Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

PG Elektrus - front view

We have good news for you if you're missing the Tesla Roadster already. German manufacturer PG has unveiled the company's new Elektrus, a Lotus-based sports EV with some very wild styling. While the company has made a name for itself producing carbon-fiber electric bicycles, the Elektrus is its first crack at the automotive market. The Randall Boggs-inspired coupe uses a Lotus Elise chassis with bodywork comprised of carbon fiber and composite, though the company is keeping powertrain details to itself for the time being. We do know the vehicle's battery pack will afford Elektrus buyers a claimed range of around 215 miles and the whole package is said to weigh under 2,000 pounds.

The company also says the cells can be topped off in around eight hours from of a standard household outlet. With around 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the Elektrus should be very quick on its feet. PG claims the vehicle can dash to 62 mph in under three seconds on its way to a top speed of 155 mph. Look for the vehicle to land with a gasp-inducing price tag of $367,700 at current conversion rates (including VAT) when it hits the market in Germany. Hit the jump for the press release.

Continue reading PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise

PG Elektrus is yet another crack at electrifying a Lotus Elise originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Jan 2012 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electricelectric sports carelektruseliseevlotuslotus elisepgpg elektrusTue, 24 Jan 2012 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20155293/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/24/pg-elektrus-is-yet-another-crack-at-electrifying-a-lotus-elise/20155293/article-detail.xml 20155293 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/pg-elektrus-front-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/pg-elektrus-front-628.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus teaser for Frankfurt. What the F... indeed.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/lotus-teaser-for-frankfurt-what-the-f-indeed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/lotus-teaser-for-frankfurt-what-the-f-indeed/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/09/lotus-teaser-for-frankfurt-what-the-f-indeed/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Lotus is getting ready to put on a show in Frankfurt, and the automaker has released a teaser video to provide some insight into its auto show plans. Apparently Lotus has hired a David Lynch wannabe to direct it's latest video, because we're not exactly sure what's going on here. We don't even know if Lotus knows what's happening in the video.

We do know that the video shows a boxer preparing for a match with a car. The vehicle in question appears to be either a new Elise, the next-generation Exige or even the Evora GTE Road Car. It's hard to tell from the clip, which you can watch for yourself after the jump.

We've watched it now a few times now, and we're still a bit confused. It's clear that Lotus is ready for a fight, however, and we're excited to see what it has in store for the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Continue reading Lotus teaser for Frankfurt. What the F... indeed.

Lotus teaser for Frankfurt. What the F... indeed. originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Sep 2011 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 frankfurteliseexigefrankfurtfrankfurt motor showlotuslotus eliselotus exigelotus videovideoFri, 09 Sep 2011 12:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20038887/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/09/lotus-teaser-for-frankfurt-what-the-f-indeed/20038887/article-detail.xml 20038887 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/lotus-what-the-f-1315584562_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/lotus-what-the-f-1315584562.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA investigating Lotus Elise for oil leaks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/nhtsa-investigating-lotus-elise-for-oil-leaks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/nhtsa-investigating-lotus-elise-for-oil-leaks/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/25/nhtsa-investigating-lotus-elise-for-oil-leaks/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lotus Elise

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 17 complaints about an errant oil line in the Lotus Elise, and thus, has opened an investigation. The issue concerns the line on the front right cooler, which, having got loose, sprays oil either on the wheel or inside the engine bay.

This investigation pertains to around 4,400 of the little track-day wonders sold in the 2005 and 2006 model years. There have been no injuries, but one car did leave the road and catch on fire. A NHTSA investigation doesn't mean a full recall has been issued, just that your friends in the fed are looking into the matter.

NHTSA investigating Lotus Elise for oil leaks originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2005 lotus elise2006 lotus eliseeliselotuslotus eliseNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsaMon, 25 Jul 2011 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19998678/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/25/nhtsa-investigating-lotus-elise-for-oil-leaks/19998678/article-detail.xml 19998678 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/lotuselisenhtsaoil_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/lotuselisenhtsaoil.jpg <![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Lotus releases slew of new images]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/23/pics-aplenty-lotus-releases-slew-of-new-images/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/23/pics-aplenty-lotus-releases-slew-of-new-images/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/23/pics-aplenty-lotus-releases-slew-of-new-images/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Lotus Elise concept
Lotus concept cars - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lotus set the motoring community abuzz when it showed up at the Paris Motor Show with a slew of concept cars. These vehicles show the direction Lotus is moving, and each is a polarizing example of a future filled with heavier yet more powerful Lotus sports cars.

The automaker recently brought its Elise, Esprit, Elan, and Elite concept vehicles out to the beach for a day of camera fun. There really isn't much more we can say about these cars that we haven't already said... that is, until someone gives us a few sets of keys (and a lesson in holding back ear-to-ear grins). So stop reading and click through the gallery below.


Gallery: Lotus Concept Cars

Lotus Elise ConceptLotus Elise ConceptLotus Elan ConceptLotus Elan ConceptLotus Elan Concept

[Source: Lotus]

Pics Aplenty: Lotus releases slew of new images originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conceptconcept carselaneliseeliteespritlotuslotus elanlotus eliselotus elitelotus espritThu, 23 Dec 2010 15:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19774576/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/23/pics-aplenty-lotus-releases-slew-of-new-images/19774576/article-detail.xml 19774576 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/000-lotus-elise-concept-copy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/000-lotus-elise-concept-copy.jpg <![CDATA[Dissecting the Lotus Metamorphosis: The Cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/24/dissecting-the-lotus-metamorphosis-the-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/24/dissecting-the-lotus-metamorphosis-the-cars/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/11/24/dissecting-the-lotus-metamorphosis-the-cars/#commentsFiled under:

Click above for high-res image gallery

Lotus' gave us an in-depth look at both what the company wishes to become and how the cars it builds will drive them there. In our previous installment we looked at the Lotus Group as a whole. Here we'll break down the vehicles Lotus hopes will make it a global success and discuss the two cars that are conspicuously absent from Lotus' next great renaissance. Follow the jump to find out what they are and how Lotus' line-up is set to undergo a massive evolution.

Continue reading Dissecting the Lotus Metamorphosis: The Cars

Dissecting the Lotus Metamorphosis: The Cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 24 Nov 2010 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredlotuslotus eliseLotus EvoraWed, 24 Nov 2010 14:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19716312/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/11/24/dissecting-the-lotus-metamorphosis-the-cars/19716312/article-detail.xml 19716312 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/lotus-2-630op-1290566322_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/11/lotus-2-630op-1290566322.jpg <![CDATA[Paris 2010: Lotus Elise Concept evolves the sports car [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/lotus-elise-concept-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/lotus-elise-concept-paris-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/30/lotus-elise-concept-paris-2010/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Lotus Elise Concept
2015 Lotus Elise Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

There's no denying that Lotus had lost its way prior to the release of the much-loved Elise. The company that Colin built had strayed from its roots of lightweight sports cars and drifted towards the exotic realm... and it had drastic effects on the company's bottom line. Thankfully, the Elise and its hard-core cousin, the Exige, set the company back on the straight and narrow.

All of this begs the question, though: How do you update a modern classic like the Elise? Lotus' answer is currently being shown off at the Paris Motor Show. Here are the basics: 320 horsepower from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine procured from Toyota, a six-speed manual and optional paddle-shifted automatic transmission, and a 2,409-pound curb weight. This supercharged model can hit 62 in 4.3 seconds. Price? $55,000.

For those keeping track of such things, which is to say nearly all of you, that is indeed heavier and more expensive than the current Elise... and that's not good. Fortunately, Lotus promises that there will be less expensive versions of the 2015 Elise available, presumably without the benefit of forced induction. There will also be both hard-and soft-top models on offer.

What all Elises will offer, though, is a more luxurious cabin and easier entry and exit. We're loving the look of the interior, with its pod-like binnacle of instruments, steering wheel with F1-style progressive shift lights and its digital rendering of race circuits for those venturing out the the track. As for the exterior, well, let's just say we're not quite on board yet with what Lotus designers have planned for the brand's future. Fortunately they have plenty of time to change our minds.

UPDATE: Video added after the break and live shots added in second gallery below.


Gallery: Paris 2010: Lotus Elise Concept


Gallery: Lotus Elise Concept

Lotus Elise ConceptLotus Elise ConceptLotus Elise ConceptLotus Elise Concept

Live photos copyright (C)2010 Drew Phillips / AOL

Continue reading Paris 2010: Lotus Elise Concept evolves the sports car [w/video]

Paris 2010: Lotus Elise Concept evolves the sports car [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:49:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2015 elise2015 elise concept2015 lotus elise2015 lotus elise concepteliseelise conceptlotuslotus eliseparisparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Thu, 30 Sep 2010 11:49:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19655496/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/30/lotus-elise-concept-paris-2010/19655496/article-detail.xml 19655496 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01lotuseliseparisliveopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/01lotuseliseparisliveopt.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus willing to build Evora-based sportscars for other automakers?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Lotus Evora - Click above for high-res image gallery

Lotus is considering offering up its latest sports car platforms to other automakers, and this isn't the first time. When the Elise debuted in the mid-90s, Lotus sold the chassis to form the basis of new lightweight coupes with different powertrains, the most notable of which included the Opel Speedster/Vauxhall VX220 and, of course, the Tesla Roadster.

According to recent reports, Lotus has received inquiries from several automakers about using the new Evora in similar ways. While the Evora is all-new, the chassis is built using similar, Elise-like aluminum extrusions riveted and bonded together for a light, strong structure. Since the Evora has been designed around a V6, automakers have the potential to fit a range of larger, more powerful engines. The upsized chassis could also provide a better platform for electric motors, with far less modifications than those required to turn an Elise into a Tesla. However, if any automaker does develop something off the Evora, it's likely to be a few years away.

Us? We're thinking about a 3.5-liter Ecoboost-powered, mid-engine mini-Ford GT. How about you?

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lotus Evora


Photos by Michael Harley / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Autocar]

Lotus willing to build Evora-based sportscars for other automakers? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Aug 2010 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>evoraLotuslotus eliseLotus Evoralotus evora platformlotus evora platform sharingLotusEliseLotusEvoraLotusEvoraPlatformLotusEvoraPlatformSharingThu, 19 Aug 2010 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19592869/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/08/19/lotus-willing-to-build-evora-based-sportscars-for-competitors/19592869/article-detail.xml 19592869 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/03lotusevora2010fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/08/03lotusevora2010fd.jpg <![CDATA[Rumormill: Lotus to show off next Esprit, two new GTs, one roadster in Paris]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/rumormill-lotus-to-show-off-next-esprit-two-new-gts-one-roads/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/rumormill-lotus-to-show-off-next-esprit-two-new-gts-one-roads/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/09/rumormill-lotus-to-show-off-next-esprit-two-new-gts-one-roads/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Getting closer to the Paris Motor Show, more is being revealed - or rumored, perhaps - about what will be on show. AutoExpress is predicting the appearance of five Lotus concepts at the end of September: a roadster, two front-engined grand tourers, and the new Esprit. Last month, we postulated that a supercharged or convertible Lotus Evora convertible might make the scene, and there's a slight chance of seeing the 2012 Lotus Elise. The two front-engined GTs are the real surprise, seeing that there hasn't been much said about them previously. If these concepts do, in fact, exist and end up going into production, they, combined with the new Esprit would double Lotus' current line.

As excited as we'll be to finally see the Esprit, we'll be just as glad to sate our curiosity about Lotus' engine line-up. A widened Elise prototype has folks wondering about a V6, the Esprit has been imagined with a BMW engine as well as a couple of Lexus powerplants, and Lotus and Cosworth have been further developing powertrains for the brand. With Lotus aiming to join the scalpel-edged sports car party, we expect its Paris showing to be something special - we just hope it doesn't look like AE's rendered version shown at right.

[Source: AutoExpress]

Rumormill: Lotus to show off next Esprit, two new GTs, one roadster in Paris originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 lotus esprit2011LotusEsprit2012 lotus elise2012LotusEliseeliseespritlotus eliselotus espritLotusEliseLotusEspritparis 2010paris motor showparis motor show 2010Paris2010ParisMotorShowParisMotorShow2010Fri, 09 Jul 2010 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19547467/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/09/rumormill-lotus-to-show-off-next-esprit-two-new-gts-one-roads/19547467/article-detail.xml 19547467 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lotusparis10_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/lotusparis10.jpg <![CDATA[Paris Preview: Lotus teases "Dawn of a new era," new Esprit finally arriving?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/21/paris-preview-lotus-teases-dawn-of-a-new-era-new-esprit-fina/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/21/paris-preview-lotus-teases-dawn-of-a-new-era-new-esprit-fina/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/21/paris-preview-lotus-teases-dawn-of-a-new-era-new-esprit-fina/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Just in time for the summer solstice, Lotus sent out a cryptic message to let us know that the next evolution of the brand will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. No other clues have been revealed, but we're guessing that a number of hints will be dropped over the course of the summer.

There are several possibilities, including an Evora convertible or a supercharged variant of Lotus' 2+2, both of which have been previously confirmed. Considering the Elise is growing long in the tooth and is slated to be replaced in 2012, the third-gen. model could be in the cards. But if we were betting men, we'd put a few bucks on Lotus finally unveiling the all-new Esprit after years of delays. The next Esprit will use a stretched version of the Evora platform and is expected to have V8 power, although it's not clear who will supply it. Regardless of what Lotus unveils, if these are the kind of teaser we can expect, it's going to be a long summer.

[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading Paris Preview: Lotus teases "Dawn of a new era," new Esprit finally arriving?

Paris Preview: Lotus teases "Dawn of a new era," new Esprit finally arriving? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Lotuslotus eliselotus espritLotus EvoraLotusEliseLotusEspritLotusEvoraparis motor showparis motor show 2010paris motorshowParisMotorShowParisMotorShow2010Mon, 21 Jun 2010 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19524257/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/21/paris-preview-lotus-teases-dawn-of-a-new-era-new-esprit-fina/19524257/article-detail.xml 19524257 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/image002_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/image002.jpg <![CDATA[Spy Shots: Lotus to upgrade Elise and Exige with V6 engine?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/01/report-lotus-to-upgrade-elise-exige-with-v6-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/01/report-lotus-to-upgrade-elise-exige-with-v6-engine/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/01/report-lotus-to-upgrade-elise-exige-with-v6-engine/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

A Lotus Exige-based mule has again been spotted out and about wearing tacked-on fender extensions to facilitate a significantly wider track than current versions. Sources suggest that this machine is drawing power from the same Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6 found in the new Evora due to the fact that this particular Exige had a very similar exhaust note to an Evora that was running nearby.

We're not so sure that stuffing the V6 into the Elise/Exige would be such a positive move given the extra bulk it would add. Newer direct inject injected and boosted inline fours can easily match the output of the V6 in a smaller package.

It's also worth noting that the reported sound of this mule isn't a guarantee of what's in the engine bay. After all, this is the company that invented active noise cancellation and is capable of producing almost any sound it wants from a car.

[Source: Autocar]

Spy Shots: Lotus to upgrade Elise and Exige with V6 engine? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Lotuslotus eliselotus elise v6Lotus Evoralotus exigelotus exige v6lotus toyotaLotusEliseLotusEliseV6LotusEvoraLotusExigeLotusExigeV6LotusToyotaspy photosspy picsspy shotspy shotsspy-shotsSpyPhotosSpyPicsSpyShotSpyShotsTue, 01 Jun 2010 09:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19498025/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/01/report-lotus-to-upgrade-elise-exige-with-v6-engine/19498025/article-detail.xml 19498025 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/lotus-275101051913531600x1060_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/lotus-275101051913531600x1060.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2010 Lotus Evora delivers performance, civility and little concession]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/13/2010-lotus-evora-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/13/2010-lotus-evora-first-drive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/05/13/2010-lotus-evora-first-drive/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Lotus Evora - Click above for high-res image gallery

In a move that would have impressed Harry Houdini, Lotus has made one thousand pounds of vehicle mass seemingly disappear - yet we still know it's there. We're high in the mountains above San Diego, challenging corners in the 2010 Lotus Evora, and the larger and more luxurious two-plus-two is emulating the moves of its lightweight race-ready Elise and Exige siblings.

What gives the Evora its supernatural powers? How does the all-new Evora fit into the Lotus lineup? And, most importantly, is this the first Lotus you can park in your garage without having to explain it to the neighbors? Find out after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Lotus Evora


Photos by Michael Harley / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Lotus Evora delivers performance, civility and little concession

First Drive: 2010 Lotus Evora delivers performance, civility and little concession originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 May 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 Evora2011 Lotus2011 Lotus Evora2011Evora2011Lotus2011LotusEvoraEliseEvoraExigeFeaturedFirst driveFirstDriveLotusLotus EliseLotus Evoralotus exigeLotusEliseLotusEvoraLotusExigeSan DiegoSanDiegoThu, 13 May 2010 11:56:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19475412/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/05/13/2010-lotus-evora-first-drive/19475412/article-detail.xml 19475412 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/03lotusevora2010fdopta_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/05/03lotusevora2010fdopta.jpg <![CDATA[The Car That Could Solve Everything: European 2011 Lotus Elise S rated at 46.7 mpg]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/09/the-car-could-solve-everything-european-2011-lotus-elise-s-rate/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/09/the-car-could-solve-everything-european-2011-lotus-elise-s-rate/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/04/09/the-car-could-solve-everything-european-2011-lotus-elise-s-rate/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


2011 Lotus Elise - Click above for high-res image gallery

Particularly given its performance capabilities, the Lotus Elise has always been remarkably fuel efficient. The Elise (and its hardtop Exige sibling) have long been a rolling testament to the benefits of light weight. Thanks to a new 1.6-liter, 136 horsepower inline-four and a new lower drag nose, the European-spec 2011 Elise S is now officially rated at 46.7 miles per gallon (U.S.) on the EU highway cycle, and the carbon dioxide emissions are just 149 grams per kilometer on the combined cycle.

The CO2 number makes the Elise S the cleanest gas powered sports car in the world, and all without resorting to redundant powertrain hardware like electric motors and batteries. While sipping fuel and minimizing emissions, the Elise S still promises to rip off a 0-60 mph sprint in just six seconds and handle like a dream. That's what a 1,931 pound curb weight will buy you. Alas, Americans will not be able to buy the 1.6-liter Elise S, as the entry level model here will remain a 190-hp 1.8-liter rated at 21/27 mpg by the EPA.


Gallery: 2011 Lotus Elise


[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading The Car That Could Solve Everything: European 2011 Lotus Elise S rated at 46.7 mpg

The Car That Could Solve Everything: European 2011 Lotus Elise S rated at 46.7 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Apr 2010 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 lotus2011 lotus elise2011 lotus elise s2011Lotus2011LotusElise2011LotusEliseSelise sEliseSLotuslotus eliselotus elise sLotusEliseLotusEliseSFri, 09 Apr 2010 10:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19433078/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/04/09/the-car-could-solve-everything-european-2011-lotus-elise-s-rate/19433078/article-detail.xml 19433078 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/01-2011-lotus-elise-press-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/01-2011-lotus-elise-press-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Hennessey Venom GT spied out in the open]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/video-hennessey-venom-gt-spied-out-in-the-open/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/video-hennessey-venom-gt-spied-out-in-the-open/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/26/video-hennessey-venom-gt-spied-out-in-the-open/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Hennessey Venom GT spied in public - Click above to watch the video after the jump

The insane Hennessey Venom GT won't be revealed publicly until this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed (but come back this Monday at midnight for the full scoop), however, the crew at PistonHeads have recently caught the car out in the open. We're definitely swooning over this one, what with its Lotus Elise-based body, Porsche Carrera GT proportions and Corvette ZR1-sourced powerplant.

We don't have the official details just yet, but we're told that this supercar stunner will produce around 1,000 horsepower. And when you consider that the whole car only weighs about 2,400 pounds, we're expecting some pretty impressive performance numbers. Hit the jump to see a video of the Venom GT in the flesh.


Gallery: Hennessey Performance Venom GT in the shop


[Source: PistonHeads]

Continue reading Video: Hennessey Venom GT spied out in the open

Video: Hennessey Venom GT spied out in the open originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevrolet Corvette ZR1ChevroletCorvetteZr1goodwood festival of speedGoodwoodFestivalOfSpeedhennesseyHennessey Performancehennessey venom gtHennesseyPerformanceHennesseyVenomGtlotus eliseLotusEliseLS9LS9 V8Ls9V8spy shotsspy videoSpyShotsSpyVideoVenom GTVenomGtvideoFri, 26 Mar 2010 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19415732/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/26/video-hennessey-venom-gt-spied-out-in-the-open/19415732/article-detail.xml 19415732 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/venomgtopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/venomgtopt.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva 2010: Evorified 2011 Lotus Elise shows its new nose]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/geneva-2010-evorified-2011-lotus-elise-shows-its-new-nose/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/geneva-2010-evorified-2011-lotus-elise-shows-its-new-nose/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/02/geneva-2010-evorified-2011-lotus-elise-shows-its-new-nose/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Lotus Elise - Click above for a high-res image gallery

It's been a long time coming, but the Lotus Elise has finally gone under the knife and gotten a new nose inspired by its 2+2 sibling. Available in both standard (189 horsepower) and SC (218 hp) guise, the 2011 Elise also benefits from a new engine cover, improved aerodynamics and LED daytime running lights and indicators.

It's not a huge makeover, but depending on who's looking, it's a subtle improvement over its predecessor, lending a bit more familial cohesion to Lotus' entry level model - something that's going to be more important when the next-generation Esprit finally hits the roads in two years time. Sales of the facelifted Elise are set to begin later this summer and you can get all the details about the updates in the press release below the fold.


Gallery: Geneva 2010: 2011 Lotus Elise

Continue reading Geneva 2010: Evorified 2011 Lotus Elise shows its new nose

Geneva 2010: Evorified 2011 Lotus Elise shows its new nose originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 elise2011 lotus elise2011Elise2011LotusEliseelisegenevageneva 2010geneva motor showGeneva2010GenevaMotorShowlotuslotus eliseLotusEliseTue, 02 Mar 2010 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19379434/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/02/geneva-2010-evorified-2011-lotus-elise-shows-its-new-nose/19379434/article-detail.xml 19379434 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01-2011-lotus-elise-live-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/01-2011-lotus-elise-live-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Spotted in SoCal: Vauxhall VX220, a Lotus Elise in disguise]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/20/spotted-in-socal-vauxhall-vx220-a-lotus-elise-in-disguise/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/20/spotted-in-socal-vauxhall-vx220-a-lotus-elise-in-disguise/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/20/spotted-in-socal-vauxhall-vx220-a-lotus-elise-in-disguise/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Vauxhall VX220
Vauxhall VX220 in a La Jolla garage - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you spend any time hanging out in the same areas frequented by the affluent, you'll inevitably stumble across plenty of exotic motorized conveyances. Beverly Hills, Newport Beach and La Jolla, California are riddled with Bentleys, Porsches, Ferraris and Aston Martins. Since those vehicles are readily available for sale here, anyone with enough liquidity can wander in to a dealer and pick one up.

Every once in a while, though, you'll stumble across something genuinely unusual, that clearly took some effort to acquire. Such was the case the other day when we came across this diminutive silver speed demon in a La Jolla parking garage. Those familiar with the Lotus Elise and Tesla Roadster will recognize the lineage. However, this machine is far more sharply chiseled than its cousins.

This is the Vauxhall VX220, complete with the steering wheel on the right-hand side of the cockpit. During the first half of the 1990s last decade, Vauxhall and its continental counterpart, Opel, collaborated with Lotus to produce a rebodied and stretched version of the Elise powered by General Motors Ecotec four-cylinder engines. We have no idea how this car came to make its way to the Golden State, but if the owner (we're probably safe in assuming there is only one person in California with a VX220) reads this and cares to enlighten us, we're all ears.

Spotted in SoCal: Vauxhall VX220, a Lotus Elise in disguise originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 13:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lotus eliseLotusEliseopelopel speedsterOpelSpeedstervauxhallvauxhall vx220VauxhallVx220Sat, 20 Feb 2010 13:48:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19364867/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/20/spotted-in-socal-vauxhall-vx220-a-lotus-elise-in-disguise/19364867/article-detail.xml 19364867 http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/vauxhall-vx-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/vauxhall-vx-630.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus vehicle engineering director Roger Becker retires after 44 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/lotus-vehicle-engineering-director-roger-becker-retires-after-44/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/lotus-vehicle-engineering-director-roger-becker-retires-after-44/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/02/lotus-vehicle-engineering-director-roger-becker-retires-after-44/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you have ever ridden in or driven any Lotus product produced in the last four decades, you have experienced the handiwork of Roger Becker. Becker has been the director of vehicle engineering at Lotus for more than two decades and has one of the most finely calibrated backsides in the business. However, after 44 years at Lotus, the time has come for Becker to slip off into retirement.

Becker started his career on the Elan assembly line, but Lotus founder Colin Chapman quickly moved him over to the engineering ranks. While relatively few of us have ever driven a Lotus, the chances are pretty good that you have actually been in a car that has had Becker's influence. Through the engineering consultancy branch of Group Lotus, Becker and his team have tweaked countless cars from other brands that never carried the Lotus badge.

Last year, Lotus introduced what may well turn out to be one of the best cars of Becker's career, the new Evora. Becker led the team that brought the Evora from discussion to production in just two-and-a-half years.

This author was fortunate to meet and work with Roger Becker on one of the very first projects of my engineering career, and he helped me to learn that understanding subtle nuances can be as important as raw numbers in many cases. No doubt he influenced countless others in the same way, and the automotive world is a better place for it.

[Source: Lotus]

Continue reading Lotus vehicle engineering director Roger Becker retires after 44 years

Lotus vehicle engineering director Roger Becker retires after 44 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lotuslotus eliselotus engineeringlotus espritLotus EvoraLotusEliseLotusEngineeringLotusEspritLotusEvoraroger beckerroger becker retirementRogerBeckerRogerBeckerRetirementTue, 02 Feb 2010 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19339870/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/02/02/lotus-vehicle-engineering-director-roger-becker-retires-after-44/19339870/article-detail.xml 19339870 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/roger-becker-evora_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/roger-becker-evora.jpg <![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Melkus RS2000 provides thrills with history for big money]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-melkus-rs2000-provides-thrills-with-history-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-melkus-rs2000-provides-thrills-with-history-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-melkus-rs2000-provides-thrills-with-history-for/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Melkus RS2000 -- Click above for high-res image gallery

Three years ago Melkus, the historic, East German race car builder, released renderings of a gullwing sports car they wanted to have ready in 2009. It always makes us happy to see the passionate guy make big plans and then get them achieved - on time even - and the Melkus RS2000 is the culmination of that achievement. Based on an Elise, it rides on a Melkus-designed aluminum double-wishbone suspension and wears a glass-fiber reinforced polyester body.

Power comes from the 1.8-liter, 16-valve, 4-cylinder Elise tuned up to 270 hp that shifts through a short-throw 6-speed transmission. With a curb weight of 950 kg (2,090 pounds) you can get to 60 in 4.9 seconds. Interiors can be customized as you wish, but the car comes standard with more creature comforts than you'll find in most of its competition, including the Elise. The Melkus' creation did come with a price: the original estimates were for it to cost €75,000; the actual price is €107,500. But what's a little inflation between friends.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Melkus RS2000



Frankfurt 2009: Melkus RS2000 provides thrills with history for big money originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupeelisefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showfrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowlotus eliseLotusElisemelkusmelkus rs2000MelkusRs2000performancers2000sportsWed, 16 Sep 2009 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19163593/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-melkus-rs2000-provides-thrills-with-history-for/19163593/article-detail.xml 19163593 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/melkus_rs200f_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/melkus_rs200f.jpg <![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Lotus Elise Club Racer and Exige Cup 260 give us that special feeling]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lotus-elise-club-racer-and-exige-cup-260-give-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lotus-elise-club-racer-and-exige-cup-260-give-us/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lotus-elise-club-racer-and-exige-cup-260-give-us/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lotus Elise Club Racer and Exige Cup 260 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Another show, another pair of special editions from Lotus. This time around it's the Elise Club Racer and the Exige Cup 260, two lightweight specials based on the company's core product range.

We brought you details and photos of both a few weeks ago in the ramp-up to the show, but stopped by to have a closer look at the pair while we were there checking out the race-spec Evora. Check 'em both out in the high-res image gallery below.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Lotus Elise Club Racer and Exige Cup 260


Frankfurt 2009: Lotus Elise Club Racer and Exige Cup 260 give us that special feeling originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 frankfurt2009 frankfurt auto show2009 frankfurt motor show2009Frankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShow2009FrankfurtMotorShoweliseelise club racerEliseClubRacerexigeexige cupexige cup 260ExigeCupExigeCup260falsefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowlotuslotus eliselotus elise club racerlotus exigelotus exige cup 260LotusEliseLotusEliseClubRacerLotusExigeLotusExigeCup260Tue, 15 Sep 2009 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19161932/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/15/frankfurt-2009-lotus-elise-club-racer-and-exige-cup-260-give-us/19161932/article-detail.xml 19161932 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/01-lotus-frankfurt-620_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/01-lotus-frankfurt-620.jpg <![CDATA[Für Elise: New Lotus Club Racer model a lyrical composition of thrift with swift]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/fur-elise-new-lotus-club-racer-model-a-lyrical-composition-of-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/fur-elise-new-lotus-club-racer-model-a-lyrical-composition-of-t/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/fur-elise-new-lotus-club-racer-model-a-lyrical-composition-of-t/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Lotus Elise Club Racer - Click above for high-res image gallery

Guess what? Yet another special edition of the Lotus Elise is scheduled to make a grand entrance at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this month. This one, called the Elise Club Racer, is based on the 134-horsepower Elise S, and we don't think it's headed to America at this time. Pity, since the unique color schemes - Elite Yellow, Carbon Grey, Sky Blue and Old English White -offered on the Club Racer look pretty good and are fitting representations of classic Lotus cars from the past like the Elite and Elan.

Inside, Club Racer buyers will be greeted with seats finished with "microfiber comfort pads" that Lotus claims are "perfectly positioned to give the right amount of support with the minimal amount of weight." Sounds, well... perfect. Whichever body color is chosen will be repeated on the transmission tunnel and the footwells and gear knob are formed in anodized aluminum. Outside, an attractive set of lightweight six-spoke aluminum wheels shod with sticky Yokohama AD07 LTS tires are done up in matching anthracite anodizing.

The Lotus Elise Club Racer goes on sale in select markets starting on September 15, but whether you are in the position to buy one or not, you can check out the high-res pics in our gallery below and the press release after the jump.


Gallery: Lotus Elise Club Racer

lotus_elise_club_racer_side_grey_1lotus_elise_club_racer_front_greylotus_elise_club_racer_side_yellowlotus_elise_club_racer_front_yellowlotus_elise_club_racer_side_white

Continue reading Für Elise: New Lotus Club Racer model a lyrical composition of thrift with swift

Für Elise: New Lotus Club Racer model a lyrical composition of thrift with swift originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elisefrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowlotuslotus eliselotus elise club racerLotusEliseLotusEliseClubRacerThu, 03 Sep 2009 14:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19149995/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/09/03/fur-elise-new-lotus-club-racer-model-a-lyrical-composition-of-t/19149995/article-detail.xml 19149995 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/lotus_elise_club_racer_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/09/lotus_elise_club_racer.jpg <![CDATA[Lotus begins offering supercharger kits for all NA Elises and Exiges]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/lotus-begins-offering-supercharger-kits-for-all-na-elises-and-ex/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/lotus-begins-offering-supercharger-kits-for-all-na-elises-and-ex/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/08/03/lotus-begins-offering-supercharger-kits-for-all-na-elises-and-ex/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Lotus Elise - Click above for high-res image gallery

Anyone who's picked up a Lotus Elise or Exige before the kids from Hethel began offering a factory supercharged engine, help is at hand. Drivers of normally aspirated Lotuses can now get a factory style blower kit from Lotus Cars USA. The system is completely emissions certified, warrantied and legal in all 50 states, and includes higher flow injectors, a supercharger with integrated intake manifold and new ECU calibrations. Any authorized Lotus dealer can sell and install the kit that bumps the output of the 1.8-liter Toyota engine from 189 hp/133 lb-ft to 218 hp/155 lb-ft. Although the torque gain is minimal, twist now peaks at a more usable 5,000 rpm rather than 6,800 rpm. You can get all the details in the press release below the fold, but don't look for a price -- Lotus hasn't announced the cost for the kit yet.


Gallery: Lotus Elise


Continue reading Lotus begins offering supercharger kits for all NA Elises and Exiges

Lotus begins offering supercharger kits for all NA Elises and Exiges originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 03 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>lotuslotus eliselotus exigelotus supercharger kitLotusEliseLotusExigeLotusSuperchargerKitsuperchargesuperchargedsuperchargersupercharger kitSuperchargerKitMon, 03 Aug 2009 18:20:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19117598/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/08/03/lotus-begins-offering-supercharger-kits-for-all-na-elises-and-ex/19117598/article-detail.xml 19117598 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/01-elise-random-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/08/01-elise-random-630op.jpg -1 2