter gives a more hard-edged and

aggressive look. Overall, the Exige appears more planted and gives the

illusion that both the front and rear of the car are wider than they really are

without losing its agile and lithe character.”

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering said, “The changes we have

made to the Exige for 2010 Model Year are quite subtle when taken

individually, but taken as a complete package they make significant

improvements to aerodynamics and the overall look of the car. The Exige is a

classic fit-for-purpose performance machine, the design tweaks we have made

have reduced the drag, cleaned up the airflow around the front and rear of the

car, whilst retaining the impressive balanced downforce figures, to give an

exciting high performance drive.”

The specification of the highly successful 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260,

unveiled at the Paris Motorshow in 2008 remains unchanged.

The 2010 Exige in more detail:

Driver and passenger airbags are standard on all models while an on-board

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is standard in the USA.

The instrument pack in the Exige contains much more than just a pair of

stylishly back-lit dials. It also features a high-definition LCD message panel

that can display a scrolling text message with vehicle systems information.

The instrument pack always displays the fuel gauge, engine temperature and

odometer, however you can select to display the time, trip distance or a digital

read-out of your speed in the opposite calibration to that of your speedometer

dial – if your dial is in mph, the readout is in km/h.

Warning symbols are ‘secret until lit’, keeping the instrumentation free from

visual clutter and distraction until necessary. Gearchange ‘shift’ lights similarly

remain hidden until required. There are three shift up warning lights,

cumulatively lighting when the driver is getting closer to the rev limiter and

when all three are illuminated, they flash to indicate that you should have

changed up a gear by now!

A “key” issue

The Exige has a “Thatcham approved” alarm/immobiliser system and the

ignition key incorporates the controls for the alarm/immobiliser and central

locking functions. This key features three buttons, the one which locks the

doors and sets the alarm/immobiliser is stylishly crowned with the famous

Lotus roundel. The second button unlocks the doors and de-actives the

alarm/immobiliser, and the final button is a panic alarm button.

The contents of the Touring pack, for the Exige S includes:

• Full leather or Microfibre suede-effect interior

• Leather trimmed centre console

• Leather handbrake gaiter

• Sound system iPod* connection

• Full carpets, with embroidered logo

• Auxiliary driving lights (in markets where legally allowed)

• Sound insulation kit

• Cup holder

The Exige S Sport pack includes:

• Bilstein sports dampers

• Traction control

• Adjustable front anti-roll bar

• T45 roll bar, with integrated harness mounts

The Exige S Performance Pack – more punch, more ability for Exige S

• 308 mm front cross-drilled and vented discs with AP Racing four piston

callipers

• Uprated front and rear brake pads

• Full length upsized roof scoop

• Variable slip traction control

• Uprated clutch plate and cover

• Uprated vehicle performance through enhanced power and torque delivery

• Launch control

With the Exige performance pack, the power is raised to 240 PS / 179 kW

(minimum) at 8000 rpm courtesy of a Magnuson/Eaton M62 supercharger,

new faster flowing injectors and higher torque clutch system and an upsized

roof scoop to feed more air to the supercharger intercooler system.

This hike in power, together with an increase in torque to 170 lbft / 230 Nm /

23.5 kgm at 5,500 rpm from the standard 158.6 lbft / 215 Nm / 22 kgm at 5500

rpm, helps whisk the Performance Pack Exige S from zero to 60mph in 4.5

secs and 0-100km/h in 4.77 secs, and on to 100mph in 11.97 secs. Top speed

rises to 145 mph. The power and torque of the 240 PS engine is increased

across the rev range giving even more flexibility. Despite these high levels of

performance the fuel economy is impressive with a new combined figure of 8.5

litres / 100 km and 199 g/km CO2 – reduced from 9.1 litres / 100 km

(combined) and 216 g/km CO2 for the 2009 Model Year Exige. 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.

Of course the increased power and straight-line performance are only a couple

of elements of the Performance Pack option. The clutch is uprated and a

clutch damper fitted; there are thicker, 308mm diameter cross-drilled and

vented discs at the front clamped by AP Racing four-piston callipers; the

standard brake pads are replaced by uprated pads.

Keen to pass on lessons learned on the track with the Exige GT3 racing

programme, Lotus Sport has contributed another important track specific

technology to the Performance Pack – launch control combined with variable

traction control.

From the driver’s seat the track orientated launch control allows you to

determine the engine revs you wish to use during a standing start on the track.

Having programmed that limit, it will not be exceeded when you then hold

down the throttle and sidestep the clutch at departure from the line. The clutch

damper cushions the severity of the clutch / transmission engagement to

minimise the stresses to the drivetrain (noting that continuous abusive

standing start applications will destroy the drivetrain components). The launch

control also keeps wheelspin at bay until 6 mph, after which the traction control

assumes its duties.

As with launch control, you can dial in the amount of traction control you

require from the driver’s seats, altering it on the move to suit driving style and

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

off. The message display in the new instrument pack displays what degree of

traction control you have currently dialled in.

The beauty of all the packs is that they can be combined so a customer can

have the additional interior and exterior equipment from the Touring pack with

the sport focussed equipment from the Sport pack.

Air conditioning, Lotus traction control and limited slip differential are available

as stand-alone options.

Customers wanting to add further finishing touches to their Exige – such as

specifying adjustable dampers and forged wheels can do so by ordering from

an extensive range of accessories.

Colours

The Premium Colour Range has been designed to further enhance the choice

for customers to individualise their cars. Most of the paints in this range require

a more sophisticated application process and are from our paint supplier’s

premium range. The paint colours in this range have been individually priced,

and it is Lotus’ intention to extend and change this range at periodic intervals.

The 2010 Model Year Exige S will enter the EU markets in May 2009.

Exige S: 199 g/km CO2

8.5 litres/100 km (33.2 mpg) Combined Cycle

11.9 litres/100 km (23.7 mpg) Urban Cycle

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

Photos here:

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/front_website...0&id=302843

Range Specification and Pricing

(EU and Switzerland)

First deliveries of the eagerly anticipated Lotus Evora will be

made to customers in Europe in May 2009 following an

extensive and rapid development programme, enabling the

whole project to be completed in an extraordinary 27 months,

almost unprecedented in the motor industry.

The Lotus Evora Launch Edition

The first 450 cars will be built to a high level standard specification which

includes the following equipment:

· 2+2 seating configuration

· Tech Pack

· Premium Pack

· Sport Pack

· Hi-power silver cast alloy wheels

· Bi-Xenon Headlamps

· Alpine Imprint Audio System

· Reversing Camera

· Electric Powerfold Mirrors

The Launch Edition includes either Ardent Red or British Racing Green as

standard, and all other colours from the Lotus range are available as a cost

option.

Following on from these first 450 Lotus Evora Launch Edition sportscars,

customers will have the opportunity to spec to a more personal level – but of

course they will not be part of the select few who will be among the first to own

Britain’s latest sportscar and one of the most anticipated cars of the year,

complete with a unique Evora commemorative build plate in the cabin.

The Lotus Evora in Summary (please see the separate Evora press

information for more detail)

The Lotus Evora will enter the sportscar market as the only mid-engined 2+2 in

production. The new car is a more holistic offering than the Elise, Europa and

Exige models that have been so massively popular and iconic. The Lotus

Evora is designed for people who desire exotic sportscar characteristics of

stunning design, exclusivity, dramatic proportions and performance. However,

it offers real-world usability and a unique sense of occasion. Powered by a 3.5-

litre V6 producing 280 PS and 342 Nm of torque, the new car employs

innovative lightweight chassis technology to ensure all-round dynamic

performance, in keeping with the great Lotus tradition.

Straight line performance is spectacular, with the zero to 100 km/h sprint

taking place in just over 5 seconds with a top speed of over 260 km/h

(prototype figures). Economy and emissions figures are class leading with the

Official European Combined Cycle fuel economy being just 8.7 litres / 100 km

and the emissions being just 205 g / km CO2. The other fuel economy figures

are equally impressive with Official European Urban Cycle figures of 12.4 litres

/ 100 km and 6.5 litres / 100 km for the Official European Extra Urban Cycle.

Inside, the Lotus Evora cocoons occupants with sumptuous leather surfaces

juxtaposed with contemporary high-tech features. With driver focused

instrumentation the occupants sit in cockpit-esque surroundings. A beautifully

appointed dash boasts tactile details such as flush-mounted controls that glow

with blue LED haloes and a stylised speedometer and rev counter ensuring

that controls are both attractive and accessible. Styled in-house by Lotus

Design, the Evora’s sophisticated and attention-snaring lines brilliantly

disguise its ability to accommodate passengers in the rear of the cabin, giving

the car the external characteristics of a small, nimble sportscar belying its real

exterior and internal space. As well as being sold in a 2+2 configuration, the

car will also be available as a two-seater, the space in the rear being allocated

to luggage storage. Other derivatives are also planned for the long term future,

including a convertible and a version with automatic transmission.

The first production Lotus Evoras have already started down the assembly line

at Lotus’ high tech manufacturing facilities in Worcester UK (where the

advanced extruded and bonded aluminium chassis is made) and at the Lotus

Headquarters in Hethel UK. Build volumes are expected to ramp up steadily

over the next few months with a target of 34 Lotus Evoras being made each

week by July 2009. This manufacturing volume is in addition to the current

build volume for Lotus small car platform vehicles (Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-

Eleven) of 44 per week building to 55-60 per week in the run up to the northern

hemisphere summer.

For peace of mind, the Lotus Evora has a 3 year 100,000 km (60,000 miles)

whole vehicle warranty with an 8 years chassis perforation warranty for EU

markets.

Full standard equipment, together with the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail

Prices for the Lotus Evora and the cost option equipment are listed below:

Lotus Evora Standard and Cost Option Equipment

S – Standard

O – Cost option

Engine and transmission

206 kW (276 hp, 280 PS) 3.5 litre V6 engine with VVT-I S

6-speed manual transmission S

Sports ratio 6-speed manual transmission O

Optimal gear shift-point display S

Twin polished exhaust tailpipe S

Handling technology

Fully independent suspension layout S

Forged aluminium unequal length double wishbones with integral

joint S

Bilstein mono-tube gas dampers (front and rear) S

Eibach coaxial coil springs (front and rear) S

Anti-roll bars (front and rear) S

Yokohama Advan Sport LTS tyres (225/40 ZR18 front and 255/35

ZR19 rear) S

Hydraulically-assisted power steering S

BOSCH Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) S

Switchable traction control S

Safety

Lotus lightweight deformable bonded front structure S

Lotus all-aluminium safety monocoque 'tub' S

Lotus welded galvanised deformable rear structure S

Lotus side impact safety structure S

Stainless steel fuel tank, sheltered within safety shell S

2-stage airbags for driver and front passenger S

Isofix child seat fastening system in the rear

S on 2+2

seating

configuration

only

AP racing 4-piston fixed aluminium alloy 2-piece callipers S

Ventilated brake discs (350 mm front and 332 mm rear) S

BOSCH ABS with servo assisted brakes featuring

Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)

Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)

S

Key located remote control central locking system and boot

release S

Immobiliser and key activated alarm S

3rd brake light – high mounted S

Rear windscreen demister S

Insulated double glazed rear window, filled with Argon S

Wheels

Silver cast alloy wheels (18" front and 19" rear) S

Silver forged alloy wheels (18" front and 19" rear) O

Stealth Grey cast alloy wheels (18" front and 19" rear) O

Gloss Anthracite forged alloy wheels (18" front and 19" rear) O

Exterior equipment

Halogen headlights S

Bi-Xenon headlights, incl. headlight washing system O

Solar glass windscreen S

Body coloured, heated, electric door mirrors S

Body coloured, heated, electric, power-fold door mirrors O

Aerodynamically optimised rear diffuser and wing S

Body coloured door handles O

Chrome brand and model designation badges S

Interior specification

Air conditioning unit S

Adjustable Recaro Black leather sports seats (front). Recline tilt

and slide S

Flat-bottomed leather/magnesium steering wheel S

Manual steering column adjustment for length and height S

Bespoke aluminium illuminated control knobs and switches S

Electric windows S

Leather gear-knob S

Leather handbrake sleeve S

Remote release glove box S

Door storage bins & integrated cup holders S

12-V interior accessory socket S

12-V boot mounted battery accessory socket S

Lotus command centre with auxiliary trip computer S

Entertainment

Alpine CD/MP3/WMA receiver including: S

2x45W High Power Amp (6" 1/4 coaxial 2-way speakers & dash

mounted tweaters) S

CD-R/-RW/MP3 Playback

Full speed connection for iPod touch, iPod nano and all iPod

models with dock connector S

Full speed AUX input S

Quick search S

Lightweight fractal aerial S

Tech pack O

Upgraded stereo system with:

Alpine Mobile Media Station DVD±R/±RW/MP3/AAC/WMA/DivX

Playback

2x50W High Power Amp (6" 1/4 coaxial 2-way speakers & dash

mounted tweaters)

Alpine Lightweight amplifier with lightweight 150watt subwoofer

7" WVGA Touch Screen display

Alpine BlackBird Portable Satellite Navigation

Bluetooth mobile phone connection

USB connection for various iPod models and selected

other MP3 player and memory sticks

iPod connection and docking cradle in glovebox

Full speed AUX input

Quick search

Cruise Control, included in steering wheel

Rear parking sensors

Tyre pressure monitoring system

Tech pack upgrades:

Alpine/Lotus IMPRINT Sound with Specialised Advanced fine

tuning

Optimisation of sound reproduction

Enhanced sound staging and definition within the car

O

Alpine Reversing camera (day & night) with 138 degree Field of

View O

Premium pack: O

Accent lighting

Leather trimmed tailgate insert panel

Evora Logo on dash

Premium floor mats

Choice of seat leather colour

- Charcoal

- Oyster

- Paprika

- Chestnut

Leather door panelling below trim band

Leather trimmed door pockets

Leather footwell side panels

Leather trimmed armrest

Fully leather trimmed centre console

Sport pack: O

Switchable sports mode featuring:

Enhanced Throttle response and RPM limit

Sports traction control mode with increased yaw and slip

thresholds

Sports diffuser

Titanium sports exhaust tailpipe

Cross drilled brake disks

Black painted brake callipers

Engine Oil cooler**

Paints

Solid Paint S

Ardent Red

British Racing Green

Metallic Paint O

Starlight Black

Liquid Blue

Persian Blue

Canyon Red

Arctic Silver

Storm Titanium

Solar Yellow

Lifestyle Paint O

Phantom Black

Aquamarine

Laser Blue

Isotope Green

Carbon Grey

Graphite Grey

Chrome Orange

Quartz Silver

Aspen White

Saffron Yellow

Premium Paint O

Burnt Orange

Ice White

Warranty EU Markets

3 year 100,000

km (60,000

miles) whole

vehicle

warranty. 8

years chassis

perforation

warranty.

Customers

statutory rights

not affected.

MSRP :

including local tax

including transport

France Italy Belgium Switzerland

Evora 2+0 61.189,-- 61.874,-- 61,809.-- CHF 93,241.--

Evora 2+2 64.717,-- 65.413,-- 65,378.-- CHF 97,829.--

Tech Pack 3.508,-- 3.519,-- 3.549,-- CHF 5.228,--

Sport Pack 1.498,-- 1.503,-- 1.515,-- CHF 2.233,--

Premium Pack 3.005,-- 3.015,-- 3.040,-- CHF 4.478,--

Metallic Paint 995,-- 998,-- 1.007,-- CHF 1.482,--

Lifestyle Paint 1.859,-- 1.866,-- 1.881,-- CHF 2.771,--

Premium Paint 2.751,-- 2.760,-- 2.783,-- CHF 4.101,--

Powerfold Door Mirrors 291,-- 292,-- 295,-- CHF 433,--

Bi-Xenon Headlamps 995,-- 998,-- 1.007,-- CHF 1.484,--

Alpine/Lotus IMPRINT Sound 1.498,-- 1.503,-- 1.515,-- CHF 2.234,--

Alpine Reversing camera 593,-- 595,-- 600,-- CHF 892,--

Stealth Grey cast alloy wheels 553,-- 555,-- 559,-- CHF 825,--

Silver forged alloy wheels 2.000,-- 2.007,-- 2.023,-- CHF 2.985,--

Gloss Anthracite forged alloy wheels 2.764,-- 2.773,-- 2.796,-- CHF 4.122,--

Sports ratio 6-speed manual transmission 1.809,-- 1.815,-- 1.830,-- CHF 2.698,--

MSRP : MSRP:

including local tax excluding local tax

excluding transport

excluding transport

Germany United Kingdom* Euro zone Countries

Evora 2+0 59.990,-- £ 47,500.-- 50.412,--

Evora 2+2 63.500,-- £ 49,875.-- 53.361,--

Tech Pack 3.490,-- £ 2,495.-- 2.933,--

Sport Pack 1.490,-- £ 950.-- 1.252,--

Premium Pack 2.990,-- £ 2,495.-- 2.513,--

Metallic Paint 990,-- £ 538.-- 832,--

Lifestyle Paint 1.850,-- £ 979.-- 1.555,--

Premium Paint 2.737,-- £ 1,957.-- 2.300,--

Powerfold Door Mirrors 290,-- £ 300.-- 244,--

Bi-Xenon Headlamps 990,-- £ 550.-- 832,--

Alpine/Lotus IMPRINT Sound 1.490,-- £ 1,495.-- 1.252,--

Alpine Reversing camera 590,-- £ 300.-- 496,--

Stealth Grey cast alloy wheels 550,-- £ 300.-- 462,--

Silver forged alloy wheels 1.990,-- £ 1,495.-- 1.672,--

Gloss Anthracite forged alloy wheels 2.750,-- £ 1,795.-- 2.311,--

Sports ratio 6-speed manual transmission 1.800,-- £ 1,495.-- 1.513,--

All prices include first service and manufacturers warranty

All prices exclude on the road costs; on the road costs typically refer to registration, fuel, license plates, road

tax, local dealer charges

* UK MRSP price - add £950 for on the road price

Lotus Evora: 205 g/km CO2

8.7 litres / 100 km (32.5 mpg) Combined Cycle

12.4 litres / 100 km (22.8 mpg) Urban Cycle

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

Lotus Engineering, the world-renowned automotive consultancy division of Lotus Cars Limited, unveils its latest research into engine efficiency at the 79th International Geneva Motor Show. The Omnivore engine concept has the potential to significantly increase fuel efficiency for sustainable alcohol based fuels, which increases the prospect of a greater amount of vehicle miles travelled using renewable fuels. On display will be the single cylinder research engine monoblock that demonstrates the novel architecture designed for high thermal efficiency when fuelled on any alcohol based fuel or gasoline.

The Omnivore concept features an innovative variable compression ratio system and uses a two-stroke operating cycle with direct fuel injection. It is ideally suited to flex-fuel operation with a higher degree of optimisation than is possible with existing four stroke engines.

The engine concept features a monoblock construction that blends the cylinder head and block together eliminating the need for a cylinder head gasket, improving durability and reducing weight. In this case, the application of a monoblock is facilitated by the absence of the requirement for poppet valves. A novel charge trapping valve in the exhaust port allows asymmetric timing of exhaust flow and continuous variation of the exhaust opening point.

The variable compression ratio is achieved by the use of a puck at the top of the combustion chamber. This simple, yet effective system moves up and down affecting the change in geometric compression depending on the load demands on the engine.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc said: "We are delighted to unveil this major milestone in the development of an engine configuration for a new breed of more efficient multi-fuel engines. The automotive sector is focusing on its environmental obligations to improve efficiency, minimise reliance on fossil fuels and reduce harmful emissions and Lotus continues to be an industry leader through our work on all aspects of future fuels. Sustainable alcohol based fuels have the potential to reduce the overall CO2 footprint of internal combustion engines towards zero and for this reason, need to be embraced as future fuels for road transport."

In this collaboration with Queen's University Belfast and Orbital Corporation Limited Australia, with sponsorship from DEFRA/DECC and DOE NI through the Renewables Materials LINK programme, Lotus Engineering is currently in the final stages of commissioning the Omnivore single-cylinder research engine. It uses the Orbital FlexDI™ fuel injection system which produces fine in-cylinder fuel preparation irrespective of fuel type, and together with air pre-mixing allows efficient two-stroke combustion and low-temperature starting, whilst offering singular opportunity for advanced HCCI control.

The Omnivore programme is another development of Lotus' research into understanding the complex combustion processes involved in running an engine on mixtures of alcohol based fuels and gasoline, which included the Lotus Exige 270E Tri-fuel, unveiled at the International Geneva Motor Show in 2008. This research is vitally important for a successful transition from today's fuels to the more efficient sustainable fuels of the future.

Geraint Castleton-White, Head of Powertrain at Lotus Engineering said, "The absence of poppet valves in two-stroke engines makes the incorporation of a variable compression ratio system relatively straightforward. Our research into these systems on four-stroke engines has led us to the conclusion that while thermodynamically it is a desirable technology to incorporate, practically it is very difficult, particularly taking into consideration production feasibility. This two-stroke engine could solve these practical difficulties and simultaneously permits a much larger range of compression ratio adjustment, with the potential to perform at a much higher efficiency when running on renewable fuels."

Mr. Michael J. Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc comments "I would like to welcome Al Ghassan Lotus to the Lotus brand. The Saudi Arabian market is extremely important to us and we are most honoured to have teamed up with such a professional and enthusiastic organisation. The Lotus brand is well known in Saudi Arabia through our globally recognised Lotus Cars, our fantastic motorsport heritage and of course our high technology global engineering consultancy and our new brand presence in Saudi Arabia is the first step in our plans to promote the Lotus brand in the Middle East region."

Sheik Ghassan A. H. Al Sulaiman, C.E.O. of Al Ghassan Motors, commented: "Our strategy for the Lotus brand is to capitalise on its heritage and the unique product offering; we aim to satisfy a niche of customers in the market for whom the Lotus brand will have huge appeal. This market shows strong affinity for sports cars and their performance on and off the race tracks; we believe we will see a positive response to Lotus which not only can trace its roots to the race track but also offer a really exciting and youthful drive on the road.

"Given the success enjoyed by Al Ghassan Motors and the experience gained over the years in the retailing and marketing of premium and luxury niche sports car brands, we see our company as being well placed to give the Lotus brand the strongest opportunity in Saudi Arabia and as such the brand will benefit from our usual high standards of customer service and aftersales support."

Sheik Ghassan A. H. Al Sulaiman, continues, "The business, having grown from strength to strength over the years, has established our company as being a formidable player in the motor industry in Saudi Arabia with which we have developed a valuable network of clients providing an optimum platform to launch the Lotus brand in the Kingdom.

Our business also has strong ties with motor racing in Saudi Arabia given my involvement with the first FIA approved racing circuit in the Kingdom, the Reem International Circuit, a 3.8 km long, medium speed, technical circuit which will prove ideal to enjoy the performance of Lotus cars."

Al Ghassan Lotus is based in Jeddah and will have dealerships and service facilities in Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar.

The first cars to enter the Saudi Arabian market are the legendary Lotus Elise SC, the dramatic Lotus Exige S and the awesome road and track use Lotus Exige Cup 260. The incredibly quick and ultra-light weight Lotus 2-Eleven will also be available, but for track use only. The all new Lotus Evora, a stunning 2+2 mid engined sportscar, which was unveiled at the British International Motorshow in July 2008, will enter the market in early 2010.

Lotus has conducted extensive testing of the Elise SC, the Exige S and the Exige Cup 260 in the Middle East and has made significant changes to these models to cope with the high ambient temperatures and humidity, as well as the high levels of atmospheric dust and sand. However, none of the purity of driving experience or overall vehicle performance has been lost following the adaption of these technical changes.

Mr. Michael J. Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, explains further about the specific changes to the Elise and Exige for the Saudi Arabian market, "We have spent two summers in the Gulf Region testing the Elise and Exige in this very hot, humid and dusty environment. I am very pleased with the package of region specific changes which include an uprated radiator, enhanced heat management package, heat reflective windscreen, dust filtration for the cockpit ventilation system and an optional auxiliary air-conditioning unit. We have also included exclusive cockpit insulation, boot insulation and leather clad gearknob and handbrake sleeve in the Touring Pack option to supplement the overall occupant comfort in this extreme climate. These changes add very little weight to the Elise and Exige so drivers will still be able to experience the renowned Lotus driving experience."

A fleet of race specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 cars is being built at the advanced high technology Lotus manufacturing facility in Hethel, Norfolk, UK. These race specification cars, a direct development of the Lotus Exige Cup 260 road cars, are being built specifically for an exciting Lotus one-make racing series based at the Reem International Circuit, 80 km west of Riyadh.

The first shipment of Lotus Elise and Exige models have already arrived in Saudi Arabia in preparation for the launch of Al Ghassan Lotus.

The new facilities will all be in line with the corporate image and training standards set out by Lotus Cars.

Group Lotus plc welcomes the government's investment boost into green and low carbon vehicle projects in addition to increasing the funding for training of employees in the motor industry.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc, said, "It has been a long time coming but I welcome the announcement given by Lord Mandelson, today. I am delighted that the UK government has recognised the vital importance to the automotive industry of research into green, environmental and low carbon vehicle solutions. This is an area that Lotus has been working for many years and I am pleased to say that Lotus is now acknowledged as a world leader in the relevant and significant areas of alternative fuels, electric and hybrid technology and of course staying true to the Lotus brand value of creating light weight and efficient vehicles."

Commenting on Group Lotus business, Mike Kimberley said, "It will be a very tough year for the global automotive industry, but Lotus is reasonably placed compared to some other car companies. We have an ambitious research and development programme and we are very encouraged by the invitation given by Lord Mandelson to Regional Development Agencies to bring forward programmes for research and development into cleaner engines and lighter cars, an area in which Lotus is one of the world leaders.

"We have restructured and prepared our three key areas of business, the manufacture and sale of Lotus cars, world class high technology automotive engineering consultancy and contract manufacturing for third parties, to assist in riding this economic down-turn and to continue as world leaders in advanced automotive technology and low carbon cars of the future."

endurance debut at the Dubai International 24 hour race last

weekend.

Malaysian based Empire Motorsports ran the 2-Eleven GT4, with regular

drivers Denis Lian and James Mitchell joined for this race by Torro Rosso F1

test driver Karun Chandhok. The majority of the mechanics in the up and

coming Malaysian team are students studying automotive technology at The

Otomotif College (TOC). The race team is part of Empire Motorsports' mission

to develop a stronger foundation for the Asian motorsports industry.

The car qualified 36th overall for the race after the team elected not to stress

the car unnecessarily immediately prior to such a long event. Within a few

hours of the start the car had moved up to second in class and continued to

climb through the overall rankings. At three quarters distance the car was

running in a very creditable 9th overall and 2nd in class.

Sadly after 18 hours of hard racing, a failure of the special purpose sequential

racing gearbox resulted in a costly 3 hour gearbox change, dropping the 2-

Eleven GT4 down to 10th in class and 50th overall. The drivers then rewarded

the team's efforts with spirited progress and regained a number of positions

completing the race 8th in class and 44th overall out of 59 finishers.

Mike Kimberley CEO of Group Lotus plc commented, "Lotus is proud to have

continued to develop our relationship with Empire Motorsports starting from

the Merdeka Millennium 12 hour race at Sepang, Malaysia. Empire

Motorsports have now demonstrated that the 2-Eleven GT4 also makes for an

exceptionally competitive and cost effective endurance race car capable of

taking on much larger and more expensive cars in Motorsport events."

Ashraff Dewal, Team Principal of Empire Motorsports, expressed delight with

the pace of the 2-Eleven GT4 and the exceptionally low rate at which it

consumed tyres and brake pads compared with the other participating

racecars. Commenting "I am very proud that a young team like Empire

Motorsports can work so closely with such an established marque as Lotus to

develop a new endurance race car specification and I look forward to

continuing the relationship in the future."

Chris Arnold, Head of Lotus Sport, said "The 2-Eleven provides a platform to

create a competitive, versatile race package that offers great thrills and

performance". Adding "the 2-Eleven has been exceptionally well received and

as well as driving the cars on the road, some owners have used 2-Eleven's of

various specification in many exciting and varied events from track days,

rallies, hillclimbs, sprint races and international GT races. This race result

shows that endurance racing must now be added to the 2-Eleven's impressive

range of capabilities".

In the current financial climate the emphasis is on being smart with our money. A new breed of 'Frugalists' are turning to European price busting grocers Lidl and Aldi for their weekly shop in order to afford the annual pilgrimage to `the slopes', and cash-smart homeowners are splashing out on expensive insulation or installing wood-burning stoves in order to make savings on their domestic energy costs. In every household across the country the message is evolving from a frantic 'SAVE, SAVE, SAVE!' to a more strategic 'invest in cost efficient solutions'.

The Frugalist's tip is, be smart with your money and preserve your lifestyle by spending more cleverly. With a cold winter ahead and a declining economic situation it's easy to lose focus on the "living" part of life - imagine then, what a great revelation it is to learn that you could save money by driving a Lotus!

In purchase terms and with regards to running costs, any Lotus in the Elise range is a bargain compared to other performance vehicles; for example the Porsche 911 3.8 Carerra 4S cabriolet achieves 0-60mph in 4.8 seconds and costs £80,000* and the Lamborghini Gallardo 5l v10 Spyder does 0-60mph 4.2 seconds and will set you back £135,000* – whilst the supercharged Lotus Elise SC achieves the same marker in 4.3 seconds and costs £31,550.

There's no doubt about it, a Lotus is a prudent purchase in the sportscar market, but sometimes performance cars are subject to the criticism of society and have even been described as antisocial. However, it may help your conscience to learn that a Lotus is considered by most critics as a green choice. The efficient design of the Elise SC for example offers stunning looks and supercar performance, yet produces just 202 g/km of CO2, allowing the Lotus to remain in the standard £8.00 Congestion Charge bracket. Savings are not just limited to the confines of London though, with impressive fuel efficiency paying dividends in town and country, by focusing on light-weight technology Lotus has been able to use smaller, more efficient engines, whilst still achieving the sensational performance that Lotus customers expect.

Looking at the bigger picture of servicing and parts costs, Lotus uses tuned Toyota engines in its Elise range giving great reliability and avoiding costly repair bills that are associated with some exotic cars. Not surprisingly, economical running costs are one of the contributing factors to the continued demand for Lotus vehicles on the second-hand market. Figures from autotrader.co.uk for the entry-level Elise, the Elise S indicate that the model is retaining a fantastic 82% of its value after 12 months making it a better value proposition than its rivals the Honda S2000 GT and the Subaru Impreza WRX STi.

Of course, you can save money instantly by driving more economically, but ask yourself "what do I want from my journey?" It was recently reported that you can save in the region of £300 per year by reducing your motorway speed from 85mph to 70mph, but other than the extra cash in your pocket where's the thrill? This is where a Lotus becomes a serious value proposition, what else can leave your wallet, your conscience and your heart so happy? When 70mph feels like 100mph and your new car is the envy of your penny pinching friends and neighbours that's when the Frugalist high is its sweetest.

The all new Lotus Driving Academy has been developed to link Lotus' adrenaline-fuelled track experiences and it's hugely successful driver training to create an unrivalled programme that creates better drivers.

Mike Kimberley CEO of Group Lotus Plc comments: "Lotus cars have been designed to be fun to drive, exciting and offer phenomenal performance with excellent safety. The Lotus Driving Academy gives participants the skills to extract the best out of their cars, improving the ownership experience and becoming better, safer drivers."

Courses with the Lotus Driving Academy are designed to give drivers both practical training and a theoretical appreciation of driving, enabling them to learn at a steady and affordable pace through a license system. The Lotus Licence is a structured, competencies based programme, drivers qualify by achieving three awards; 'Bronze', 'Silver' and 'Gold', with an optional 'Platinum' stage for tailored personal tuition. This tiered system allows drivers to embark upon each stage as an individual course, a unique and practical way to steadily evolve experience, technique and confidence.

Not only will drivers get the opportunity of driving the much-loved Lotus Elise but they will do so on the famous Lotus test-track. A challenging circuit, the Lotus test-track is the perfect environment in which to improve driving skills and safety, whilst learning more about the character and DNA of Lotus cars; Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Ayrton Senna, Nigel Mansell and Mika Hakannen are just some of the F1 legends that have driven the 2.25 mile Lotus test-track. Training in the areas of trail braking, heel and toe, gear changes and gaining a better understanding of handling dynamics and reading the road ahead are just some of the skills drivers will acquire through the Lotus Licence programme.

For training the track will be split into a number of circuits to add variety and a chance to apply knowledge and develop skills in different situations and on complex corners. The Elise S, Elise R and Exige S are used to develop experience of cars with different handling characteristics, braking performance and power.

Since 1984 Lotus has been employed to deliver Driver Training and Vehicle Assessment Training for major motor manufacturers, and in 1998 started to offer Lotus owners the opportunity to hone their skills through a public driver training scheme. The new Lotus Driving Academy is open to anyone with a driver's licence and promises to be fun, informative and good value; the Lotus Driving Academy offers the most unique training on the market!

Chris Arnold, Head of Lotus Sport said "Holders of each of the coveted Lotus Licences will benefit from their newly acquired skill levels and be able to get so much more out of their cars. In many respects the Lotus Driving Academy is the best performance upgrade available."

The courses are run using the latest Lotus models and focus on developing skills and understanding, then exploiting these skills in a progressive manner. Many of the driving instructors at the Academy are Lotus Engineers who literally know the cars inside out.

The Lotus License courses are priced as follows:

Bronze Licence £299

Silver Licence £499

Gold Licence £799

Platinum Licence £1299

(Price may vary depending on individual requirements)

For full details, dates and availability please visit; www.lotusdrivingacademy.com

or call Lisa Dann, Track & Events Coordinator +44 (0) 1953 608547

The new Lotus Evora has added yet another award to its growing trophy cabinet, this time for iMotor Magazine's "Overall Most Rated Car of 2008". In every issue of iMotor (which has an ABCe of 108,600), readers have been 'rating' and 'slating' the cars featured; and out of 40,000 votes counted, 95 per cent of voters rated the Lotus Evora, compared to just 5 per cent slating it making the new 2+2 the most highly rated car in 2008 by iMOTOR readers.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, is delighted with the award, "This award from iMotor readers is particularly special as it demonstrates that we have produced a car that already has a fan base amongst the cognoscenti, despite the car being a few months away from the sale date in the spring."

iMOTOR editor Mat Watson said: "Unlike other car magazine awards, ours are decided by the readers. Also they include concepts, models that are not yet on sale and some which the press has yet to drive. And it's clear the iMOTOR readers rate the forthcoming Lotus Evora more than any other car we have featured in the mag. It's 'rated' score of 95 per cent is truly impressive and enough to see it beat brilliant machines such as the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 and Nissan GT-R. There's clearly a lot of excitement for this new Lotus."

To see the awards click here:

http://issue.imotorm...473.cde/page/19

To see an interview with Roger Becker, Lotus Vehicle Engineering Director, as he drives a prototype of the Evora around the Lotus Test track at Hethel click here:

http://issue.imotorm...473.cde/page/21

waiting list for the new Lotus

EVORA

The new Lotus Evora is everything a sports car should be;

sculptural, stylish and fast; considerably faster than the

famous Elise and more refined at speed than the trackfocused

Exige. Lotus promises its trademark exemplar

performance credentials and suggests the Evora will achieve

a maximum speed of 160 mph and a 0-60 time at less than 5

seconds!

High-end cars have long been integral to the one-upmanship among the

glitterati, but rather than the traditional Bentleys and Bugattis, the A-lister

must-have vehicles of the moment are small, environmentally friendly (225

grams of CO2 per kilometre) cars and must include seats for the children. But

above all, an it-car must be exclusive, and nothing conveys extreme

exclusivity better than the British, hand-built Lotus of which less than 2000 will

be made a year for international distribution.

The versatility of the Evora has attracted a varied following, from speed

seekers such as Jodie Kidd and Maxi Jazz, to those with an eye for style

including Jennifer Lopez and Kelly Rowland.

Celebrity enthusiasts Patrick Dempsey and Jay Leno also made sure they too

were first on the list for a test drive, followed closely by J-Lo and her husband

Marc Anthony who are already huge Lotus fans and owners of a Lotus Elise.

The celebrity couple enjoy the unrivalled driving experience of a Lotus, but are

looking for more space for the children. The same goes for Gavin Henson and

Charlotte Church, who are keen to have a car that accommodates their young

family yet maintains a luxurious, yet sporty persona.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, had this to say about the new

model: "The Evora is the biggest milestone for Lotus since the Elise was born

13 years ago. We are currently working at broadening the appeal of the Lotus

brand through an aggressive 5-year model plan of which this car represents

the first exciting step."

Keeping with the Lotus tradition, the price tag is not out of reach for those who

cannot be found on the internets 'movie database'. The Lotus Evora enters

the sports car market at less than £50,000 making this car a real value

proposition for those who like to work and play hard! This hand-built

phenomenon will be available in early 2009.

The Lotus EVORA is the first of three new cars to be included in the new five year business plan. Celebrity fans waiting to drive the car include:

• Amanda Stretton – Driver and new face of F1

• Beyonce – International singer and actress (Destiny's Child)

• Boris Johnson – Mayor of London

• Daniel Craig – Actor

• Dave Grohl – Musician (Foo Fighters)

• Gavin Henson & Charlotte Church Welsh Rugby International/Singer, child prodigy, TV personality

• Gemma Arterton - Actress

• George Clooney - Actor

• James Martin – Celebrity chef, Daily Mail's Motoring reporter

• James May – TV personality and presenter of 'Top Gear'

• Jay Kay – Musician and Singer (Jamiroquai)

• Jay Leno – TV personality and car enthusiast

• Jodie Kidd – Model,,TV personality and car enthusiast

• Jenifer Lopez and Marc Anthony – International singer and actress/International singer

• Kevin Spacey - Actor

• Mark Ronson – Musician and producer

• Maxi Jazz – Musician and car enthusiast (Faithless)

• Patrick Dempsey – Actor and car enthusiast

• Peter Andre - Singer

• Pierce Brosnan - Actor

• Richard Hammond - TV personality and presenter of 'Top Gear'