Lotus – Page 4 – Automobiles Review

Lotus Exige S Automatic Faster Than the Manual Model?

Lotus Exige S Automatic is here and despite our previous concerns it will surely deliver pure and extreme driving. The convenience of an automatic has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the model. Lotus claims that via both automatic and paddle shift the car is capable of an even more focused driving experience. The control panel is integrated into the centre console of the cockpit and features four buttons: Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive. The forged aluminium, manual-shift paddles are positioned behind the steering wheel cross-spokes.

In fact, the upshifts take only 240 milliseconds, while the downshifts are rapid and are accompanied by a throttle-blip when one drives in the Sport mode. In the same mode throttle response is sharpened and in combination with the Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) it increases the traction slip thresholds, which of course allows the person behind the wheel get even more control on the vehicle.

The same system also opens the engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds. Lotus has also ensured that there is an optional pack, which reduces additionally the intervention of the DPM. It is called Optional Race Pack and includes Race mode.

All of this is further strengthened by the 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, which produces the stunning 345 hp (258 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of optimum torque. If you wonder about the acceleration figures – they are detailed below. Just to mention, the Exige S Automatic reaches 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 162 mph (261 km/h). And believe it or not this is 0.1 seconds quicker than the manual Exige S!

The CO2 emissions are rated at 222g/km while the combined fuel consumption number stands at 29.4mpg. The automatic transmission is offered on both Exige S and Exige S Roadster models.

Performance figures:

Consumption and emissions:

0-60mph – 3.8 s
0-100kph – 3.9 s
0-100mph (0-160kph) – 9.2 s
Max speed – 162mph; 261kph
Power – 345 hp (258 kW)
Power to Weight – 292 hp/tonne (218 kW/tonne)
Torque – 295 lbft; 400 Nm
Kerb weight – 1182 kg

Urban – 20.9mpg (13.6 litres / 100km)
Extra Urban – 39.2mpg (7.2 litres / 100 km
Combined: (official combined) -29.4mpg (9.6 litres / 100 km)
CO2 – 222g/km (manual Exige S – 235 g/km)

Source: Lotus

January 29, 2015

Lotus to Premiere an Exciting new Model in Geneva

No picture and scarce information is what we’ve got from Lotus about a car. The “exciting” vehicle will have its reveal at the Geneva International Motor Show in early March 2015. What we know for sure is that the product will remain true to its core pillars of lightness, performance and driving purity. In fact, these three characteristics will be embodied in a most desirable package.

Probably, there will be a teaser image soon, but until Geneva we don’t think that Lotus will spill any information. So be prepared and have some patience untill the beginning of March. Rumors say that the company will premiere a new generation of Evora. The car is to include revised styling, more in terms of engine and less weight.

The most recent Elise S Cup, which was revealed a few days ago, is already creating great response in the general public. There are headlines and comments like “…most intoxicating sports car at any price” and “…it’s about as much fun as driving gets”.

The Geneva reveal will produce even more for the new upcoming model. We are not likely to see Lotus Elise S Cup‘s engine in the new model. However, it is pretty impressive. It produces a maximum power of 217 hp (160 kW) at 6800 rpm, and 249 Nm (184 lb-ft) at 4600 rpm of torque. The top speed is limited at 140 mph (225 km/h).

Elise S Cup covers the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. And we have to ask ourselves: since the new car will show even more, is it to surpass this number? More than a month left and the mystery will be solved.

Source: Lotus

January 20, 2015

Lotus Transforms Elise S into a Cup Variant

Lotus has transformed its Elise S model into a Cup variant. The enticing new model has already been extensively tested, showing some great results. This engaging model highlights the pure driving competence elicited by Lotus. It is light, agile and significantly faster in comparison to the standard Elise S. The car has developed from the successful Elise Cup R race car and this means that it has a racing pedigree. In line with Lotus history, the S Cup variant has been tested both at Hethel and the Nürburgring Circuit in Germany.

First thing to be mentioned is the dramatic 3.0s reduction of the Hethel lap time. Then, we should point out the exterior appearance, which has been bolstered with some striking additions. Precisely, the car received new front splitter with end winglets, lateral bargeboards, a fixed roof, tail wing and a purposeful rear diffuser. As a matter of fact, the benefits from the enhanced aerodynamics increase downforce by 66kg at 100mph.

Of course, the car has inherited company’s vital characteristics of combined lightweight engineering and chassis rigidity. All of the modifications are track biased, delivering ride and handling in perfect balance.

The exterior appearance is fresh, with applied focus on the details. In addition, in order to create the transition from road to thoroughly focused track car, the Elise S Cup is equipped with a T45 specification roll-hoop and full roll cage.

Some electrical modifications have also been made. They enable easier installation of a fire extinguisher and “kill-switch”. Lotus Elise S Cup is scheduled to roll off the Lotus production line soon. UK price tag starts at £43,500, while in Germany it will be sold for at least €56,525.

Lotus Elise S Cup Specifications:

Max power – 217 hp at 6800 rpm (220 PS)	Fuel Consumption Urban – 28.5 (9.9) (mpg (l/100 km)
Max torque – 184 lb-ft at 4600rpm (250 Nm)	Fuel Consumption Extra Urban – 46.3 (6.1) (mpg (l/100 km)
Max speed – 140 mph (225 km/h)	Fuel Consumption Combined – 37.5 (7.5) (mpg (l/100 km)
0-60 mph – 4.2 seconds	CO2 emissions – 175 g/km
0-100 km/h – 4.6 seconds	Unladen weight – 932 kg

Source: Lotus

January 16, 2015

Lotus Exige S with Automatic Transmission?

Yes, you’ve read that just right! The fastest car in the United Kingdom will be equipped with just two pedals… And we are NOT excited about it. But it is definitely good news for those who are lazy to use their left leg. Lotus has just officially announced that it will equip the Exige S with a six-speed automatic transmission. The so called by Lotus “convenience of an automatic” has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the Exige S.

Just like the manual gearshift, this automatic will provides its driver with all round engagement and excitement which will reflecs the Lotus DNA of pure driving experience. At least we hope so … The dynamic system changes were activated when the driver selects either ‘Sport’ or ‘Race’ mode. The improved gear selection and response deliver quicker all-round performance for sportier experience is desired.

Lotus says that this new introduction opts to make the Exige S model range more accessible to customers worldwide. Now, those who are more accustomed to two pedals can enjoy the exceptional performance and handling of the Exige S without compromise.

Exige S Automatic is currently completing its final stages of testing. And Lotus actually expects to see better performance results than the manual variant. As a matter of fact, Exige S with automatic transmission is as fast as its manual counterpart.

Around the Hethel test track it covers the 0 – 100 km/h sprint 0.1 seconds quicker than the Exige S manual, precisely – 3.9 seconds. The new transmission option will be available to both Coupe and Roadster models. However, we are still counting on the spirited drive with manual transmission that the Exige S can offer. Do you share our point of view?

Source: Lotus

October 27, 2014

Lotus LMP1 Unveiled At 24 Hours Of Le Mans

Lotus LMP1 or the P1/01 has just took a centre stage at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans event and was unveiled to the media and public for the very first time. However, the car didn’t participate in the race due to delays resulting from an unavoidable change in engine supplier. Despite this, the unveiling was an enormously proud moment for the team, because the iconic LMP 1 class represents the highest class of sports car racing. It attracts some of the best drivers in the world and is dominated by world famous manufacturers.

The Lotus LMP1 car is an entirely new car built from the start to meet the new WEC regulations for the LMP1 L privateer racing category. LMP1 car was designed by Chief Designer Paul White and is powered by an AER (Advanced Engine Research) V6 turbo engine.

Precisely, it is an aluminium 6 cylinder, 90 degree V angle Turbocharged unit which uses one turbocharger per bank. It has 2 aluminium cylinder Heads with 4 valves per cylinder and 4 camshafts. The fuel injection system is GDI which features 2 Synchronous High pressure fuel pumps. The ignition system uses Bosch Motorsport Coils and Bosch Spark plugs, while the throttle System is independently drive by wire per bank. The engine is coupled with a six-gear sequential gearbox with pedal shift.

In fact, the LMP1 stands for “Le Mans Sportscar Prototype 1”. The prototype vehicle stands on a chassis built from carbon composites monocoque with CFK crash elements at the front and rear. The vehicle runs on BBS fogged rims of the size 13 x 18 inches both at the front and rear. They are wrapped in Michelin tyres of the size 31/71 – 18 X Radial.

The total weight of the car is impressive – it is just 850 kg, which promises a good performance. This weight is due to the material used for the bodywork which is primarily a lightweight carbon composite. At last, the wheel suspension of the car is independent and includes adjustable dampers.

Source: Lotus

June 16, 2014

2014 Lotus Exige LF1 – Exceptional Performance

Lotus has unveiled the 2014 Exige LF1 Limited Edition created to celebrate the manufacturer’s Formula One “origin”. This summer, totally 81 Lotus Exige S cars will get a Lotus F1 Team livery and interior trim to mark the number of grand prix victories held by the Lotus marque.

2014 Lotus Exige LF1 Limited Edition is based on the Exige S and boasts a black and gold exterior with red accents and special badges. There are also golden alloy wheels and the Race Package including a Dynamic Performance Management system, high-performance brakes and Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo tires.

The interior also comes in two-tone scheme – black and gold leather/fabric seats with embroidered headrests and seat backs, air conditioning and an individually numbered carbon fiber plaque.

Lotus Exige LF1 is powered by a 3.5 liter supercharged V6 – 350HP (257 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 274 km/h (170 mph). The curb weight is 1,176 kg (2,593 lbs).

The customers will also get an “Exige LF1 Membership” that includes a factory tour of Lotus Cars in Hethel and a tour of the Lotus F1 Team headquarters at Enstone. It also includes a Romain Grosjean 1:2 scale replica helmet, a Lotus F1 car key fob, a Lotus F1 Team USB stick and special discounts for the manufacturer’s lifestyle products.

2014 Lotus Exige LF1 Special Edition:

Exterior:

Bespoke black and gold livery with red accents

Bespoke exterior badges incorporating ‘LF1’ logo

Exclusive black and gold ‘Lotus’ nose badge and wheel centres

Interior:

Bespoke trim in leather and technical fabric featuring black and gold design with gold contrast piping and stitching details

Embroidered ‘LF1’ logos on headrests and floor mats

Embroidered ‘Lotus F1® Team’ logo on seat backs

Matt gold 5-spoke 17”/18”cast alloy wheels

Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo Tyres

Race Pack

Two-piece high performance brake discs

Red brake calipers

Air conditioning

Individually numbered limited edition carbon fibre build plate

Bespoke carbon fibre engine plate

Optional Equipment:

Convenience Pack

Heated seats

Rear parking sensors

The Lotus Exige LF1 special edition comes with the following Formula 1 package within the purchase price of the car:

A factory tour for 2 people of the Lotus Cars production facility at Hethel

A factory tour for 2 people of the Lotus F1® Team headquarters at Enstone

Collector’s edition owner’s pack including Exige LF1 Membership card entitling members to 20% discount on Lotus Originals and Heritage ranges and 10% off Lotus F1® Team Replica collection

Romain Grosjean 1:2 scale replica helmet

Lotus F1® car key fob

Lotus F1® Team USB stick

Source: Lotus

June 10, 2014

2014 Lotus Elise S Cup R

Lotus has introduced the 2014 Elise S Cup R, which will take its place alongside the Exige V6 Cup and Exige Cup R as well as the mighty Evora GT4. The small sports car is going to race in Birmingham between 9^th and 12^th January.

Lotus owners looking to race their road cars at weekends, or indeed take racing a step further by entering their Lotus to compete around the world through the global Lotus Cup network; or indeed take part in the almighty GT and endurance series with the outstanding Evora GT4 – there is a Lotus to suit.

2014 Lotus Elise S Cup R is powered by a mid-mounted 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine. It also comes with a bespoke aerodynamic body kit and a motorsport-specific map in the engine control module (ECM).

The body kit includes a revised front splitter, barge boards, winglets, rear diffuser, floor extensions and rear wing. The clever manipulation of air-flow creates extra downforce – and combined with adjustable dampers and springs, lap times are reduced by circa 4 seconds on a 3.54km (2.2 mile) lap over the standard Elise S.

Source: Lotus

January 3, 2014

Lotus Unveils Elise S Cup R

Lotus Elise S Cup R is the latest addition to brand’s motorsport portfolio which is built specifically for the track only. Here for the first time, a supercharged Elise S’ mid-mounted, transverse, 1.8 litre 2ZR-FE engine has been utilized in a Cup variant.

In addition, the vehicle also includes bespoke livery and aerodynamic body kit. The performance of the vehicle is enhanced over the road-going Elise S via a motorsport-specific engine control module (ECM) and a CFD proved aero pack.

The latter comprises of front splitter, barge boards, winglets, rear diffuser, floor extensions and rear wing. In addition, the weight of the car is extremely low – it is only 924 kg. All this results in additional downforce, which when combined with adjustable damper and springs, reduces lap times by 4 seconds on a 5 km lap over the standard Elise S.

The production of the Lotus S Elise Cup R is scheduled in the beginning of 2014. Its starting price is £39,125.

Lotus Elise S Cup R Specifications:

Enhancements:
- FIA Compliant Rollcage (As previous Cup Versions)
- FIA Compliant Fire Extinguisher
- Motorsport Mapped ECU
- Electronic Battery Isolator
- 6-Point Race Harness (Driver Seat)
- Hans Compliant Race Driver’s Seat
- Track Specification Front Tow Eyes
- Quick Release Steering Wheel
- Body Kit
- Brake Pad Upgrade
- Single way adjustable Dampers
- Hardtop
- Motorsport specification triple-pass radiator
- Polycarbonate Rear Screen
- Forged Alloy Wheels
Options:
- FIA Fuel Cell
- Air Conditioning
- Race Passenger Seat (with 4-point race harness fitted)
- Ultra-lightweight Motorsport Wheels
Powertrain:
- All alloy, 1.8 litre DOHC 4 cylinder, dual VVT-i, 16 valve with Magnuson R900 supercharger utilising Eaton TVS™ technology
Transmission:
- 6-speed manual gear box as standard
Suspension:
- Up Rated TCA Kit
Brakes:
- Twin-piston fixed aluminium alloy front brake callipers.
- Single-piston sliding rear brake callipers.
- 288 mm diameter, 26 mm thick front and rear cast-iron cross-drilled & ventilated brake discs
Wheels:
- Forged Alloy
Tyres:
- Yokohama Advan Neova AD07 LTS tyres F: 175/ 55 R16 & R: 225/ 45 R17
Safety systems:
- Lotus ABS/ EDL

Source: Lotus

November 7, 2013

Ron RXX – Another Track Toy

Ron Automobile has published several pictures of their upcoming RXX sports car. Essentially, the vehicle is just another track toy, which is not very suitable for everyday driving.

The super lightweight two-seater comes with a unique ultra modern chassis made of aluminum, fiber body and interiore carbon offering high rigidity. The body is a balance between sensual curves and angled panels that give it an exotic look desired upper elite sports. Although you can legally drive on the streets has an egocentric personality RXX placing the driver in the car center, significantly improving your vision compared passenger.

Three different models – RXX, RXX-S and RXX-R – are planned and they will each have their own unique features and power outputs.

The manufacturer is also developing an R7 that draws inspiration from the Lotus Seven.

Source: Ron

July 12, 2013

2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster Adds More Summer Excitement

2013 Lotus Exige S Roadster will raise the spirits of this summer by its exceptional visual characteristics and new character. It stems from its coupé counterpart – the Exige S and keeps all of the race-bred sports car attributes.

With this convertible, Lotus is completing the Exige line-up and enhances the track focused collection by providing a new facet to the range. To be more precise this cabrio sportscar is powered by the same 3.5L V6 unit which we have seen in the coupé variants, however weighing in at 10kg less than the Exige S at 1166 kg.

The factory-fitted soft top vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.0 seconds, due to the capability of generating 345 hp (254 kW) at 7000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. This basically means that the Roadster matches the coupé’s mechanical performance and in addition has the same price – £52 900.

As a matter of fact, Lotus Exige S Roadster will deliver the lucky driver the perfect “joy” ride. The model is also available with the full list of options and extras found in the coupe variant, but adds additional interior option of quilted leather seats and door trim details.

Lotus Exige S Roadster at a glance:

Max Power: 345 hp (254 kW) at 7000 rpm
Max Torque: 295 lb ft (400 Nm) at 4500 rpm
0 – 60 mph 3.8 seconds
0 – 100 km/h 4.0 seconds
Max Speed: 145 mph (233 km/h)
Weight: 1166 kg

Lotus Exige S Roadster in details:

Engine: Mid-mounted, transverse 3.5 litre DOHC V6 VVTi, 24-valve equipped with Harrop HTV 1320 Supercharger
Transmission: 6 speed manual with sports ratios
Suspension: Fully independent double wishbone suspension with front and rear anti-roll bar; Bilstein high performance gas dampers and Eibach coaxial springs
Braking and Dynamic systems:
- AP-Racing four-piston callipers with ventilated and cross drilled cast-iron discs.
- Lotus / BOSCH Developed ABS/ESP system
- Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
- Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)
- Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
- Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (Lotus DPM)
Wheels and Tyres: Lightweight cast alloy wheels (17” front and 18” rear) clad with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tyres.
Fuel Consumption and CO2 Emissions: urban 19.5 mpg – 14.5 litres / 100km; extra urban 37.2 mpg – 7.6 litres / 100km; combined – 28.0 mpg – 10.1 litres / 100km; CO2 emissions 236 g CO2 / km.

Source: Lotus

May 22, 2013

Hennessey Venom GT – 427.6 km/h [video]

Hennessey Venom GT has managed to hit sensational speed of 427.6 km/h (265.7 mph) on the runway at the Lemoore Naval Air Station in California on February 9^th. This means, that it is officially fastest than Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, which is limited to “just” 415 km/h (258 mph).

However, the Veyron Super Sport still stands in Guinness Records as the “fastest production car” in the world with 431.072 km/h (268 mph). This won’t stop John Hennessey, who has always wanted to steal this record.

As a reminder, the Venom GT is based on Lotus Exige powered by a twin-turbo 6.2 liter V8 with 1217HP (895 kW) and 1564Nm (1155 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed Ricardo manual gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 7.96 seconds and 0-300 km/h in just 13.5 seconds.

The car weighs just 1220kg (2585 lbs).

The price is $950 000.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1d9y2SFLl44

Source: Hennessey Performance via Youtube

April 2, 2013

Lotus Racing Unveils Two New Models at Autosport International

Lotus Racing has just disclosed that it is going to reveal a brand new two Exige models at the 2013 Autosport International Show. In addition to the world debut, both race cars will compete in the race.

The two new derivatives are the the Exige V6 Cup – the latest Cup version for track or road, and the Exige V6 CupR – the pure race-bred car. They will make up part of a three car line-up, where the race winning Evora GT4 will also be on display as a perfect contender for race teams looking to compete in the newly announced SRO GT4 European Trophy.

Furthermore, those who are going to visit the stand of the brand will have the o opportunity to win a Driving Experience Day at the Lotus Driving Academy. In addition, on display will be also the award-winning Exige S and Evora S road cars.

Source: Lotus Racing

January 10, 2013

Tag: Lotus