Audi Showcars Paris 2010 -- Audi e-tron Spyder 2 Audi quattro concept

Paris – Auf der großen Automobilmesse im Herbst 2010 stellt Audi den Audi e-tron Spyder, die Studie eines offenen Sportwagens mit Plug-in- Hybridantrieb vor. Das Showcar ist 4,06 Meter lang und 1,81 Meter breit, dabei nur 1,11 Meter flach. Der Zweisitzer verfügt über einen Biturbo-V6 TDI mit 221 kW (300 PS) auf der Hinterachse und zwei zusammen 64 kW starke Elektromotoren an der Vorderachse.
Zusammen mit dem geringen Gesamtgewicht des Audi e-tron Spyder von nur rund 1.450 Kilogramm sorgt die Kombination von drehmomentstarkem TDI und den beiden Elektromotoren für standesgemäße Fahrleistungen. In nur 4,4 Sekunden sind 100 km/h erreicht, die Höchstgeschwindigkeit wird elektronisch auf 250 km/h begrenzt.

Der e-tron Spyder kann die starken Momente seines TDI – 650 Nm mobilisiert der Selbstzünder – und die insgesamt 352 Nm der beiden Elektromotoren beim Beschleunigen kombinieren („boosten“).
So erlaubt die intelligente Kraftverteilung in jeder Situation das fahrdynamische Optimum: Mit gezieltem Momenteneinsatz an den Vorderrädern lässt sich die Längsdynamik steigern; gleichzeitig verbessert sich die Querdynamik bei der Kurvenfahrt. Denn das so genannte „torque vectoring“ – die bedarfsgesteuerte Verteilung des Drehmoments zwischen linken und rechten Rädern an beiden Achsen -- ermöglicht ein begeisterndes Maß an fahraktiver Präzision und exzellenter Agilität.

Auch dank des geringen Gewichts, des kurzen Radstandes sowie der für die Dynamik perfekten Gewichtsverteilung von 50 : 50 bietet der Audi e-tron Spyder das Fahrverhalten eines Gokarts – kurvenwillig und bis in den hoch angesiedelten Grenzbereich neutral.

Die Kombination von hoch effizientem TDI und Elektroantrieb sorgt jedoch auch für eine exzellente Verbrauchsökonomie und verblüffend geringe Emissionen. Durchschnittlich benötigt der Audi e-tron Spyder nur 2,2 l Diesel /100 km (entsprechend einer CO2-Emission von 59 g/km); mit dem 50-Liter-Tank ist eine Reichweite von mehr als 1.000 Kilometern möglich.
Zudem kann der offene Sportwagen mit seinem Elektroantrieb auch Strecken von bis zu 50 Kilometern – etwa in Ballungsräumen – rein elektrisch und damit völlig emissionsfrei zurücklegen; die Höchstgeschwindigkeit beträgt alltagstaugliche 60 km/h.

Das Design

Der Audi e-tron Spyder liefert zweifellos die avancierteste und zugleich konsequenteste Evolution der aktuellen Audi-Formensprache und gibt zugleich erste Hinweise auf die Designsprache zukünftiger Audi-Sportwagen. Die wichtigsten Designelemente, welche bereits die vorangegangenen e-tron Konzeptfahrzeuge prägten, interpretiert er neu. Somit ist auch die nötige formale Differenzierung zum rein elektrisch angetriebenen Audi e-tron der Messe Detroit 2010 gewährleistet.

1,81 Meter Breite bei nur 4,06 Meter Länge und nur 1,11 Meter Höhe – das sind die klassischen Proportionen eines offenen Hochleistungs-Sportwagens. Gegenüber der Coupé-Studie von Detroit haben dabei die Außenabmessungen (Länge + 13 cm, Breite + 3 cm) zugelegt, um den sportlichen Anspruch des Designs zu unterstreichen. Die kraftvoll-kompakte Gesamterscheinung, die beide Fahrzeuge auszeichnet und auch mit dem sportlichsten Serien-Audi, dem R8 verbindet, konnte dadurch nochmals verstärkt werden.

Der Fahrzeugkörper des e-tron Spyder wirkt – nicht zuletzt durch den kurzen Radstand von nur 2,43 Meter äußerst bullig– gegenüber dem R8 fällt dieser Wert um 22 Zentimeter kürzer aus.

Als eine Reverenz an den Motorsport erscheinen die rahmenlosen, nach hinten abfallenden seitlichen Glasflächen, die mit der wie ein Helmvisier stark gewölbten und geneigten Windschutzscheibe eine Einheit bilden.

Ein weiteres Element von Rennfahrzeugen kennzeichnet die Fronthaube: der zentrale, breit gezogene Luftauslass, dessen Schwung die Dynamik der Fahrzeug-Vorderpartie noch zusätzlich betont und eine optische und funktionale Verbindung zum Kundensportfahrzeug Audi R8 LMS darstellt. Design- und Fertigungskompetenz beweist die bündig in Front- und Seitenscheibe eingelassene, die gesamte Glasproportion umgreifende Karbon-Applikation.

Die Front und die Silhouette des e-tron Spyder sind mit einem schwungvollen, scharfen Strich gezeichnet, der den Zweisitzer sofort als Audi identifizierbar macht. Die nach vorn stark verjüngte Front verleiht dem Showcar Audi e-tron Spyder eine deutlich keilförmige Grundproportion. Das Trapez des Singleframe- Grills prägt die stark gepfeilte Frontpartie, flankiert von großen Lufteinlässen. Sie fungieren als Kühleinlässe sowohl für den Elektroantrieb als auch für das TDI- Aggregat im Fahrzeugheck.

Oberhalb schließen sich die flachen Bänder der adaptive-matrix-beam- Scheinwerfermodule mit ihrer dreidimensional modellierten, der Kontur der Funktionselemente folgenden Abdeckung an.

Alle Leuchteinheiten sind in der hocheffizienten LED-Technologie konzipiert. Das Markenzeichen der Vier Ringe findet sich – wie schon beim R8 und bei den e-tron-Sportwagenstudien -- oberhalb des Singleframe. Unter dem Markenzeichen befindet sich die Ladestation für die Batterien. Wenn die Ringe unterhalb der Frontklappe verschwinden, geben sie neben dem Ladestecker auch ein Display frei, das den Ladezustand und über eine Kartengrafik auch die aktuelle elektrische Reichweite darstellt.

Markant sind auch bei dieser Studie die 20 Zoll großen Räder, die das Lamellen- Design der ersten e-tron Showcars zu einem dreidimensionalen Turbinendesign weiter entwickeln. Sie kombinieren die Leichtbau-Materialien Aluminium und Karbon zu einer sowohl visuell begeisternden wie auch aerodynamisch hoch wirksamen Formgebung. Wie aufwändig die Räder des e-tron Spyder gefertigt sind, verdeutlicht schon die Zahl von 66 Einzelkomponenten, aus denen jedes einzelne Rad besteht.

Die Seitenpartie zeigt vertraute Konturen in neuer Ausformung: Ungewohnt scharf definierte Kanten fassen die ruhigen Seitenflächen ein, trennen zugleich horizontale von vertikalen Arealen.

Charakteristischer noch als beim Audi R8 fasst die Schulterlinie die Linien der stark konturierten Radhäuser ein, verbindet sie mit dem oberen Abschluss des Fahrzeugkörpers. So wirkt der e-tron Spyder speziell beim Blick von hinten noch betonter horizontal, noch stärker zur Straße hin orientiert.

Ein Eindruck, der auch vom charakteristischen Schweller mit neuartigem Beschnitt erzeugt wird, und der im Front- und Heckbereich jeweils im Spoiler und Diffusor seine Fortsetzung findet. Hier setzen Karbonelemente besondere Akzente, zitieren wiederum den Motorsport. Karbon findet sich auch an der Motorraumabdeckung im Heck sowie im Kennzeichen- und Leuchtenträger wieder, die zudem die Luftauslässe unterhalb der seitlichen Leuchteinheiten integrieren.

Der Kontrast der Materialien erinnert erneut an ein Rennfahrzeug: Wie bei diesem sind die essentiellen Funktionselemente von Chassis und Fahrzeug- körper in Karbon ausgeführt, während sich die Karosserie als Abdeckung in klassischer Lackierung zeigt. Das für den e-tron Spyder bestimmende formale Prinzip von „Schale und Kern“ wird hier besonders deutlich sichtbar.

Der längs eingebaute TDI-Mittelmotor selbst ist dank einer Öffnung in der Motorhaube ein sichtbares Technik-Element, das umgeben wird von mattierten und glänzenden Karbonflächen, Aluminium und Leder – einer Material- kombination, die auch das Exterieur mit dem Fahrzeug-Innenraum verbindet.

Hinter den Sitzen finden sich zwei nach hinten flach abfallende Hutzen, die auch die Öffnung für das TDI-Aggregat und die angedeuteten Kühllamellen der Motor- abdeckung flankieren. Sie nehmen auch die normalerweise unsichtbaren Über- rollbügel auf, die – wie auch beim Serien-R8 Spyder – im Notfall millisekunden- schnell nach oben schießen und sich dabei arretieren.

Das Interieur

Visuelle und funktionale Verweise auf das Grundelement Leichtbau bestimmen das puristische Interieurdesign – sie schaffen eine Verbindung von bewährten Audi-Genen und neuen formalen Ansätzen. Typisch für die Formensprache der Marke ist auch hier die Reduktion auf das Wesentliche in Architektur, Bedienung und Informationsausgabe zugunsten einer aufgeräumten Gesamtwirkung.

Der schlanke Armaturenträger setzt seinen Bogen seitlich in die Türverkleidun- gen fort. Die Designer haben beim e-tron Spyder mit Hybridantrieb wiederum die Chance genutzt, den Mitteltunnel und die konvex gewölbte Mittelkonsole besonders leicht und schlank auszuführen – sie brauchten auch hier keine Rücksicht auf Getriebe, Schaltmimik und Kardantunnel zu nehmen. Einziges Bedienelement neben dem des MMI ist der bündig integrierte Wählhebel für das Automatikgetriebe; er fährt beim Start des Fahrzeugs aus dem Tunnel aus.

Auch das Cockpit des Audi e-tron Spyder orientiert sich zum Fahrer hin – ein weiteres typisches Merkmal der Marke. Statt des klassischen Kombiinstruments verfügt die Studie über ein großes Display mit integrierten MMI-Funktionen; es befindet sich zwischen zwei flankierenden Rundinstrumenten. Bedient werden kann das MMI über ein berührungsintensives Bedienfeld am Lenkrad – ein Element, das von modernen Smartphones inspiriert ist. Zusätzlich ist eine Bedienung über das MMI-Bedienelement („MMI-touch“) auf der Mittelkonsole möglich. Das Lenkrad selbst ist – ein Zitat aus dem Motorsport – oben und unten spürbar abgeflacht. Die Anzeige der Geschwindigkeit erfolgt grundsätzlich digital. Das Rundinstrument mit den Informationen zum Antrieb lässt sich über den Menüpunkt „Drive“ auswählen.

Neben den Informationen über Geschwindigkeit, Drehzahl des Verbrennungs- motors und den elektrischen Antrieb präsentiert das Zentraldisplay alle wichtigen Informationen aus dem Infotainmentsystem und der Navigation.

Charakteristisch für das Konzept des Audi e-tron Spyder ist der fast vollständige Verzicht auf Schalter und Komponenten wie das Zündschloss. Die Klima- bedieneinheit befindet sich rechts neben dem Lenkrad; das Display informiert über Temperatur und Ventilation. Genutzt wird das System – ebenfalls wie ein Smartphone – über ein berührungsempfindliches Bedienfeld.

Die gleichfalls vom Motorsport inspirierten Leichtbau-Schalensitze verbinden exzellenten Seitenhalt mit Komfort. Kontrastfarben und –nähte gliedern die verschiedenen Bereiche des Interieurs. Sie bringen ebenso wie die hochwertigen Materialien Eleganz und Sportlichkeit zusammen.

Die ASF-Karosserie

Konsequenter Leichtbau ist eine entscheidende Voraussetzung für Effizienz und Reichweite. Zugleich bildet Leichtbau das entscheidende Fundament für begeisternde Fahrdynamik. Die Audi-Entwickler haben beim Audi e-tron Spyder auf eine Kernkompetenz des Unternehmens zurückgegriffen: Die Karosserie- struktur basiert auf der Audi Space Frame-Technologie (ASF) und wurde in Hybridbauweise gefertigt. So besteht die Motorhaube ebenso wie zahlreiche Aerodynamik-Elemente aus Karbon.

In der ASF-Technologie setzt sich das tragende Gerüst der Karosserie aus Aluminium-Strangpressprofilen und Druckgussteilen zusammen. In dieses Skelett sind Aluminium-Bleche kraftschlüssig und mittragend eingebunden. Jede einzelne Komponente des ASF Space Frame ist für die spezifische Aufgabe mit ganz unterschiedlichen Formen und Querschnitten optimiert und vereint so höchste Stabilität mit möglichst geringem Gewicht. Das Showcar Audi e-tron Spyder wiegt trotz des aufwändigen Antriebslayouts mit zwei Elektromotoren samt jeweiligem Antrieb und dem TDI-Motor nur etwa 1.450 Kilogramm.

Der Antrieb

Audi hat längst unter Beweis gestellt, dass sich ein hoch moderner Sportwagen und die TDI-Technologie zu einer perfekten Synthese verbinden. Als einer der ersten Hersteller weltweit hat die Marke mit den Vier Ringen schließlich im Seriensportwagen TT Selbstzünder mit Erfolg in den Markt eingeführt, nachdem schon ein Jahrzehnt zuvor das Audi Cabriolet erstmals in seinem Segment den Diesel zum Durchbruch verholfen hatte. Und die Studie Audi R8 TDI Le Mans quattro setzte erstmals einen Zwölfzylinder-Dieselmotor mit 500 PS und 1.000 Newtonmeter in einem Supersportwagen ein.

Auch der Audi e-tron Spyder setzt darum auf diese Erfolgs-Rezeptur – wenngleich in einer revolutionär neuen Kombination. So kommt hier zum ersten Mal eine neue Generation des 3.0 TDI Sechszylinders zum Einsatz, die von zwei Turboladern beatmet wird und 221 kW (300 PS) leistet. Dies sind noch einmal 50 PS mehr als in der aktuellen Leistungsstufe, die seit wenigen Monaten im neuen Audi A8 zum Einsatz kommt.

Auch das maximale Drehmoment von 650 Newtonmetern liegt auf einem selbst im Sportwagenbereich ungewöhnlich hohen Niveau. Der längs eingebaute 3.0 TDI-Mittelmotor treibt über ein 7-Gang-Doppelkupplungsgetriebe die Hinterräder an.

Neu ist jedoch auch die Kopplung des TDI mit dem Elektroantrieb der Vorderachse. Zwei Asynchron-Elektromotoren mit einer Gesamtleistung von 64 Kilowatt (88 PS) sowie einem maximalen Drehmoment von 352 Newtonmeter liefern zusammen mit dem 3.0 TDI beim Audi e-tron Spyder die Performance eines Hochleistungs-Sportwagens. Von 0 auf 100 km/h beschleunigt die Studie in 4,4 Sekunden. Die Höchstgeschwindigkeit wird bei 250 km/h elektronisch begrenzt.

Noch mehr als die abstrakten Zahlen begeistert dabei die Charakteristik des Antriebs. Nicht zuletzt dank des bereits aus dem Stand heraus anliegenden maximalen Drehmoments der Elektromotoren beschleunigt der e-tron Spyder mit katapultartigem Schub. Auch kurze Überholvorgänge auf der Landstraße lassen sich, selbst ohne herunter schalten zu müssen, als so unaufgeregte wie vergnüg- liche Zwischenspurts inszenieren.

Das Geräuschniveau des mit niedriger Drehzahl operierenden TDI bleibt dabei typisch niedrig – der Sechszylinder im Rücken der Insassen grollt unter Last sonor-sportlich, wird jedoch nie laut. Ein Effekt, der nicht zuletzt bei den gleich- falls TDI-angetriebenen Le Mans-Siegern Audi R10 und R15 verblüffte.
Von dieser besonderen Form des Hybridantriebs – der Kopplung eines drehmomentstarken und hoch effizienten TDI mit den Elektromotoren profitiert jedoch keineswegs nur das dynamische Potenzial des Audi e-tron Spyder. Auch in Sachen Verbrauch und Umwelteigenschaften setzt der offene Zweisitzer neue Maßstäbe: Durchschnittlich benötigt der 300 PS starke TDI nur 2,2 Liter Diesel je 100 Kilometer Fahrstrecke. Dies entspricht einer CO2-Emission von lediglich 59 g/km.

Zusätzlich beherrscht der Vollhybride Audi e-tron Spyder auch die Disziplin der völlig emissionsfreien Fahrt. In Wohngebieten und sonstigen Ballungsräumen kann der Fahrer alleine den Elektroantrieb aktivieren. Bis zu 50 Kilometer weit reichen die Reserven der 9,1 kWh-Batterie im Vorderwagen. Und der e-tron Spyder ist auch im Stadtverkehr zu zügiger Fortbewegung in der Lage; die Höchstgeschwindigkeit beträgt bis zu 60 km/h.

Das Fahrwerk

Die reguläre Verteilung der Antriebsmomente ist klar zugunsten der Hinterachse ausgelegt – entsprechend der Gewichtsverteilung des e-tron Spyder und der dynamischen Achslastverschiebung bei der Beschleunigung: Ähnlich wie bei einem reinen Mittelmotorsportwagen gelangen rund 75 Prozent der Momente nach hinten, 25 Prozent nach vorn. Wenn an einer Achse Schlupf auftritt, lässt sich diese Balance dank der zentralen Steuerung des gesamten Antriebssystems in Verbindung mit dem ESP modifizieren – damit übernimmt das Hybridfahrzeug von Audi alle fahrdynamischen Vorteile der quattro-Technologie.

Die Kombination aus TDI-Mittelmotor und den beiden Elektro-Aggregaten an der Vorderachse macht es möglich, auch die Querdynamik des e-tron intelligent zu steuern.

Ähnlich wie das Sportdifferenzial bei serienmäßigen quattro-Fahrzeugen erlauben sie das so genannte „torque vectoring“, also das gezielte Beschleuni- gen einzelner Räder – es macht den e-tron Spyder noch dynamischer und erhöht zugleich seine Fahrsicherheit. Unter- und Übersteuern lassen sich nicht nur mit individuellem Bremseneingriff, sondern auch durch einen millisekundengenauen Leistungsschub kompensieren. Die Studie verhält sich selbst bei höchsten Querbeschleunigungen vorbildlich neutral und eilt wie auf den sprichwörtlichen Schienen durch die Kurve.

Im Fahrwerk kommen an der Vorderachse doppelte Dreieckslenker und an der Hinterachse Trapezlenker aus Aluminium-Schmiedekomponenten zum Einsatz – eine Geometrie, die sich im Motorsport als optimale Voraussetzung für hohe Agilität, kompromisslose Präzision und exakt definiertes Eigenlenkverhalten bewährt hat. Das Setup von Federn und Stoßdämpfern ist straff gewählt, bietet jedoch viel Komfort.

Die direkt ausgelegte Zahnstangenlenkung vermittelt fein differenzierte Rück- meldung. Ihre Lenkunterstützung erfolgt abhängig von der Geschwindigkeit, und zwar auf elektromechanischem Weg – der e-tron Spyder muss nur beim Lenken, nicht jedoch zur Geradeausfahrt Energie aufbringen.

Die Studie von Audi rollt standesgemäß auf 20 Zoll-Rädern im neuartigen Lamellendesign, ihre Bereifung im Format 245/30 vorn und 265/30 hinten sorgt für die nötige Bodenhaftung.

… enjoy the new British Expression of Exclusivity

Ten days ahead of the official unveil at the Paris Motor Show the sun starts to rise for the dawn of Lotus’ new era – the Elite will redefine “modern classic”.

Lotus Elite side top

So here it is, the Lotus Elite, the first taste of what’s to come from Lotus in the future. Look up elegant in the dictionary and you’ll find variations on the following 1. dignified grace in appearance, movement, or behaviour, 2. superb taste in design, style and 3. something elegant; the ultimate refinement.

The ground-breaking new Elite is exactly that. It’s compact yet chic body is elegance incarnate. It’s not only exquisitely elegant, in keeping with Lotus’ core values, it’s a car of substance incorporating some of the very latest technological innovations Lotus has to offer. The slick retractable hard top version and the optional use of hybrid technology with KERS are typical examples of Lotus tailoring technology to deliver perfect performance.

Lotus Elite rear

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus said: “There’s no denying that the Elite is breathtakingly beautiful to look at but it’s so much more than that, it’s a car that over delivers in all other aspects as well. One could say it’s a car of perfect contradictions, it’s compact yet spacious, high performing yet low emitting, lightweight yet still reassuringly solid. It’s a car that we are exceptionally proud of at Lotus and we truly believe that there is nothing else like it out there both in terms of styling and performance.

Lotus Elite 3qtr front top

“Make no mistake, there’s a definite market requirement for the Elite – it’s the ultimate sports car feel with comfort and space. There will always be those who believe that Lotus should stick to small sports cars but we didn’t take the decision to design something like the Elite lightly, it’s based on months of careful research and planning. It’s worth noting this sector has been very successful for us in the past and now the Elite raises the benchmark higher still.”

Lotus Elite front

Set for release in spring 2014, this is an innovative, exciting GT that will set a new benchmark in design, performance and emissions. And it’s not all about sleek lines and stunning bodywork with this particular 2+2, what hides beneath this shark like exterior perfectly does the aesthetics justice. A front-mid positioned 5.0l V8 engine delivering up to 620 PS meaning drivers can expect to go from 0-100 km/h in approximately 3.5 to 3.7 seconds.

In response to the horrific natural disaster that has crippled the nation of Haiti, Naomi Campbell together with Lotus Cars will be auctioning eight special edition “Naomi for Haiti” Lotus Evora sports cars, with the proceeds from the auction going to help the relief effort in Haiti.

The Lotus Evora is a very desirable, multi-award winning, high performance, mid-engined sports car that presents a fantastic piece of design to bid on. The “Naomi for Haiti” Evora sports car has been specially designed by Lotus Design Director Donato Coco and reflects Naomi’s design direction. The bespoke styling combines the flag of Haiti with a dramatic colour scheme and the cars include a full range of options, meaning these cars will all become desirable collectors items.

The “Naomi for Haiti” Evoras will be auctioned at Naomi Campbell’s Fashion for Relief TM charity fashion show on the 18th of February at the London Fashion Week venue at Somerset House. The remaining “Naomi for Haiti” Evoras will be entered into an auction run on the “Naomi for Haiti” website www.naomiforhaiti.com and bidding will commence at 0800 GMT on the 19th of February and will end at 1200 noon GMT on 28th of February 2010.

The grand total raised for the charity and the highest bidders will be announced by Naomi Campbell at the Geneva Motorshow on the 2nd of March. There will also be a link to the “Naomi for Haiti” website from the Lotus Cars website http://www.grouplotus.com/cars/home.html.

The Fashion For Relief TM event has selected to support the White Ribbon Alliance as it campaigns for the health needs and rights of women and girls around the world, especially supporting its partners in Haiti at this time to rebuild the healthcare system for mothers and babies.

Naomi Campbell says, “I am deeply saddened by the recent tragedy in Haiti. So many have been killed and severely affected by the earthquake – women and children in particular are most vulnerable in disasters. Fashion is universal, personal and touches everyone. I am delighted that Lotus Cars is supporting my Fashion for Relief TM charity and I am sure with such generous help we will raise crucial funds to help save the lives of women and children.”

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus Plc, stated, “It is a very admirable cause and we are proud to be supporting Naomi Campbell with her Fashion For Relief TM event in aid of the women and children affected by the terrible disaster in Haiti. The whole of Lotus is supporting this very deserving charity, with many working in their own time in order to raise money for the women and children affected by the earthquake in Haiti.”

The Red Cross has said that the earthquake in Haiti has affected approximately 3 million people and it is reported that upwards of 200,000 people have died in the disaster. The magnitude of the earthquake combined with the local geography and house building techniques has exacerbated the destruction.

Stuttgart, 25. Januar 2010 – Das neue Formel 1-Silberpfeil Werksteam MERCEDES GP PETRONAS wurde am 25.1.2010 im Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart vorgestellt. Die Fahrer Nico Rosberg und der siebenmalige Formel 1-Weltmeister Michael Schumacher sowie das Teammanagement Ross Brawn, Nick Fry und Norbert Haug wurden bei dieser Präsentation erstmals gemeinsam vorgestellt und standen den Medien bei der anschließenden Pressekonferenz Rede und Antwort.

Vor über 600 Gästen, unter denen rund 200 Medienvertreter und 200 Mercedes-Benz Mitarbeiter weilten, wurden das Team und das Farbdesign des neuen Silberpfeils in einem der größten und bekanntesten Automuseen der Welt vorgestellt. Mercedes-Benz Mitarbeiter aus den Werken Untertürkheim und Sindelfingen hatten ebenfalls die Gelegenheit, das neue Mercedes-Team kennenzulernen; 100 von Ihnen waren auf Grund herausragender Leistungen eingeladen worden, 100 weitere hatten ihre Einladungen während einer sehr stark frequentierten internen Online-Verlosungsaktion gewonnen.

Nach der Begrüßung durch Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Vorstandsvorsitzender der Daimler AG und Leiter Mercedes-Benz Cars, präsentierten Nico Rosberg und Michael Schumacher am letztjährigen Auto das neue Farbdesign. Das Fahrzeug für die neue Saison, der MGP W01, wird erstmals in einer Woche, am 1. Februar 2010 beim ersten Test in Valencia zu sehen sein. Die Formel 1-Saison 2010 beginnt mit dem Grand Prix von Bahrain am 14. März.

Die silberne Farbgebung schafft eine Verbindung der Historie der Silberpfeile mit Titelsponsor PETRONAS. Die Geschichte der Silberpfeile geht zurück auf das Eifelrennen 1934, als am Vorabend des Rennens der weiße Lack der Mercedes Rennwagen entfernt worden war, um dem damaligen Gewichtsreglement (750 kg-Formel) zu entsprechen und die Autos in der Silberfarbe der Aluminium-Karosserie starteten. Der Silberpfeil des Jahrgangs 2010 glänzt in Silber, kombiniert mit einem „flow“ in changierenden Silbertönen. Auf der Nase und an anderen Stellen des Fahrzeugs wird schwarze Kohlefaser sichtbar – Reminiszenz an den Ur-Silberpfeil von 1934.

MICHAEL SCHUMACHER:
“Endlich geht die Formel 1 wieder los. Ich gebe gern zu, dass ich mich dieser neuen Herausforderung total verschrieben habe. Diese Saison ist wie ein Neustart für mich, ich fühle mich extrem motiviert. Wir haben hier eine spannende Kombination, ein Weltmeister-Team in jeglicher Hinsicht, und ich kann es jetzt kaum abwarten ins Auto zu steigen. Ich bin davon überzeugt, dass Mercedes GP Petronas für den Kampf um die Weltmeisterschaften in einer sehr guten Position sein wird, und ich werde meinerseits alles dafür tun. Für Mercedes zu fahren ist als schlösse sich ein Kreis für mich, denn ich habe meine Rennfahrer Karriere mit dem Stern auf dem Helm gestartet. Auch deshalb kann ich den Wettkampf kaum abwarten.”

NICO ROSBERG:
„Hier im Mercedes-Benz Museum spürt man den Atem von über 100 Jahren erfolgreicher Motorsportgeschichte und ich bin stolz und motiviert zugleich, jetzt zu diesem Team und dieser Geschichte zu gehören. Seit meiner Vertragsunterschrift im November habe ich bereits viel Zeit beim Team in Brackley, bei Mercedes-Benz HighPerformanceEngines in Brixworth und bei den Kollegen hier in Stuttgart verbracht, um mich einzugewöhnen und die Mitarbeiter kennenzulernen. Dabei konnte ich sehen, wie hart am neuen Auto gearbeitet wird und ich kann den ersten Test in der kommenden Woche in Valencia kaum erwarten. Ich freue mich auf die Zusammenarbeit mit der ganzen Mannschaft und werde alles geben, um jeden mit guten Ergebnissen für seinen Einsatz zu belohnen.“

ROSS BRAWN, TEAMCHEF MERCEDES GP PETRONAS:
“Es ist ein Privileg zur offiziellen Präsentation des MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formel 1-Teams hier im Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart zu sein. Schon beim ersten Blick in das Museum erkennt man die großartige Rennsportgeschichte von Mercedes-Benz und wir wollen möglichst ein weiteres Kapitel schreiben. Unser Team hat das ganze letzte Jahr und den Winter über sehr hart an der Entwicklung unseres neuen MGP W01 gearbeitet und jeder im Team freut sich jetzt auf den Beginn der Testfahrten. In Nico und Michael haben wir zwei exzellente Fahrer und eine der interessantesten und besten Fahrerpaarungen im Starterfeld. Mit dem Engagement von Mercedes-Benz, Aabar und unserem neuen Titelsponsor PETRONAS sowie allen unseren anderen Sponsorpartnern sehen wir der Formel 1-Saison 2010 mit Vorfreude entgegen.“

NORBERT HAUG, MERCEDES-BENZ MOTORSPORTCHEF:
“Mit der heutigen Teamvorstellung unseres MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formel 1-Teams beginnt ein neues und sicher das wichtigste Kapitel in unserer über 100-jährigen Motorsport-Geschichte.
Die Formel 1 der neuen Saison wird dabei Herausforderungen bieten, die größer sind, als jemals zuvor in der über 60-jährigen Geschichte der Formel 1.
Wir freuen uns auf die Zusammenarbeit mit unseren Fahrern Nico Rosberg, der enorme Fähigkeiten und Perspektiven hat, und dem siebenfachen Weltmeister Michael Schumacher, der heute nicht minder motiviert ist als damals, als er seine Profi-Rennfahrerkarriere mit Mercedes-Benz startete und dann mit unserer Unterstützung den Schritt in seine so erfolgreiche Formel 1-Karriere unternahm.
Ich begrüße heute auch aufs Herzlichste unseren neuen Titelsponsor und Partner PETRONAS sowie unseren Co-Investor Aabar/IPIC stellvertretend für all unsere Sponsorpartner.
Alle Kollegen des letztjährigen Weltmeisterteams Brawn GP um Ross Brawn und Nick Fry heiße ich willkommen in der Mercedes-Familie – es warten große und anstrengende Aufgaben auf uns und wir alle werden diese mit Kraft, Ausdauer und voller Motivation angehen.“

Das auf der IAA in Frankfurt 2009 erstmals vorgestellte Sondermodell Elise Club Racer besticht durch eine neue, exklusive Farbgebung, seine elegante Innenausstattung, sein geringes Gewicht und seine niedrigen Abgaswerte.

• 179 g/km CO2
• 0-100 km/h in 6,1 Sekunden
• Kraftstoffverbrauch kombiniert: 7,6 l/100 km

Lotus hat vier der klassischen Lotus-Farbkombinationen aus den 1960er Jahren wieder aufgenommen (Elite Yellow, Carbon Grey, Sky Blue und Old English White) und sie mit den exklusiven charakteristischen Elementen der Club-Racer-Innenausstattung in einem Sportwagen kombiniert, bei dem Funktion und Form auf wunderbare Weise zu einer Einheit verschmelzen, die alle Blicke auf sich zieht.

Die mit straffen und doch leichtgewichtigen Mikrofaser-Komfortpolstern ausgestatteten Elise-Sitze bieten trotz ihres geringen Gewichts festen Halt und geben auf die in Karosseriefarben gehaltene Sitzschale weitestgehend freie Sicht.

Die Farbe der Außenlackierung wird auch bei der Lackierung des Getriebetunnels wieder aufgenommen. Raffinierte Farbelemente in Silber und Schwarz unterteilen das Cockpit und unterstreichen den sportlichen Gesamteindruck, der den Club Racer so unverwechselbar macht.
Weitere exklusive Stilelemente des Club Racer sind der anthrazitfarbene eloxierte Schaltknauf und Handbremshebel, das von Hand auf die Kopfstützen gestickte Club-Racer-Logo (CR) und der ebenfalls in Anthrazit gehaltene Fußraum, aus Aluminium. Das 320 mm kleine, mit Leder eingefasste Lenkrad ist mit einer Zentrierungsmarkierung versehen, die es dem sportlich orientierten Fahrer jederzeit ermöglicht, mit einem Blick die Geradeausposition der Vorderräder rasch und sicher zu erkennen.

Die 6-Speichen-Leichtmetallfelgen mit den perfekt auf den Elise abgestimmten Yokohama AD07 LTS-Reifen sind ebenfalls anthrazitfarben eloxiert und farblich harmonisch auf die Hauptkomponenten der Innenausstattung abgestimmt.

Luke Bennett, Director von Lotus Cars hierzu: „Die Special Editions des preisgekrönten Elise sind seit jeher überaus beliebt bei unseren Kunden in der ganzen Welt, und ich gehe davon aus, dass der Elise Club Racer da keine Ausnahme machen wird. Wir haben die in den 1960er Jahren beim Elite und Elan verwendeten Farbkombinationen wieder aufgenommen und behutsam an die zeitgemäße Innenausstattung angepasst. Das gesamte Design ist modern mit einem Hauch zeitloser Klassik und entspricht damit vollumfänglich dem Elise-Roadster-Feeling.“

Der Lotus Elise Club Racer basiert auf dem Elise S mit 100 kW (136 PS) und ist ab dem 15. September 2009 zu den unten genannten Preisen erhältlich.

Empfohlene Verkaufspreise (UVP) für die folgenden Märkte (einschl. Transport, Steuern und erster Inspektion (ohne Zulassung, Kennzeichen und Tankfüllung):

• Belgien € 34.475
• Frankreich € 34.175
• Italien € 34.770
• Schweiz CHF 48.820

Empfohlene Verkaufspreise (UVP) für die folgenden Märkte einschl. Steuern (ohne Transport, Zulassung, Kennzeichen und Tankfüllung):

• Deutschland € 33.125,–

Empfohlene Verkaufspreise für Großbritannien (UVP)
Der empfohlene Verkaufspreis (einschl. MwSt.) beträgt in Großbritannien £25,712, (plus £950 Zusatzkosten für die Auslieferung, Auslieferungsinspektion, erste Inspektion, Kennzeichen, Erstzulassungsgebühr, Reinigung, Kfz-Streuer für 12 Monate und eine Tankfüllung).

Empfohlene Verkaufspreise (UVP) für Länder der Euro-Zone (ohne Steuern, Transport, Zulassung, Kennzeichen und Tankfüllung):

• Länder der Euro-Zone € 27.822,–

The Morgan Aero 8 is the lightest V8 sports car in the world. 2008 sees the start of production of the new 4.8 litre V8 version. The latest BMW V8 engine takes Morgan performance to the next level.

The new engine adds 13% more power, raising output to 367Bhp, giving a power to weight ratio of over 315 Bhp/tonne, enough to propel the car from 0 – 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds and on to a top speed of 170 mph.
New for Morgan is an automatic gearbox option. ZF’s latest 6 HP26 six speed gives even better performance than a manual gearbox due to its special lock up clutch, low power loss design and instant change characteristic. The automatic is useable either as a full automatic for more relaxed driving or in sport manual mode when the bespoke gear lever will hold the engine revs up to the maximum in each gear, increase change speed and ‘blip’ the throttle to smooth down changes.
The efficiency of the new engine and gearbox combination deliver the extra power and performance with a reduction in CO2 emissions. Thanks to Morgan’s clever lightweight design and efficient engine/gearbox combination the European drive cycle emission level, at 260 g/km, proves supercar performance does not need to come at enormous cost to the environment.
New instrumentation, a repositioned fuel tank for better weight distribution and significantly increased luggage space and larger air intakes and exits on the wings distinguish the new model.
Over 600 Aero 8s have now left the Malvern factory. This year production combined with the AeroMax will add another 140 cars to the total. There is a flourishing Aero Eight Club offering Aero drivers the opportunity to take their cars onto European race tracks and to follow the fortunes of the three Aero 8’s competing in the International FIA GT3 Race series.

The 79th International Geneva Motor Show sees the introduction of the exciting new 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige S with a newly designed front end, a new rear wing and impressive emissions of just 199 g/km CO2.

The Lotus Exige is a renowned high performance coupe that has a well earned reputation of choice for drivers who demand uncompromised performance, both on the road and on the track.

Lotus has always pursued efficiency and fuel economy and for the 2010 Model Year Lotus Exige S, Lotus has reduced the emissions to only 199 g/km CO2 and increased the fuel economy to an impressive 8.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Combined Cycle and a frugal 6.5 litres/100 km on the Official European Extra Urban Cycle.

The 2010 Model Year also sees the introduction of a few key changes to the Exige to enhance the look and improve aerodynamic performance. A restyled front end and new larger, rear wing that not only reduces drag, but also gives a more muscular stance enhancing the lightweight shrink-wrapped look of the whole car.

The composite rear wing is based on the design from the Exige GT3 road car concept shown at the Geneva Motorshow in 2007. Compared to the 2009 Model Year Exige tailgate mounted wing it is 181 mm wider and mounted 46 mm higher and 61 mm further back. It is attached to the rear bodyshell clam via rear end plates which not only increases the stiffness of the whole structure but also ensures that as much of the airflow as possible passes over the rear wing. This careful airflow management increases stability, reduces drag and, most importantly, maintains the impressive downforce figures of 42 kg at 160 km/h.

The restyled front end includes a larger, more angular air intake mouth to help funnel more air through the radiator, to improve the efficiency of the engine system. Ahead of the front wheels on either side of the main aperture, two larger air intakes increase the airflow to the twin oil coolers. Horizontal vanes bisect these oil cooler air-intakes to stabilise the airflow to further increase the cooling efficiency.

Since the Exige S2 was launched in 2004, the power has increased from 190 hp through 220 hp to 240 hp in standard road form – more for the track centric Exige Cup 260 – and the new larger air intakes improve engine cooling for these current higher powered Exige variants.

Mounted below the three new air intakes is a new aerodynamic splitter for the 2010 Model Year Exige. Made from a lightweight composite, the splitter is now extended to wrap around the whole of the front end and chiseled side lips are raised to deflect air around the tyres to reduce drag.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc said, “Over the years, the Lotus Exige has developed a hardcore fan base around the world and its popularity has placed it as one of the legendary sportscars of the 21st century. So far, over 5000 Exiges have been hand-built at our high-tech manufacturing facility making it a significant contributor to our global production. The lightweight Exige has one of the highest specific power outputs of any globally emissions certified car and 133 hp per litre is a perfect demonstration of Colin Chapman’s philosophy of performance through light weight and of Lotus’ relentless pursuit of efficiency. The same technology that makes a lightweight car a high performer also makes it efficient – how many cars have performance figures of 0 – 100 km/h in 4.77 secs but produce only 199 g/km CO2?”

Like all Lotus cars, the functional components of the car are also beautifully designed as Russell Carr, Chief of Lotus Design, explains, “For 2010 we have taken the already visually extreme Exige and given it even more visual drama. The changes we have integrated into the front and rear of the Exige signal an even clearer and purposeful intent. The purposeful rear wing is race inspired, the new angular air intakes and full width splitter gives a more hard-edged and aggressive look. Overall, the Exige appears more planted and gives the illusion that both the front and rear of the car are wider than they really are without losing its agile and lithe character.”

Roger Becker, Director of Vehicle Engineering said, “The changes we have made to the Exige for 2010 Model Year are quite subtle when taken individually, but taken as a complete package they make significant improvements to aerodynamics and the overall look of the car. The Exige is a classic fit-for-purpose performance machine, the design tweaks we have made have reduced the drag, cleaned up the airflow around the front and rear of the car, whilst retaining the impressive balanced downforce figures, to give an exciting high performance drive.”

The specification of the highly successful 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260, unveiled at the Paris Motorshow in 2008 remains unchanged. The 2010 Exige in more detail: Driver and passenger airbags are standard on all models while an on-board Tyre Pressure Monitoring System is standard in the USA. The instrument pack in the Exige contains much more than just a pair of stylishly back-lit dials. It also features a high-definition LCD message panel that can display a scrolling text message with vehicle systems information. The instrument pack always displays the fuel gauge, engine temperature and odometer, however you can select to display the time, trip distance or a digital read-out of your speed in the opposite calibration to that of your speedometer dial – if your dial is in mph, the readout is in km/h.

Warning symbols are ‘secret until lit’, keeping the instrumentation free from visual clutter and distraction until necessary. Gearchange ‘shift’ lights similarly remain hidden until required. There are three shift up warning lights, cumulatively lighting when the driver is getting closer to the rev limiter and when all three are illuminated, they flash to indicate that you should have changed up a gear by now!

A “key” issue

The Exige has a “Thatcham approved” alarm/immobiliser system and the ignition key incorporates the controls for the alarm/immobiliser and central locking functions. This key features three buttons, the one which locks the doors and sets the alarm/immobiliser is stylishly crowned with the famous Lotus roundel. The second button unlocks the doors and de-actives the alarm/immobiliser, and the final button is a panic alarm button.

The contents of the Touring pack, for the Exige S includes:

• Full leather or Microfibre suede-effect interior
• Leather trimmed centre console
• Leather handbrake gaiter
• Sound system iPod* connection
• Full carpets, with embroidered logo
• Auxiliary driving lights (in markets where legally allowed)
• Sound insulation kit
• Cup holder

The Exige S Sport pack includes:

• Bilstein sports dampers
• Traction control
• Adjustable front anti-roll bar
• T45 roll bar, with integrated harness mounts

The Exige S Performance Pack – more punch, more ability for Exige S

• 308 mm front cross-drilled and vented discs with AP Racing four piston callipers
• Uprated front and rear brake pads
• Full length upsized roof scoop
• Variable slip traction control
• Uprated clutch plate and cover
• Uprated vehicle performance through enhanced power and torque delivery
• Launch control

With the Exige performance pack, the power is raised to 240 PS / 179 kW (minimum) at 8000 rpm courtesy of a Magnuson/Eaton M62 supercharger, new faster flowing injectors and higher torque clutch system and an upsized roof scoop to feed more air to the supercharger intercooler system. This hike in power, together with an increase in torque to 170 lbft / 230 Nm / 23.5 kgm at 5,500 rpm from the standard 158.6 lbft / 215 Nm / 22 kgm at 5500 rpm, helps whisk the Performance Pack Exige S from zero to 60mph in 4.5 secs and 0-100km/h in 4.77 secs, and on to 100mph in 11.97 secs. Top speed rises to 145 mph. The power and torque of the 240 PS engine is increased across the rev range giving even more flexibility. Despite these high levels of performance the fuel economy is impressive with a new combined figure of 8.5 litres / 100 km and 199 g/km CO2 – reduced from 9.1 litres / 100 km (combined) and 216 g/km CO2 for the 2009 Model Year Exige. Continuous engineering improvements over the last year including careful whole vehicle optimisation has enabled this sportscar to be even better for fuel economy and emissions.

Of course the increased power and straight-line performance are only a couple of elements of the Performance Pack option. The clutch is uprated and a clutch damper fitted; there are thicker, 308mm diameter cross-drilled and vented discs at the front clamped by AP Racing four-piston callipers; the standard brake pads are replaced by uprated pads. Keen to pass on lessons learned on the track with the Exige GT3 racing programme, Lotus Sport has contributed another important track specific technology to the Performance Pack – launch control combined with variable traction control.

From the driver’s seat the track orientated launch control allows you to determine the engine revs you wish to use during a standing start on the track. Having programmed that limit, it will not be exceeded when you then hold down the throttle and sidestep the clutch at departure from the line. The clutch damper cushions the severity of the clutch / transmission engagement to minimise the stresses to the drivetrain (noting that continuous abusive standing start applications will destroy the drivetrain components). The launch control also keeps wheelspin at bay until 6 mph, after which the traction control assumes its duties.

As with launch control, you can dial in the amount of traction control you require from the driver’s seats, altering it on the move to suit driving style and 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. The beauty of all the packs is that they can be combined so a customer can have the additional interior and exterior equipment from the Touring pack with the sport focussed equipment from the Sport pack. Air conditioning, Lotus traction control and limited slip differential are available as stand-alone options.

Customers wanting to add further finishing touches to their Exige – such as specifying adjustable dampers and forged wheels can do so by ordering from an extensive range of accessories.

Colours

The Premium Colour Range has been designed to further enhance the choice for customers to individualise their cars. Most of the paints in this range require a more sophisticated application process and are from our paint supplier’s premium range. The paint colours in this range have been individually priced, and it is Lotus’ intention to extend and change this range at periodic intervals.

The 2010 Model Year Exige S will enter the EU markets in May 2009.
Exige S: 199 g/km CO2
8.5 litres/100 km (33.2 mpg) Combined Cycle
11.9 litres/100 km (23.7 mpg) Urban Cycle
6.5 litres/100 km (43.5 mpg) Extra Urban Cycle

With class leading driving dynamics, fuel economy and emissions of just 205 g/km of CO2, the new Lotus Evora raises the bar for world class high performing sportscars.

The first all-new Lotus since the iconic Elise roadster made its debut in 1995, the Evora enters the sports car market as the world’s only production mid- engined 2+2. The Evora provides a tremendously rewarding driving experience: the mid-engined layout gives exceptional agility and the Lotus engineered suspension ensures incredible ride and handling. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS, and weighing just 1350 kg (prototype specification)*, the Evora delivers an exhilarating experience true to the Lotus DNA characteristics.

With the zero to 100 km/h sprint taking place in just over 5 seconds, a top speed of over 260 km/h (prototype specification)* and an Official European Combined Cycle fuel economy just 8.7 litres / 100 km and emissions of just 205 g/km CO2 the Evora stays true to the ethos of performance through light weight. The other economy figures are equally impressive with Official European Urban Cycle of 12.4 litres / 100 km and 6.5 litres / 100 km for the Official European Extra Urban Cycle all combined with exceptional ride and handling.

Because one of the roles of the Evora is to attract new lifestyle customers, as well as performance aficionado’s to the Lotus brand, the Evora offers a more refined ownership experience than Lotus’ existing smaller four cylinder models. Its elegantly styled cabin is beautifully trimmed and its equipment list includes contemporary features such as an advanced touchscreen multi-media system and electric power-fold door mirrors. Careful attention has also been paid to its ease of use. with wider, taller door apertures, narrower sills and higher seating position making getting in and out of the cabin a less athletic undertaking than it is in Lotus’ smaller sports cars (Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven), whilst 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 all areas of the car. For instance, beneath the skin the entire front-end structure is a high tech aluminium “sacrificial” modular unit, with bolt on attachment to the main extruded aluminium tub. This modular unit is not only designed to deform for maximum safety, and to make the production assembly process more efficient, but also 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 planned, these including amongst others, a convertible at a later stage of the six year lifecycle span.

The Evora will be hand crafted and built on a dedicated new assembly line within Lotus’ advanced manufacturing facility at Hethel in the East of England; capacity limitations will restrict production to less than 2000 cars a year, thus ensuring this 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 the start of our bold five year strategic business plan. A plan which includes the introduction of three new cars and advanced new technologies to many more markets around the world. The Evora also represents Lotus core values of performance through light weight and efficiency, proving that you can have performance, fuel economy, elegant design and practicality all in a class leading mid-engine 2+2 sportscar, whilst also meeting all 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 propulsion system solutions. 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, helping ‘UK Ltd’ to the forefront of high technology in the 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 shows this is clearly a serious mid engined sportscar that skilfully hides the practicality of its two plus two accommodation.

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 and board 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 usability.

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 Lotus “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 windtunnel 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 oval 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 Lotus.”

The view from the rear three-quarters is just as striking. 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, an elegance in its simplest form.

It is, according to Russell Carr, “A huge departure from what people might expect based on Lotus’ recent past. The CEO wanted the Evora’s cabin to feel very 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 seats, 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 so in the Evora interior we use honest premium materials. Much of the switchgear is bespoke, and every metallic component is, actually, metal.”

For the Premium Pack focused courtesy lighting is used throughout the interior, giving a spectacular illuminated feel to the sculpture design features 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 seats together with, upper door trim panels and facia upholstered in leather, but it is expected that most customers will opt for the full hide treatment and accent lighting available in the Premium Pack. Along with a range of four leather colours available in the Premium Pack, customers will have the opportunity to personalise their Evora with a wide range of paints in the Metallic, Lifestyle and Premium pallets.

High-tech treats

Contemporary technology also features in the Evora’s cabin with the optional Tech Pack and further standalone options. Part of the Tech Pack is a newly developed Alpine multi-media system with a 7 inch touch-screen providing 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. A secondary handheld 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 optional IMPRINT Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated automotive systems in the world. Using MultEQ sound enhancement technology, it is able to cancel out sound imbalances, caused by the cabin window glass, that creates echoes or carpets that 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 Lotus and Bergstrom engineers is standard on all models, and has been designed for the hottest climate or the closest humidity to ensure maximum occupant comfort. Lotus traction control is standard fitment and onboard tyre pressure monitoring will also be available (except in Japan).

One size fits all

The front seats themselves are very supportive and leather clad with a lightweight manual mechanism for fore and aft and rake angle adjustment, 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 at a later date. To maximise comfort in the rear, there’s a decent amount of footroom 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 of ingress and egress 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 semi 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 front and side impacts. Additional torsional strength is given to the whole structure by the tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame.

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 as a collaboration between Lotus and Bosch engineers and enable up and coming drivers to consistently exploit the braking and performance 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 a low investment cost 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 new and unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing production build modularity and lower cost repairs.

The low volume VVA chassis has been designed for scalability 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. This impressive stiffness is also thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis or tub and front and rear modules weight just 200 kg (prototype specification)*, helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype specification)*.

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 Lotus 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 using these techniques.

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 thereby improving the overall efficiency of space and time of assembly.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis is manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures Limited (LLS) 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 components for Lotus’ extensive global client base.

Suspended & animated

To achieve exceptionally high driving dynamics and great levels of driver involvement, Lotus has engineered and developed completely new suspension systems for use on the Evora.

The Evora suspension wishbones are forged from aluminium to reduce the unsprung mass. These are similar in weight to the steel items found on the much smaller Elise, Exige and Europa vehicles, but are stiffer and have a much increased vehicle weight capacity. They are attached to the front and rear modules via Lotus designed 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 to give renowned Lotus steering feel and precision to place the Evora exactly where you want it to be when cornering.

All in all, the Evora delivers exceptional performance. It has incredible Lotus handling and provides unsurpassable driving pleasure and confidence to drivers at all levels of skill. In fact, word from the ride and handling team is that the new car is likely to become a class standard-setter in respect to it’s “over the road speed and agility feel”.

Stop right now…

Vented brake discs are standard with cross-drilled brake discs forming part of the Sport Pack, (both are massive 350mm diameter discs on the front and 332mm diameter at the rear), which when combined with 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 and Stelvio Pass, 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 tuned for performance driving and thus has very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) are also fitted as standard. HBA detects an emergency braking situation and increases brake pressure up to ABS activation threshold which results in shorter emergency stopping distances.

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 to the rear wheels when required to maintain traction. To maintain front end traction or to reduce understeer, the LTC will gently reduce engine torque to stabilise the Evora bringing the front wheels back into line – known as “Understeer Recognition”. 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.

A Bosch Electronic Differential Lock (EDL) is fitted as standard to the Lotus Evora. This advanced technology controls the speed of individual rear wheels through the precise activation of the rear brakes, slowing an excessively spinning rear wheel to ensure that traction is maintained without causing detriment to the handling – often the case with a mechanical limited slip differential.

The Sport Pack option comprises of a switchable sports mode, sports diffuser, Titanium sports tail pipe, cross drilled brake discs, black callipers and an engine oil cooler. As with all Lotus cars, the Evora is very driver focussed and therefore all the electronic intervention systems can be completely overridden by the driver (apart from the ABS). In standard mode, all the systems above are in operation; pressing the sport button (Sport Pack option only) sharpens the throttle response and increases the engine rev limit. The sports mode traction control is adjusted to give increased slip and yaw angle before intervening, and also removes the understeer recognition.

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

Tyre choice is a vital component in the ride, handling and steering performance of every Lotus and for the Evora, Yokohama was chosen as the development partner. Lotus and Yokohama engineers 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 of 280 PS at 6400 rpm, while boosting its maximum torque to 342 Nm at 4700 rpm (prototype specification)*.

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 shows 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 will be an option 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 class leading at 205 g/km while fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 8.7 l/100 km. Fuel economy for the urban cycle is 12.4 l/100km with 6.5 l/100km on the extra urban cycle.

What’ll she do?

The zero to 100 km/h sprint takes place in just over 5 seconds with a top speed of over 260 km/h (prototype specification)*.

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

A cross functional team comprising of design, CAE and test and development engineers have been able to develop the Evora into a class leading vehicle in an exceptionally short space of time. It has spent hours howling around the Nürburgring and endlessly lapped Lotus’s test track at Hethel. By the time the Evora entered production in February 2009, prototypes had 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.

It has been flung into barriers at low and high speeds, at a multitude of angles, it has even had its roof and doors compressed! By the time the Evora reaches the UK and Europe Lotus showrooms from May 2009, 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.

Lotus Evora: 205 g/km CO2
8.7 litres / 100 km (32.5 mpg) Combined Cycle
12.4 litres / 100 km (22.8 mpg) Urban Cycle
6.5 litres / 100 km (43.5 mpg) Extra Urban Cycle

* Figures quoted are based on the prototype development cars and may not be correct for production version of the Evora. Final figures for the production version will be available from www.grouplotus.com once confirmed.
** Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. registered in the USA and other countries.
*** iPod is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. registered in the USA and other countries.

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Momax GmbH, Gesellschaft für Technologie und Mobilität
Forstmeisterstr. 3, 64285 Darmstadt
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Tel: 06151 / 6798074
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Die Momax GmbH mit Sitz in Darmstadt wurde im Januar 2008 als Spin-Off der Technischen Universität Darmstadt gegründet. Sie entwickelt Konzepte und Systemlösungen zur effizienteren Nutzung von PKWs, mit dem Ziel, eine nachhaltigen PKW-Mobilität zu fördern.

The 2009 Model Year Lotus Exige Cup 260

Extensive use of carbon fibre and lightweight components for the latest homologated-for-the-road Lotus Exige Cup 260

Front - Lotus Exige Cup 260

Lotus Cars Ltd, has unveiled the MY2009 Exige Cup 260. A direct development of the 2008 Exige Cup Car, this year’s car uses advanced light weight components and carbon fibre body material, to reduce the overall weight by 38 kg to a total mass less than 900 kg. Maximum power output of 257 hp (260 PS), remains the same as the 2008 car, but with careful attention to weight reduction detail, the 2009 Model Year Exige Cup 260 provides a more agile and dynamic track focused drive and is more than capable of taming Europe’s most challenging race circuits. Unusually for such a focused track and road machine, the 2009 Model Year 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 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.”

Back - Lotus Exige Cup 260

The 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

Inside - Lotus Exige Cup 2600

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 MY2009 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 Exige Cup 260 has a formidable list of standard performance focused equipment, as follows:

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

Breaks - Lotus Exige Cup 260

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). (* The seats are FIA compliant when fitted in conjunction with fixed seat runners that are available as a track only dealer fit option). A high tensile steel roll over hoop is now fitted with a body coloured Lotus Sport A- Frame 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.

Lights - Lotus Exige Cup 260

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 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 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 MY2009 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.

Rear - Lotus Exige Cup 260

Engine
The supercharged and intercooled engine in the 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 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.

Detail - Lotus Exige Cup 260

Lotus Launch Control and Lotus Traction Control
Keen to pass on lessons learned on the track with the 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.

Air - Lotus Exige Cup 260

Power and torque curves

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 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 Exige Cup 260 is available now for sale in mainland Europe. Individual recommended retail prices for some major European markets are listed below:

Retail prices for the UK (MSRP)
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 EUR 68,650
France 67,950
Germany 67,600
Italy 68,650
Netherlands 91,800
Switzerland CHF 100,000

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
Spain 56,034
Austria 56,034
Greece 56,034

For recommended retail prices for the following markets (MSRP): Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Russia, Sweden please contact a member of the PR Team.

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.

More information at: http://www.lotuscars.co.uk