Lotus – Page 5 – Automobiles Review

Lotus Evora Sports Racer – UK Price £57,900

Lotus has announced a more expensive versions of Evora and Evora S. Lotus Evora Sports Racer comes with everything that you need for some serious fun.

The special edition vehicles has some gloss black accents on the front splitter, side sills, roof and rear diffuser. The brake calipers can be painted in either red or black and the exterior color range includes: Ardent Red, Nightfall Blue, Carbon Grey and Aspen White.

The interior gets black leather and contrasting red stitching for the seats. There is also a red leather with black stitching variant. The Sports Pack is standard and includes a Sports mode that raises the rev limit and increases throttle response. It also contains cross-drilled brake discs and a rear diffuser.

The Tech Pack brings some nice goodies – better audio, 7” touchscreen, DVD player, Bluetooth/USB/iPod support, rear parking sensors, cruise control and a tire pressure monitor system. Lotus has also added a reversing camera and power folding mirrors.

Lotus Evora has a 3.5 litre V6 with 280HP (206 kW) and 342Nm (253 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 261 km/h (162 mph). The fuel consumption is just 6.5 l/100 km on the highway. The Evora Sports Racer starts from £57,900.

Lotus Evora S is powered by a 3.5 liter DOHC supercharged V6 VVT-i engine with 350HP (257 kW) at 7,000RPM and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4,500RPM. 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and the top speed is 276 km/h (172 mph). It comes with with a new active exhaust that, at a push of a button, can emit some seriously deep sounds. The Evora S Sports Racer is £65,900.

Thanks to the super lightweight of just 1437 kg, the car is able to offer offer a fuel consumption of up to 7.6 l/100km on the highway.

Source: Lotus

December 20, 2012

Lotus Exige V6 Cup Racer Officially Launched

Lotus Exige V6 Cup Racer has been officially launched during this weekend’s Lotus Festival at Brands Hatch. The new track-focused model is offered in two variants a Track Day version and a full-on Competition-spec car.

The top speed of this Lotus model hits 274km/h, and the acceleration here from 0 to 100 km/h is just 3.8 seconds. This astonishing performance is due to the 346 horsepower (255 kW) 3.5 litre supercharged V6 engine.

The Exige V6 Cup weighs 1080 kg, and comes with Lotus Dynamic Performance Management. This allows a switch of the engine and traction settings between Touring, Sport and Race.

In addition the racecar is equipped with Pirelli P-Zero Trofeo tyres; aerodynamically optimized front splitter, rear diffuser and wing; multi-adjustable suspension; and race-ready kit such as a heavy-duty roll cage, 4 or 6-point harnesses, isolator switches, FIA-approved fire extinguisher, tow eyes, removable steering wheel and HANS-compliant race seats.

The first cars will roll off the production line in December this year with an allocation of 20 examples through to March 2013. The price of the Track Day version starts at £62 995 and the one of the Competition-spec car starts at £74 995.

Source: Lotus

August 21, 2012

Lotus Evora GTC – 456 HP and 460Nm

Lotus has announced the racing version of Evora – the GTC model.

It comes with a lot of carbon fiber elements to save weight – doors, roof and engine cover. There is also Plexiglass windows for additional weight savings. Thanks to all these mods, the car dropped its weight with 30kg to 1130 kg (2491 lbs.).

Traction control and BOSCH racing Anti-Lock Brakes system have been added to optimize power delivery and braking control.

The wheels and tyres are wider which not only gives the car more grip through the curves, the front and rear wheels rise to 18x10Js and 12Js respectively, mated to 27/65-18 tyres at the front and 30/65-18 at the rear.

In order to accommodate the wider wheels, flared arches have been fitted, which give the car a more aggressive silhouette.

Evora GTC is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine with 456HP (335 kW) and 460Nm (339 lb-ft). It is mated to an XTRAC 6-speed sequential paddle-shift transmission.

“The Evora’s development and a front-row racing car is achieving its performance targets and the GTC is an evolution of a car that has already taken wins on the track – the GT4 Enduro. Last month Team Bullrun took victory at Silverstone in the Britcar endurance championship with a GT4 Enduro that benefitted from GTC development parts, and the team’s upgrade will be completed in June when there’s an appropriate lull in their racing schedule. The car’s weight-saving and improved grip and braking abilities should help increase the gap between them and the teams chasing them in the championship. We’re very pleased to welcome McMahon Raceworks to Lotus ownership and will provide them with a car adapted to US racing rules, and look forward to seeing the GTC make its marque in Grand-Am.”, commented Claudio Berro, director of Lotus Racing.

Source: Lotus

May 14, 2012

Lotus Esprit by Cam Shaft

News from Cam Shaft. Yes, the company that ruined a rare Veyron with some silly wrapping. This time though, they seem to have done things properly. The car that has gone under the knife is a V8 Lotus Esprit made no earlier than 1996. Its standard output of 354 hp has been revamped, the gearbox has been replaced, the brakes are new and the bodywork serves as a tribute to the late Ayrton Senna.

The guys at Cam Shaft had a wonderful engine to work with right from the start – twin-turbocharged 3,506 cubic cm of power, 400 Nm of torque and 354 hp. The overall weight of the car amounted to just 1,380 kg which enabled it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 282 km/h – monumental figures for the time.

By placing a Red Race control device on the car’s computer and by adding Forge adjustable cases inside the turbo compressor pumps, Cam Shaft manage to extract more juice from the Esprit’s V8. The intercooler has also been replaced and two 100-cell structure catalysts have been fitted so that now we have a 492 hp Lotus – quite up to today’s standards. Apparently, tests have shown that the zero-to-hundred time now stands at 4.3 seconds and the top speed stops counting at 305. Needless to say that, considering the new power surge, the gearbox needs to be up to standards as well. That’s why, at Cam Shaft, they have replaced it entirely with a 6-speed Dog-Engagement gearbox equipped with a longer total ratio. The brakes are also been replaced with ones that are bigger and more heat-efficient.

Finally, the wrapping – a black bodied trim that is pretty much reminiscent to Senna’s John Player Special 97T Formula 1 car. It even has his signature on it. It was the car with which he won his first championship. An honorable way to remember a racing legend.

Source: Miranda Media

May 1, 2012

Lotus Evora GTE China Edition in Beijing

Lotus has exhibited the new Evora GTE China Limited Edition at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show.

The upgrades include more leather and carbon fiber applications for the interior. The car also comes with revised suspension. Only 118 units will be produced , making it all the more exclusive and collectable. Each car features a numbered plaque inside, marked with the China Limited Edition insignia.

The Evora GTE China Limited Edition is powered by the supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 444HP (327 kW) connected to a sequential Automated Manual Transmission powering the rear wheels.

“As the top potential market for sports car brands, China is a vital part of the five-year revival plan we announced 18-months ago. We are committed to bringing our unique products, distinctive style and rich history to China to provide Chinese customers with diversified and personalized product choices.”, commented Dany Bahar, CEO, Group Lotus.

“Within six months of Lotus Cars’ entry into China, orders have exceeded our expectations, which has strengthened our confidence in developing the China market. At the same time, in accordance with the China market’s characteristics and customer requirements, we have developed the Lotus Evora GTE China Limited Edition which we are launching here in Beijing, together with the Evora IPS.”, Lichen Zhang, President & CEO, Lotus China finished.

Source: Lotus

April 25, 2012

2012 Geneva Motor Show: Lotus Exige S Roadster

Lotus has unveiled the Exige S Roadster at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show. The vehicle is based on the well-known Elise, but comes with enormous V6 in the middle.

The supercharged 3.5 liter V6 develops 350PS (257 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual or an optional SPS (Serial Precision Shift) gearbox. 0-100 km/h in 4.0 seconds, to 160 km/h in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 233 km/h (145 mph). The fuel consumption is good – 10.1 l /100km (28.0 mpg UK) with CO2 emissions of 236 g/km.

The car comes with two different suspension settings. There’s the standard setting for an active driving experience suited to public roads; and an optional setting as part of the Race Pack for maximum performance, developed for track use. The launch control system can be activated when the car is in Race mode.

Outside, it’s a fine balance of beauty and the beast. The drop-top adds extrovert style to the Exige’s already muscular contours, at the same time it is an elegant machine that keeps its clenched fist under wraps

Inside, the car is a lesson in stylish minimalism and functionality. The customer can specify a comfort enhanced plush interior or go for a more stripped down, sporty option.

2012 Lotus Exige S Roadster will hit the European and the Asian markets, but there are no plans to be introduced in the USA.

Source: Lotus

March 8, 2012

MOV’IT and Lotus

MOVIT and Lotus MOV’IT have been specializing in creating ultra-performance brake systems. That’s why they was nominated by the famous British car maker Lotus as a brake supplier and technology partner.

“We always start from scratch with a “blank piece of paper”, because no car is exactly like the other: Power, weight, maximum speed, mounting suspension, power transmission or dynamic – everything has to be factored in accurately, and only after that the final design can be brought to paper, and subsequently on the road.”, said Guido Frensemeyer.

“The serial nomination by Lotus supports the development and the performance of our company and represents the next landmark in our company’s development. The continuous further development in all areas along with the underlying process landscape allows us to be a competent partner, even for the most demanding automobile manufacturers. The fact that we are already working with some of the leading German car manufacturers on specific projects, and that we are in the process of being approved as series supplier as well, emphasizes this. We are looking forward to experience the fruits of our work on the road – in the next car models from Lotus.”, added Frank Scherer, Director of the MOV’IT GmbH and CEO of the MOV’IT Group.

Lotus is aiming to compete with one of the best on the market – Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini. Because of this, they won’t only need superb engines like the new 5.0 litre V8 with 620PS, but superb braking systems. MOV’IT has both solutions – steel and ceramic.

Source: MOV’IT

February 20, 2012

Torpedo Run 2011: One of the last adventures of our time

Driving, action and having fun – the Torpedo Run is a horsepower-orgy Standing in the light of sports cars and luxury limousines, Torpedo Run – a horsepower-party – combines driving, action and having fun altogether! This is happening for the 7^th time and this time the goal is to promote it on daily events, while in the evening, exquisite gourmet pleasures pleased the sense of taste.

To be more precise the automobile party included participants from all over Europe. It lasted three days and led from Bad Ragaz in Switzerland, through the towns of Kitzbühel and Velden in Austria, till the Mediterranean Coast in Slovenia. What is to be highlighted is that this year’s program offered a new race-track with Formula 1 license, fast bobsled runs and an adventurous off-road excursion in steep mountains!

In these three days there could be seen enormous power and a pure sound party at the Torpedo Run 2011. For instance, you could see rare sports cars and exotics like Wiesmann MF 5 Roadster, Corvette ZR1, Ferrari 430 Scuderia, Lexus IS-F or an almost 600 hp/441 kW strong Mustang GT in muscle car design. Moreover, there were Porsches and compact sports cars such as BMW 1 Series M Coupé or Lotus Elise.

All these beauties were driven almost everywhere on this perfect occasion. In addition, the Torpedo Runners enjoyed a lot of nice corners and impressive landscapes with stunningly beautiful sights. The specific roads in the Alps made the Torpedo Run even more exciting and gave pure pleasure to the drivers!

Of course, there was a special arena – The new Red-Bull-Ring, where the Torpedo Runners were speeding on the new Red-Bull-Ring. This Ring is actually the Austria Ring or A1 Ring Red Bull, but more modernized and improved! Thank to it one could hear the sound of the engines and feel their power, while driving skillfully through the fast downhill corners.

A lot of adrenalin got produced these three days: the Torpedo Runners drove down a mountain in a 3535 meters long roller coaster with steep turns and “jumps” with descents of up to 6 meters! Even more, they experienced the legendary Olympic bobsleigh run of Innsbruck. With around 100 kph, the teams sped down the 14 corners on the 1270 meters long run!

On the other hand the Torpedo Runners switched cars to off-road cars! They enjoyed “off-roading” a mountain in the Alps. The route wasn’t a light one and led over a bumpy and narrow gravel road with tight corners, which have been built into the sheer mountain inclination. This is one of the most difficult itineraries in the Alps; however the Torpedo Runners performed their best!

The Torpedo Run 2011 was definitely great fun for all of the participants. It was mentioned as one of the most exciting and exclusive events of the year. The result is that all of the participants are eagerly looking forward to the next Torpedo Run 2012! The great news is that everyone can join it, but hurry up because the reservations have already started at www.torpedorun.com! The next 2012 Torpedo Run will take place on an extended weekend in September.

December 5, 2011

Lotus Evora GTE Limited Edition

Lotus has revealed Evora GTE Limited Edition at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

It is powered by a 3.5 liter V6 with 444PS (327 kW), which is mated to a sequential AMT (Automated Manual Transmission) racing gearbox. The car also boasts lightweight, forged alloy rims with central locking fitted with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires.

Lotus also cut the overall weight with 105 kg (227 lbs) over the standard Evora model.

The interior comes with lightweight Recaro seats made of carbon. There are also some other carbon elements and leather upholstery.

“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.”, said Group Lotus CEO Dany Bahar.

“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!”, he fisnihed.

Source: Lotus

September 16, 2011

2012 Lotus Exige S

2012 Lotus Exige S is exhibited at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The manufacturer has also introduced Exige R-GT.

Lotus Exige is probably the best handling car in the world and now comes with superbly powered 3.5 liter supercharged V6 from Evora S. The output is no less than 350PS (257 kW) at 7000RPM and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4500RPM. Evora S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and has a top speed of 276 km/h (172 mph). The staggering figures are based on total weight of 1437kg. So, you can make the maths, when this engine is fitted to the ultra-low weight Exige S – 1080kg. This means a power-to-weight ratio of 3.08 kilos per horsepower.

There are two new interior package options available: Premium and Premium Sport. The Premium Pack provides added comfort and style where as the Premium Sport option focuses on creating an internal space optimised for ultimate driver involvement.

“Anyone who has ever driven an Exige will tell you that it’s not for the faint-hearted. The new Exige S skips a few rungs on the ladder to give the driver the ultimate Lotus experience. Quite simply you can’t get more Lotus than the Exige S.”, said Lotus Chief Executive Officer Dany Bahar.

Source: Lotus

September 14, 2011

Venom GT Price – $950 000

Venom GT will hit the US market, but you’d better hurry up, because Hennessey is planning to produce just five units annually. The car is exhibited at the McCall Motorworks Revival.

“We are very excited to have the opportunity to show the Venom GT to our friends and fellow enthusiasts at what has become one of the biggest and best car enthusiast events in the world,” says CEO, Don Goldman.

“Gordon McCall’s Motorworks Revival combines serious car enthusiasts, world-class cars and aircraft, all in one fantastic party.”, he added.

Venom GT is based on Lotus Exige, but with enormous twin-turbo 6.2 liter V8 with whopping 1217PS (895 kW) and 1564Nm (1155 lb-ft). The engine is mated to a 6-speed Ricardo manual gearbox. The car weighs just 1220kg (2585 lbs), so the performance is more like a level 5 twister. 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 443 km/h (275 mph) – theoretically of course.

“Twelve hundred horsepower combined with in a mid-engine chassis that weighs twelve hundred kilos (2,685 lbs) – no other road car and only a handful of race cars can match the power to weight ratio of the Venom GT,” added HPE president and founder, John Hennessey.

“It is a driver’s car, a supercar with a soul that will give you as much speed and performance as you dare ask of it”., he finished.

The price is as brutal as the car itself – $950 000.

Source: Hennessey

August 17, 2011

Lotus Exige Matte Black

Lotus will exhibit the Exige Matte Black Final Edition at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The car is developed specially for the US market and only 25 units will be produced.

Lotus Exige Matte Black Final Edition features matte black paint, extra equipment and Alcantara sport bucket seats.

It is powered by a 1.8 liter turbocharged petrol engine with 260PS (191 kW) and 236Nm (174 lb-ft) of torque at 6000RPM. The engine is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and as you may suggest the acceleration is just brutal – 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds and to 160 km/h in 9.9 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).

Exige weighs just 890kg, so it is extremely fast not only in straight line, but in the corners, too.

Stay tuned for more information!

Source: Lotus

August 15, 2011

Tag: Lotus