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Other News: ProActive #26 May/June 2008 - Official Newsletter of Lotus Engineering
Rocky Mtn Sportscars Newsletter February 2008
Club Lotus Australia June 2008 Newsletter
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Lotus "Evora" Not just a city on Portugal, but the new Lotus as well. Evora is located in the Alentejo Province, a region of wide plains to the south of the Tagus River (Rio Tejo). In the heart of this region, at a distance of 130 km from Lisbon, lies the city of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Part of the town is enclosed by ancient walls and has been preserved in its original state, aswell as its monuments dating from various historical periods. It was known by the Romans as Liberalitas Julia, and vestiges from this period (walls and rooms) and the monumental imperial temple (Diana's temple), still remain. During the barbarian invasions, Évora was under Visigoth rule. It occupied a space defined by a Roman enclosure that had been modified. In 715, the city was conquered by the Muslims. Évora was wrested from the moors by the Christian Knight Geraldo Sempavor in 1166 and flourished as one of the most dynamic cities in the Kingdom of Portugal during Middle Ages. The court was resident here for long spells and Évora became the scene for many royal weddings and a place where many important decisions were made. Particularly thriving during the Avis Dynasty (1385-1580), it was formerly a major center for the humanities.
Lotus "Evora" TheNew Distinctive, Mid-engined,
Eagerly anticipated and making its official global debut at the
British Motorshow in London on July 22nd, the first all-new The new car, which is known only by its project name ‘Eagle’, is a more
holistic offering than the Elise and Exige models that have been so massively
popular with track day enthusiasts. The car, the name for which will be announced at the British Motorshow on July at an 11:30 press
conference, is designed for people who desire exotic sportscar characteristics Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 producing 280 PS, the new car employs innovative
lightweight chassis technology to ensure visceral all-round dynamic
performance, in keeping with the great Lotus tradition. Even in the very early
stages of development testing, Lotus ride and handling engineers report that it
is considerably faster around the famously demanding Nürburgring circuit than Inside, Project Eagle cocoons occupants with a sumptuous leather surfaces
juxtaposed with contemporary high-tech features. With driver focused
instrumentation the driver sits in cockpit-esque surroundings. A beautifully
appointed dash boasts tactile details such as flush-mounted controls that glow
with blue LED haloes and a stylised speedometer and rev counter ensuring Styled in-house by Lotus Design, the Project Eagle’s sleek, sophisticated and attention-snaring lines brilliantly disguise its ability to accommodate passengers in the rear of the cabin, giving the car the external characteristics of a small, nimble sportscar whilst belying its internal space. As well as being sold in a 2+2 configuration, the car will also be available as a purely two- seater, the space in the rear being allocated to luggage storage. Other derivatives are also planned for the future, including a convertible and an ultrahigh performance version. Deliveries of Project Eagle will begin in Spring 2009, and with only 2000 of the
hand crafted cars planned each year, this exclusive and unique car is creating
a real stir with celebrity enthusiasts around the world. Hollywood actor and Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc, had this to say about the new
model: “Project Eagle is the biggest milestone Lotus has achieved since the
Elise was born 13 years ago. We are currently working at broadening the appeal of the Lotus brand through an aggressive 5-year model plan of which
this car represents the first exciting step.” Project Eagle in Detail: Project Eagle is the first of three new models included in the CEO’s (Mike Kimberley) five year strategic business plan initiated in October 2006 to support Lotus’ growth. Design Designed in-house by Lotus Design, Head of Design, Russell Carr, explains “Project Eagle’s dynamically sculptured form and dramatic proportions
communicate visual drama, speed and agility even when the car is standing
still. Sportscars are primarily an emotional rather than a rational purchase and
so the design must seduce with its beauty and distinctive character. However, A design language of dynamic lines and fluid surfaces that flow from the ‘Lotus –mouth’ and over the length the cars toned form are unmistakably ‘modern
Lotus’. They instantly convey a sense of agility and athleticism that is intrinsic
to the car’s driving persona. On Project Eagle they are complemented by the
distinctive wraparound visor screen but have been subtly tailored to suit the
more sophisticated character of the car, optimise high-speed aerodynamics
and artfully disguise the unique 2+2 layout. The cab forward proportion
combines with muscular haunches and optimised intake detailing to instantly
inform the viewer that this is a serious mid-engine sportscar. Elsewhere a
Lotus philosophy for combining function with beauty is evident in the Inside the car the forms echo the exterior with fast moving surfaces that wrap around the cockpit cosseting the occupants, the contrast colour band that flows from the instrument cluster and sweeps around the cabin highlights this theme. “We recognise that ‘touch’ not only assists with driving enjoyment but also conveys messages about quality and therefore great attention has been paid to all the areas where the driver interfaces with the car.” Carr explains. Figure hugging adjustable sports seats and flat-bottomed steering wheel instantly communicate the driving potential of the car. Project Eagle employs premium quality material and finishes to create an exclusive, British handcrafted ambience that is unique in this price segment. Modern, precision- engineered aluminium inserts and hi-fi quality, edge-lit switches are brilliantly juxtaposed against the traditional contrast stitched leather panels.Everyday convenience is catered for through ergonomically located touch screen SAT NAV, remote release glove box, storage bins and integrated “cup holders”. Technology In a world launch by partners Alpine, Project Eagle boasts a truly cutting edge in-car entertainment and navigation system. The multi-media system features a 7in touch-screen providing advanced audio, satellite navigation, Bluetooth hands-free telephone and iPod® connectivity functions; the screen also serves as a monitor for Project Eagle’s optional reversing camera. The satellite navigation element of the system has a removable hard-drive, allowing you to programme it from the comfort of your home or use it as a roaming satellite navigation unit and MP3 player. The Alpine audio set-up is one of the most sophisticated automotive systems
in the world. Called IMPRINT and using MultEQ sound enhancement
technology, it is able to cancel out imbalances in the sound caused by
different areas of the cabin – window glass, for instance, creates echoes,
while carpets suppress mid-range frequencies – resulting in amazingly crisp, A bespoke progressive air-conditioning system developed by Bergstrom is
standard on all models, while on-board tyre pressure monitoring will be either
standard or optional depending on model and market. And in deference to the Interior space and accommodation The rear seats of 2+2 versions of Project Eagle are intended for children or smaller adults on short journeys. To maximise comfort in the rear, there is foot-room under the seats in front, while both back seats feature ISOFIX mountings for secure child seat fitment. When unoccupied, the rear seats provide a convenient stowage area for briefcases and jackets, adding to Project Eagle’s appeal as an everyday car. The boot, which ingeniously features a fresh air cooling system to reduce the effect of heat ingress from the engine bay, will accommodate a set of golf clubs. A two-seater derivative of Project Eagle is planned and will have a luggage shelf in the back replacing the two rear seats. Safety Lotus’ Project Eagle conforms to all regulatory standards and in addition boasts additional safety features; Lotus aluminium chassis technology applied to Project Eagle’s provides the car with immense inherent strength, particularly in regard to side impacts and a tubular steel seatbelt anchorage frame that also acts as a rollover structure.Anti-lock brakes are standard on all models, as are traction and stability controls; these systems have been specially developed in co-operation with Bosch to provide enhanced safety features whilst maintaining performance characteristics. Under the Bonnet Lotus continues its excellent working relationship with Toyota, world leaders in
engine development and manufacture and Formular1 competitors. For Project
Eagle Lotus has modified Toyota’s 3.5-litre V6, with dual VVT-i (‘intelligent’ Performance At the time of unveiling, full performance figures for the new Lotus will not have been compiled on a production specification car, however Lotus has a further 6 months of development time to conduct these before Project Eagle is available to test drive. While for Lotus top speed is of less importance than stability at speed, early indications suggest a maximum speed of 160 mph; the 0-60 mph sprint from standstill is estimated at sub 5 seconds (prototype figures).
Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc commented "This Eco Elise is a great example of the advanced and affordable green technologies Lotus is developing. We are at the cutting edge of environmental technology and are determined to push forward with our green agenda. The Lotus brand values of lightweight, fuel efficient, and high performance are more relevant today than they ever have been. We are keen to ensure that Lotus as a company and its products offer an ethical, green option that appeals to our customers". In keeping with the “performance through light weight” philosophy, the Eco Elise weighs 32kg(70.5 lbs) less than the standard Elise S, which means that the efficient Elise S engine in the Eco Elise will give higher fuel economy figures and even better performance. Dramatic improvements to the culture and operations at Lotus has rewarded the company with staggering reductions in energy (Electricity 14%, Gas 30%) and water (11%) consumed across the Hethel headquarters in 2007, compared to 2006. These advances have coincided with improvements in recycling, with 57% of waste product now being recycled. The new green materials sourced for this car have been carefully studied to ensure that each
technology used reduces the environmental impact of the vehicle. The life of the components
has been analysed; during the production stage, in-use and at the end of the vehicle’s life.
The technology used aims to offer lower emissions of both solvents and CO2 in the lifecycle The Eco Elise will be displayed in the Greener Driving Pavilion at the British International Motor Show from 23rd July until 3rd August. The project displays affordable green technology that is intended to be feasible and production viable in the near term future. The Lotus Eco Elise In More Detail The project focuses on developments in: The renewable materials have been incorporated into the project, with hemp, eco wool and
sisal providing natural, biodegradable engineering materials. Cleaner manufacturing
processes have been sought, utilising the latest water based paint technology. Using thispaint system saves energy and reduces emissions of solvents from the paint shop. Solar With the use of locally farmed hemp, the carbon miles to produce the Eco Elise are reduced, in keeping with the holistic approach to this vehicle. The Eco Elise puts an emphasis on efficient driving techniques by using an “economy” gear change display to improve fuel efficiency and promote greener driving. The car has undergone a weight reduction programme to add a little extra lightness, assisting in more economical, greener driving. Sustainable Materials Sustainable hemp technical fabrics have been used as the primary constituent in the high quality “A” class composite body panels and spoiler. The renewable hemp has exceptional material properties that make for a very strong fibre. Historically hemp has been used in the manufacture of rope, illustrating the great strength of the material. The hemp fibres have also been used in the manufacture of the lightweight Lotus designed seats. An additional benefit of using hemp is that it is a natural resource that requires relatively low energy to manufacture and absorbs CO2 whilst growing as a plant through natural photosynthesis. This hemp material is used with a polyester resin to form a hybrid composite, however it is hoped that a fully recyclable composite resin will be viable in the short-term future. The Eco Elise seats are upholstered in a durable yet, biodegradable woollen fabric that has been given the EU Flower certificate to exemplify its environmental credentials. This new material is ethically produced and does not use any dyes or harmful processing. In fact the colour is created from the selection of sheep breeds used to produce the wool for the yarn, which increases the natural feel of the wool and reduces the processing of the cloth. Sisal is a renewable crop that, like hemp, is used for its strong material properties. Sisal hasbeen used for the carpets in the Eco Elise, as it is a tough, abrasion resistant material. The use of these materials illustrates the capability at Lotus of utilising new, advanced materials and the flexibility of the manufacturing facilities. Cleaner Manufacturing Processes Whilst improving the green credentials of the Lotus production facilities, the Lotus Paint Facility, in partnership with Du Pont has developed a totally water-based paint system. This paint solution includes primer, colour coat and lacquer, and it is the first time that it has been possible to hand spray a water based “A” class production paint finish. In using this progressive water based technology, Lotus is able to achieve impressive savings in energy consumption due to the low cure temperature this paint requires. An additional benefit of this paint system is the reduction in emissions of solvents, all of which contribute to substantial cost savings for Lotus. This is a result of the unique collaboration with Du Pont in pushing forward low-volume paint spraying technology. This technology is anticipated to be available in production cars in the near future. Renewable Energy Generation The hemp hard top on the Eco Elise has two flexible solar panels neatly embedded in the roof, contributing power to the electrical systems and saving energy that would be drained from the engine. The solar panels have been integrated into the hard top to illustrate the feasibility of applying this technology. This application shows the installation of solar panels into a composite “A” class panel with a double curvature. Using this technology on a greater number of panels would make it possible to provide more power, especially on a larger vehicle. Reduction In Carbon Miles The hemp fibres have been farmed in East Anglia, thus reducing the carbon miles incurred inthe production of this Elise. Lotus Manufacturing has component manufacturing facilities and
a paint facility at its headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, with another manufacturing site a short
distance away in Norwich. The company operates a carefully managed logistics system Efficient Driving Techniques Lotus cars have red shift lights to help drivers extract the maximum performance from the engine. However for the Eco Elise, Lotus designed software has been developed to assist drivers in maximising the fuel efficiency of the engine. A green gear shift display has been integrated into the instrument panel to ensure that gears are changed at the optimum point to reduce emissions and save fuel. Weight Reduction "Performance through light weight" is so synonymous with Lotus. The reduction in mass improves the handling and braking performance and also reduces the effort required to accelerate the car. The weight reduction philosophy has even extended to the audio system with an exceptionally lightweight stereo and speaker system from Alpine saving 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs). The system uses MP3/ iPod technology in a sleek modern design. The Eco Elise uses special lightweight wheels that reduce the unsprung mass and contribute a weight saving of approximately 15.8 kg (34.8 lbs) over the already super light Elise wheels. The weight saving programme for the Eco Elise has resulted in a total saving of around 32 kg (70.5 lbs) over the feather light Elise S, which reduces the fuel required to drive the car.
Lotus Wins Two High Profile Green Car Projects Lotus Engineering Invests in Low Carbon Vehicle Programmes June 17, 2008 - Group Lotus PLC: Lotus Engineering, the world renowned automotive consultancy division of Lotus has won two contracts as part of winning project consortia announced by the UK Government Technology Strategy Board. These two project consortia will be allocated part of a total £23 million for 16 innovative low carbon vehicle development programmes. Including investments from companies such as Lotus, these projects collectively represent a total value of £52 million. Zero Emission London Taxi Commercialisation Lotus Engineering is a key consortium member of the Zero Emission London Taxi Commercialisation project and is working alongside Intelligent Energy, LTI Ltd and TRW Conekt. Building on Lotus’ considerable experience in developing high technology hybrid demonstrator vehicles, and supporting its many clients on electric vehicle programmes, this project will see the introduction of commercial fleets of zero-emission fuel cell hybrid taxis primarily for London by 2012, and other cities by 2014. The fuel cell taxi project pushes the complexity of this type of vehicle to a new level of advanced technology. Lotus Engineering will integrate the fuel cell engine with the electric drive train and hydrogen storage system, firstly bench testing, then integrating them back into a ‘buck’ vehicle and finally packaging the assembly into two taxis for full vehicle testing. Limo-Green The second project, Limo-Green, takes a Jaguar as a basis for the development proving out the concept of a large luxury hybrid executive saloon, utilising an advanced drive motor, small battery pack and a small Auxiliary Power Unit (APU) for sustained cruising. In a collaboration between Lotus Engineering, Jaguar Cars Ltd, MIRA Ltd and Caparo Vehicle Technologies, the project aim is to demonstrate a large, prestigious executive saloon with less than 120 g/km emissions. Lotus Engineering will design and build a number of prototype Auxiliary Power Units and provide technical support for installation into the vehicle. The APU is an extremely efficient system, with ultrahigh thermal efficiency and high power output. Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus Plc said: “We are committed to driving forward with high technology advances into areas such as hybrid and electric vehicles, and we are delighted to be major contributors to two of the low carbon vehicle development projects. There is a world-wide drive to reduce CO2 emission levels and this is something to which we are dedicated, for both our Lotus cars and our global engineering clients. We wholeheartedly endorse the government’s initiatives through this investment from the Technology Strategy Board, which will assist in taking forward research, development and demonstration of these environmentally conscious and green transport solutions.” Commenting on the Technology Strategy Board's investment in the two projects, its Chief Executive,
Iain Gray, said: "We are delighted to invest in these important research, development and
demonstration projects. Cleaner and more efficient vehicles are a vitally important part of our response
to global climate change challenges and will help the UK to meet demanding new CO2 standards for
new vehicles. This is why we are investing in innovative low-carbon technology development through
Lotus Lightweight Structures Limited New Lotus Manufacturing Company Offers Greater Flexibility, Lower Weight Solutions May 15, 2008 - Group Lotus PLC: Group Lotus plc, the world famous sportscar manufacturer and globally renowned automotive Lotus Lightweight Structures, which employs 120 skilled engineers, technicians and sales
staff, will be based at the former Holden Lightweight Structures Limited site in Worcester, UK
and will continue to manufacture light weight aluminium and composite structures and
components for its extensive client base as well as growing its business globally through the Lotus Lightweight Structures will continue to assemble the award winning Lotus Elise, Exige and Europa aluminium chassis as well as the all new chassis for the yet to be launched Lotus Project Eagle. The strategic acquisition of Holden Lightweight Structures Limited and the subsequent creation of Lotus Lightweight Structures enables Lotus to: • Create, adapt and change its range of products quickly and effectively, catering for changing global customer demands. • Provide an additional in house manufacturing facility. •
Add an additional manufacturing solution for Lotus Engineering’s global client base,
providing lightweight aluminium and composite vehicle components and structures.
Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive of Group Lotus plc, “I am delighted to announce the creation
of Lotus Lightweight Structures following the strategic acquisition of Holden Lightweight
Structures Limited. With this facility, we will continue to expand and lead the world in
lightweight vehicle research, development and production to help our global client base find
ways to reduce the weight and cost from their vehicles. Weight reduction is one of the most Mike Kimberley continues, “Lotus Lightweight Structures provides additional facilities, capabilities and expertise to the Lotus Manufacturing portfolio. The Worcester facility, and dedicated team, complements our Hethel Headquarters and does not substitute any of the operations in Norfolk, but instead enables our strategic global expansion programme toproceed to plan. We are now just ten weeks from the unveiling of the next all new Lotus, code named Project Eagle at the British Motorshow, and we are working hard to bring this fabulous 2+2 to the market in the Spring of 2009. The Project Eagle chassis structure will be the first product from our new Lotus Lightweight Structures facility. We look forward to increasing our support to customers, clients and new ecologically driven projects worldwide.”
Lotus/ Spyker Deal Carmakers Sign Agreement to Share Parts and Technology
The deal includes a ‘Parts and Platform Commonality Agreement (PPCA), a Parts and Accessories Supply Agreement pursuant to which Lotus would provide certain parts for Spyker’s new C8 Aileron super sportscar, and a concept Design and Engineering Agreement relating to all of Spyker’s future models’, Spyker said in a statement. Michael Kimberley, CEO of Lotus Cars, said he was delighted that Lotus will be Spyker’s preferred Engineering supplier for these unique ‘high Brand Image’ cars. ‘We look forward to working with Spyker to expand our global business opportunities, projects and interests for our mutually synergistic Products and Technologies,’ he added. ‘Lotus Engineering has a great heritage and solid track record in developing innovative solutions for clients and we look forward to using Lotus’ advanced light weight vehicle know-how and vehicle dynamics technology to enable Spyker to establish itself as a dynamic premium automotive player.’ Victor R. Muller, CEO of Spyker Cars said: ‘Our company has had a very fruitful cooperation with Lotus, developed over the past four years, relating to engineering services in respect of certain components of our cars, as well as in respect of worldwide certification. ‘Spyker and Lotus have now come to the conclusion that they need to intensify their cooperation to the point that we intend to share parts and platforms, as well as an agreement on the supply of parts. ‘Moreover, Lotus Engineering has become Spyker’s preferred subcontractor in respect of a number of engineering projects relating to the Spyker C8 Aileron and the Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris.’
Lotus Celebrates Diamond Anniversary 60 Years of World Class Innovation From Britain’s Finest Sports Car Manufacturer. Group Lotus March 20, 2008: In this its 60th year, Group Lotus plc is taking the ‘diamond’ element of their anniversary to heart and is celebrating in style. A variety of high profile events have been planned for 2008 that will pay homage to the heritage of the marque and look forward to the future of the international brand. The pinnacle of the campaign is a landmark event held at the Lotus Headquarters in Hethel, England on 14th September 2008 and will be opened by Hazel and Clive Chapman. Lotus has a history of holding fantastic public events and the 60th Birthday Party will follow this vein. It was in 1948 that Colin Chapman built his first racecar. A pioneer, his breakthrough engineering firmly Group Lotus Plc CEO Mike Kimberley speaks passionately about celebrating Lotus milestone, “This is a An invitation is extended to all to join Lotus on 14th September 2008 for a day’s celebrations and with it
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