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New Lotus Elise
Lotus Engineering, Hethel, Norwich, Norfolk, NRI4 8EZ. Telephone (0953) 608000 Telefax (0953) 606884

Lotus is renowned for re-writing the rule book, creating highly acclaimed lightweight sports cars bred with unique racing characteristics. The latest evolution is undoubtedly the most exciting yet. Engineered to perform, the Elise once again breaks the rules and sets new standards.

Our award winning formula combines creativity, innovation and passion to deliver the most exciting driver's car ever. It is this formula which is responsible for putting Lotus at the forefront of vehicle design technology. A totally different experience. At Lotus making the best even better was a challenge greater than the original creation.

The brief: to take the Elise into the future reinforcing Lotus core principles.

The result: nearly 900 new components which together achieve improved functionality and refinement with better response, performance and agility. Weighing just 710Kg*, the Elise is still the lightest sports car to offer excitement and performance without compromising everyday practicality. (* prototype data)

Intimate contact between driver and car is achieved through sensitive, tactile controls and essential instrumentation. A different feel The redesigned suspension features revised geometry, stiffer springs and Lotus tuned Bilstein dampers. Combined these provide the essential ingredients needed to create the unique Lotus driving experience.

The Elise bodywork and underbody diffuser define the innovative aerodynamics package increasing stability through balanced downforce characteristics.

Unique six-spoke wheels and tyres offer higher levels of grip in all conditions. Together with greater steering precision and more agile responses, the Elise inspires driver confidence. A different look At Lotus, form follows function. Vehicle architecture and aerodynamics dictate every curve and feature.

The advanced styling of its athletic form is stunning. Muscular and aggressive, it shouts performance and excitement. Exhaust pipes, gull-wing roof, headlamps, grilles and even fuel filler demonstrate outstanding contemporary design.

The functional interior is true to Lotus principles, engaging intimacy between driver and machine. The integrated dashboard, unique fabrics, precision switches and aluminium controls create a more of an avionic than automotive feel.

The innovative gull-wing roof hinges on both sides allowing easier access.

Roof panels are removable for an open top experience. The larger 115 litre boot gives ample storage and can house both removable roof panels.

A different standard Purity of design, high performance and driver control are all Elise fundamentals. The lightweight engine, controlled by a new Lotus engine management system is a perfect partner for the Elise chassis. Its low down torque and free revving sense of urgency is fully exploited by the close ratio gearbox. The soft-top has been redesigned to simplify assembly, removal and storage.

The Elise can be built to meet individual requirements, however other standard features includes stylish black cloth seats with high grip fabric, leather-trimmed steering wheel, and aluminium controls A low sill means easy access.

 

The exposed aluminium Elise chassis remains a dominant feature In addition to the standard Options there will also be two further specified packs available.

* Sports Tourer Option pack
* Race Tech Option Pack

The Elise Sports Tourer
When driving is a passion, but long journeys mean you have to consider extra comforts, the Elise Sports Tourer is the right choice. Offering the luxury of leather seats, dashboard and door panels, fitted carpets and polished aluminium controls, the Sports Tourer makes long distances a pleasure to drive. A four speaker audio system, adjustable passenger footrest and additional cabin storage enhance the package.

The Elise Race Tech
The cockpit is engineered from advanced materials, offering a race inspired modern interior without comprising vehicle weight. The high-tech floor features lightweight and durable materials. Seats are trimmed with carbon leather and alcantara to provide the ultimate in-driver location. Cross-drilled discs and auxiliary lamps focus the driving experience on performance. Aluminium driver controls and two-speaker audio system complete the driver's environment Black or silver wheels are available for the Race Tech Elise.Race style seats and trim all add to the excitement of this high-tech functional interior.

The Elise is reborn: quicker, more agile and even more exciting to drive.

Technical Specification

BODY:
Closed moulded lightweight composite body panels with detachable front and rears "clamshells" facilitate balanced aerodynamic downforce, increasing cornering grip and high speed stability.

CHASSIS:
Lotus designed lightweight structure of epoxy bonded aluminium alloy extrusion with integral steel rollover structure and lightweight steel subframe.

SUSPENSION:
Double Wishbone with coil springs over gas pressurised monotube Bilstein Dampers front and rear.

BRAKES:
282mm- diameter cast iron ventilated discs, non-servo split hydraulic system, including unique Lotus/ AP racing opposed piston aluminium front callipers.

WHEELS & TYRES:
Lotus designed lightweight 6-spoke, aluminium alloy wheels Front: 5.5" x 16" wheels with Lotus developed Bridgestone V rated 175/55 R16 tyres. Rear: 7.5" x 17" wheels with Lotus developed Bridgestone V rated 1225/45 R16 tyres.

INSTRUMENTATION:
Electronic Stack instruments with analogue display comprising re-calibrated speedometer and Tachometer with multifunction LCD incorporating re-calibrated fuel gauge, temperature read out, rev limiter warning lamp, engine diagnostics warning lamp and seat belt warning.

ENGINE:
K series: Transverse mid engine4 cylinders in line,
1796ccAll aluminium lightweight construction
Double overhead camshaft: 16 valves
Multi point sequential fuel injection

MAX OUTPUT: 122PS/ 120 bhp @ 5,500r/min *
MAX TORQUE: 168Nm / 124lb.ft between 3,500 — 4,500r/min
* Engine Management: Lotus K4 engine controller

Transmission:
5-speed transaxle driving rear wheels.
Close ratio gear fitted as standard equipment

Ratio:
First 2.923*
Second 1.750
Third 1.307 *
Fourth 1.033 *
Fifth 0.848 *
Reverse 3.000 *
Final Drive 4.2000 *

PERFORMANCE:
MAX Speed 125mph (200 km/h)*
0 - 62 mph (100km/h) 5.7 seconds*
0 - 100 mph (160km/h) 17.2 seconds*

FUEL CONSUMPTION:

  (Litres/100km) (mpg)
Urban  9.42 30
Extra Urban 6.14 46
Combined 7.33

38.5

 




Fuel requirement 95 RON ULG minimum ä

DIMENSIONS:
Wheel Base 2300mm
Front Track 1457mm
Rear Track 1503mm
Overall length 3785mm
Overall width 1719mm (Ex. Door mirrors)
Overall height 1143mm

WEIGHT:
Dry weight 710 Kg*
Kerb Weight 756 Kg* (including full tank of fuel at 30kg)
Weight distribution 38% front 62% rear.
Luggage compartment capacity: 115 Litres
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 Litres (8.3 gallons) ä

* All information provided by prototype vehicle data.


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