The latest Lotus Design limited edition calendar is now available and hints at a design language of the future.

This year Lotus Design delivers another of its highly acclaimed limited edition calendars with 15 pages of development sketches, scale model photographs and digital visualisations from the Design teams' most recent projects.

Not only is the calendar brimming with exclusive images and renderings of the brand new Lotus Evora, the publication also gives some insight into Lotus Designs' consultancy and merchandising projects including the Hot Wheels® 40th Anniversary car.

The high quality, large format calendar (42cm x 42cm) is designed so that the individual pages can be removed and framed and a limited print run ensures that this 2009 calendar is a rare and collectable item and perfect Christmas gift.

The Lotus Design 2009 Calendar is available from the Group Lotus webstore:

http://www.lotuscarswebstore.co.uk/lotus-d...05208-409-p.asp

rrp; £8.50.

Print run; 3,000

This prestigious award comes just a week after Lotus announced a £2 million profit for the last financial year, citing the growth of Lotus as a world leading high technology, ecological automotive engineering consultancy and the unveiling of the visually stunning Lotus Evora, the first new Lotus for 13 years, as amongst the key reasons for the accolade.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer was delighted to receive the award on behalf of Group Lotus Plc, "It is an honour for me to be presented with this award, recognising the hard work of all our tremendously loyal and dedicated global staff over the last two years to execute the turnaround in the business fortunes of Lotus. Our 'can do' attitude has ensured the continued growth of Lotus into a much stronger and stable position consolidating our reputation as a global premium advanced automotive company".

Chas Hallett Autocar editor explained further why Lotus won the Editor's Special Award for Excellence, "The resilience of Lotus and its gathering engineering strength, culminating in the launch of the exciting new Evora, are the key reasons why it wins this year's Excellence award."

Mike Kimberley returned to Lotus in 2005 as a non-Executive Director, before being appointed Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc in 2006. Over the last 12 months Lotus Engineering, the company's high technology engineering consultancy business, grew its global third party customer base and was awarded with new and valuable contracts worldwide – 340 projects with over 140 clients. Customer demand has lead to the creation of new departments within Engineering, especially focused on biofuels, electric and hybrid electric vehicles. The Lotus Evora, the first all new Lotus in 13 years is a 2+2 mid-engine V6 sportscar and first deliveries to customers are expected to commence in Spring 2009. The Lotus Evora will join the already successful stable of Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven high performance sportscars.

The Lotus Sport 2-Eleven GT4 Supersport race car asserts itself at the pinnacle of the 2-Eleven range, combining race winning pedigree with unparalleled handling and balance.

Building on the success of the 2-Eleven road and track variants, Lotus Sport has developed this GT4 Supersport race car to compete in the European SRO GT4 Supersports category.

The Lotus Sport GT4 Supersport pushes the limits to the extreme: wearing a dramatic composite body, full rollcage and with increased power and a sequential gearbox it provides a race winning package. The GT4 Supersport offers an advanced aerodynamic package, with aggressive styling alluding to its searing performance and phenomenal racing potential.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc said, "Lotus has an enviable motor racing heritage that includes some of the most successful racing cars in history. We are confident that the 2-Eleven will continue our winning tradition and become a classic of the future. The 2-Eleven GT4 Supersport offers one of the most cost effective, competitive and easiest routes into this level of motorsport".

Lotus Sport has increased the power and torque available in the GT4 Supersport car to 270 PS and 247 Nm from the standard supercharged cars 255 PS and 242 Nm engine. The increases in power and torque have been gained through improved induction and exhaust systems, and with a high ratio supercharger drive system for increased levels of boost. To maximise the upgrades to the engine the engine management system has been remapped and optimised.

Lotus Sport is offering a 6 speed sequential gearbox with a centrally mounted push/ pull lever and gear selector display. The gearbox is integrated with the engine management system to allow flat shifts up through the box and an "autoblip" rev matching system on downchange. This transmission offers lightning quick gear changes, shaving those all important tenths off each gear change. A plate type limited slip differential, employed to improve traction out of corners competes the setup.

Chris Arnold, Head of Lotus Sport, said "the GT4 Supersport has some exceptional new features and provides a compelling package that has race winning credentials. This is a hugely exciting new car for Lotus Sport, we have already had good success in mainland Europe with the test car and we are looking forward to our customers successes in the 2009 season".

There will be an initial run limited to 10 cars priced at £78 255 MSRP with delivery dates in March ready for the '09 racing season. Some GT4 Supersport features can be retro-fitted to 2-Elevens that have already been purchased, offering increased versatility and allowing owners to upgrade their car as they hone their skills.

The 2-Eleven double wishbone suspension is uprated with stiffer race focused springs and dampers. The dampers are the race proven 2-way adjustable Ohlins units, allowing the handling to be fine tuned for optimum track setup. The rear suspension has been upgraded with the addition of race spec rear toe links. Semi-slick AO48 Yokohama's are fitted as standard.

Another new addition for 2009 is the Lotus manufactured FIA compliant carbon fibre race seats. The Lotus Sport seats are HANS approved and are complimented with a Schroth 6-point race harness. A 70 litre FIA approved bag tank is fitted as part of the GT4 Supersport spec along with a plumbed-in fire extinguisher system. A concession to easier ingress and egress comes in the form of a removable Lotus Sport steering wheel.

The GT4 Supersport has a rigid tonneau cover to improve aerodynamics. The aero package is improved with significant levels of downforce generated by a carbon fibre rear wing and rear diffuser, balanced by a deep front splitter. The GT4 Supersport generates up to 80 kg of positive downforce at 100 mph, which is over 10 % of the cars weight.

The race car retains the excellent sports tuned ABS, variable traction control and launch control systems available on the current 2-Eleven. These race proven systems have been thoroughly tested and give exceptional feel and control in a wide variety of conditions.

Photo here: http://www.midlandslotus.co.uk/forum/index...si&img=4156

Lotus Group International Ltd, which includes Group Lotus plc, the global sports car manufacturer and engineering consultancy, has filed and had published its financial results for the year ended 31st March 2008:

Please see PDF download for a comparison table.

Commenting on the latest financial figures, Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive for Lotus Group International Ltd and Group Lotus plc said, "These results are a tremendous turnaround achievement for Lotus. I would like to thank all Lotus staff for their exceptional dedication and hard work to ensure the effective turn-around of the business. We are also tracking our strategic five year plan which enables Lotus to deliver an exciting new range of vehicles, develop and sell new advanced technologies through our extensive global operations and engineering client base and ultimately put Lotus on a greener and firmer footing and a consistently profitable commercial basis for the future."

Key commentary for the above figures:

• LGIL increased its cash reserves from 2006-7 by over 1200% from £640,000 to £8,223,000, thanks to the shareholders' support of the new management.

• By achieving the £2.023 million profit, LGIL has exceeded the first year target of its strategic Five Year Plan.

• Investment in Research and Development and new products has risen by 95%. This investment includes advanced engineering research and development into future technologies and capitalised R&D into new product development including the new Lotus Evora and updates to the current Lotus line up of the Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven.

• Over the last financial year, Lotus Cars introduced three new market derivatives to its small vehicle platform: the Elise SC, Exige S, with 240 hp Performance Pack and the Exige Cup 260. These three versions of the award winning Elise and Exige are selling well in the global market.

• The exceptional success of the 2-Eleven track car required production to be increased and transferred from Lotus Sport to the main Lotus assembly facility at Hethel.

• New markets were opened successfully during the year in South Korea, Thailand and Estonia.

• Lotus Engineering, the company's high technology engineering consultancy business, grew its global third party customer base and was awarded with new and valuable contracts worldwide – 340 projects with over 140 clients. Lotus Engineering Inc. in the US made record profits and Lotus Engineering Malaysia returned to profitability. Further expansion overseas took place including the opening of a sales office in Japan and setting up a subsidiary in China.

• Customer demand has lead to the creation of new departments within Engineering, especially focused on biofuels, electric and hybrid electric vehicles. Over the next year, six different electric and hybrid demonstration cars, using different technology, will be delivered to different global customers.

• In January 2008 the first product from Lotus's relationship with Youngman in China, the Europestar, was launched in Beijing. Lotus's collaboration with Youngman and Proton continues with various other projects.

• A major strategic alliance was initiated and formally signed with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology ('KACST') in Saudi Arabia and is progressing very positively with Lotus and Proton Joint teams.

Looking to the future:

• The new financial year has seen the acquisition of a key strategic supplier, Holden Aluminium (Worcester) Limited, which has become Lotus Lightweight Structures Limited. This additional facility, which complements the facilities and IPR at the Hethel Headquarters, supplies the Lotus lightweight, high technology chassis for Elise, Exige, Europa and for the new Lotus Evora which was unveiled at the British Motorshow in July 2008.

• The Lotus Evora, the first all new Lotus in 13 years is a 2+2 mid-engine V6 sportscar and first deliveries to customers are expected to commence in Spring 2009.

• New markets are being developed in China and the Gulf States for Lotus Cars.

• In the forthcoming year, a sales and technology alliance venture will be set up in India to deal with the increasing level of work and enquiries from our automotive industry customers.

In summing up, Mike Kimberley said, "Clearly we are very closely watching the state of the global economy, and it is obvious that the world is changing very rapidly. Lotus, by being small and flexible, is set to deal with the new demands from our global consumer and business customers and over the last few months, the demand for our green and environmentally sustainable technologies has increased, with many of the world's car companies working with us on alternative fuel vehicles, electric and hybrid vehicle solutions and lightweight structures.

"Lotus is now recognised as a world leader in research and development in these exciting areas of high technology, green and sustainable driving and we have a duty to share our advancements with the rest of the automotive industry for the sake of the future of personal transport and the car. We are proving that it is possible to have a guilt-free car in the future with desirable and enjoyable levels of performance, economy and sustainability and Lotus is one step closer to this utopian solution. Lotus has taken the necessary steps to reduce the impact of the global financial crisis and will continue to do so."

consultancy division of Lotus, is celebrating its latest

accolade after triumphing at 'The Engineer Technology +

Innovation Awards 2008' with another environmentally

focused project. The winning project, Project HOTFIRE,

developed a gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine concept

that reduces fuel consumption by 15% and was named the

leading academic collaborative project in the automotive

sector.

Project HOTFIRE was made up of a collaboration of engine specialists from

Lotus Engineering, Continental Powertrain, University College London (UCL)

and Loughborough University, with funding from EPSRC (Engineering and

Physical Sciences Research Council). The project studied the potential

efficiency gains of spraying fuel directly into the cylinders of a petrol-driven

engine, rather than introducing a fuel/air mixture. Due to outstanding early

results, the project progressed further with the delivery of a concept-car engine

which has been the subject of interest from a number of large manufacturers.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: "I am

absolutely delighted that our global high technology Lotus engineering division

is continually being recognised for leading the industry across a number of

advanced technologies which are contributing to the reduction of CO2

emissions. Project HOTFIRE is an excellent example of an industry and

academic partnership producing world-class research for the benefit of the

environment and the car buyer."

Kimberley continued: "The most important part of the project is that the

technologies developed are available and affordable and as we have already

shown, can be easily implemented into next generation models to produce

lower emissions."

Geraint Castleton-White, Head of Powertrain at Lotus Engineering said: "The

project studied the benefits of homogeneous, early, direct injection for a spark

ignition engine, using inlet valve events to minimise throttling losses. Being

able to introduce the fuel separately from the air gives you freedom with how

you operate the engine, there is no fuel lost to the exhaust, so hydrocarbon

emissions are reduced, and you get more efficiency from the engine. It is our

dedication to research such as this that keeps Lotus Engineering at the

21 October

forefront of advanced combustion technologies, which ultimately will find their

way into engines of the future."

Two single cylinder research engines were designed and constructed by Lotus

Engineering, one of which was optically accessed. The in-cylinder geometry of

the two engines was identical and features a close spaced direct injection

system with a centrally-mounted injector architecture.

The optical version of the engine incorporated a full length fused silica quartz

cylinder liner with a full view of the pent roof of the combustion chamber and a

sapphire window in the piston crown. This allowed an advanced suite of laser

diagnostics to measure air motion, injection characteristics, air/fuel mixing and

combustion. This engine was based at Loughborough University for detailed

studies of these in-cylinder phenomena.

The second engine was placed at UCL, and was updated to the same engine

architecture as the optical engine, to measure emissions and fuel economy.

The principle of the investigation was to use early inlet valve closing as a

means of controlling the load on the engines, with a minimum amount of

throttle, and so gain significant fuel savings. The emission measurements

were essential, as any fuel savings could not be at the expense of the exhaust

emissions from the engine.

The end application of this project is a direct injection spark ignition engine

architecture that does not require stratified lean burn combustion to achieve

significant, fuel economy savings of approximately 15%. This ensures that the

system can be used over all speed/load ranges and eliminates the need for an

expensive lean NOx trap which is usually required when lean combustion is

employed.

Early results from this project were so successful that the same architecture

was adopted for the Low CO2 project, a collaboration between Lotus

Engineering and Continental Powertrain with funding from the Energy Saving

Trust (EST). This Low CO2 project has successfully delivered a 3-cylinder

mild-hybrid engine incorporating the cylinder head design used by the

research and this engine has been installed in Opel Astra demonstrator

vehicles which demonstrate significant improvements in both performance and

CO2 emissions.

Photos here:

http://www.midlandslotus.co.uk/forum/index...=sc&cat=150

Unusually for such a focused track and road machine, the 2009 Lotus Exige Cup 260 is fully homologated for road use in Europe and key markets in Asia - a must have for many race competition programmes where a road legal car has to be entered. The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is also eligible to compete in the newly announced 2009 Lotus Cup Europe race series organized and run by LoTRDC. The Lotus Exige Cup 260 exploits the Lotus philosophy of using weight reduction to increase performance and reduce emissions.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus commented, 'Lotus is now recognised globally as one of the leaders in the green automotive revolution. Colin Chapman, the founder of Lotus is attributed as saying 'Adding power makes you faster on the straights; adding lightness makes you faster everywhere' and this statement is more relevant today than it ever has been, as decreasing weight increases the car's performance and most importantly efficiency.'

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

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

Roof Panel

FIA and HANS compliant Driver and Passenger Seats

One piece Carbon Fibre Dash Top Panel

Rear Tailgate

Front Access Panels

Front Splitter

Side air intake ducts

Rear Spoiler

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

Lightweight 'Motorsport' Battery

Ultra-light 12 Spoke Forged Alloy Wheels

Revised Rear Engine Subframe with lightweight Coating

Lightweight Fly Wheel

Lightweight composite bulkhead panel replaces rear window

Alloy Supercharger U bend pipes

Footwell Pads

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

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

The MY 2009 Lotus Exige Cup 260 weighs in at just 890 kg, giving an impressive power to weight ratio of 288 hp / tonne (291 PS / tonne). But, of course, power to weight alone does not make a highly competitive race or track car, so in addition, the Lotus Exige Cup 260 has a formidable list of standard performance focused equipment.

Wheels and Tyres

Ultra lightweight wheels, that reduce the unsprung mass and contribute a weight saving of approximately 10 kg (22 lbs) over the already super light forged Exige wheels, are shod with Lotus specific LTS construction and compound Yokohama A048 LTS tyres to maximise grip and achieve the ride and handling targets set by Lotus Engineering.

Safety Equipment

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

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

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

Suspension

Eibach springs, one way adjustable Bilstein dampers and a stiffened and adjustable front anti-roll bar allows customers to tailor the handling characteristics of the car to their own requirements.

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

Brakes

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

Performance, Economy and Emissions

The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is one of the quickest road cars around a circuit. Key to this incredible performance is the aerodynamic package, which produces over 40 kg of downforce at 160 kmh increasing grip and stability at higher speeds. With a top speed of circa 245 kmh (152 mph) and a zero to 160 kmh (100 mph) in circa 9.9 seconds, 0 to 100 kmh in circa 4.1 seconds (0 to 60 mph in circa 4 seconds), the MY 2009 Lotus Exige Cup 260 is the perfect partner for the serious racer. Combined Fuel Consumption is 9.1 l/100km and the CO2 emissions 216 g/km.

Engine

The supercharged and intercooled engine in the Lotus Exige Cup 260 has a maximum power output of 260 PS (257 hp) at 8000 rpm and a torque figure of 236 Nm (174 lbft) at 6000 rpm. This significant amount of extra power and torque now available together with the VVTL-i variable cam system ensures that there is a smooth and linear delivery of power from low engine speeds all the way to the maximum 8000 rpm (8500 rpm transient for 2 seconds). The Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism meaning that it does not require the use of the engine's oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Charge air (air under pressure from the supercharger) is cooled through an air-to-air intercooler (the air enters via the enhanced roof scoop) before being fed into the engine itself. All charge air ducting has been kept as short as possible with large diameter pipes to minimise restriction and maximise throttle response and efficiency. Four high capacity injectors and an uprated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or continuous high speed driving. A lightweight flywheel is fitted (giving even greater flexibility and response to the gear change), a sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) - with the same perfectly spaced ratios as the Lotus Exige S. A torque-sensing limited slip differential is fitted as standard, with a plate type limited slip differential available as an option. An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant.

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

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control

Keen to pass on lessons learned on the track with the Lotus Exige GT3 racing programme, Lotus Sport has contributed another important technology - launch control combined with variable traction control. This combination has already made its production debut with the track-oriented Lotus 2-Eleven.

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

As with launch control, the driver can control the amount of traction control you require from the driver's seat, altering it on the move to suit the characteristics of particular corners. The amount of traction control can be varied in over 30 increments from an optimum 7 percent tyre slip to completely off. The message display in the new instrument pack displays what degree of traction control you have currently dialled in.

Roof Scoop

For 2009, the Lotus Sport Exige Cup 260 now has a high flow, full-length carbon roof scoop as part of the lightweight carbon roof panel, which not only saves 4 kg but also ensures efficient cooling through the intercooler, which in turn allows the Lotus Exige Cup 260 to gain a higher charge density in the cylinders.

Specification

The standard specification Lotus Exige Cup 260 is road legal within the European Union, and can be registered for road use. The Lotus Exige Cup 260 is available now for sale in mainland Europe.

Recommended retail price (including VAT) is £45,995, (an additional £950 is charged for on the road costs. These include delivery, PDI, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months Road Fund Licence and a full tank of fuel.

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

Belgium: 68,650 EUR

France: 67,950 EUR

Germany: 67,600 EUR

Italy: 68,650 EUR

Netherlands: 91,800 EUR

Switzerland: 100,000 CHF

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

Luxembourg: 56,034 EUR

Spain: 56,034 EUR

Austria: 56,034 EUR

Greece: 56,034 EUR

Warranty

The Lotus Exige Cup 260 will have a limited manufacturer's warranty unless used for competition or timed runs. Any type of timed or competitive vehicle use requires that a suitably qualified specialist applies expert levels of vehicle preparation, servicing and maintenance. The purchaser's statutory rights are not affected.

Images here:

http://www.midlandslotus.co.uk/forum/index...=sc&cat=148

The series will be organised and run by LoTRDC who, with MotorSport Vision Racing run the successful "Elise Trophy" race series in the UK. LoTRDC and MotorSport Vision are independent companies not connected with Lotus. The Proposed Calendar will have drivers racing on some of the most prestigious and demanding circuits in Europe:

The provisional calendar is as follows:

· Donington Park (UK)

· Le Mans (France) or Zolder (Belgium)

· Zandvoort (Holland)

· Brands Hatch Grand Prix (UK)

· Dijon-Prenois (France)

· Spa Francorchamps (Belgium)

The calendar and race regulations for Lotus Cup Europe will be finalised by November; it is expected that there will be three classes available to ensure that the majority of Lotus owners across Europe can compete. The 2-Eleven and the new 2009 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260 will also be eligible.

For 2009, Lotus Cup Europe will have a different format from the past race series as follows:

20 minutes qualifying

Race 1 (minimum 20 minutes duration)

Race 2 (minimum 20 minutes duration)

The grid will consist of Lotus product only and all cars will run on Yokohama A048 LTS tyres.

Paul Golding, LoTRDC Director and Series Coordinator commented: "This is a fantastic opportunity for the Lotus Cup Europe series, the Elise Trophy that we run in the UK has been going from strength to strength. The series has had the privilege to be the support races at such events as A1 GP and DTM within its first two years. With full grids, a top class calendar and a large spectator following it has become the premier club series in the UK. Our aim is to take all our learning from this and bring it to the Lotus Cup Europe series. The sharing of 4 of the calendar events also gives us the opportunity to make this a friendly and financially viable series for those wishing to compete across Europe."

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer for Group Lotus comments, "Lotus founder, Colin Chapman started out racing even before he built road cars and it is vitally important that Lotus remains the marque of choice for clubman racers around the world and all our current range of Elise, Exige and 2-Eleven cars will be competitive in this series. There is no better sportscar marque to race with – you never know, you may end up following in the illustrious footsteps of Nigel Mansell, Emerson Fitipaldi, Ayrton Senna, Graham Hill or Jim Clark who all cut their teeth with Lotus over the years."

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering, explains why Lotus cars are perfect for racing, "Racing cars are the foundations of Lotus and history both identifies and records this fact. Through his genius and ingenuity, Colin Chapman created a racing heritage that we continue to uphold with great pride. In every Lotus product there is not only the ability to race at a rewarding pace, there is the facility of being able to drive the car to and from the event as well. We are proud of the Elise, Exige and 2-Eleven racecars for which the Elise Trophy and Lotus Cup Europe race programs have been created and owners now have increased opportunity to exploit their cars and skills on the racetrack."

Link: www.LotusCupEurope.com

Britcar 24 hour Race at Silverstone

20th & 21st September 2008

Lotus Exige entered by Red Motorsport

finishes 1st in Class3 and 5th overall

Drivers :

Martin Roos

Luc de Cock

Matthew Becker

Mark Fullalove

Gavan Kershaw

Summary:

Lotus Exige Cup260 prepared by RED Motorsport successfully finishes the Britcar 24hr race.

Winning "Class 3" by 44 laps

Finishing 5th place overall

Event won by an ex-ALMS Porsche 911 RSR GT2 in a 51 car field including Dodge Viper, Mosler GT2, BMW M3 GTR, Porsche 911 GT3 and Aston Martin Vantage N24

Day Qualifying: 2nd in Class 3 and 19th Overall

A one hour session in daylight on Friday, for each driver to complete a minimum of three timed laps to qualify for the race event. With five drivers to qualify in such a short time, each driver was allowed an "out" lap, a single "flying" lap and then back to the pitlane.

The car was first run by team owner Martin Roos setting a comfortable 2:21.5 laptime, declaring that "the car is perfect!" Having not even seen (or sat in) the car prior to Friday morning, the Lotus drivers then proceeded to qualify with each completing their allowed single 'flying' lap. The session ended with Gavan Kershaw setting the best laptime of 2:03.5. A comfortable, but quick lap under 0.5 second behind the class pole BMW M3 CSL. A successful first session with Martin Roos' broad smile underlining his feeling of "a good weekend to come".

Night Qualifying: 2nd in Class 3 and 16th Overall

A 2 hour session run in darkness on the Friday evening from 20:00 until 22:00. Again each driver was required to complete a minimum of three timed laps to qualify for the 24 hour race. The night session laptimes not being counted towards grid position, which was fixed by the daylight qualifying session earlier in the day. The session ended with Gavan Kershaw setting the best laptime of 2:04.4, again less than 0.5 second behind the class pole BMW M3 CSL. Apart from Martin Roos, none of the drivers had experienced race driving in the dark. Matthew Becker returning from his laps exclaiming "Totally different, but that was fun!"

Race day

Warm-up

A short 30 min session to make final checks 2 hours prior to the start of the race. Luc de Cock taking the opportunity for more track time before starting the race for the RED Motorsport team. After the session finished, the team were approached by the race officials with the message that the car was "a little noisy". So despite successfully completing technical scrutineering and the qualifying sessions, the team rapidly had to work on a solution. An exhaust tailpipe "elbow" (as worn by most of the rest of the competing cars) was fabricated and fitted just in time, so the car could take its place on the starting grid.

Race

Under an unusually sunny Northamptonshire sky, the 51 cars assembled on the Grand Prix grid. VIP guests from RED Motorsport's primary sponsors Evonik, joined the car on the grid to add to the atmosphere of anticipation. Evonik's Head of Automotive Industries team, Klaus Hedrich voiced his enthusiasm "I'm proud to be part of such an exciting event, with a great team".

With Luc de Cock driving the Red Motorsport Exige, the field of cars commenced its formation lap behind the pace car, heading towards the rolling start at 16:30 for 24 hours of racing. Luc managed to avoid misfortune as the leaders had a horrific accident as the field accelerate over the startline. This led to the first hour of the race being conducted behind the safety car, as the medical and safety services attended the scene of the accident. With the Exige up in 13th position, the race eventually began for real with green flags waving at the startline. After an uneventful 35 minutes, Luc headed for the fuel pits for the first scheduled stop, then into the main pits to hand over to Martin for his first driving stint. Martin rejoined and settled into a good race pace.

All was well on Red Motorsport pitwall after the team had smoothly completed the first re-fuelling and driver-change pit-stop. However after ½ hour the race officials warned the team of a noise infringement, team manager Paul Birch clarified the situation with race control before radioing Martin to come into the pits for checks. The Lotus exceeding the track's allowable limit by a single dB! When the car reached the pit lane it was obvious that the rapidly fabricated temporary exhaust tailpipe elbow had fallen off! Although a static noise test in the pit lane was passed, the scrutineers insisted on remedial action before the car could return to the race. The combined German and English crew of mechanics worked quickly to create a solution from nothing as the race continued. In all only 12 minutes were lost, as another noise reducing tailpipe was fitted, however as this had never been fitted to the car previously this led to an unexpected issue. The hot exhaust gases were now directed on to the rear bodywork, this was obvious as the car pass the team on the pitwall with blackening paintwork around the exhaust! A watching brief over the next few laps confirmed no safety issues, with damage limited to cosmetics. However the decision was taken to manufacture a new exhaust tailpipe extension. The regulations state the possibility of exclusion for repeated noise infringements and with the exhaust heat potentially melting the rear lights, which would be needed in the fast approaching darkness, the team planned another pit-stop.

Martin continued to drive his full stint and came in as planned for fuel and handed over to Matthew for his first stint, while the team worked to fabricate a new tailpipe extension. A solid and consistent stint was abruptly interrupted as one of the slower cars (Honda) struck the Lotus during an overtaking manoeuvre on the front right. With the suspicion of damage, Matthew radioed the pits and headed in. The team took this chance to action the exhaust tailpipe work, while checking the car for accident damage. The exhaust work entailing welding, which could only be carried out away from the pit lane and garage, the car was wheeled through the garage into the paddock area behind. Despite such involved work, the teams planning and expertise lost less than 10 minutes, including a driver change. Ex-British Touring Car driver Mark Fullalove took the wheel for his first stint, rejoining now 14 laps behind the leader due to the unexpected noise remedial work. The only "injury" sustained in its Honda encounter being an off centre steering wheel, but with the car handling fine. The time lost had dropped the team down to 29th position

The race had now entered darkness. The responsibility of the night stints being borne by the Lotus' drivers. Mark and Matthew completing two stints each with British GT star Gavan Kershaw's third night stint ending as a colourful autumn dawn broke. A professional and measured night had seen the team pace the Exige in a fast but controlled manner. The team's strategy and precise teamwork at planned fuel stops, complemented the Lotus' fast and reliable progress. The Lotus Exige driving into the daylight in fantastic 7th position overall. The car had completed over 340 laps in 15 hours trouble-free racing, but there still was another long 9 hours of hard racing to be completed!

The team continued with its planned strategy, stretching fuel stops to over 1 hour and 40 minutes of racing. This underlined the efficiency of the Exige's Lotus-developed supercharged 4-cylinder Toyota engine. With "only" a 70 litre fuel tank installed, rather than the maximum regulation 120 litre tank, the Lotus fuelling stops were still more than a match for the other competitors. The team, drivers and car performing in an measured rhythm throughout the morning. Only when less than 4 hours of the race remained did the team's thoughts turn to class and overall positions. With the solid, fast driving of Gavan and Mark over, the last three driving stints commenced with Matthew's final time behind the wheel. Despite this being his first 24 hour race (and in fact only his third motor race ever!), he had displayed controlled pace during the night (as all the Lotus drivers had), but this stint he was allowed to drive a little faster.

Within this session Matthew set the car's fastest lap time of the race and pushed the Lotus up to incredible 5th position overall. He then handed the car over to Luc, who continued the good work of the past 22 hours. With the end almost in sight the final fuel and driver-change stop took place, Martin climbing aboard and rejoining the race in 6th position. All teams had now completed fuel stops and it was the race to the 24th hour. At a time when most of the field of remaining cars were cruising (or limping) around happy to protect mechanical problems, Martin hustled the Exige around chasing the cars in front. The mechanical robustness of the Lotus allowed him to attack, catch and pass to claim 5th position overall.

At the chequered flag, Martin roared home just two laps behind the third placed car and only 11 laps behind the winning Porsche 911 RSR GT2. An excellent class win by over 44 laps (over 1½ hours!) from a BMW M3 CSL.

The team, drivers, sponsors and fans were delighted with such a strong finish for the Lotus Exige and headed to collect their well-deserved trophies at the prize-giving event. Later as the team headed home, there was just a little thought to a single decibel that cost the team 14 laps and what might have been a true giant-killing result!

Race report by Paul Birch

In what is the first award to be bestowed on the visually stunning Lotus Evora, even before production is underway, the award, only presented when special recognition is warranted, recognises the latest developments of this low volume version of the Lotus vehicle architecture technology. The European Aluminium Award is the leading international prize of the aluminium industry and was presented to Lotus at the prestigious International World Trade Fair 'Aluminium 2008' at Messe Essen in Germany on Tuesday 23rd September.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: "We are absolutely delighted that the Lotus Evora has won such a prestigious award so soon after its official unveiling at the British International Motor Show in July. The Lotus Evora architecture is an advanced, lightweight technology that provides a foundation for our long term model plan for future Lotus and client products.

Kimberley continues: "This structure is the latest development of our vehicle architecture technology which was celebrated as the leading entry in the Aluminium Awards in 2006. The Evora heralds an exciting new era for Lotus Cars and proves that you can have phenomenal performance, fuel efficiency, elegant design and practicality all in a mid-engined 2+2 sportscar."

A statement from the jury said: "Lotus provides an automotive structure with a unique approach. They combined adhesive bonding techniques with mechanical joining, resulting in innovative and creative solutions. Lotus used their expertise in lightweight materials to complete this structure, achieving a low weight and a high structural stiffness and therefore ensuring a major impact on environmental and sustainable performance."

Richard Rackham, Vehicle Architect at Lotus Engineering said: "The Lotus Evora demonstrates an accumulation of our core competencies in aluminium and composite body engineering, jointing techniques and vehicle systems integration. 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. One great advantage of our low volume vehicle architecture technology is that it can be used by one car manufacturer looking to develop a range of niche products, or by a group of car manufacturers looking to share investment, but still retain a high degree of end product separation."

Lotus Evora Architecture

The Evora's chassis is an evolution of the Lotus vehicle architecture from the Lotus aluminium crossover 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 low capital investment manufacturing processes. The Evora structure progresses the Lotus 'bonded and riveted' technology used in the Elise family of vehicles with unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing contemporary ease of ingress/egress, build modularity and improved, lower cost repairs.

The low volume versatile architecture has been designed so that it can be extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume 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, thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame's secondary function as a roll over structure, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis and modules weigh just 200 kg (prototype weight), helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype weight). To deliver this high performance structure, bonded and riveted high grade aluminium extrusions and simple, elegant folded sheet elements are used in the lower structure, which complements the stressed composite roof upper structure.

Attached to the high strength central tub are sacrificial energy absorbing subframes of extruded aluminium at the front and lightweight welded steel 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 to the fully assembled tub.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis will be manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures facility in Worcester, UK. LLS employs 110 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 and composite structures and components for Lotus's extensive global client base.

Lotus Engineering, the world renowned automotive

consultancy division of Lotus is collaborating with Oaktec to

develop the performance of a Honda Civic Hybrid for stage

rallying and circuit racing.

Recognised as a global leader in hybrid and electric vehicle development,

Lotus Engineering is supplying technical expertise to Oaktec in developing

racing technology that exploits the performance potential of the petrol electric

Honda hybrid system. The Honda Civic Hybrid will compete on the racetrack

with ultra low exhaust emissions and high fuel efficiency.

Lancashire based Oaktec, a specialist in energy efficient vehicle design,

approached Lotus Engineering to investigate areas of battery and system

control technology that enable maximum racing performance and efficiency

from the hybrid drivetrain. The collaboration is in partnership with Energy

Efficient Motorsport (EEMS), Motorsport Development and Honda UK. The

project has won funding from the Northwest Regional Development Agency

(NWDA).

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: "Lotus

Engineering has an enviable track-record in the global automotive industry for

the successful delivery of hybrid vehicle programmes, applying advanced

technologies on the road and now on the racetrack. Our dedicated Hybrid and

Electric Vehicle Technologies Group is working on a large number of third

party client projects and the collaboration with Oaktec is yet another

demonstration of our advanced skills and expertise in the area of hybrid

vehicle engineering."

The environmentally friendly Honda IMA hybrid technology used on the Honda

Civic Hybrid is ideally suited to a motorsport application and has further

potential to enhance power whilst retaining high fuel efficiency. The 1339cc

Civic uses a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to complement the

hybrid-drive in race and rally conditions. This CVT enables the car to be driven

at constant full power making performance very accessible, and in tandem

with the hybrid system gives excellent performance and efficiency.

Paul Andrews, Senior Partner of Oaktec said: "We have been developing the

Honda Hybrid system for motorsport since 2004 and achieved a great deal of

success in rallies around the UK, including a championship win in 2006 with a

Honda Insight in the F1000 Class A Championship. Maximising racetrack

performance from a hybrid drivetrain is a complex technical exercise but one

that Lotus Engineering has the experience and expertise to help us deliver.

We look forward to seeing our success on the rally tracks replicated in the

race circuits. We will be breaking new ground with the project when Gavan

Kershaw of Lotus Engineering and Jamie Corstorphine of Autocar magazine

will race our Honda Civic Hybrid for the first time in the Dunlop Max Sport Cup

at Rockingham circuit on 28th September."

Phil Barker, Chief Engineer of Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technologies at

Lotus Engineering said: "Hybrid and electric vehicles are already established

on our roads but to make them successful on the racetrack, a number of

technical changes have to be employed. Working with Oaktec, we will create a

revised electrical specification for more power and a control system that will

allow a more aggressive regenerative braking strategy. Lotus Engineering's

work on the Honda Civic Hybrid will prove that you can still get high

performance while using green technologies."

treatment

This year Lotus celebrates its 60th birthday and to

properly

mark the occasion, the British sportscar manufacturer

has

produced a real gem of a car – a fully customised,

diamondset

Lotus Europa valued at £150,000 which will be launched

at Lotus' birthday celebrations in Hethel, Norfolk on

Sunday

14th September 2008.

The diamond anniversary Lotus Europa has received the highest

level of

customisation from cosmetic enhancements to performance

upgrades. Inside,

the car boasts sumptuous textures created using the finest

quality leather for a

superior quilted trim, whilst the bespoke gear knob and controls

feature

sparkling diamonds set in cool matt black metal. The diamond

scheme is

completed with a specially designed rev counter and speed dials

that feature

diamonds highlighted by hidden LED accent lighting.

An exclusive paint finish has been applied to the sleek form of

the Europa

giving the already sophisticated model a truly spectacular

finish, a high gloss

black base has been adorned with tiny glass flakes giving the

appearance the

car has been showered with diamonds. Tinted glass and black and

silver

wheels complete the monochrome scheme in polished, stylish

fashion whilst abeautiful, diamond set Lotus nose-badge proudly crowns

the car.

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

bespoke Europa,

"I'm always proud to launch a special edition Lotus and this

commemorative,

bespoke Lotus for our Diamond Anniversary is very special

indeed. We are a

global, high technology engineering consultancy and sportscar

company and

reaching this special milestone demonstrates our tenacity and

creativity as

much as our expertise and professionalism."

The diamond anniversary Europa is the culmination of skill and

expertise from

many of Lotus' production teams and suppliers. The project was

championed

by Winsor Bishop, East Anglia's premier diamond specialists who

are

supplying Lotus with around £111,000 worth of diamonds for the

stunning car.

"We were delighted to work with Lotus on this exciting project

and are thrilled

with the sparkling results," remarked Sophie Croydon, Director

of Winsor

Bishop. "Diamond setting a car was a first for Winsor Bishop, by

specifying

164 beautiful Round Brilliant Diamonds with a market value of

£111,100, we

have helped create a truly unique Lotus Europa."

This beautifully hand crafted British sports car is not only

stunning and

luxurious, it drives like a dream too. Achieving 0-60mph in less

than 5

seconds and a maximum speed of 146mph, this Lotus Europa is

certainly acar of style and substance.

For security reasons the commemorative Lotus Europa has been

fitted withreplica diamonds whilst on display.

Fresh from its global unveiling at the British International Motorshow, the new Lotus Evora will be on display as part of a development story exhibition about Hethel's latest 2+2 sportscar.

Guests will be free to tour the impressive engineering and factory facilities and sections of the design studios will be open for all to see.

There will be Lotus demonstration laps around the famous Hethel test track and the opportunity to experience a high-speed ride on the circuit too, booked in advance via the 60th anniversary website.

Radio Broadland will have the finale of the "Live the Lotus Life" competition where one lucky winner will win a fully insured Lotus Elise for 6 months and a thousand pounds in cash! (subject to terms and conditions – see website for details)

The Parachute Regiment Freefall Team, The Red Devils, will be dropping in and the RAF will be on the ground with the Bomb disposal robots and the Lotus Bobsleigh.

The day will also include a rare gathering of Lotus vehicles including a Lotus Esprit James Bond car, ex Formula One racers, the unique Black Diamond Europa and numerous road cars from 50's and 60's classics to the present line up.

A distinctive range of both 60th anniversary and Lotus Evora merchandise and memorabilia will be on sale. As will rare production parts, with huge savings on everything from crankshaft shims and Lotus badges to a whole chassis!

There will be many unique and special experiences available on the day including:

• The Lotus Evora Development Story

• A Free Fun Fair with big wheel, land train and face painting

• Radio Broadland road show

• Marching Band

• Lotus Club stands

• Sealed bid auctions for bespoke and unique items

• Motorsport Merchandise Stand

• Royal Air Force Displays

• Technical Talks

• and much more!

Mike Kimberley, Group Lotus CEO, says "The Open day on Sunday 14th September will be a great opportunity for everyone to see the new and exciting Lotus Evora and the 'Hethel Experience'. I'm sure that visitors will enjoy this rare opportunity to look around our excellent facilities and I look forward to celebrating our 60th Anniversary with all our guests.

Around 15,000 people from all over the globe are expected to enjoy the celebrations at the Hethel site. All parking will be on site and tickets are priced at £13 per adult including 2 children under 16 (if booked in advance from: www.lotus60thanniversary.com) Tickets are £15 on the gate, and subject to availability.

Research Engine

Lotus conduct research study into engine efficiency when

utilising sustainable second and third generation bio fuels

Lotus Engineering, the world renowned automotive consultancy division of

Lotus announces a collaboration with Queen's University Belfast and Jaguar

Cars Ltd to develop an engine which maximises fuel efficiency when running

on renewable fuels. The OMNIVORE concept will employ novel engine

architecture to achieve a high thermal efficiency when fuelled on any alcohols

or gasoline.

The project is sponsored by Defra (Department for the Environment and Rural

Affairs) and the DOE NI (Department of the Environment Northern Ireland)

through the Renewable Materials LINK Programme. Lotus Engineering is

currently undertaking a design study and the build of a single cylinder

research engine for completion in January 2009. Vehicle modelling will

validate the reduction in vehicle CO2 emissions. Queen's University of

Belfast's School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering will be adding its

world leading expertise in engine simulation, with Jaguar Cars Ltd a

consultative partner at all stages of development.

This engine design is expected to significantly increase fuel efficiency for

sustainable bio alcohol fuels. The architecture features an innovative variable

compression ratio system and uses a two-stroke operating cycle with direct

fuel injection. The OMNIVORE engine will be ideally suited to flex-fuel

operation with a higher degree of optimisation than is possible with existing

architectures.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: "The

automotive industry is now focusing on its environmental obligations to reduce

CO2 emissions and improve efficiencies and we are seeing the high

technology capabilities of Lotus Engineering being in strong demand. Not only

does our brand value of 'performance through light weight' fit perfectly with the

necessary direction of the industry to produce lighter, more efficient vehicles,

we are also working on all aspects of future fuels, investigating alternative

powertrains to accommodate alcohol fuels as they enter the market."

Kimberley continues: "Alcohols possess superior combustion characteristics to

gasoline which allow greater optimisation. Taking full advantage of the

benefits of sustainable bio alcohols will ensure a greater percentage of vehicle

miles will be travelled using renewable fuels. We are delighted with the

investment from DEFRA which will assist this partnership in taking forward

research development and the demonstration of this environmentally

conscious transport solution."

The OMNIVORE programme complements the recently unveiled Lotus Exige

270E Tri-fuel as part of Lotus' research to understand the complex combustion

process involved in running on mixtures of alcohol fuels and gasoline, which

will be important for a successful transition from today's fuels to the

sustainable, synthetic fuels of the future.

Geraint Castleton-White, Head of Powertrain at Lotus Engineering said: "The

requirement to operate on gasoline in today's flex-fuel engines limits their

thermal efficiency when operating on alcohol fuels. However, the physical and

chemical properties of alcohols, when compared to gasoline, provide the

potential for higher thermal efficiency operation to be achieved. This singlecylinder

research engine will investigate a highly thermal efficient combustion

system that optimises engine performance to fully exploit the properties of

both gasoline and alcohol fuels and maximise efficiency."

International Motorshow in

association with Gran Turismo™ –

the real driving simulator on

PLAYSTATION®3

In a hi-tech twist to the unveiling, Lotus fans will find it easier

to test-drive the brand new Evora than ever before, thanks to

the car's inclusion in a special demo of Gran Turismo 5

Prologue™.

Lotus has a long-standing relationship with Polyphony, the game's developer

with Lotus cars appearing in each release of the Bafta award-winning Gran

Turismo series. Now, thanks to the new title's unprecedented realism

(enabled by the ultra-powerful PLAYSTATION®3 system), Gran Turismo

drivers will find their virtual ride in the new Lotus Evora to be startlingly similar

to the real thing giving Lotus fans a taster of what to expect before the Evora

is available to test-drive for real in Spring 2009.

Polyphony's digital model of the Lotus Evora was unveiled simultaneously with

the car at the British International Motorshow in London last week and fans

can try their hand at the game via a demo pod situated on the Lotus stand for

the duration of the show.

Mike Kimberley, Group Lotus CEO remarked, "We are delighted to join forces

with Sony Computer Entertainment and Polyphony once again on such a

special occasion for Lotus. The Launch of the Lotus Evora is a milestone for

us and represents a new and exciting phase of our development. I'd like to

thank the Gran Turismo team for organising this outstanding addition to our

exhibit at the British International Motorshow and hope guests enjoy the first

ride in our Evora, albeit a virtual one."

Guests to the Lotus stand at London's Excel exhibition centre will be able to

navigate an Evora on the new London city circuit which was recently

introduced to the GT series with the release of Gran Turismo 5 Prologue. The

London city circuit takes in some of the city's most popular landmarks

including Piccadilly Circus, Shaftesbury Avenue, Charing Cross, the National

Portrait Gallery and Trafalgar Square.

for two Lotus launches this year. The Evora, the eagerly

anticipated 2+2 performance car and its 1:64 Matchbox®

twin.

Lotus and Mattel, Inc. have been planning the launch of the scale Matchbox®

die-cast model Evora to coincide with the unveiling of the real-life Evora for

nine months, and the occasion is the summit of a complex process executed

by Mattel.

The designers at Lotus Design and Matchbox® worked closely to accurately

recreate the stunning new Lotus. The result of this close partnership is an

accurately produced die-cast Matchbox® model that has enough detail to

satisfy even the most ardent Lotus fans.

When designing the die-cast Lotus vehicles, the Matchbox® team started with

the CAD surface data that Lotus produced to develop its iconic sports cars. In

the case of the Evora, this top secret data was shared with Matchbox® in

January and April 2008 so that the creation of the die-cast model could begin

its journey in California whilst the real-life Evora was built in Lotus' Hethel

production facility in Norfolk.

Russell Carr, Head of Lotus Design comments, "We have worked with Mattel

for more than 10 years and the development of a Matchbox version of the

Evora 1:64 model unfolded at the same time as our first Evora was being built

so there was a lot of excitement and synergy around the two projects. The

dramatic plan shape and the distinctive graphical detailing of the real car are

perfect for a scale model. All the design team grew up with Matchbox so it was

tremendously exciting to work with the company that is, in part, responsible for

inspiring our interest in car design."

The first step in capturing the Lotus Evora's dynamic lines and form in a diecast

model was to photograph the real car. Detailed pictures of the Evora in

development and in its final form were shared with Matchbox® designers to

ensure that an accurate model could be made. This included pictures of the

interior and exterior, close-ups of the vehicle's details, and both overhead and

full-length views. Detailed dimensions such as height, wheelbase and engine

compartment were also taken, which Matchbox® utilized to convert the

original CAD data into surface files, along with the photographs to model the

rest of the car.

"We have a close, long-standing relationship with Lotus, and partnering with

them to create a Matchbox version of the new Evora in advance of its

introduction was a unique and exciting opportunity for our designers," said

Geoff Walker, vice president, Wheels and Games Marketing, Mattel Brands.

"The Matchbox team was among a handful of people who were privy to the

new car's final design. Our team approached this project with our passion for

all things automotive, along with a deep understanding of the ethos behind the

Lotus design."

The last stage of the design process involved creating a 1:64 scale digital

model of the real car using state of the art software that combined the

photographic references and Lotus CAD files. After the model was reviewed,

proportions were tweaked and details were enhanced to capture the essence

and spirit of the real car. A process called tooling follows where a raw steel

tool was developed for creating "first shots," which are samples of totally

machine made parts that ensure that all pieces correctly fit together and

function properly.

For the final stage, Matchbox® designers decorated the car in different levels

of detail, ranging from body paint, interior, wheel selection, and chassis

colours, as well as windshield tint and graphics (headlamps, badging, body

detailing), which were then reviewed by the designers using photos of the real

vehicle as a reference.

The Lotus Evora 1:64 is available in Quartz Silver, the same shade as the

real-life car unveiled at the British Motorshow adding to the accuracy of the

comparison. The silver body colour used on the Matchbox® die-cast model is

duplicated directly from a colour sample provided by Lotus' Licensing team

ahead of the London launch. The silver paint is applied and the hood vents

and rear roof section are masked and painted a flat matte black reflecting the

graphical elements of the actual car. Realistic looking headlamps and hood

badging were also added using a process similar to silk-screen printing.

The Lotus Evora will be available in the UK in spring 2009, but in the

meantime fans of the new vehicle can pick-up an authentic Matchbox® Evora

to treasure!

The Lotus Evora is sleek, sophisticated and socially aware. Coupling stunning looks and agile performance its impressive green credentials, prove that Evora is a cool and eco-friendly alternative to gas-guzzling 4x4's. Emissions for the brand-new sportscar are on target to beat the 225 grams of CO2 per kilometre threshold above which UK road tax rapidly increases.

Presenting the best of British design, the Evora is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Combining 60 years of sportscar expertise and beautifully crafted with fluid lines, the Evora has both power under the bonnet and looks to kill. This combination is fast positioning the Evora as a must have item, but you won't be able to get your hands on one until spring 2009 when the car goes on sale in the UK.

Each car is hand built in Norfolk, UK and with Lotus's anticipated production of only 2000 Evora's each year the exclusive and unique nature of this stunning car is rousing extraordinary interest with many A-listers lining-up to drive the car, including Kelly Rowland and Charlotte Church.

Inside the Evora the new Lotus is both stunning and luxurious and provides drivers with high quality tactile materials and thoughtful details. Its elegantly styled cabin is sumptuously trimmed with rich leather and features contemporary brushed aluminium surfaces, whilst the latest in-car entertainment equipment adds comfort to style for optimum driver indulgence. A 2+2 passenger configuration, children can sit comfortably in the rear of the Evora and the boot is large enough for the weekly shop or a couple of overnight bags perfect for a business trip or a weekend away at the latest boutique hotel.

The Evora is not just a practical, ecological, stunning car – it's a true sportscar with power and speed. It's a car for girls who want to have serious, sophisticated fun and the instant antidote to the stresses everyday life throws at today's professional, stylish woman. Driving this car gives you an instant and addictive buzz, the commute has never been so much fun!

Notes to Editors

Lotus Evora in detail:

Lotus Evora is the first of three new models included in the CEO's (Mike Kimberley) five year strategic business plan initiated in October 2006 to support Lotus' growth.

Design

Designed in-house by Lotus Design, Head of Design, Russell Carr, explains "Evora's dynamically sculptured form and dramatic proportions communicate visual drama, speed and agility even when the car is standing still. Sportscars are primarily an emotional rather than a rational purchase and so the design must seduce with its beauty and distinctive character. However, the modern customer also demands that the product offers real-world usability as well as exotic imagery. Therefore every element of the car's exterior and interior has been carefully designed to create a product that offers comfort and convenience as well as traditional performance car attributes."

A design language of dynamic lines and fluid surfaces that flow from the 'Lotus –mouth' and over the length the cars toned form are unmistakably 'modern Lotus'. They instantly convey a sense of agility and athleticism that is intrinsic to the car's driving persona. On Evora they are complemented by the distinctive wraparound visor screen but have been subtly tailored to suit the more sophisticated character of the car, optimise high-speed aerodynamics and artfully disguise the unique 2+2 layout. The cab forward proportion combines with muscular haunches and optimised intake detailing to instantly inform the viewer that this is a serious mid-engine sportscar. Elsewhere a Lotus philosophy for combining function with beauty is evident in the downforce generating, top exit radiator vent, rear diffuser and rear wing.

Inside the car the forms echo the exterior with fast moving surfaces that wrap around the cockpit cosseting the occupants, the contrast colour band that flows from the instrument cluster and sweeps around the cabin highlights this theme. "We recognise that 'touch' not only assists with driving enjoyment but also conveys messages about quality and therefore great attention has been paid to all the areas where the driver interfaces with the car." Carr explains. Figure hugging adjustable sports seats and flat-bottomed steering wheel instantly communicate the driving potential of the car. Evora employs premium quality material and finishes to create an exclusive, British handcrafted ambience that is unique in this price segment. Modern, precision-engineered aluminium inserts and hi-fi quality, edge-lit switches are brilliantly juxtaposed against the traditional contrast stitched leather panels.

Everyday convenience is catered for through ergonomically located touch screen SAT NAV, remote release glove box, storage bins and integrated "cup holders".

Technology

In a world launch by partners Alpine, Evora boasts a truly cutting edge in-car entertainment and navigation system. The multi-media system features a 7in touch-screen providing advanced audio, satellite navigation, Bluetooth hands-free telephone and iPod® connectivity functions; the screen also serves as a monitor for Evora's optional reversing camera. The satellite navigation element of the system has a removable hard-drive, allowing you to programme it from the comfort of your home or use it as a roaming satellite navigation unit and MP3 player.

The Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated automotive systems in the world. Called IMPRINT and using MultEQ sound enhancement technology, it is able to cancel out imbalances in the sound caused by different areas of the cabin – window glass, for instance, creates echoes, while carpets suppress mid-range frequencies – resulting in amazingly crisp, clear, undistorted sound reproduction wherever you are seated in the car.

A bespoke progressive air-conditioning system developed by Bergstrom is standard on all models, while on-board tyre pressure monitoring will be either standard or optional depending on model and market. And in deference to the American market in particular, a module in the headlining will accommodate automatic garage and gate opening remote controls.

Interior space and accommodation

The rear seats of 2+2 versions of Evora are intended for children or smaller adults on short journeys. To maximise comfort in the rear, there is foot-room 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 for briefcases and jackets, adding to Evora's appeal as an everyday car. The boot, which ingeniously features a fresh air cooling system to reduce the effect of heat ingress from the engine bay, will accommodate a set of golf clubs.

A two-seater derivative of Evora is planned and will have a luggage shelf in the back replacing the two rear seats.

Safety

Lotus' Evora conforms to all regulatory standards and in addition boasts additional safety features; Lotus aluminium chassis technology applied to the Evora provides the car with immense inherent strength, particularly in regard to side impacts and a tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame that also acts as a rollover structure.

Anti-lock brakes are standard on all models, as are traction and stability controls; these systems have been specially developed in co-operation with Bosch to provide enhanced safety features whilst maintaining performance characteristics.

Under the bonnet

Lotus continues its excellent working relationship with Toyota, world leaders in engine development and manufacture and Formular1 competitors. For Evora, Lotus has modified Toyota's 3.5-litre V6, with dual VVT-i ('intelligent' variable valve timing) for optimum performance.

Performance

At the time of unveiling, full performance figures for the new Lotus will not have been compiled on a production specification car, however Lotus has a further 6 months of development time to conduct these before Evora is available to test drive.

While for Lotus top speed is of less importance than stability at speed, early indications suggest a maximum speed of 160 mph; the 0-60 mph sprint from standstill is estimated at sub 5 seconds (prototype figures).

The Lotus Evora is first of the three new models that form part of a bold five year strategic plan that CEO Mike Kimberley kicked off in October 2006. Lotus will have a three-platform portfolio of sportscars, from the Elise family and her sisters Exige and Europa, through to the new Evora 2+2 coupe, and the brand flagship, a mid engine supercar entering the global marketplace in 2010.

Group Lotus and their 2+2 coupe, the Evora, is leading the motor industry into a new era; an era where priorities of efficiency, economy and environmental impact have to go hand in hand with performance, design and individuality.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc explains, "The automotive industry is focusing on its obligations to reduce its share of global CO2 emissions and improve overall efficiencies"

Lotus Engineering has highly respected technical abilities, and these are in strong demand. "Our brand value of 'performance through lightweight' is leading the automotive industry to produce lighter and more efficient vehicles. We are continuing to research and develop new vehicles which utilise future fuels, alternative engines, hybrid and electronic solutions for our next generation of models." Kimberley concluded.

Lotus is a dynamic and adaptable company, and the Lotus Evora is a perfect example of this expertise. Conceived, and nurtured through complex engineering and advanced development programs before its release at the British Motorshow in July 2008. A type approved sportscar ready for sale around the world in just 30 months. Lotus doesn't hang about!

Lotus Engineering meanwhile is recognised as one of the finest automotive engineering consultancies in the world, and has an extensive global client base. Almost 30% of all cars on the road have a little bit of Lotus in them; be it engine design, chassis engineering, ride and handling development, or even the overall styling. In the last two years, Lotus has delivered over 620 separate engineering projects to more than 120 clients around the world - spanning whole vehicle programmes for one of the world's biggest car companies to a study of how knee surgery will effect brake pedal effort for drivers after their operations.

This year has already provided several highlights so far, and these include:

• Lotus Engineering has entered into a joint cooperation programme with KACST, the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology with the intention to promote the establishment of an ecologically driven automotive technology capability in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

• The acquisition of Lotus Lightweight Structures. This was following the acquisition of Holden Lightweight Structures Limited, who manufacture Lotus aluminium platforms and chassis, including those for the Elise, Exige, Europa and the 2-Eleven along with aluminium and composite components for Lotus Engineering's extensive global client base.

• In February Lotus Engineering and Mubadala Development Company (Mubadala) announced the signing of a long-term 'Memorandum of Understanding' (MOU) with the joint aim to further enhance Abu Dhabi's position at the forefront of environmentally orientated technologies and accelerate the development of its manufacturing and business infrastructure.

• More recently in May 2008, Lotus and the Dutch Supercar manufacturer Sypker reached an agreement on the outline of an intended cooperation, which will include a Parts and Platform Commonality Agreement with Lotus as the preferred engineering and parts supplier for Spyker's new C8 Aileron super sportscar, and a concept Design and Engineering Agreement relating to Spyker's future models.

Mike Kimberley and his experienced Lotus management team are credited with turning the company around, and are nearly one third of the way through delivering the ambitious five year plan with both the unveiling of the Lotus Evora, and global growth of Lotus Engineering entering all-new markets of China, India and the Middle East.

Mike Kimberley explains further, "I am pleased to say that my plan for Lotus is on target, and the teams around the world has already done a terrific job. We have exciting technologies and innovations in the pipeline, and most importantly the group is returning to profitability. I would also like to take this opportunity to personally thank our shareholders Proton Holdings Berhad for their ongoing support to Lotus. Without their corporate guidance and investment over the years, Lotus would not be in the position as it is today – a world leader in a globally competitive market.

"Lotus Engineering will lead the way in finding solutions to reduce CO2 emissions, increase performance, improve efficiency and reduce weight in all types of vehicles both for Lotus and our global engineering client base.

"The new Lotus Evora shows how Lotus can keep delivering quantum leaps towards improving the efficiency and sustainability of the motorcar. This is keeping Britain at the forefront of high technology. We expect the motor industry to follow our brand value of 'performance through lightweight'. Surely it's the only way forward, as Colin Chapman and the last 60 years of Lotus has proved!

The first all-new Lotus since the iconic Elise made its debut in 1995, The 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 280 PS, and weighing just 1350 kg (prototype specification), the Evora promises breathtaking performance. During preliminary testing around the famous Nürburgring, the Lotus chassis engineers report that it is extremely agile and great fun to drive - even when clad with the full development disguise that hid the beautiful lines from the prying motor-industry paparazzi.

In addition to its excellent performance and exemplary handling, the Evora offers a more refined ownership experience than Lotus's existing smaller four-cylinder models. Its elegantly styled cabin is elegantly trimmed and its equipment list includes contemporary features such as an advanced touch-screen multi-media system and electric power-fold door mirrors.

Because one of the roles of the Evora is to attract new customers to the Lotus brand, much attention has been paid to its ease of use. Wider, taller door apertures and narrower sills make getting in and out of the cabin a less athletic undertaking than it is in Lotus's smaller sports cars (the Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven), while 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 less obvious areas of the car. For instance, beneath the skin the entire front-end structure is a high tech aluminium sacrificial modular unit, attached to the main extruded aluminium tub. This modular unit is designed to deform for maximum safety, and 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 planed, these including amongst others, a convertible.

The Evora will be hand crafted and built on a dedicated new assembly line within Lotus's advanced manufacturing facility at Hethel in the east of England; capacity limitations will restrict production to approximately 2000 cars a year, ensuring the 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 part of our bold five year strategic plan, which includes the introduction of new cars and technologies to many more markets around the world. The Evora also represents Lotus core values of performance through light weight and efficiency and proves that you can have phenomenal performance, fuel efficiency elegant design and practicality all in a class leading mid-engine 2+2 sportscar, which will meet 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 solutions for the future. 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 keeping Britain at the forefront of the high technology 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 this is clearly a serious mid engined sportscar that skilfully hides the practicality of its two plus two capability.

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 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 useability.

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 now, "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 wind-tunnel 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 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 a Lotus."

The view from the rear three-quarters is just as striking and the one that many will become familiar with as the car passes them on the road. 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.

It is, according to Head of Lotus Design Russell Carr, "A huge departure from what people might expect based on Lotus's recent past. We wanted the Evora's cabin to feel 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 seat, 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 and so we wanted the interior to use honest premium materials. Much of the switchgear is bespoke, and every metallic component is actually metal."

Focused courtesy lighting is used throughout the interior, giving a spectacular illuminated feel to the sculpture design feature 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-upholstered seats, upper door trim panels and facia, but it is expected that most customers will opt for the full hide treatment. With a range of leather colours available, customers will have the opportunity to personalise their Evora.

High-tech treats

Contemporary technology also features in the Evora's cabin. A newly developed Alpine multi-media system with a 7 inch touch-screen provides 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. The 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 Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated automotive systems in the world. Called IMPRINT and using MultEQ sound enhancement technology, it is able to cancel out sound imbalances, caused by the cabin window glass, for instance, creating echoes, while carpets 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 Bergstrom is standard on all models, and has been designed for the hottest climate or the closest humidity to help provide maximum occupant comfort. Lotus traction control and on-board tyre pressure monitoring will also be available.

One size fits all

The front seats themselves are very supportive and leather clad with a lightweight manual adjustment mechanism for fore and aft, rake and lumbar, 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. To maximise comfort in the rear, there's a decent amount of foot-room 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 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 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 side impacts. Additional torsional strength is given to the whole structure by the tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame that also acts as a rollover structure.

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 in co-operation with Bosch and enable up and coming drivers to consistently exploit the braking and acceleration 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 an 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 unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing contemporary ease of ingress/egress, build modularity and improved, lower cost repairs.

The Low Volume VVA architecture has been designed 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, thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame's secondary function as a roll over structure, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis and modules weight just 200 kg (prototype weight), helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype weight).

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 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.

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.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis will be manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures 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 and composite structures and components for Lotus's extensive global client base.

Suspended & animated

The Evora suspension wishbones are forged from aluminium to reduce the unsprung mass. These are similar in weight, and stiffer than the steel items found on the much smaller Elise, Exige and Europa vehicles, and have a far higher vehicle weight capacity. They are attached to the front and rear modules via bespoke 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.

All in all, the Evora delivers. It has incredible Lotus handling and provides unsurpassable driving pleasure. In fact, word from the ride and handling team is that the new car is likely to become a class standard-setter for speed and agility.

Stop right now…

Vented and cross-drilled brake discs – massive 350mm items on the front and 332mm at the rear – and 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, 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 set to very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

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 when required to maintain traction. 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.

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

Tyre choice is a vital component in the handling performance of every Lotus and for the Evora, Yokohama was chosen as development partner.

Lotus's long-term relationship with Yokohama was swiftly rewarded during development when initially the front tyre size did not generate the Lotus required lateral grip, the Japanese grip gurus went away and 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 to 280 PS at 6400 rpm, while boosting its maximum torque to 342 Nm at 4700 rpm (prototype figures).

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 suggests 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 Toyota-sourced. A close-ratio version of this gearbox is also currently under development 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 expected to be a class leading sub-225 g/km (prototype figures) while testers report fuel consumption in the region of 30+ mpg (pending formal homologation testing).

What'll she do?

At the time of its unveiling, full performance figures have yet to be compiled on a production specification Lotus Evora, Lotus has another 6 months development to conduct.

While for Lotus top speed is of less importance than stability at speed, early indications suggest a maximum speed of 160 mph; the 0-60 mph sprint from standstill is estimated at sub 5 seconds (prototype figures).

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 desert, the high altitude of the Alps as well as the country roads around the Hethel factory.

It has spent hours howling around the Nürburgring and endlessly lapped Lotus's test track at Hethel. By the time the Evora enters production, prototypes will have 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, to Australia and even the Arizona outback.

It has been flung into barriers at low and high speeds, at a multitude of angles, including head-on; it has even had its roof compressed!

By the time the Evora reaches the Lotus showrooms from Spring 2009 onwards, 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.

The order book is now open in the UK and across continental Europe, with markets around the world to start taking orders in due course. Final specifications, options and prices of the production Lotus Evora will be published closer to the sale date in the many Lotus markets around the world.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc sums up, "This year Lotus celebrates its 60th anniversary and it is fitting that 2008 is also the birth of the Lotus Evora, a fantastic addition to the Lotus range. The Lotus Evora represents Group Lotus, a company that is at the forefront of the automotive industry, in a changing world where priorities of efficiency, economy and environmental impact go hand in hand with performance, design and individuality. I think Colin Chapman would have approved."

Trackday Warrior Turns Eco Warrior

Lotus unveils the Eco Elise technology demonstrator at the British Motor Show,

capitalising on great strides forward in green technology.

The Eco Elise project promotes a different perspective on "green", one which does not

revolve solely around tailpipe CO2. This holistic approach is in keeping with the progressive

Lotus culture, driving Lotus to become the world's green automotive consultancy.

Sustainable materials, hemp, eco wool and sisal have been developed for body panels and

trim and, combined with hi-tech water based paint solutions, showcase new affordable green

technologies. The green credentials of the technology on show in the Eco Elise have been

analysed throughout the lifecycle of the car.

A green gear change display has been integrated into the dashboard to promote greener

driving as well as a weight reduction programme, illustrating the holistic approach taken. The

energy expended to manufacture the car has been evaluated, working to the 3R's - Reduce,

Re-use and Recycle.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc commented "This Eco Elise is a great example of

the advanced and affordable green technologies Lotus is developing. We are at the cutting

edge of environmental technology and are determined to push forward with our green

agenda. The Lotus brand values of lightweight, fuel efficient, and high performance are more

relevant today than they ever have been. We are keen to ensure that Lotus as a company

and its products offer an ethical, green option that appeals to our customers".

In keeping with the "performance through light weight" philosophy, the Eco Elise weighs 32

kg (70.5 lbs) less than the standard Elise S, which means that the efficient Elise S engine in

the Eco Elise will give higher fuel economy figures and even better performance.

Dramatic improvements to the culture and operations at Lotus has rewarded the company

with staggering reductions in energy (Electricity 14%, Gas 30%) and water (11%) consumed

across the Hethel headquarters in 2007, compared to 2006. These advances have coincided

with improvements in recycling, with 57% of waste product now being recycled.

The new green materials sourced for this car have been carefully studied to ensure that each

technology used reduces the environmental impact of the vehicle. The life of the components

has been analysed; during the production stage, in-use and at the end of the vehicle's life.

The technology used aims to offer lower emissions of both solvents and CO2 in the lifecycle

of the vehicle, with reductions in energy consumed during manufacture.

The Eco Elise will be displayed in the Greener Driving Pavilion at the British International

Motor Show from 23rd July until 3rd August. The project displays affordable green technology

that is intended to be feasible and production viable in the near term future.

The Lotus Eco Elise in more detail

The project focuses on developments in:

Sustainable materials

Cleaner manufacturing processes

Renewable energy generation

Reducing carbon miles

Efficient driving techniques

Weight reduction

The renewable materials have been incorporated into the project, with hemp, eco wool and

sisal providing natural, biodegradable engineering materials. Cleaner manufacturing

processes have been sought, utilising the latest water based paint technology. Using this

paint system saves energy and reduces emissions of solvents from the paint shop. Solar

panels have been set into the hemp hard top to help power the electrical systems and give a

means of renewable energy generation.

With the use of locally farmed hemp, the carbon miles to produce the Eco Elise are reduced,

in keeping with the holistic approach to this vehicle. The Eco Elise puts an emphasis on

efficient driving techniques by using an "economy" gear change display to improve fuel

efficiency and promote greener driving. The car has undergone a weight reduction

programme to add a little extra lightness, assisting in more economical, greener driving.

Sustainable materials

Sustainable hemp technical fabrics have been used as the primary constituent in the high

quality "A" class composite body panels and spoiler. The renewable hemp has exceptional

material properties that make for a very strong fibre. Historically hemp has been used in the

manufacture of rope, illustrating the great strength of the material.

The hemp fibres have also been used in the manufacture of the lightweight Lotus designed

seats. An additional benefit of using hemp is that it is a natural resource that requires

relatively low energy to manufacture and absorbs CO2 whilst growing as a plant through

natural photosynthesis. This hemp material is used with a polyester resin to form a hybrid

composite, however it is hoped that a fully recyclable composite resin will be viable in the

short-term future.

The Eco Elise seats are upholstered in a durable yet, biodegradable woollen fabric that has

been given the EU Flower certificate to exemplify its environmental credentials. This new

material is ethically produced and does not use any dyes or harmful processing. In fact the

colour is created from the selection of sheep breeds used to produce the wool for the yarn,

which increases the natural feel of the wool and reduces the processing of the cloth.

Sisal is a renewable crop that, like hemp, is used for its strong material properties. Sisal has

been used for the carpets in the Eco Elise, as it is a tough, abrasion resistant material. The

use of these materials illustrates the capability at Lotus of utilising new, advanced materials

and the flexibility of the manufacturing facilities.

Cleaner manufacturing processes

Whilst improving the green credentials of the Lotus production facilities, the Lotus Paint

Facility, in partnership with Du Pont has developed a totally water-based paint system. This

paint solution includes primer, colour coat and lacquer, and it is the first time that it has been

possible to hand spray a water based "A" class production paint finish.

In using this progressive water based technology, Lotus is able to achieve impressive

savings in energy consumption due to the low cure temperature this paint requires. An

additional benefit of this paint system is the reduction in emissions of solvents, all of which

contribute to substantial cost savings for Lotus. This is a result of the unique collaboration

with Du Pont in pushing forward low-volume paint spraying technology. This technology is

anticipated to be available in production cars in the near future.

Renewable energy generation

The hemp hard top on the Eco Elise has two flexible solar panels neatly embedded in the

roof, contributing power to the electrical systems and saving energy that would be drained

from the engine.

The solar panels have been integrated into the hard top to illustrate the feasibility of applying

this technology. This application shows the installation of solar panels into a composite "A"

class panel with a double curvature. Using this technology on a greater number of panels

would make it possible to provide more power, especially on a larger vehicle.

Reduction in carbon miles

The hemp fibres have been farmed in East Anglia, thus reducing the carbon miles incurred in

the production of this Elise. Lotus Manufacturing has component manufacturing facilities and

a paint facility at its headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, with another manufacturing site a short

distance away in Norwich. The company operates a carefully managed logistics system

operating between sites to improve efficiency, reduce costs and carbon miles. This is a

Kanban driven barcode system that has been adopted by key suppliers. The process also

uses packaging that is recycled many times over to eliminate waste.

Efficient driving techniques

Lotus cars have red shift lights to help drivers extract the maximum performance from the

engine. However for the Eco Elise, Lotus designed software has been developed to assist

drivers in maximising the fuel efficiency of the engine. A green gear shift display has been

integrated into the instrument panel to ensure that gears are changed at the optimum point to

reduce emissions and save fuel.

Weight reduction

"Performance through light weight" is so synonymous with Lotus. The reduction in mass

improves the handling and braking performance and also reduces the effort required to

accelerate the car. The weight reduction philosophy has even extended to the audio system

with an exceptionally lightweight stereo and speaker system from Alpine saving 1.5 kg (3.3

lbs). The system uses MP3/ iPod technology in a sleek modern design.

The Eco Elise uses special lightweight wheels that reduce the unsprung mass and contribute

a weight saving of approximately 15.8 kg (34.8 lbs) over the already super light Elise wheels.

The weight saving programme for the Eco Elise has resulted in a total saving of around 32 kg

(70.5 lbs) over the feather light Elise S, which reduces the fuel required to drive the car.

About Group Lotus plc:

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions

- Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive

engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA),

Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany and Japan, with rapid expansion in new

territories such as South East Asia and the Gulf States.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's

OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design

through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and

customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture

worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These

include the iconic Lotus Elise, and the Exige and Europa. Lotus is a global high-tech company,

expanding and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering

clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

What is the EU Flower?

• The EU flower is a symbol of superior environmental quality and is available to a range of products

and services.

• The scheme, which has been designed and is overseen by the European Commission, sets out

specific ecological criteria that products must comply with to be certified as environmentally

friendly.

• The award of the label is independently verified and endorsed by the European Commission. The

EU Flower is a recognised environmental quality mark across the countries of the EU and in

Norway and Liechtenstein.

To celebrate its 60th Birthday Lotus is holding an open event at its Hethel Headquarters in Norfolk on

Sunday 14th September and will announce the lucky winner of the 'Live the Lotus Life' competition, the

prize being a fully insured Lotus Elise for 6 whole months!

For its diamond anniversary Lotus has organised an assortment of activities designed to entertain the

whole family; a fun fair, farmers market, auction and RAF displays are all confirmed as well as access to

Lotus' world-class manufacturing and engineering facilities. Visitors will also be privy to a specially

commissioned exhibition that charts the development of Lotus' brand new car, which is still only known

by its codename 'Project Eagle'. Advanced tickets are available online through the dedicated website

www.lotus60thanniversary.com and those who book early can buy laps of the famous Hethel test track

as a passenger in an iconic Lotus Elise.

The pinnacle of the day will be the 'Live the Lotus Life' competition finale. Lotus is giving away a fully

insured Elise for 6 months to commemorate this special anniversary through an online competition

hosted by Radio Broadland.

"Our cars are for people of character who know who they are and love to have fun." commented Mike

Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus Plc. "The adrenaline fuelled experience of driving a Lotus is legend

and we want to give someone the chance to enjoy this exhilarating experience."

For a chance to win you can enter online at www.radiobroadland.co.uk and entrants who correctly

answer the qualifying question will go through to a second round. 60 finalists will be drawn and each

will be awarded a key. Each finalist will be invited to try their key at the Lotus Open Day on 14th

September, only one key opens the prize Elise though and the lucky key holder will win the car and

have the chance to experience the prestige that driving a Lotus brings, for 6 whole months.

Radio Broadland is providing a cash prize of £1000 for the lucky winner. "We hope that the competition

winner will whisk their significant other away in the Lotus for a lavish weekend; dine at fine restaurants

and take in some retail therapy and generally live like the rich and famous!" Remarked Steve Martin,

Programme Controller for Radio Broadland.

Enter on line now and Live the Lotus Life for 6 months!

Notes to Editors

The Prize:

The lucky key-holder who manages to unlock the Elise will win the car to drive, fully insured, for 6 months plus £1000 in cash so

they can 'Live the Lotus Life' to the full.

Criteria:

Entrants must be over 25 years old, hold a full, clean UK driver's license and be a UK resident.

The 60 qualifying key holders must be available to attend the Lotus Open Day in Hethel on Sunday 14th September.

Other terms and conditions apply. See www.radiobroadland.co.uk for details.

New Lotus Manufacturing Company Offers Greater Flexibility, Lower Weight Solutions

and Reduced Time to Market for World’s Motor Industry.

Group Lotus plc, the world famous sportscar manufacturer and globally renowned automotive

engineering consultancy, announces the creation of Lotus Lightweight Structures, following the

acquisition of Holden Lightweight Structures Limited today, 15th May 2008.

Lotus Lightweight Structures, which employs 120 skilled engineers, technicians and sales

staff, will be based at the former Holden Lightweight Structures Limited site in Worcester, UK

and will continue to manufacture light weight aluminium and composite structures and

components for its extensive client base as well as growing its business globally through the

company’s association with Group Lotus plc.

Lotus Lightweight Structures will continue to assemble the award winning Lotus Elise, Exige

and Europa aluminium chassis as well as the all new chassis for the yet to be launched Lotus

Project Eagle.

The strategic acquisition of Holden Lightweight Structures Limited and the subsequent

creation of Lotus Lightweight Structures enables Lotus to:

· Create, adapt and change its range of products quickly and effectively, catering for

changing global customer demands.

· Provide an additional in house manufacturing facility.

· Add an additional manufacturing solution for Lotus Engineering’s global client base,

providing lightweight aluminium and composite vehicle components and structures.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc, “I am delighted to announce the creation

of Lotus Lightweight Structures following the strategic acquisition of Holden Lightweight

Structures Limited. With this facility, we will continue to expand and lead the world in

lightweight vehicle research, development and production to help our global client base find

ways to reduce the weight and cost from their vehicles. Weight reduction is one of the most

attainable ways to lowering CO2 emissions in vehicles today, as well as improving fuel

economy and performance, and we have a duty to share our technology with the world’s car

makers for everyone’s long term benefit.”

Mike Kimberley continues, “Lotus Lightweight Structures provides additional facilities,

capabilities and expertise to the Lotus Manufacturing portfolio. The Worcester facility, and

dedicated team, complements our Hethel Headquarters and does not substitute any of the

operations in Norfolk, but instead enables our strategic global expansion programme to

proceed to plan. We are now just ten weeks from the unveiling of the next all new Lotus, code

named Project Eagle at the British Motorshow, and we are working hard to bring this fabulous

2+2 to the market in the Spring of 2009. The Project Eagle chassis structure will be the first

product from our new Lotus Lightweight Structures facility. We look forward to increasing our

support to customers, clients and new ecologically driven projects worldwide.”

About Group Lotus plc:

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions -

Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive

engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala

Lumpur (Malaysia), Shanghai (China) and offices in Germany and Japan, with rapid expansion in new

territories such as South East Asia and the Gulf States.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's

OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design

through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and

customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture

worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These

include the iconic Lotus Elise, and the Exige and Europa. Lotus is a global high-tech company,

expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering

clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

Spyker Cars N.V. and Lotus Cars Ltd. announce the signing of a cooperation

agreement.

Spyker and Lotus have reached agreement today on the outline of their intended cooperation,

which will include a Parts and Platform Commonality Agreement (PPCA), a Parts and

Accessories Supply Agreement pursuant to which Lotus would provide certain parts for

Spyker's new C8 Aileron super sportscar, and a concept Design and Engineering Agreement

relating to all of Spyker's future models.

Victor R. Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars comments: "Our company has had a very fruitful

cooperation with Lotus, developed over the past four years, relating to engineering services in

respect of certain components of our cars, as well as in respect of worldwide certification.

Spyker and Lotus have now come to the conclusion that they need to intensify their

cooperation to the point that we intend to share parts and platforms, as well as an agreement

on the supply of parts. Moreover, Lotus Engineering has become Spyker's preferred

subcontractor in respect of a number of engineering projects relating to the Spyker C8 Aileron

and the Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris.

Michael Kimberley, CEO of Lotus Cars Ltd., added: "Lotus is very pleased to be identified as

Spyker's preferred Engineering supplier for these unique "high Brand Image" ground breaking

cars. We look forward to working with Spyker to expand our global business opportunities,

projects and interests for our mutually synergistic Products and Technologies. Lotus

Engineering has a great heritage and solid track record in developing innovative solutions for

clients and we look forward to using Lotus' advanced light weight vehicle know-how and

vehicle dynamics technology to enable Spyker to establish itself as a dynamic premium

automotive player."

About Group Lotus plc:

The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions -

Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognised automotive

engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala

Lumpur (Malaysia), Shanghai (China) and offices in Germany and Japan, with rapid expansion in new

territories such as South East Asia and the Gulf States.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's

OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design

through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and

customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture

worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These

include the iconic Lotus Elise, and the Exige and Europa. Lotus is a global high-tech company,

expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering

clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

About Spyker Cars N.V.

Spyker Cars is a public limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands with its

statutory seat in Zeewolde, the Netherlands. The Company is listed at the Amsterdam stock exchange

since 27 May 2004.

Under the Spyker brand the Company operates a GT race team and designs, engineers, manufactures,

markets and distributes high-end sports cars and aims to do so in the near future for super sports utility

vehicles.

The Company pursues brand recognition by engagement in active racing in the international race arena

and through marketing of personal luxury items, supporting the overall brand image. The Company's

distribution network includes high-end multi franchised dealers and dedicated Spyker dealerships in

selected markets.

release of Gran Tourismo 5 Prologue

The eagerly anticipated 'Gran Turismo 5 Prologue™' for PlayStation®3 was released by Sony

Computer Entertainment UK at a recent launch event in London's Marble Arch and was supported by

Lotus Cars who has two versions of the iconic Elise in the game.

One of the capital's largest underground car parks was transformed into the GT5 Pit Lane which

boasted some of the stars of the game which is heralded as one of the most realistic to date. Alongside

the legendary 1996 Lotus Elise and the now iconic 2004 Elise 111R, other heroes of the game turned

out to support the event including Audi R8, Aston Martin DB9, Corvette Z06, Dodge Viper SRT10, Ford

GT, TVR Tuscan Speed 6, Ford GT and a Ferrari 599.

Mike Kimberley, Group Lotus CEO remarked, "We are delighted to have supported this event and

reinforce our commitment to Sony Entertainment with whom we have a long and valuable relationship.

I'd like to commend the GT5 Prologue team on this outstanding product and thank them for recreating

our Lotus Elise with such integrity and accuracy. We worked very closely with the GT5 team to make

sure the all the Lotus cars in the game are accurate virtual representations of the real cars and that they

perform as closely to the real thing as gameplay allows. "

Sony Computer Entertainment Europe reinforced this sentiment remarking, "Lotus have always been an

integral part of the Gran Turismo experience, and their ongoing support and commitment to excellence

translates into the quality of their cars in game".

Lotus is particularly excited about this most recent version of the GT series as it has a distinct British flavour. For the first time the GT Series includes a London city circuit enabling fans to race around

some of the city's most popular landmarks including Piccadilly Circus, Shaftesbury Avenue, Charing

Cross, the National Portrait Gallery and Trafalgar Square.

Lotus have appeared in 9 of the Bafta award-winning Gran Tourism series and are set to feature in

'Gran Turismo 5', the full title, which launches in 2009.

Key Features Overview:

• The first ever Gran Turismo title with online racing: drive online against up to 16 other Gran Turismo aces

• Race a total of 71 stunning, high-performance cars

• Race the Eiger Nordwand, the Daytona International Speedway, the London City Track , the Fuji Speedway, Suzuka and the

High Speed Ring - and then race them in alternative layouts

• All-new physics engine means true next-generation vehicle handling

• All-new and improved AI opponents for a nail-biting race experience

• Access to Gran Turismo TV : a world of great motoring TV programming online

• In-game museum featuring the history and heritage of the top car manufacturers

• My Garage - a personalised homepage feature with calendar, clock and map & weather of major race circuits worldwide

• Quick Tune facility allows you to adjust power, tyres, suspension and more

• All in stunning High Definition at 1080p

• Drift Mode – The player's drifting technique is measured based on drift angles, racing lines, and speeds within evaluation zones

located at various turns on the course

• In Depth Car Tuning – Players have the ability to adjust the vehicle's performance, including power, tyres, suspension and the

ability for quick tuning whilst racing

• Two-player Split Screen Racing – Allows players to race head-to-head offline

• New Race Events – Online racing fans can join in on a new set of scheduled events and time trials

most. Covered in a patriotic red, white and blue Union Jack design, one Exige 'S' is the recent star of

the Discovery Channel's popular series 'How Do They Do It?'.

With its voluptuous curves and cut-away details, the Exige is one of the most distinctive and unique

cars on the road, so it was a perfect choice for the 'How Do They Do It?' team who were looking for a

challenging case study for their vehicle wrapping feature. 'Totally Dynamic' who specialise in the

application of vinyl wraps were assigned the project and took 10 hours to transform the iconic Exige

for the documentary which follows the project from brief to the finished car making its track debut.

The scheme was developed by Lotus Design to move away from the traditional static Union Jack to

that of a flying flag to show the essence of movement and speed. The finished car is a real attention

seeker and has amazing track presence.

Lotus has a fantastic history of producing one-off and collectors-edition cars and Union Jack Exige sits

amongst Lotus most exceptional and extraordinary looking vehicles. Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group

Lotus commented, "At Lotus we pride ourselves in spearheading the development of technology in

the vehicle market and working on this project was a truly unique opportunity. Lotus Design captured

a very special element of our heritage with the brief, 'great British racing'. The Union Jack theme and

the flying flag concept perfectly embody the Lotus spirit".

'Totally Dynamic' supplied the expertise for the intricate process in which a team of 4 installation

technicians expertly applied a vinyl wrap to the Exige 'S', transforming the car in just 10 hours. The

process was exciting but extremely complex, as 'Totally Dynamic' MD Adrian Rope explained, "Our

whole team was excited by the challenge that the Lotus Exige's stunning contours presented us. It

was a pleasure working on such a thoroughbred car and our experience with high performance

vehicles was crucial to creating the professional finish it deserved.

"It was a real privilege to have been chosen out of all the vehicle wrapping companies in the UK by the

Discovery Channel and Lotus and their faith in us demonstrates why Totally Dynamic is the cutting

edge choice for vehicle transformation."

For a limited time the Union Jack Lotus Exige 'S' will be joining the Lotus Roadshow which consists of

the latest Lotus models and is visiting the UK network of Lotus dealers.

'How do they do it' airs Friday 28th March at 5:30pm on the Discovery Channel.

Choosing your track day performance car has just become a lot more exciting

with the introduction of the entry level 2-Eleven and extensive range of Lotus

Sport performance options.

£27,995 MSRP inc VAT in UK

€34,695 excluding tax, duties & delivery charges

CHF 55,955 excluding tax, duties & delivery charges

The latest Lotus 2-Eleven, bristling with Lotus Sport options and wearing a dramatic carbon

fibre body was exhibited at the 78th annual Geneva International Motor show. This car has

been specified with, amongst other options, the 255 PS (252 bhp, 188 kw) power upgrade,

carbon fibre tonneau cover, four piston front brakes, "Aero Pack" and "Sport Pack" as an

example of how the new range of Lotus Sport options can be configured.

Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc commented: "The 2-Eleven has been exceptionally

well received worldwide, which has provided Lotus with a significant challenge to keep pace

with demand." He went on to add "It is very encouraging to see that the 2-Eleven is asserting

itself as class leader in the track day enthusiast sector and to hear all the incredibly positive

feedback from people enjoying the 2-Eleven's fantastic performance".

The 2-Eleven made its global debut at the 77th annual Geneva International Motor show in

2007 available in launch specification with the supercharged 255 PS (252 bhp, 188 kw)

engine, in either UK Single Vehicle Approval (SVA) or Track Only guise for the introductory

price of £39,995/ € 49,573.

After suggestions from Lotus racers and owners, the 2-Eleven will now be available as an

entry level car with a number of option packs to tailor to owners' individual requirements. As

well as a number of performance option packs such as the Track Day pack and UK road SVA

pack, there are a range of stand alone options that now include two different Limited Slip

Differentials, an FIA approved 70 litre bag fuel tank and a removable competition steering

wheel.

Roger Becker, Vehicle Engineering Director explained, "It is an imperative that all Lotus cars

have to be fun to drive and the 2-Eleven epitomises this DNA rule with its blistering

performance. It provides serious quantities of fun, either whizzing down country roads in SVA

trim or on track pushing to the limits of grip". He continued, "the suspension of the 2-Eleven

has been extensively tuned by our Dynamics Engineers to provide optimum handling for track

driving, giving an involving set-up that rewards drivers with exceptional balance and control at

the limit".

Lotus is a company committed to continual improvement and one facet of this dedication is

pushing the boundaries of performance through light weight. The entry level car, which at 720

kg (1600 lbs) epitomises the Lotus "performance through lightweight" mantra, is powered by

the naturally aspirated, high revving 190 PS (189 hp, 141 kw) engine from the Elise R. This 2-

Eleven even in its most basic specification shows a remarkable turn of pace with the sprint to

60 mph taking just 4.3 seconds and achieving a top speed of 140 mph (225 km/h).

With the introduction of the naturally aspirated model and upgrade options, there are now

many permutations that 2-Eleven can be ordered in, giving an incredible opportunity to create

individual customer bespoke cars – in theory no two cars need be the same! The full Lotus

paint palette including Lifestyle colours, Metallic colours and Premium colours is available to

further customise the 2-Eleven (a full list of 2008 options is attached along with a UK and EU

price list). The Launch colour scheme along with the Red Scorpion, Orange Bobcat, Yellow

Hornet and Green Dragon schemes are all available as a cost option.

The 255 PS supercharged engine as featured on the Launch Edition is retained as an option,

which lowers the zero to 60 mph time to a staggering 3.8 seconds with 0-100 km/h in 4.0

seconds. The addition of the supercharger increases torque to 242 Nm (179 lb.ft), offering

greater flexibility for sensational in gear acceleration and an increase in top speed to 150 mph

(241 km/h).

The entry level and launch edition are available with the incredibly popular UK SVA option

pack, making it possible for owners to drive to a circuit, race around all day and drive home in

the evening without the hassle and expense of a trailer. This option is definitely worth ticking. It

is also now possible to get these 2-Elevens road registered in a number of markets around the

world using the relevant territory specific registration approval process.

The light weight of the 2-Eleven translates into lightning turn-in and intoxicating performance,

providing a very addictive tonic. In entry level specification with the order box for the carbon

fibre body ticked, the 2-Eleven comes in at a featherweight kerb mass of 700 kg (1540 lbs),

which equates to a dry weight of just 648 kg (1430 lbs).

The addition of the Aero Pack gives the ability to change the high speed balance of the car

through adjustment of the rear wing angle: with the wing set at maximum attack over 10 % of

the vehicle's weight is generated in downforce at 100 mph (160 kph). The Aero Pack consists

of a race proven adjustable carbon fibre rear wing and to provide front to rear aerodynamic

balance, a lengthened composite front splitter is incorporated. Even in SVA trim with the road

legal aerodynamic aids the 2-Eleven produces 60 kg (132 lbs) of downforce at 100 mph (160

km/h)

As with all Lotus cars the 2-Eleven steering communicates every nuance of the road, with the

race car derived double wishbone suspension and road legal semi-slick Lotus specific

compound Yokohama AO48 tyres. With the inclusion of the Sport Pack, Ohlins 2-way

adjustable dampers are fitted allowing the suspension to be tuned in harmony with the aero

pack. This gives the option to dial in customer preferred handling characteristics to slice those

final tenths off the perfect lap.

Performance Stats

255 Super Charged 190 NA

Time (secs) Time (secs)

0-60mph 3.8 4.3

0-100kph 4.0 4.5

0-100mph 8.9 11.1

qtr mile 12.2 13.1

80-120kph 4th 3.6 4.9

80-120kph 5th 5.3 6.7

30-50mph 4th 3.0 3.7

40-60mph 4th 3.2 3.7

50-70mph 5th 4.2 5.6

V Max (mph) 150 140

V Max (kph) 241 225

CO2 emissions: 216 g/km

Combined Fuel Consumption: 30.4mpg (9.3/100km

Entry Level Car:

£27,995 (MSRP inc VAT) / €34,695* / CHF 55,955*

2-Eleven High Side chassis

Standard Galvanised Subframe

ABS

Switchable Traction Control

Lotus Sport Drivers Seat (cloth trim)

Standard adjustable drivers seat runners

4 point "E" marked drivers harness

Column Mounted Ignition and Steering Lock

Standard Elise IP with trip meter reset button

12volt Power Socket

Battery Master Switch with Plastic Key

Starter Button

Single Central Mirror

Normally aspirated 190 PS 2ZZGE engine

Non-Catalytic Exhaust Downpipe

Double Pass Expansion Silencer

2-Eleven Specific ECU

Oil/Water Intercooler

Accusump

FIA / SVA compliant fuel filler

Double shear toe link brace

Non – Adjustable Bilstein Dampers 100/110 ride height

Adjustable Front Anti-Roll Bar

Y type 8 spoke Cast Wheels – Hi Power Silver or Black, body Colour Dependant

Yokohama LTS A048 tyres

FIA compliant Rear Roll Hoop

Padding on forward legs of Roll Hoop

Full Grille set

Single Plane SVA compliant GRP rear Wing

Standard Length Front Splitter

Lotus Sport Build Plate

"Lotus Sport" External Decals

"Lotus" and "2-Eleven" Decals

"Union Flag" Decal

Paint from Standard Lotus Range

255 PS Supercharger Pack:

£4,495 (MSRP inc VAT) / €5,575* / CHF 8,985*

Supercharger kit including manifolds

Uprated Fuel Pump

Rear Mounted Air/Air intercooler with ducted entry

Motorsport Clutch

Peak Torque Limiting Valve in clutch line

Twin Air/Oil Coolers

Supercharged 2-Eleven ECU

"Supercharged" Decal

Sport Pack:

£3,495 (MSRP inc VAT) / €4,335 * / CHF 6,985*:

7 Twin Spoke Ultra Lightweight Forged Alloy Wheels – High Power Silver or Black

Ohlins 2 way adjustable dampers

RS 14 brake pads

Braided Stainless Steel Brake Hoses

LSC – Adjustable Traction control

Aero Pack (Track Use Only):

£1,995 (MSRP inc VAT) / €2,475* / CHF 3,985*

Adjustable Carbon Fibre single element rear wing

Aluminium Wing End Plates

Extended front splitter

Track Day Pack:

£1,495 (MSRP inc VAT) / €1,855* / CHF 2,985*

(Not compatible with SVA Pack or Track Day pack with Lights):

Rear DI's, Fog Lights, Reverse Lights and Brake Lights

Rear Lighting Harness

Indicator Stalk

Fog light switch

Side Mirrors

Hand Held Fire Extinguisher

Front and Rear Tow Eyes

Track Day Pack with Lights pack,

£2,495 (MSRP inc VAT) / €3,095* / CHF 4,985*

(Not compatible with SVA Pack or Track Day Pack)

Headlamp units

Front DI units

Mounting panel for headlamps

Side Repeaters

Rear DI's, Fog Lights, Reverse Lights and Brake Lights

Lighting Harness

Lighting Switch panel

Indicator/Dip Stalk

Horn

Side Mirrors

Hand Held Fire Extinguisher

Front and Rear Tow Eyes

UK SVA Pack:

£ 3,495 (MSRP inc VAT) / €4,335* – CHF 6,985*

(Not compatible with Track Day Pack or Track Day Pack with Lights)

Front and Rear Number plate bracket and lights

Headlamp units

Front DI units

Mounting panel for headlamps

Side Repeaters

Rear DI's, Fog Lights, Reverse Lights and Brake Lights

Lighting Harness

Lighting Switch panel

Indicator/Dip Stalk

Horn

Exhaust Downpipe with Catalyst

Side Mirrors

Radius trim

Red Anodised Aluminium Battery Master Switch Knob

Stand Alone Options UK: All prices are MSRP inc VAT

Lotus Sport Passenger Seat cloth trim, Fixed Mounts & 4 Point E Marked Harness £750

FIA approved Drivers Race seat with Bolt-in mounts & 6 point Race harness £750

"Launch Edition" Leather Seat Trim (Sport Seats Only) per seat £350

"Launch Edition" Paint and Graphic Decal Set £2,495

Painted Brake Calipers £495

Forged 5 Spoke (7x16 & 8x17) Black or Hi Power Silver (Sport Pack Only) £500

Twin Air/Oil Coolers (190 NA engine only) £995

Torsen Limited Slip Differential £995

Plate Type Limited Slip Differential £1,695

Removable Steering Wheel and Boss £395

Stage 1 Sport Silencer £285

Cockpit Shower Cover £180

Polished Intercooler Pipes £195

Front and Rear Tow Eyes £250

Hand Held Fire Extinguisher £65

Electrically Fired Plumbed in Fire Extinguisher £1,495

70 litre FIA FT3 bag fuel tank £2,495

FIA Rollover Structure Certificate and Decal £95

Fitted Dust Cover (SVA Rear Wing Version) £295

Fitted Dust Cover (Race Rear Wing Version) £295

Fabric Tonneau Cover (Due May 2008) £495

Carbon Fibre Body Panels (price dependant on specification and finish) £POA

Rigid Tonneau and Screen (GRP) £1,250

Carbon Fibre Rigid Tonneau (price dependant on specification and finish) £POA

Four Piston front calipers and 2 piece front discs £1,495

Anderson Plug External Connector and Cables £250

Stand Alone Options EU: All prices are excluding Tax

Lotus Sport Passenger Seat cloth trim, Fixed Mounts & 4 Point E Marked Harness €930

FIA approved Drivers Race seat with Bolt-in mounts & 6 point Race harness €930

"Launch Edition" Leather Seat Trim (Sport Seats Only) per seat €435

"Launch Edition" Paint and Graphic Decal Set €3,095

Painted Brake Calipers €615

Forged 5 Spoke (7x16 & 8x17) Black or Hi Power Silver (Sport Pack Only) €620

Twin Air/Oil Coolers (190 NA engine only) €1,235

Torsen Limited Slip Differential €1,235

Plate Type Limited Slip Differential €2,100

Removable Steering Wheel and Boss €490

Stage 1 Sport Silencer €355

Cockpit Shower Cover €225

Polished Intercooler Pipes €245

Front and Rear Tow Eyes €310

Hand Held Fire Extinguisher €80

Electrically Fired Plumbed in Fire Extinguisher €1,855

70 litre FIA FT3 bag fuel tank €3,095

FIA Rollover Structure Certificate and Decal €120

Fitted Dust Cover (SVA Rear Wing Version) €365

Fitted Dust Cover (Race Rear Wing Version) €365

Fabric Tonneau Cover (Due May 2008) €615

Carbon Fibre Body Panels (price dependant on specification and finish) €POA

Rigid Tonneau and Screen (GRP) €1,545

Carbon Fibre Rigid Tonneau (price dependant on specification and finish) €POA

Four Piston front calipers and 2 piece front discs €1,855

Anderson Plug External Connector and Cables €310

2-Eleven specific Accessories available from your Lotus Dealer:

High Windscreen (25mm taller than standard) £345

Side Mirrors £150

* Excluding tax, duties, delivery charges and other related costs

Photos of it here: