| New concept | 2008 British International Motor Show | Lotus Eco Elise |

Lotus will unveil a new technology demonstrator at the British Motor Show on July 22nd. The Lotus Eco Elise focuses not just on CO₂ emissions reduction, but also on its impact on the environment throughout its life cycle.

Already, Lotus's investigations into improved efficiency in the production process have resulted in massive gains at the company's headquarters near Norwich. Last year, Lotus managed to use 14% less electricity, 30% less gas and 11% less water than the year before. At the same time, recycling has increased, with 57% of the factory's waste now being recycled.

One of the next steps in this philosophy will be the adoption of sustainable materials sourced locally. The Eco Elise utilises hemp in its composite body panels and in its seats. Hemp is a sustainable material, which requires low energy to manufacture and actually absorbs carbon dioxide while growing. Sisal is another renewable crop and its durable nature makes it ideal for use in the prototype's carpets.

Lotus wouldn't be Lotus if its engineers didn't find a way to reduce the weight of the car even further from the Elise S it is based on. A modest 32kg has been pared back thanks to a lighter Alpine stereo and cool new alloys that shave nearly 16kg from the mass. Other features include flexible solar panels in the roof to power ancillaries and a green gearchange light in the dashboard to encourage greener driving.

We don't expect Lotus to sell the Eco Elise as it is, but visitors to the London Show can find it in the Greener Driving Pavilion.

Shane O' Donoghue - 10 Jul 2008