Lotus track car arrives at last
2-Eleven: track focused and seriously light
    Lotus 2-Eleven |
Lotus is launching a seriously focused track day car.
The new Lotus 2-Eleven will be built by Lotus Sport, the race car performance arm of Lotus Cars Ltd, today unveiled the new Lotus 2-Eleven at the Geneva motor show.
Aimed at track day enthusiasts, the Exige-based car weighs just 670Kg with 252bhp on tap courtesy of its supercharged and intercooled 1.8-litre engine. Its power to weight ratio similar to that of a 1960's Formula One car.
Engine
The engine will scream round to a maximum 8,000 rpm and uses a Roots-type Eaton M62 supercharger (with a sealed-for-life internal mechanism so that it doesn't use the engine's oil) is run from the crankshaft and has an integral bypass valve for part load operation. Four high capacity injectors and an up rated fuel pump add additional fuel under hard acceleration or high speed driving.
An Accusump (engine oil accumulator unit) is included in the whole package as an oil reservoir back-up for extreme track use ensuring that, under those conditions, the engine oil pressure remains constant. Twin oil coolers complete the powertrain package.
Transmission
A sports-type clutch plate and heavy duty clutch cover transfer the engine power and torque to the lightweight aluminium C64 six-speed gearbox (with an aluminium casing) - using the same spaced ratios as the Exige S. An open type differential is fitted as standard. The Lotus switchable Traction Control System (LTCS) works through the engine, reducing power to maintain traction; it is active above five mph and reacts more quickly than many brake-based systems, reckoned Lotus.
Chassis and safety
The Lotus 2-Eleven uses a high-sided variant of the Elise's chassis structure featuring epoxy bonded aluminium alloy extrusions with modified Exige S based running gear. This strong and stiff package features a safety system with a glass fibre reinforced composite front crash structure allied to a high sill chassis for side impact protection. Additional chassis safety features include an FIA compliant six-point rollover structure with integral harness mounts and lightweight galvanised steel rear subframe incorporating a further crushable structure.
Body
The track car features all new lightweight composite bodywork weighing 40Kg and featuring core-mat technology. All external panels are bolted on for ease of removal, maintenance and repair.
Wheels and tyres
Five-spoke lightweight forged black alloy wheels (front 7Jx16, rear 8J x 17) are shod with Lotus Sport specific Yokohama A048 R LTS tyres (front 195/50 R16, rear 225/45 R17), designed to maximise grip and achieve Lotus' ride and handling targets.
Brakes
The brake system includes 288 mm cast iron cross drilled and ventilated discs, upgraded Pagid RS14 sports brake pads set into the brake calipers (aluminium alloy AP Racing 2-piston at the front and Brembo single sliding piston at the rear), high grade silicone brake fluid and stainless steel braided hoses. In addition, Lotus own track-tuned servo-assisted four-channel ABS system is claimed to enhance braking performance and minimise stopping distance.
Suspension
Fully independent suspension utilising unequal length wishbones; Öhlins 2-way adjustable dampers with coil over springs and Lotus Sport adjustable front anti-roll bar. A rear double shear track control arm brace is provided to cope with the expected kerb abuse during heavy track day driving, with unique steering arms and front upper wishbones to suit ultra-low ride height.
Performance
- 0-60 mph 3.8 seconds (estimated)
- 0-100 mph 9.1 seconds (estimated)
- Vmax 155 mph
Lotus chief Mike Kimberley said: "The Lotus 2-Eleven takes our core brand values to the extreme. It is the ultimate track day vehicle - not only phenomenally quick, but also very user-friendly. In short, the 2-Eleven delivers everything that the modern track day warrior and clubman racer demands, and more."
Production of the Lotus 2-Eleven is scheduled to start in April 2007 at Lotus' Hethel plant, with the car completed in dedicated Lotus Sport workshops. Each vehicle will be given a Lotus Sport build plate.
The Lotus 2-Eleven is initially available in Launch Edition specification only, which boasts a special colour scheme and graphics. It's available in two versions: roadgoing with UK Single Vehicle Approval, fitted with front and rear lights, exhaust catalyst, single plane rear wing and other items; and track-only with an aerodynamics package including high downforce single plane carbon fibre rear wing, high downforce front splitter, brake lights and rear indicators and FIA approved driver's race seat.
The basic cost is £39,995, although the roadgoing version costs £1,100 more, and includes delivery, pre delivery inspection, first service, number plates, first registration fee, valet, 12 months' tax, a full tank of fuel and SVA test. It's only available as a track-only option outside the UK at €49,575 excluding local tax in mainland Europe. Pricing in Japan, South Africa and Lotus other international markets will be announced shortly.
Hmmm, don't think they're after Impreza buyers with that.
But does appear to be overpriced, especially after the saga of unsold 340Rs a few years ago, having said that I'll still have a nose at one.
if it corners like an exige/elise with those stats it will be awesome, bring it on ! Think it's more geared up for the serious Track day enthusiast. Probably the same who wouldn't think twice about spending £40k on a car to use just a handfull of time a year.
Type 25 is a very nice car, but for track days I'd take the Lotus.
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