| All-new sportscar | 2008 British International Motor Show | 2009 Lotus Evora |
Mike Kimberley, CEO Group Lotus, described the firm's new Evora as a "true character in a faceless world." To underline the point the Hethel firm used quite disturbing, suited and faceless-masked people to remove the covers from its new mid-engined 2+2 at the
British International Motor Show. The Evora is Lotus's first all-new model in 13 years, Kimberley stating that Lotus will follow its introduction with three more new cars over the next five years. The Evora, previously known as 'project eagle', is the only transverse, mid-mounted engined car to offer 2+2 seating. However, a quick look in the back suggests despite what Lotus claims you'd have to be 1/3 scale and a brilliant contortionist to get in there comfortably.
Power for the new car comes from a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 276bhp, Lotus keeping quiet for now about performance figures. We'd expect a 0-62mph time of around five seconds and a top speed in the region of 160mph. That would put it right up against competition like Porsche's 911, a tough rival for the low-volume manufacturer. Certainly the Evora has achieved a huge step forward in interior quality over Lotus's current range, the smart fascia featuring a touch screen multi-media system.
The Evora will reach showrooms in Spring 2009, the order book now open for the new car. Full details regarding pricing and specification and options will be available nearer the car's on-sale date.
Kyle Fortune - 24 Jul 2008