Lotus Elite: first images

Lotus has unveiled the first images of the Elite, the new 2+2 GT that will debut as a concept at the 2010 Paris Motor Show and will go on sale in 2014. It features a shark-inspired design and a mid-front mounted 5 liter V8 engine with 620 hp.

The Lotus Elite marks the return of the brand to the premium GT market niche, left in 2004 when the Esprit went out of production.

The new model, expected for 2014, will be previewed at the next Paris Motor Show by a "Production Intent Prototype" that gives some clear indications of the final production car.

The front end has a shark-inspired design with an arrow-shaped hood, large air intakes integrated in the spoiler and elongated headlights with carbon-trimmed surroundings.

The side view is characterized by a descending character line that originates from the front shoulder and an ascending line that extends to the rear end.

The aluminum blades positioned behind the front wheels are reminescent of shark gills.

The rear end has a more complex look, with a spoiler integrated in the trunk lid and tail lights inserted in the body like jewels.

A large carbon diffuser that integrates the trapezoidal pipe exhausts.

Seen from the top, the Elite showcases several distincitive elements: the large glass surface that integrates the windshield, the roof and the rear window; the air outlets positioned behind the headlights; and the wing-shaped rear view cameras that replace the conventional side mirrors.

The Elite will be powered by a front- mid positioned 5.0 liter V8 engine delivering up to 620 PS. The 0-100 km/h sprint time is expected to be approximately 3.5 seconds.

A full hybrid transmission with KERS will be available as optional.

The market launch of the Elite is expected for 2014, with a projected price of £115,000 (about 138k Euros). It will be available in both a coupé and a retractable hard top version.

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus said: "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."

Lotus Elite - Technical Specification

• Layout:
  • 2+2 seater, front-mid-engined, rear wheel drive
• Dimensions
  • Length: 4.60m
  • Width: 1.90m
  • Height: 1.32m
  • Weight: 1,650 kg
• Engine
  • Type: 5.0 litre V8 gasoline, hybrid optional
  • Hybrid technology: Hybrid gearbox with integrated electric motors and KERS
  • Power: 620 PS
  • Torque: 720 Nm
  • Rev limit: 8,500 rpm
• Performance
  • 0-100 km/h: 3.5 to 3.7 seconds
  • Top speed: 315 km/h
  • CO2 Emissions: 215 g/km (using optional hybrid)

(Source: Lotus)