Following the success of the Exige V6 Cup and the Exige V6 Cup R, Lotus Motorsport introduced the Elise S Cup R. The new track-only model comes with an aggressive body kit consisting of a new front splitter, redesigned side skirts, a rear wing as well as an air diffuser with integrated exhaust.
Moreover, we find a tow hook in the front grille, polycarbonate rear screen, forged alloy wheels wrapped in high performance Yokohama Advan Neova AD07 LTS tires. Inside, we find a FIA compliant rollcage (just like on the previous Cup versions), FIA compliant fire extinguisher, 6 point race harness (driver seat), hans compliant race driver’s sea and a quick release steering wheel.
Under the hood, there is a mid-mounted, transverse, 1.8 litre 2ZR-FE engine bolted to a six-speed manual transmission. Moreover, the vehicle comes with new brake pads, single way adjustable dampers and a motorsport specification triple-pass radiator.
As an option Lotus offers air conditioning, race passenger seat with 4 point race harness fitted and ultra-lightweight motorsport wheels. The total weight of the car is just 924 kg. If you want one, the Lotus Elise S Cup R is priced at £39,125 + VAT.
The new 2011 Elise body is a development of the quintessential Elise design, keeping the individuality and styling, while presenting a firmer, more purposeful posture, and a clean, modern appearance that connects it with the Evora. Like all Lotus products, the design is an exhilarating mix of drama and practicality.
Elise body has a refreshing sculpted front, including a new fender, front clam, and access panel that all together provides the Elise with a broader appearance with increased road presence.
At the car’s back, the new engine is covered by a distinct dual-spine cover, while further down, a more forceful diffuser is tautly enveloped by a graceful new design that includes the rear license plate.
New headlight units, with distinct sculpted LEDs, (integrating daytime running lamps and direction indicators) give a modern interpretation to this traditional style. In other places, the trademark Lotus "mouth" and recognisable sculpted forms are redefined for a cleaner, more vibrant look. The relocation of the light functions enabled creating a wide, crisp surface between the fenders that, combined with smooth corner intakes and pronounced splitter details, give a wider, sturdier stance.
The purity theme carries through to the cooling openings, effectively finished with a new, light aluminium mesh, giving the vehicle a traditional sporty character.