Lotus Elite – In with the Great Ones

This small British constructor is seeing things in a grand way since it will soon reveal five new models at the Mondial de l’automobile de Paris, which should become a reality before 2015. Among all of these, we find the Lotus Elite.

First hybrid coupe four-door sedan

The Lotus Elite, familiar name of the seventies, represents a total break from the fundamental values of this constructor.

In the first instance, we looked at its lightness principles. Up till now, Lotus has made a point to build ultra light sport vehicles with overuse of fiberglass, notably on the Elise, Exige and Evora models. On the other hand, this new model offers a mix of carbon and aluminium to replace the fiberglass. The total weight thus goes from approximately 900 kilos to over 1 600 kilos for the Lotus Elite.

Furthermore, and for the first time, the Lotus is aiming at the high performance coupe four-door sedan market, lining up on the California Ferrari, which is not a small feat.

This very seductive GT can carry four passengers. Back seats are unfortunately quite tight.

Hybrid motorization

Right off the bat, you get a V8 5 litre engine in a central front position with 620 horsepower and a torque of 720 Nm (531 pd-ft).

The Lotus people claim that this luxurious coupe – four-door sedan can run 0 to 100 km/h in only 3,7 seconds. Top speed is estimated at 315 km/h.

For a certain supplement, this motor can be associated to two electric motors with energy recuperation upon braking.

Unfortunately, one will have to wait till 2014 before being able to acquire this good-looking speed vehicle...