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.

Lotus Evora

The Lotus Evora, the all new sportscar from one of the leading global car marques has won a prestigious award at the European Aluminium Awards 2008. The aluminium structure of the Lotus Evora, the world’s only mid-engined 2+2 was triumphant, capturing the Overall Jury Prize, celebrating the technological advancements of the Lotus aluminium vehicle architecture.

In what is the first award to be bestowed on the visually stunning Lotus Evora, even before production is underway, the award, only presented when special recognition is warranted, recognises the latest developments of this low volume version of the Lotus vehicle architecture technology. The European Aluminium Award is the leading international prize of the aluminium industry and was presented to Lotus at the prestigious International World Trade Fair ‘Aluminium 2008’ at Messe Essen in Germany on Tuesday 23rd September.

Lotus Evora Heck

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: “We are absolutely delighted that the Lotus Evora has won such a prestigious award so soon after its official unveiling at the British International Motor Show in July. The Lotus Evora architecture is an advanced, lightweight technology that provides a foundation for our long term model plan for future Lotus and client products.

Kimberley continues: “This structure is the latest development of our vehicle architecture technology which was celebrated as the leading entry in the Aluminium Awards in 2006. The Evora heralds an exciting new era for Lotus Cars and proves that you can have phenomenal performance, fuel efficiency, elegant design and practicality all in a mid-engined 2+2 sportscar.”

Aluminium Structur

A statement from the jury said: “Lotus provides an automotive structure with a unique approach. They combined adhesive bonding techniques with mechanical joining, resulting in innovative and creative solutions. Lotus used their expertise in lightweight materials to complete this structure, achieving a low weight and a high structural stiffness and therefore ensuring a major impact on environmental and sustainable performance.”

Richard Rackham, Vehicle Architect at Lotus Engineering said: “The Lotus Evora demonstrates an accumulation of our core competencies in aluminium and composite body engineering, jointing techniques and vehicle systems integration. 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. One great advantage of our low volume vehicle architecture technology is that it can be used by one car manufacturer looking to develop a range of niche products, or by a group of car manufacturers looking to share investment, but still retain a high degree of end product separation.” 

Lotus Evora Architecture

The Evora’s chassis is an evolution of the Lotus vehicle architecture from the Lotus aluminium crossover 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 low capital investment manufacturing processes. The Evora structure progresses the Lotus ‘bonded and riveted’ technology used in the Elise family of vehicles with unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing contemporary ease of ingress/egress, build modularity and improved, lower cost repairs.

Structur

The low volume versatile architecture has been designed so that it can be extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume 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, thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame’s secondary function as a roll over structure, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis and modules weigh just 200 kg (prototype weight), helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype weight). To deliver this high performance structure, bonded and riveted high grade aluminium extrusions and simple, elegant folded sheet elements are used in the lower structure, which complements the stressed composite roof upper structure. 

Attached to the high strength central tub are sacrificial energy absorbing subframes of extruded aluminium at the front and lightweight welded steel 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 to the fully assembled tub.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis will be manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures facility in Worcester, UK. LLS employs 110 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 and composite structures and components for Lotus’s extensive global client base.

With its stunning visual impact, exhilarating all-round dynamic performance, innovative chassis technology and high levels of luxury, packaging and convenience, the Evora heralds an exciting new era for Lotus.

The first all-new Lotus since the iconic Elise made its debut in 1995, The Evora enters the sports car market as currently the world’s only mid-engined 2+2. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS, and weighing just 1350 kg (prototype specification), the Evora promises breathtaking performance. During preliminary testing around the famous Nürburgring, the Lotus chassis engineers report that it is extremely agile and great fun to drive – even when clad with the full development disguise that hid the beautiful lines from the prying motor-industry paparazzi.

In addition to its excellent performance and exemplary handling, the Evora offers a more refined ownership experience than Lotus’s existing smaller four- cylinder models. Its elegantly styled cabin is elegantly trimmed and its equipment list includes contemporary features such as an advanced touch- screen multi-media system and electric power-fold door mirrors.

Because one of the roles of the Evora is to attract new customers to the Lotus brand, much attention has been paid to its ease of use. Wider, taller door apertures and narrower sills make getting in and out of the cabin a less athletic undertaking than it is in Lotus’s smaller sports cars (the Elise, Exige, Europa and 2-Eleven), while 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 less obvious areas of the car. For instance, beneath the skin the entire front-end structure is a high tech aluminium sacrificial modular unit, attached to the main extruded aluminium tub. This modular unit is designed to deform for maximum safety, and 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 planed, these including amongst others, a convertible.

The Evora will be hand crafted and built on a dedicated new assembly line within Lotus’s advanced manufacturing facility at Hethel in the east of England; capacity limitations will restrict production to approximately 2000 cars a year, ensuring the 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 part of our bold five year strategic plan, which includes the introduction of new cars and technologies to many more markets around the world. The Evora also represents Lotus core values of performance through light weight and efficiency and proves that you can have phenomenal performance, fuel efficiency elegant design and practicality all in a class leading mid-engine 2+2 sportscar, which will meet 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 solutions for the future. 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 keeping Britain at the forefront of the high technology 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 this is clearly a serious mid engined sportscar that skilfully hides the practicality of its two plus two capability.

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 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 useability.

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 now, “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 wind- tunnel 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 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 a Lotus.”

The view from the rear three-quarters is just as striking and the one that many will become familiar with as the car passes them on the road. 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.

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

Focused courtesy lighting is used throughout the interior, giving a spectacular illuminated feel to the sculpture design feature 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-upholstered seats, upper door trim panels and facia, but it is expected that most customers will opt for the full hide treatment. With a range of leather colours available, customers will have the opportunity to personalise their Evora.

High-tech treats

Contemporary technology also features in the Evora’s cabin. A newly developed Alpine multi-media system with a 7 inch touch-screen provides 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. The 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 Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated automotive systems in the world. Called IMPRINT and using MultEQ sound enhancement technology, it is able to cancel out sound imbalances, caused by the cabin window glass, for instance, creating echoes, while carpets 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 Bergstrom is standard on all models, and has been designed for the hottest climate or the closest humidity to help provide maximum occupant comfort. Lotus traction control and on- board tyre pressure monitoring will also be available.

One size fits all

The front seats themselves are very supportive and leather clad with a lightweight manual adjustment mechanism for fore and aft, rake and lumbar, 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. To maximise comfort in the rear, there’s a decent amount of foot- room 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 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 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 side impacts. Additional torsional strength is given to the whole structure by the tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame that also acts as a rollover structure.

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 in co-operation with Bosch and enable up and coming drivers to consistently exploit the braking and acceleration 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 an 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 unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing contemporary ease of ingress/egress, build modularity and improved, lower cost repairs.

The Low Volume VVA architecture has been designed 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, thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame’s secondary function as a roll over structure, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis and modules weight just 200 kg (prototype weight), helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype weight).

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 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.

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.

The high technology Lotus Evora chassis will be manufactured at the new Lotus Lightweight Structures 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 and composite structures and components for Lotus’s extensive global client base.

Suspended & animated

The Evora suspension wishbones are forged from aluminium to reduce the unsprung mass. These are similar in weight, and stiffer than the steel items found on the much smaller Elise, Exige and Europa vehicles, and have a far higher vehicle weight capacity. They are attached to the front and rear modules via bespoke 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.

All in all, the Evora delivers. It has incredible Lotus handling and provides unsurpassable driving pleasure. In fact, word from the ride and handling team is that the new car is likely to become a class standard-setter for speed and agility.

Stop right now…

Vented and cross-drilled brake discs – massive 350mm items on the front and 332mm at the rear – and 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, 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 set to very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

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 when required to maintain traction. 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.

Keeping a grip – 18 inch at the front, 19 inch at the rear. Tyre choice is a vital component in the handling performance of every Lotus and for the Evora, Yokohama was chosen as development partner.

Lotus’s long-term relationship with Yokohama was swiftly rewarded during development when initially the front tyre size did not generate the Lotus required lateral grip, the Japanese grip gurus went away and 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 to 280 PS at 6400 rpm, while boosting its maximum torque to 342 Nm at 4700 rpm (prototype figures).

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 suggests 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 is also currently under development 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 expected to be a class leading sub-225 g/km (prototype figures) while testers report fuel consumption in the region of 30+ mpg (pending formal homologation testing).

What’ll she do?

At the time of its unveiling, full performance figures have yet to be compiled on a production specification Lotus Evora, Lotus has another 6 months development to conduct.

While for Lotus top speed is of less importance than stability at speed, early indications suggest a maximum speed of 160 mph; the 0-60 mph sprint from standstill is estimated at sub 5 seconds (prototype figures).

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

It has spent hours howling around the Nürburgring and endlessly lapped Lotus’s test track at Hethel. By the time the Evora enters production, prototypes will have 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, to Australia and even the Arizona outback.

It has been flung into barriers at low and high speeds, at a multitude of angles, including head-on; it has even had its roof compressed!

By the time the Evora reaches the Lotus showrooms from Spring 2009 onwards, 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. The order book is now open in the UK and across continental Europe, with markets around the world to start taking orders in due course. Final specifications, options and prices of the production Lotus Evora will be published closer to the sale date in the many Lotus markets around the world.

Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc sums up, “This year Lotus celebrates its 60th anniversary and it is fitting that 2008 is also the birth of the Lotus Evora, a fantastic addition to the Lotus range. The Lotus Evora represents Group Lotus, a company that is at the forefront of the automotive industry, in a changing world where priorities of efficiency, economy and environmental impact go hand in hand with performance, design and individuality. I think Colin Chapman would have approved.”

Fachjury hat entschieden:
Audi R8 ist „SportsCar 2007″

Nur reinrassige Sportwagen krönt die Fachjury der Monatszeitschrift Autobild SportsCars zum „SportsCar“ des Jahres. Nach dem Monatssieg im März 2007 hat sich der Audi R8 nun auch den Gesamtsieg und damit den Titel des „SportsCar 2007“ gesichert – eine der begehrtesten Auszeichnungen der deutschen Automobilbranche.

Die Trophäe nahm während der „Race Night“ des Magazins am Rand der Essen Motor Show Werner Frowein entgegen, der Geschäftsführer der quattro GmbH. Die Audi-Tochter war verantwortlich für die Entwicklung des R8 und ist Hersteller des 420 PS starken Mittelmotorsportwagens. Der R8 wird in einer Manufaktur der quattro GmbH in Neckarsulm produziert.

In anspruchsvollen Fahrtests bewerten die Juroren des Magazins zusammen mit dem TÜV Rheinland laufend die Eigenschaften der aktuellsten Sportwagen. Ihre Favoriten präsentieren sie in jedem neuen Heft als Monatssieger. Ende Oktober stellten sich zwölf Sieger dem kritischen Blick der Jury im Contidrom von Hannover.

Das abschließende Experten-Urteil: „Der Audi R8 gewinnt, weil er im Sport-Segment momentan das kompletteste Fahrzeug mit dem heißesten Körper ist und sich trotz seines Newcomer-Status keine ernsthaften Schwächen erlaubt.“

Quelle: www.audi.de

Ab sofort erhalten Sie bei Vegas Racing für aktuelle SUV-Fahrzeuge das ungewöhnliche, optisch große Rad aus England. Vemiri ist ein neuer Tuner aus Britannien und kommt mit zwei Rädern auf den Markt. Das “Arnarge” 10×22 Rad für alle gängigen SUV-Automobile und das wunderschöne “Peralaé” ein 19 Zoll Rad für viele Sportwagen. Die Räder sind extrem anspruchsvoll gefertigt und hochwertig verarbeitet. Laut Vegas Racing sind für viele Fahrzeugtypen Räder lieferbar. Weitere Fahrzeuganwendungen und dazugehörige TÜV-Gutachten sind in Vorbereitung. Technische Informationen: Vemiri Arnarge z.B.: Für alle Audi Q7 5/130 ET50 inkl. TÜV Gutachten. Optisch sehr großes Rad – in dreiteiligem Look, mit hochwertigen Edelstahlschrauben, Edelstahlrand (auswechselbar) Glatt abschließendes Edelstahlventil Moderne Titanpulver¬beschichtung (hochfest und optisch einmalig). Ein noch absolut seltenes Rad an aktuellen SUVs. Hoher Trendwert und einmalig an großen Fahrzeugen. Die Räder kosten im Set 2.960,– Euro inkl. TÜV-Gutachten. Mehr Info unter www.suv-rad.de

Direktkontakt mit Joiunalisten: Felix Maria Arnet
vegas.racing Fine Sportcars! | Ein Unternehmen von Felix Maria Arnet |
Borsigstraße 18 | D 65205 Wiesbaden
Fax: 06122.940525
www.vegasracing.de | info@vegasracing.de

Vegas Racing Fine Sportscars Deutschland ist ein kleiner Tuningbetrieb der sich ausschließlich auf SUV-Tuning konzentriert. Mit vielen exklusiven Teilen ist Vegas Racing in dieser Sparte gut aufgestellt. „Bei uns läuft ca. 80 Prozent des Teileverkaufs über unsere Internetseite“, so Felix Maria Arnet, Geschäftsführer von Vegas Racing. In Vergangenheit hat man spektakuläre Lotus-Sportwagen auf den Markt gebracht. Jetzt widmet sich der Tuner aus Wiesbaden den aktuellen und beliebten SUV-Geländewagen. In Kürze kommt ein Komplettprogramm für den neuen BMW X5 auf die Straße.

Automobileleidenschaf war schon immer der Antrieb von Felix Maria Arnet. Der Gründer eines der erfolgreichsten Lotus-Tuningunternehmen – die Firma Moto Concept – will heute etwas völlig neues entwickeln.

www.suv-rad.de ist eine Tuning- und Zubehörplattform, die attraktive Angebote für alle aktuellen SUV-Fahrzeuge anbietet. Die Idee ist, eine Plattform zu schaffen, die viele Teile für SUV-Modelle bereithält ohne dass der Kunde Suchen und Vergleichen muss. Quasi alles aus einer Hand. Unter dem Motto „The Spirit of SUV´s“ möchte Vegas Racing aus Wiesbaden, ein Programm an Veredelungsteilen für viele aktuelle SUV anbieten. Ein tiefes Angebot soll dem Fahrer noch mehr Freude auf sein Automobil machen!

Aktuell werden Räder in dem Format bis 22 Zoll angeboten aber auch für Porsche hält der Tuner eine 19 Zoll Felge bereit. Die hochwertigen Vemiri-Räder kommen aus England und werden über das Portal vertrieben. Weiter bietet der Tuner aus Wiesbaden, Bremsen, Spurverbreiterungen, Auspuffanlagen und Interiorveredellung an. Der Kunde kann bequem in der Ausstellung seine Räder und Teile aussuchen. Eine Anbauwerksatt seht zur Montage zur Verfügung. Mehr Info unter www.vegasracing.de

vegas.racing Fine Sportcars! | Ein Unternehmen von Felix Maria Arnet |
Borsigstraße 18 | D 65205 Wiesbaden
Fax: 06122.940525
www.vegasracing.de | info@vegasracing.de

Vegas Racing Fine Sportscars Deutschland ist ein kleiner Tuningbetrieb der sich ausschließlich auf SUV-Tuning konzentriert. Mit vielen exklusiven Teilen ist an in dieser Sparte gut aufgestellt. „Bei
uns läuft ca. 80 Prozent des Teileverkaufs über unsere Internetseite“, so Felix Maria Arnet,
Geschäftsführer von Vegas Racing. In Vergangenheit hat man auch spektakuläre Lotus-Sportwagen auf den Markt gebracht. Jetzt widmet man sich bei VR den aktuellen und beliebten SUV-Geländewagen. In Kürze kommt ein Komplettprogramm für den neuen BMW X5 auf die Straße.