Lotus – Page 3 – Automobiles Review

Lotus commemorates 50 years since Hethel opening with Evora 400 Hethel Edition

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition front view To mark the 50 years since the foundation of the famous factory in Hethel, Lotus is releasing a limited Hethel Edition model based on the Evora 400. The car will be offered within three exclusive exterior colors and three trim options, respectively. Precisely, the colors to choose from are Essex Blue, Motorsport Black, and Racing Green. When it comes to the interior, one can opt for either black or red leather or Alcantara interior trim, which is in dependency of the bodywork color.

Furthermore, every Hethel Edition 400 comes with lightweight silver forged aluminium wheels, behind which are positioned contrasting brake callipers. Car’s look is rounded out by bespoke graphics. A commemorative build plate will show the significance of the car.

In terms of performance, this limited edition car combines the strength of the high performance Lotus and its unique chassis. At just 1,395kg, the model is an example of efficient engineering. As a matter of fact, the weight is an achievement of Lotus’ Lightweight Laboratory concept.

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition rear view

Being 42 kg lighter than its predecessor, the limited edition Evora 400 accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds) and delivers a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). Of course, here helps the supercharged and charge-cooled, mid-mounted, 3.5-litre V6 engine, which generates 400 hp (294 kW) and 410 Nm (303 lb-ft) of torque.

Just like its siblings, the car has been hand-built; passenger space was improved, thus providing more legroom and wider rear seats. In addition, the added changes to the Evora 400 have increased the size of the door aperture, making it easier to enter the car.

Being the first in a series of special editions, Hethel Edition Evora 400 is marking the important milestone in the company’s history. What is more, the car also demonstrates how customers can personalize their vehicle through the Lotus Exclusive programme.

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition interior

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition Technical Specification:

PERFORMANCE	MANUAL	AUTOMATIC
Max power	400 hp at 7000 rpm (406 PS) (298 kW)
Max torque	302 lbft at 3500 rpm (410 Nm)
0-60 mph	4.1 seconds	4.1 seconds
0-100 km/h	4.2 seconds	4.2 seconds
Max speed	186 mph (300 km/h)	174 mph (280 km/h)
Fuel Consumption mpg (l/100 km)
Urban	20.8 [13.6]	20.0 [14.1]
CO2 emissions	225 g/km	225 g/km
Unladen weight	1395 kg	1407 kg
Aerodynamic downforce at 150mph	32 kg	32 kg

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition Pricing:

UK (Pound Sterling)	£75,500
Germany (Euros)	€100,500
France (Euros)	€101,350
Italy (Euros)	€105,400

Source: Lotus

May 13, 2016

It Аppears Тhat Lotus-3 Eleven is Мore Capable Тhan Еxpected

2015 Lotus 3-Eleven Lotus 3-Eleven, the fastest series production vehicle to come from Hethe Headquarters, has set a new record: the vehicle marked the fastest lap time ever recorded at the well-known Hockernheimring short Circuit with the stunning 1 minute and 06.2 seconds. Driven by Christian Gebhardt, a highly-skilled driver and Road Test Editior for “sport auto” magazine, the 3-Eleven behaved confidently and brave in the harsh weather conditions: the temperature didn’t get higher than 8 degrees Celsius.

This all means that the Lotus 3-Eleven is now at the top of the prestigious German magazine, taking the lead ahead of some well-respected German, Italian, American and British automobile brands.

So, how does the chart look like? Not good for Mercedes lovers out there, I can tell you that.

Lotus 3-Eleven, 1.06:2 min
Porsche 918 Spyder, 1.06:3 min
Gumpert Apollo, 1.07:2 min
Radical SR3 SL, 1.08:1 min
Lamborghini Gallardo Squadra Corse, 1.08:2 min
=Corvette ZR1, 1.08:3 min
=Ferrari 488 GTB, 1.08:3 min
Porsche 911 GT2 RS, 1.08:4 min
Porsche 911 GT3 RS (991), 1.08:5 min
Mercedes SLS AMG Black Series, 1.08:6 min

What makes the vehicle so agile and powerful?

This is a next-gen Lotus vehicle that is especially designed to deliver highest possible levels of sportiness and swiftness with ultra-lightweight body, bespoke chassis design and countless aluminum components.

SEE HERE MORE ABOUT THIS VEHICLE: Lotus 3-Eleven: Is it That Interesting or Is It Just Trying to Be?

The vehicle is powered by a refined V6 supercharged power unit that provides a total of 460hp (338kW) which ensures a 0-100 sprint that ends in 2.9 seconds and offers a maximum speed of 290hp (180kW).

2015 Lotus 3-Eleven

And here is an exclusive video that shows how the record time was achieved:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X2hMgSDizV0

Source: Lotus

March 14, 2016

Evora 410: What Makes it Better Than the Predecessor?

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410 Recently after the showcase of Elise Cup 250, Exige Sport 350 and Evora 400, Lotus takes one more step forward with the showcase of the high-performance Evora Sport 410. With tons of improvements, tweaks and fine-tunes the latest Lotus family member offers a 410hp (301kW) power unit with track-bred 3-Eleven that clocks 0-100km/h (62mph) in 3.9 seconds.

With significant weight reduction, power improvements and additional gadgets, Evora Sport 410 is capable of going for a lap in brand’s Hethel test in 1 minute and 28 seconds, making it faster with the impressive 3 seconds, compared to Evora 400.

Of course, one of the main advantages of the new Evora 410 is the lightweight construction that includes high-performance carbon-fiber front splitter, roof panel, tailgate and rear diffuser, along with restyled lightweight seats and revised front access panel. Also important to the overall performance is vehicle’s reduced kerb weight that allows some further suspension fine-tuning, which, eventually resulted on revised damping and overall ride height with 5mm lower than Evora 400. And at the end of the lightweight fairytale let’s not forget the distinctive and ultra lightweight 10-spoke aluminum wheels.

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410

Also, to continue the sport affair, Lotus team geared the new Evora with manual gearbox that features low inertia flywheel and Torsen-type limited slip differential for improved traction and quicker exit speeds. Also new for this model is the Dynamic Performance Management that provides two driving modes: Sport and Race.

The interior also contains numerous carbon-fiber elements, like the new sport seats with Alcantara, along with the steering wheel and central console. Some more weight savings have been made by adding one-piece door trim panels, deletion of door arm rests and stowage pockets, relocation of tailgate and fuel filler. Oh, yeah. They have also removed the audio system. But don’t worry. You can get it as an additional feature.

And as we speak about additional features, we should also say that the new Evora can be further personalized with additional goodies and changes, thanks to the exclusive Lotus Exclusive program.

2016 Lotus Evora Sport 410

Oh yeah. And one more thing. Lotus Evora Sport 410 will be limited to only 150 units, so if you are interested in buying one, make it fast.

Source: Lotus

February 26, 2016

Is the New Lotus Elise Cup 250 That Good? Let’s Find Out!

2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250 Lotus keeps proving that less means more and now it has done it one more time with the performance-oriented Elise Cup model. Coming with enhanced drivetrain system, this sweetie is lighter with 21kg and more powerful with a total of 26hp, compared to its predecessor. So, what else is special about Cup edition? Let’s find out!

The new Elise Cup 250 impeccably fits the idea of “light is right” with all of its optimized, lightweight and more powerful drivetrain components. This model come with recalibrated ignition system, wider front tires and sharper and more responsive steering.

In terms engine power and performance, the sweetie is geared with 1.8-liter 4-cylinder power unit thatproduces a total of 243hp (178kW) and 250Nm of torque between 3,500 and 5,500 rpm. Furthermore, Lotus Dynamic Performance Management system provides and additional Sport mode that, when engaged, increases throttle response, lowers traction slip and removes understeer recognition.

Also, the aerodynamically optimized body kit provides a total of 66kg of downforce at 100mph and the impressive 155kg at 154mph. The special body shape is also the key to that focused handling and improved acceleration. There is also an optional Carbon Aero pack that replaces the front splitter, rear wing, rear diffuser and side floor-extensions with lightweight carbon components and reduces the overall weight with additional 10kg.

2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250

A bit of downfall is the fact that Elise Cup 250 bring the suspension and brake systems from the Elise Cup 220, including the adjustable front anti-roll bar, Blistein sport dampers and Eibach coaxial coils springs and double wishbone suspension. We don’t say these are bad, but we were expecting something different this time. However, there are larger switches with improved haptics, new headlights and rear fog lights.

Also as a standard feature, the vehicle is geared with full Alcantara interior in red and black color scheme with optional Leather Pack. The interior also adopts the in-car entertainment system with iPod connectivity and Bluetooth functionality.

In terms of personalization, Lotus offers a total of ten color choices for the exterior, and of course, Lotus offers some other personal tweaks via Lotus Exclusive programme. Definitely the blend between British craftsmanship and contemporary design is the right one for the luxury brand.

2016 Lotus Elise Cup 250

So, what do you think about the new Elise Cup 250?

Source: Lotus

February 17, 2016

Lotus Launches A Special Video In Honor of the 2016 Exige Sport 350 [VIDEO]

We have told you about the new Lotus Exige Sport 350: this is the latest and greatest model of the class-leading and award-winning sports vehicle. It comes with more power, lower weight and improved capabilities.

But it looks like Lotus team is still not satisfied with model’s advertisement appearance, so they decided to review one more time its latest creation in a special video. It demonstrates where improvements have been made and a glimpse of what is to be around such a machine in its moments of pure power demonstration.

httpv://youtu.be/w6sxakg-nTk

The 3.5-liter supercharged V6 unit offers a total of 345hp (253kW) and torque of 295lb-ft of torque at 4,500rpm. This power output ensures progressive and focused power, while the improved suspension system and the new wheel geometry ensure incredible dynamics and stable performance. All these, along with many more features contribute to the 3.7 seconds 0 to 100km/h (62mph) sprint and the top speed of 274km/h (170mph)

The new Exige Sport 350 is here to show that Lotus engineers are capable of creating even better vehicle than the Elise Sport 220, which was considered as one of brand’s best models through its entire history. Staying true to the Lotus spirit, the new model shows not only passion in the making, but also passion for conquering new speed challenges.

Source: Lotus

December 18, 2015

Evora 400: Is It the Most Appealing Lotus Yet? [VIDEO]

2016 Lotus Evora 400 By far, the most powerful Lotus in production, the Lotus Evora 400 comes as superior as you have never expected from it. This beast is not only beautiful, but it is also flexible, mean and aggressive. So, let’s check it out!

2016 Lotus Evora 400

This sweetie is geared with fresh and powerful supercharged and charge-gooled mid-mounted 3.5-liter V6 unit that produces a total of 400hp (298kW) at 7,000rpm, which makes significant difference, compared to the old model that offers 345hp (253 kW), while the torque is increased to a total of 410Nm between 3,500 and 6,500rpm. I told you. This car is not only strikingly beautiful, but also strikingly powerful.

Furthermore, Evora 400 is with 42 kg lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the redesigned and completely aluminum chassis and restyled and changed lightweight components. The latest Lotus machine is comes also with even more beautiful exterior design. The well-known elegant, but still aggressive lines are present, along with that steadily-confident expression.

2016 Lotus Evora 400

The vehicle is extremely capable and flexible, thanks to the fresh and revised springs, damper settings, Limited Slip Differential and a downforce figure of 32 kg at 242km/h (150mph). In fact, this is one of the fastest vehicles in class A to B and now it offers sharper and more focused driving experience. But at the end, you should see for yourself. This video captures vehicle’s character, aggression and passion.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CGUZH13X5nA

So, do you like it?

November 5, 2015

Lotus 3-Eleven: Is it That Interesting or Is It Just Trying to Be?

Lotus 3-Eleven is finally here! The high performance sports car was unveiled at the 2015 Goodwood Festival of Speed and it expands the brand’s lineup of expensive and high-end vehicles. Created with the well-known Lotus manner, the 3-Eleven has a lot to offer. But we all wonder if there are really some original features, or this is the same machine in different clothing. So, let’s check out.

First of all, the Lotus 3-Eleven definitely tries to stay as dramatic as possible and as powerful as possible. The vehicle comes with restyled lightweight body and interesting design (especially the rear) and an overall power output, measured at 450 hp (330 kW). In fact, trying to be more flexible, the Lotus 3-Eleven will be offered in two variations: Road and Race. The difference is that, the Race model will come with more-aggressive appearance and some aerodynamic and drivetrain improvements.

Lotus 3-Eleven

Furthermore, the Race version of the Lotus 3-Eleven comes with weight of about 900 kg and offers some tweaked weight-power ratio, compared with the Road version. The Race guy goes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.0 seconds and from that impressive start chases the top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph). But the Road brother isn’t that slower, if we have to be honest. It offers almost the same acceleration, but the top speed is 280 km/h (174 mph). So, it is not that bad, if you chose the Road version.

Lotus 3-Eleven in depth

Powertrain

The 3-Eleven comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, that offers supercharger and a special cooler system. We mentioned, that it offers a total of 450 hp (330 kW), but we haven’t told you anything else. Furthermore, the Lotus 3-Eleven offers 450Nm with maximum torque from 3500 to 6500 rpm. To control this power, Lotus engineers also fitted a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox, that comes and with a Torsen-type limited slip differential.

Brakes and Tyres

The Lotus team this time relied on forged aluminum wheels and two types of tires: Michelin Pilot Super Sport or Michelin Cup 2. It depends which Lotus 3-Eleven you chose: the Race or the Road version.

Exterior

Surely the engineering team tried to combine functionality and style. But I am not sure about the second. Even though the vehicle is beautiful, I still miss these small details and tweaks, that make you just want to hug the car. However, the Lotus 3-Eleven still has interesting features to offer. For example, the vehicle is now with 40% lighter than the GRP model.

In fact, the vehicle has its own confidence, but I still think, that the front is somehow unpolished. But this minor problem actually compensated by the interesting lines on the sides and the confident and massive manly-looking back. Just look at the elegant and smooth lines at the sides and how they contrast with the aggressive and somehow badass-looking rear.

Lotus 3-Eleven

Interior

Definitely the race character of the Lotus 3-Eleven dominates the interior. In fact, the domination is so serious, that the interior looks..boring. Yes, boring, despite the fact it is functional and driver-focused. But despite the not-that-interesting-looks, the Lotus 3-Eleven has still some goodies to show. For example, the TFT instrument cluster aeroscreen. There is also a special steering wheel and redesigned seats. Furthermore, the cabin offers data logger system, FIA approved race seat, fire extinguisher and battery kill switch.

Manufacturing

Maybe one of the best news about the Lotus 3-Eleven is that, it will be hand-made. The Lotus Headqurters in Hethel will offer conditions to skilled craftsmen, so they can provide customers with only high quality materials and overall superior building quality.

As you can see, the Lotus 3-Eleven is still a wonderful vehicle, despite some minor problem and misunderstanding. I wonder, what do you think about it?

Source: Lotus

June 29, 2015

What is the Pricing of the Lotus Evora 400?

Lotus has finally announced the pricing of the fastest and most powerful car in its range, the Evora 400. The first deliveries will happen in August and this is when the lucky customers will enjoy for vehicle’s high levels of standard specification. Of course, the Evora 400 will deliver nothing less but the iconic for the brand handling, however in more efficient and dynamic way.

To remind you of car’s capabilities, it laps the test track at Hethel six seconds faster than the previous Evora S in a time of 1 minute 32 seconds. Better agility and more involving drive are playing a crucial role here.

Speaking in numbers, the maximum speed is rated at 186 mph (300 km/h), while the acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph happens in only 4.1 seconds. 4.2 seconds is for 0 to 100 km/h sprint.

In fact, over two thirds of the Lotus Evora 400 is new. This includes also the powerplant. It is supercharged and charge-cooled mid-mounted 3.5-litre V6 that is capable of generating 400 horsepower (294 kW) and 410 Nm (303 lb-ft) of torque.

In addition, car’s new aluminium chassis has resulted in a brand new interior, while the lightweight composite body has been significantly changed. And if you are impatient to know the pricing, official UK prices start at £72,000, while in the US the car will be offered for $89,900USD and in Europe – for €96,000.

For this amount of money, the customer will get AP Racing 370 mm composite two piece brake discs from, a Limited Slip Differential, automatic air-conditioning and infotainment system including satellite navigation. Of course, there is an option list, which includes automatic transmission, Alcantara or Leather trim upgrades as well as a “Black Pack” option with distinctive look.

Evora 400 is entering production in the summer with first deliveries in August. However, this happens only for those living in Europe. North Americans will get the car in December this year, while in China the first deliveries will happen in early 2016.

Source: Lotus

May 19, 2015

The Most Powerful Evora 400 Validated at Hethel

In February we saw the birth of the most powerful Lotus ever – the Evora 400. Then, at the Geneva Auto Saloon we witnessed its official public reveal. Now, the company has finally proved this with early tests, carried out by the Technical Manager for Lotus Motorsport, Gavan Kershaw. He drove the new Lotus at Hethel, boasting an advantage of six seconds per lap. During the tests he drove an Evora with standard road specifications, running on road tyres and suspension.

The Evora 400 is the latest supercar Lotus has produced. It features significantly reduced weight (by 22kg), additional 55 hp and better traction due to the addition of a limited slip differential. This basically means that the car is faster and more athletic in comparison to the previous generation Evora and this in turn hints for advantages in terms of agility and driving.

To go even further into details, the new model has a maximum speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). But more impressive is the fact that it can accelerate from 0-60 mph in only 4.1 seconds. This time extends to 4.2 seconds for the 0-62 mph acceleration sprint.

This capability is due to the addition of an entirely new powerplant, which is the 3.5-litre V6 engine. It generates 400 horsepower (294 kW) and 410 Nm (303 lb-ft) of torque. As a matter of fact, more than two thirds of the car is entirely new. This also includes the aluminium chassis, interior and the lightweight body.

At last, we should also mention that the new Evora 400 is scheduled to for a production start this summer, and will be available in European countries in August. The North Americans will have the chance of driving it as a 2016 model year, while the car will be debuting this autumn. In China, Lotus has decided to release the Evora 400 in the beginning of next year.

Source: Lotus

April 30, 2015

Lotus Reached 40,000 “Small Car Platform” Models

2015 Lotus Elise Since the first Elise, that was introduced in 1995, Lotus has kept its incredible style and performance on the highest levels. The so called “small car platform” maintains the well known incredible standards, that include weight and fuel efficiency, and at the same time delivers unseen performance and pleasure of driving. As you know, the “small car platform” is defined by models like the Elise, Exige, Europa, 2-Eleven.

Since its first days on the market, Lotus sets its high standards, that influence not just one, but every brand in the motor industry. Meanwhile Lotus team continues the development and upgrading of its own system and technology.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO for Group Lotus plc says that 1995 wasn’t just a landmark for some past and glorious period. The brand, he ensures us, continues to expand, improve and deliver the best and most anticipated vehicles on the market.

Mr. Gales continues:“We are especially delighted that the 40,000^th version of our small car platform will underpin, appropriately, an Elise 20^th Anniversary model, the latest Elise model that celebrates our landmark achievements. Looking to the future, the platform will continue to be developed, improved upon and form a solid and dependable base for future new models demonstrating the production flexibility of the technology and its importance to Lotus.”

Source: Lotus

April 22, 2015

Lotus Introduces the Extreme Exige S Club Racer Coupe

Lotus Exige S Club Racer Front and Side View It is obviously Lotus time these couple of days, since the Elise Anniversary Special Edition was previewed yesterday and Exige S Club Racer is new the next in the row. As the name suggests this Exige S will be implying the Club Racer principles, thus delivering even more dynamic and exhilarating performance. It will be offered in a coupe variant only.

The current model is build above the lightweight aluminium chassis-tub and also features aerodynamic composite bodywork. These facts will help its engine, the 3.5-litre supercharged V6, accelerate the track focused car from 0 to 62mph (0-100km/h) in no more than 4.0 seconds. The top speed is also astounding and it is 274 km/h (170 mph).

In particular, the club racer is 15kg lighter than the Exige S, measuring a total of 1161kg. Helping for this achievement are the lightweight battery and centre console that has been painted in body colour. Adding to this are the lighter doors and sports seats in leather/Alcantara accentuated by contrasting stitching.

In addition, the car will also have three driving settings: ‘Drive‘, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’. They will help the driver easily maintain control over the vehicle. What is more, the last two settings will help in the improvement of the throttle responsiveness.

Exige S Club Racer will be offered in four distinctive colors: Metallic White, Exige Orange, Metallic Yellow and Matt Black. The latter shade is also the one adorning components like the front splitter and rear wing, wing mirrors and rear transom, and more. There are also Club Racer decals above the side indicator as well as on the dashboard and seats.

The car is currently on sale and has a starting price of £56,900.

Source: Lotus

March 21, 2015

The New Evora 400 is the Most Powerful Lotus Ever

Lotus has officially taken the wraps off of its 2015 Evora 400. Described as the “fastest and most powerful production Lotus ever,” the vehicle amalgamates excellent performance with the historic Lotus benchmark handling.

Power is provided by a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 400 bhp (406 PS / 298 kW) with a maximum torque of 410 Nm (302 lb-ft). It can be mated to a revised six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. Performance-wise, the Lotus Evora 400 can cover the 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) run in 4.1 seconds before hitting a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). As impressive as it is, the model managed to complete the Hethel test track six seconds faster than the previous model.

As we can see, Lotus Evora 400 has a very recognizable style in terms of the exterior. The aggressive styling is underlined by a new front bumper with larger air intakes, distinctive LED daytime running lights, ventilated rear bumper, sporty-looking diffuser, modified mirrors and a prominent three-element rear wing. 19- / 20-inch lightweight forged aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot Super Sport adorn the silhouette of the new Lotus as well. Moreover, it weighs 22 kg (48 lbs) less than its predecessor thanks to its reworked aluminum chassis. Other features include retuned suspension, beefed-up brakes and a standard Limited Slip Differential (LSD) on units equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox.

Inside there have been some very notable changes. The cabin features a new dashboard, redesigned center console, a renewed instrument cluster, new front seats and a forged magnesium steering wheel with a red position stripe.

2015 Lotus Evora 400 will enter production this summer with first European deliveries commencing in August. North America will welcome the car as a 2016 model this autumn.

Source: Lotus

February 18, 2015

Tag: Lotus

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition Technical Specification:

Lotus Evora 400 Hethel Edition Pricing:

What makes the vehicle so agile and powerful?

Lotus 3-Eleven in depth

Powertrain

Brakes and Tyres

Exterior

Interior

Manufacturing