2014 Lotus Elite coupe to offer optional KERS hybrid system

Admittedly, 2014 is a long time away and a lot of things could happen between now and then to squash Lotus' plan to offer a production version of its Elite coupe concept. But, if nothing is dramatically altered within four year's time, then we'd expect to see the KERS hybrid system attached, at least as an option, to the company's 3,637 pound Elite. Lotus claims that pricing for its two-plus-two Elite will start around $179,000, but the optional KERS will likely command a premium over the base model.

The front-mid-engined Elite comes packing a 5.0-liter V8 engine that puts out 611 horsepower and 531 pound-feet of torque, which Lotus claims is good for a 0-60 time in the 3.5-second range. When equipped with the optional KERS system, though, the vehicle's CO2 emissions comes in at a claimed 215 g/km. Yeah, we're aware that an emissions rating of 200-plus isn't exactly spectacular, but the Lotus Elite does fall into supercar territory, so you didn't really expect to see sub-100 numbers now, did ya?

[Source: Inside Line, Lotus]

PRESS RELEASE

The Lotus Elite....enjoy the new British Expression of Exclusivity

Ten days ahead of the official unveil at the Paris Motor Show the sun starts to rise for the dawn of Lotus' new era - the Elite will redefine "modern classic".

So here it is, the Lotus Elite, the first taste of what's to come from Lotus in the future. Look up elegant in the dictionary and you'll find variations on the following 1. dignified grace in appearance, movement, or behaviour, 2. superb taste in design, style and 3. something elegant; the ultimate refinement.

The ground-breaking new Elite is exactly that. It's compact yet chic body is elegance incarnate. It's not only exquisitely elegant, in keeping with Lotus' core values, it's a car of substance incorporating some of the very latest technological innovations Lotus has to offer. The slick retractable hard top version and the optional use of hybrid technology with KERS are typical examples of Lotus tailoring technology to deliver perfect performance.

Dany Bahar, CEO of Group Lotus said: "There's no denying that the Elite is breathtakingly beautiful to look at but it's so much more than that, it's a car that over delivers in all other aspects as well. One could say it's a car of perfect contradictions, it's compact yet spacious, high performing yet low emitting, lightweight yet still reassuringly solid. It's a car that we are exceptionally proud of at Lotus and we truly believe that there is nothing else like it out there both in terms of styling and performance.

"Make no mistake, there's a definite market requirement for the Elite – it's the ultimate sports car feel with comfort and space. 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. It's worth noting this sector has been very successful for us in the past and now the Elite raises the benchmark higher still."

Set for release in spring 2014, this is an innovative, exciting GT that will set a new benchmark in design, performance and emissions. And it's not all about sleek lines and stunning bodywork with this particular 2+2, what hides beneath this shark like exterior perfectly does the aesthetics justice. A front-mid positioned 5.0l V8 engine delivering up to 620 PS meaning drivers can expect to go from 0-100 km/h in approximately 3.5 to 3.7 seconds.