31 August 2011

More Lotus Than EVER

3 new models

One of these is the Elise S and if you were looking for more torque then this pure Lotus is the answer to your prayers. The Elise S replaces the Elise SC with a new 1.8l super charged engine capable of delivering 220 PS and a power delivery which results in even more torque.

With the new engine and improved throttle response, the Elise S gives an even more exhilarating and lively drive experience. The more efficient engine results in lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions than the outgoing Elise SC.

And the other two new models? You’ll have to wait until Frankfurt to find out about those….

But two little hints, one of these models will be one of the quickest road cars Lotus has ever built and the other marks the return of Lotus to another adrenalin filled motorsport discipline.

2 new options

One of these is the SPS (Serial Precision Shift), the latest gearbox option available for the 1.6l Elise. The SPS option utilises new lightweight robotised automated manual transmission technology to allow the driver to switch between manual and automatic driving modes via paddles fixed to the steering column giving an even more direct connection with the road. The SPS option showcases Lotus’ clever approach to increasing the pure driving experience through innovative use of lightweight technology.

The second new option is IPS (Intelligent Precision Shift) on the Evora S which combines all the power and handling of the supercharged Evora S (3.5l V6 delivering 350 PS) with the versatility of an automatic gearbox. The optional paddle shift mode allows the driver the full and uncompromised Evora S experience with the added bonus of switching to automatic mode. This is the most versatile Evora yet.

The S IPS will feature in the Evora model year 2012 line-up which has benefited from significant quality improvements following extensive development work and feedback.

Both the Elise SPS and the Evora S IPS will feature on the Lotus stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

1 special limited edition

All hail the mighty Evora GTE road car. Producing over 444 PS from the race developed Lotus Evora GTE engine, this is, quite simply, the most powerful Lotus road car ever built. Yet contrary to its extreme roots, the Evora GTE road car also delivers a comfortable and refined element to its high performance driving characteristics.

Originally designed as a special limited edition for the Asian market, Group Lotus can now announce that production will be expanded on the Evora GTE road car to meet demand and reach further markets.

Lotus Lightweight DNA: Clever use of carbon fibre has been integrated extensively throughout the exterior and interior of the car, this is one major contributors to the 105kg weight reduction versus the base Evora. Carbon fibre has been used for all the bodywork modifications including the front and rear bumpers, the rear wing and the doors.

Commenting on the Evora GTE road car, Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar said: “The response to this model in China has been so incredible, within days we had sold out with 114 orders. In response we decided that the only logical step from a business perspective was to increase production and widen our reach.

“What is unique about this car, is not just that it’s a serious race car – it’s a serious car. People get so excited when they see and especially hear it for the first time. It’s a very special car and will appeal to a very special type of driver – and they won’t be disappointed!”

Have we whet your appetite yet? Lotus in Frankfurt – more Lotus than ever. See you there.