Lotus has launched the latest version of its Exige Cup model. Improvements for the 2009 model include lower weight and a new traction and launch control system.
Weight savings come from removing unnecessary components such as the interior and boot carpets, sun visors and tailgate gas strut. Parts that cannot be removed have been made lighter. Some items have been constructed from carbon fibre, including the roof, seats and front access panels. Other lightweight components include a revised rear sub-frame and forged alloy wheels. Overall, 38kg has been trimmed to achieve an overall weight of 890kg.
Featherweight construction gives a power-to-weight ratio of 287bhp per tonne. The power side of the equation comes from the familiar supercharged 1.8-litre Toyota unit. This develops 256bhp at 8,000rpm and 174lb.ft at 6,000rpm. To improve responsiveness a lightweight flywheel is fitted.
Drive is taken through a sports clutch to a lightweight six-speed gearbox that features the same ratios as the
Exige S. A torque-sensing limited slip differential completes the driveline with a plate-type differential available as an option.
Applying lessons from motorsport, the Exige Cup features Lotus's first launch control and adjustable traction control. The system allows the driver to select the maximum engine speed used from a standing start and abates wheel-spin up to 6mph, when the adjustable traction control takes over. With over thirty increments of adjustment, the amount of tyre slip can be varied from seven percent to completely off.
Other performance related items include Eibach springs, one-way adjustable Bilstein dampers and a stiffened, adjustable front anti-roll bar. The brakes get upgraded pads for the cross-drilled, ventilated disks.
The Exige Cup 260 is available for sale now at an on-the road price of £46,945.
John Lambert - 7 Oct 2008