Citroen REVOLTe Concept, 2009

Citroen REVOLTe Concept, 2009

 

 

 

A vibrant and sophisticated re-chargeable hybrid, Citroën REVOLTe Concept represents a bold vision of the luxury, compact city car of tomorrow, combining confident styling with environmentally responsible technology to create a unique concept for the future of urban transportation.

Citroën REVOLTe Concept reflects the changing role of small cars with style and elegance becoming as important as economy and practicality. True to Citroën's credentials as a bold and forward-thinking brand, Citroën REVOLTe Concept snubs the traditions of the conventional small urban vehicle, bringing a highly contemporary approach to the segment.

Inspired by the Citroën 2CV, REVOLTe takes the key attributes of Citroën's timeless and iconic classic and turns them on their head - a clear example of Citroën looking to the future by taking inspiration from its cool past. Where the 2CV was plain and neutral, REVOLTe is luxurious and colourful; where the 2CV was basic and simple, Citroën REVOLTe Concept is intelligent and technologically advanced and where the 2CV was slow and bouncy, REVOLTe is lively and spirited.

Compact, with a visually-stunning low stance, Citroën REVOLTe Concept measures just 3.68m long, 1.73m wide and 1.35m tall. The well defined wheel arches, curving bonnet, forceful lines and sculpted sides that match the roof line, all combine to present a sleek and elegant profile.

Rear-hinged doors provide easy access to the multi-coloured cabin, with woven black leather, thick crimson velvet and gleaming aluminium. REVOLTe's bright colours and luxury styling reflects Citroën's bold creativity and the desire to modernise notions of conventional car design. Thanks to iridescent, glossy colours, silky smooth textiles and sophisticated materials, Citroën REVOLTe Concept has a vibrant, dare-to-be-different interior that throws tradition aside. The result is a small urban vehicle much more like a fashionable, glamorous and clearly feminine accessory to the driver's modern lifestyle.

The original and distinctive three-seater layout - driver's seat to one side with two passenger seats behind it - is designed to resemble a lounge, with the rear seats taking the form of a contemporary sofa. The passenger on the opposite side to the driver can stretch out their legs fully into the space where the front passenger seat would have traditionally been. Alternatively, Citroën have made it possible to fit a rear-facing child-seat in the space available. Notably, the rear seats also serve to conceal the concept's battery pack, maximising useable cabin and luggage space.

Citroën REVOLTe Concept also introduces luxury from the application of technology. The touch-sensitive screen that projects forward from the dashboard is encased in a deep-red beam of crystals - that also recycles the air on-board like a respiratory system. On the outside, REVOLTe's folding roof is covered with solar cells, which feed power to systems controlling on-board comfort - and reducing the load on the batteries. At the very front of Citroën REVOLTe Concept, a backlit glass element is incorporated into the grille - this original feature highlights the chevrons above, subtly asserting the concept's identity as true Citroën.

With a design philosophy of sophistication and the use of environmentally responsible technology, Citroën REVOLTe Concept's re-chargeable hybrid power-train features a small-capacity conventional combustion engine combined with an electric motor and a battery re-charging function. Agile and responsive, REVOLTe's advanced drive-train delivers lively performance suited to the urban environment. Citroën REVOLTe Concept also provides the option of CO2-free driving with the ability to run in all-electric ZEV (Zero Emission Vehicle) mode.

Citroen DS Inside Concept, 2009

Citroen DS Inside Concept, 2009

  

The Citroen DS Inside concept car Citroen is launching a new line of products to broaden its current range. The new line will consist of three new cars, positioned in the small, medium and large car segments.

The Citroen DS Inside concept car and vehicle line are characterised by forthright choices on styling, onroad performance and use. These are accessible objects of desire, cars that stand apart by their creativity, intelligent design and build quality, embodying the very best of Citroen. The new product line will perfectly illustrate Citroen's new spirit of "Créative Technologie".

The new line will also have a new naming system. Like the main range vehicles, which carry the letter C and a number, and, like the MPVs, which sport the Picasso signature, the new models will feature a special name: the DS line.

DS stood and continues to stand for a new approach to automobiles and the future. Citroen is taking inspiration from its design DNA to strengthen the positioning of its new product line. The range instills the different spirit, that the name DS inspires. Hence the distinctive model line up will be called DS3, DS4 and DS5. DS: Different Spirit.

Citroen C4, 2009

Citroen C4, 2009

 

Citroën's dynamic C4 range is now more alive with technology than ever before. An exciting new look gives the popular model even more appeal with new exterior and interior styling, updated equipment, body colours and wheel designs, as well as the introduction of two new low CO2, fuel efficient, petrol engines co-developed with BMW. HDi models will also be available with new low-rolling resistance Michelin tyres for improved fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Changes to the exterior focus on restyling the vehicle's front end, bringing the Citroën C4 in line with the prestigious looks of the recently launched Citroën C5. Its new bonnet features a more rounded, curvier design, whilst the grille benefits from restyled integrated chevrons. The front bumper has also been revamped and the number plate repositioned for a stronger, sportier, more dynamic look.

The rear lights of the Citroën C4 Coupe are now finished in transparent crystal and a choice of three new alloy wheel styles - either 16-inch or 17-inch - as well as two new body colours - Bourrasque and Recif blue are now available. For added elegance, chrome inserts are featured on some models.

In the cabin, the Citroën C4 has been improved for enhanced comfort whilst, for greater clarity, the rev counter has been relocated to the innovative translucent central display unit. As with the award-winning Citroën C4 Picasso, a plush grain is now featured on the dashboard and doors for a more upmarket feel. New decors have been designed with an improved quality finish whilst the integrated scented air freshener makes the interior smell as good as it looks.

The Citroën C4 also retains much of the innovative equipment that made it a standard-setter when it was launched. Drivers can benefit from convenient and reassuring technology such as directional headlamps, front and rear parking assist, lane departure warning system, hill start assist, laminated side windows, speed limiter and cruise control.

The new Citroën C4 arrives with all of the safety equipment that made the original Citroën C4 such a reassuring car to drive, including the unique to Citroën torso shaped driver's airbag that can be incorporated because of the fixed-centre steering wheel. The original Citroën C4 achieved some of the highest EuroNCAP ratings in the segment for frontal impact, child protection as well as a 3-star pedestrian safety rating.

Citroën's latest generation navigation system, NaviDrive, has also been introduced, which features a hi-resolution 7-inch colour screen with Europe-wide satellite navigation, real time traffic reports as well as an audio system with built-in 30GB hard drive. The system also offers a video auxiliary socket and a USB connection.

The Citroën C4 is now available with two new petrol engines which have been co-developed with the BMW group - the 1.6 16v VTi 120hp and the 1.6 16v THP 150hp. Both units offer the optimum blend of performance, driving pleasure and fuel economy, with significantly lower consumption and CO2 emissions.

Citroën C4 1.6 16V VTi 120hp (Variable valve lift and Timing Injection)
The VTi 120hp petrol engine, with a manual or automatic gearbox, replaces the 1.6i 16V 110hp unit, offering an economical and responsive driving experience, with fuel efficiency of 42.2mpg and CO2 emissions of 159g/km on the combined cycle (down 6% on the former unit).

The VTi unit is fitted with an aluminium block and cylinder head and features continuously variable valve timing. The intake valves also benefit from a system that allows their maximum travel to be adjusted gradually depending on the force applied to the accelerator pedal. These two features boost engine efficiency and increase responsiveness with some 90% of maximum torque available all the way through the rev range from under 2,000 through to 6,000rpm.

Citroën C4 1.6i 16V THP 150hp (Turbo High Pressure)
The new THP 150hp (Turbo High Pressure) engine provides the perfect blend of higher performance, driving pleasure and economy with significantly lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. With its six-speed manual gearbox, the THP 150hp's fuel consumption is 40.9mpg on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 164g/km.

The THP 150hp features engine technology that is new to the Citroën C4 range with the introduction of direct sequential injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger as well as continuously variable inlet valve timing. This gives the engine excellent low-down pulling power with maximum torque of 177lb.ft almost all the way from just 1,400 through to 3,500rpm and continues strongly through the rev range.

Citroën's HDi diesel engine line-up is widely recognised for its frugal, clean and dynamic qualities, and in keeping with the model's upgrade, the Citroën C4's diesel engine range has also been improved.

The 2.0HDi unit with six-speed manual gearbox and particulate filter fitted as standard, boasts fuel efficiency of 53.3mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 140g/km. The other diesel powered models - the 1.6HDi 92hp and 1.6HDi 16V 110hp DPFS EGS - are just as dynamic as before and now even greener thanks to a switch to low rolling resistance Michelin Energy Saver® tyres, available on 16-inch wheels, which reduce the fuel consumption and lower the CO2 emissions.

The original Citroën C4 was one of the most environmentally friendly cars in the small family segment with two models returning emissions of 120g/km. Now, with its reduced emissions, the Citroën C4 is even cleaner and even greener.

Citroen C4 Coupe, 2009

Citroen C4 Coupe, 2009

 

 

Citroën has made a number of changes to the Citroën C4 to make it even more:
    * elegant, dynamic and efficient,
    * economical and low on emissions,
    * interactive and communicative.

Citroën has made some judicious styling tweaks to strengthen the car's successful design, which has been a hit with the public right from the start. The restyle focused on the front end, emphasising its elegance, strength and energy.

The interior has also been redesigned. Citroën has added new upholstery and a new grain on several trim parts, and incorporated the rev counter in the middle of the dashboard.

Engine-wise, the Citroën C4 is now available with two new petrol engines co-developed with BMW. The VTi 120 and THP 150 units bring even more on-road pleasure and significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The HDi diesel engine range has been further enhanced, with many powerplants qualifying for the Airdream® eco-signature. The 2-litre HDi diesel engine is the first to comply with the future Euro V standard in this family. Through the use of new technology (such as low-rolling resistance tyres), several versions with the HDi 92 or HDi 110 paired with a manual or EGS6 gearbox can limit their emissions to 120 g/km of CO2.

The new Citroën C4 boasts a richer array of telematics equipment, notably a new-generation navigation system - MyWay - which comes with a Bluetooth® function and can be connected to portable equipment.

The restyled Citroën C4 retains all the features that have made it a trailblazer in the segment on driving pleasure and safety, including Xenon dual function directional headlamps, the lane departure warning system, the fixed-centred controls steering wheel and hill start assist.

Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari, 2009

Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari, 2009

 

The Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari makes its world debut at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show. This new performance version of the Fiat 500 Abarth confirms the link between Abarth and Ferrari based on shared values that include a passion for performance, a racing soul, attention to detail and Italian style.

Abarth and Ferrari are two great names that have contributed, with conviction and dedication, to the legend of Italian racing that is known around the world. The legendary men behind both marques followed very similar careers: first drivers, then tuners and finally heads of companies that command genuine respect in the world of motor racing. These extraordinary men were associated in the past: in 1953, for example, a unique Ferrari-Abarth was born, the Ferrari 166/250 MM Abarth. The car raced in various international trophies including the legendary Mille Miglia. The tie between the two companies has been reinforced above all by the exhaust systems designed by Abarth specifically for the cars built at Maranello: numerous exhaust systems have been made for various Ferrari models, some of which have won World Championship titles.

Now, attention turns to the Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari, an exclusive vehicle that not only enables Abarth to extend its range by entering into the luxury sports car market, but also offers Ferrari customers a small but exciting small car for all their mobility needs, including practical urban mobility.

The Fiat 695 Abarth Tributo Ferrari is distinguished by a number of stylistic changes, but more importantly by substantial modifications developed by Abarth and Ferrari engineers. The engine, for a start, is a 1.4 Turbo T-Jet 16v, tuned to develop over 180 HP. This is combined with an MTA (Manual Transmission Automated) electromechanical gearbox with race-inspired paddle gearshift that makes full use of the engine's performance by reducing gearshift times.

To improve acceleration, the car is fitted with performance tyres on 17" alloy wheels featuring a design inspired by Ferrari wheels. The suspension and braking systems have also been strengthened to cope with the extra power: 284 mm multi-section discs with fixed four-piston calipers, both by Brembo, and special shock absorbers let you enjoy performance in total safety.

And of course there is a "Record Monza" variable back-pressure "dual mode" exhaust, designed to improve engine performance and deliver an inspiring sound over 3,000 rpm.

On the outside, the car is finished in Scuderia Red, with carbon fibre door mirrors and with details like the wheels and rear air intakes in Racing Grey. This new Abarth is equipped with Xenon headlights with dipped and main beam functions for improved light emission and excellent efficiency under all weather conditions. Made by Magneti Marelli Automotive Lighting, these elements deliver three times the light intensity and duration of standard halogen lamp headlights.

The interiors are also personalised and demonstrate the attention to detail and the sporting style that are common to both brands. "Abarth Corsa by Sabelt" seats are fitted and finished in black leather with a shell and seat base in carbon fibre. These seats offer a perfect blend of racing characteristics - light weight (10 kg less than the standard seat) and the ability hold the body steady against lateral and longitudinal forces, thanks to body support elements filled with crush-resistant foam - with the ergonomics and comfort of road seats.

The black leather steering wheel is characterised by red leather inserts and a tricolour hub on which the MTA gearshift paddles are mounted, while the instrument panel is specially made by Jaeger, and inspired by typical Ferrari instrumentation. Attention to detail has gone into the floor too: the foot wells are covered entirely in non-slip aluminium and the racing pedals are personalised with the Scorpion logo. The interior is embellished with other details too, like special kick plates and a plate bearing the vehicle series number.

Technical specifications

    * Engine
          o 4 cylinders in line, 4 valves per cylinder, 1368 cc.
          o Power output: over 180 HP at 5,750 rpm.
          o Peak torque 230 Nm at 3,300 rpm.
          o Turbocharged with fixed geometry Garrett 1446 turbocharger.
    * Transmission
          o 5-speed C510 gearbox.
    * Suspension
          o Front: MacPherson struts with anti-roll bar.
          o Rear: wheels interconnected through a torsion beam with anti-roll bar.
          o Lowered sports setup with special shock absorbers.
    * Steering system
          o Electric power steering with SPORT setting.
    * Brakes
          o Brembo fixed front calipers with 4 x ø 36/40 mm pistons.
          o Self-ventilated, multi-section front discs, diameter 285 x 28 mm.
          o Floating rear calipers with single ø 34 mm pistons.
          o 240 mm diameter x 11 mm rear discs.
          o HP 1000 high performance front brake pads.
    * Wheels
          o Special Abarth Style 7"x17" ET 35 wheels
          o 205/40 ZR17 tyres.
    * Ecology
          o Complies with Euro 5 EEC-F5 standard.
          o CO2 emissions 155 g/km
    * Performance
          o Top speed - 225 km/h.
          o Acceleration 0-100 km/h in under 7 seconds.

Fiat 500 Barbie Concept, 2009

Fiat 500 Barbie Concept, 2009

 

The Fiat 500 makes headlines once more, as befits an authentic Made in Italy icon.

It's a fashionista car but quite tongue-in-cheek and with lots of charm: just like Barbie herself.
The gleaming paintwork resembles varnish and definitely makes for a shock effect, achieved with deep lacquered colour using ultra fine aluminium plunged in deep, up-to-the-minute pink. The seating is upholstered in strikingly soft fabrics: silver laminated Alcantara is not only trendy but plush to the touch and its glimmer bounces as far as the roof panel.
There are mats enhanced with natural silk yarn and sleek viscose, not to mention lip glosses in brilliant colours stored in the glove compartment, plus a LED-decked vanity mirror to ensure perfect application. 
The car has more features than a crown has jewels! Crystals sparkle on interior bezels, hubcaps, outer window mouldings and antenna and even outline the doll's famed silhouette on the pillars. Lastly, this Fiat 500 the Barbie show car also has its own glossy cover, featuring the distinctive Sixties version of the Fiat 500 and a Barbie autograph.

Roberto Giolito, creator of the Fiat 500, had this to say about the Mattel-Fiat partnership scheme: "All-American Ms Barbie already has a number of 'transport solutions' available, like thundering GTs and motor homes with endless accessories.
So if she's spotted a 500 and wants one as a gift for this landmark birthday, it's a signal typical of modern times that there's a renewed need for dreaming the simple things in life, which give so much, allow us to lighten up, thrill who's born beautiful or just feels beautiful, but doesn't have to prove anything.
The Barbie already has everything. Sleek Barbie is a looker, smart enough to listen to everyone, a universal ambassador opting for a car that never divides but frees everyone from having to declare their social status.

Fiat 500 Abarth esseesse, 2009

Fiat 500 Abarth esseesse, 2009

In line with the philosophy which has distinguished Abarth for half a century - to bring its racing experience to the market for road going cars and open up the world of motor sport - the Fiat 500 Abarth with the "esseesse" kit is another important piece of the jigsaw in the already ambitious project of Fiat Group Automobiles.

True to Abarth tradition, the "esseesse" kit comes in an elegant wooden case and can only be sold and installed by the official network of Abarth converters, guaranteeing compliance with the highest testing and safety standards.

In detail, the kit allows the 1.4 16v Turbo T-Jet engine to achieve a maximum power of 160 CV (147 KW) at 5750 g/min with peak torque of 230 Nm at 3000 g/min in "Sport Mode". The result is a truly thrilling performance: top speed is 211 km/h with acceleration from 0-100 kph in just 7.4 seconds. In line with the Abarth concept of preparation, the "esseesse" kit uses perforated and ventilated front brake discs (diameter 284mm x 22mm), perforated rear brake discs (diameter 240mm x 11mm, high-performance front brake pads, springs that are specially lowered in comparison to the original car and Fiat 500 Abarth esseesse 7" x 17" ET35 alloy wheels, finished in white or titanium, teamed with 205/40 ZR 17 Pirelli Pzero tires.

The Fiat 500 Abarth esseesse kit is topped off by the specific air filter powered by BMC, four tire pressure sensors, "esseesse" badges for the engine hood and the tailgate, and a specially designed, highly original key cover.

Daihatsu Terios Kiri, 2008

Daihatsu Terios Kiri, 2008

Daihatsu is offering customers extra value from its limited-edition Daihatsu Terios Kiri which is being restricted to only 250 cars.

Based on the Terios 1.5 S, the 'Kiri' adds unique metallic green paint, roof rails, special five-spoke 16 x 6 ins alloy wheels with 215/65 R16 tyres, a hard spare wheel cover, leather-covered steering wheel, front fog lamps and special 'Kiri' graphics.
Powered by a sprightly 1.5 litre petrol engine, the Terios 'Kiri' returns 40.4 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and boasts low emissions of 185 g/km meaning the Road Fund Licence is only £170 per annum.
The award-winning Terios range has a high standard specification which includes air-conditioning, power-steering, ABS with EBD and full-time four-wheel drive with electronic centre diff-lock.

The standard on the Terios are driver, passenger and side airbags, radio/CD player, four electric windows and even reverse parking sensors.
The Daihatsu Terios was voted a '4x4 Of The Year' winner for the second year running by 4x4 Magazine. It now holds the title of: 'Budget Class Winner - 2008'.

All Daihatsus now come with five years' unlimited mileage warranty plus five years' roadside assistance. The offer runs until the end of the year when it will be reviewed.

Lotus Evora Carbon Concept, 2010

Lotus Evora Carbon Concept, 2010

 

The Lotus Evora Carbon Concept car emphasises Lotus' motorsport pedigree, utilising beautiful high quality materials with exposed carbon fibre and plush alcantara. The striking white concept car is finished in an advanced water based pearlesent paint that contrasts with the exquisitely finished weave on the carbon fibre panels.

The head turning looks of the Lotus Evora Carbon Concept car provide a more purposeful, planted stance with the car looking lower and more aggressive. This styling direction is continued with a structural carbon fibre roof, Lotus Motorsport influenced carbon diffuser and carbon splitter. The Lotus Evora Carbon Concept car retains the same class leading handling and high tech aluminium bonded and extruded chassis of the production car.

The contemporary interior of the Lotus Evora Carbon Concept car combines the lustre of the carbon panels with perforated leather and matt alcantara. The bespoke interior uses swathes of sumptuous grey alcantara to cover the footwell, dashboard and roof. The soft texture of the leather and alcantara are juxtaposed with the hard surfaces of the carbon fibre to provide a satisfying sensory experience.

The Lotus Evora Carbon Concept car has diamond cut forged 19" alloy wheels front and rear, shod with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tyres (235/35 wide front and 285/30 wide rear). The wheels and tyres give the Lotus Evora real presence filling the wheel arches and giving the car a purposeful appearance.

Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept, 2010

Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept, 2010

 

The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept, so-named because this latest environmentally-focused technology demonstrator from Lotus Engineering produces 414 PS (306 kW) of power, promises breathtaking performance from a highly efficient propulsion system. The concept showcases new developments in plug-in, range-extended electric propulsion, new electronic technologies to enhance driver involvement, the adaptability of the Lotus Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) that underpins the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid and a dramatic new roof system and interior concept from Lotus Design. Through all of these aspects it ultimately demonstrates the exceptional ability of Lotus Engineering to integrate and develop advanced technologies for exciting, efficient, high performance niche vehicles.

The range extended electric drive of the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid consists of two electric motors driving each of the rear wheels independently via single speed geartrain, integrated into a common transmission housing, thus enabling torque vectoring for stability control of the vehicle. Electrical power is stored in a lithium polymer battery pack optimised for energy density, efficiency and high power demand, mounted in the centre of the vehicle for stability and safety. Additional range is provided by the Lotus Range Extender engine, an optimised 1.2 litre, three-cylinder engine, designed specifically for series hybrid vehicles. The drivetrain is designed to combine astonishing performance with efficient, low emissions driving.

The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid has been designed to highlight Lotus' innovative electric and hybrid vehicle technology without distracting from the pure sportscar character of the Evora. The solution is innovative, instantly recognizable, beautiful and sporty. It demonstrates Lotus DNA.

The Drivetrain
For the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept, Lotus Engineering has developed a highly efficient, high performance drivetrain system consisting of twin motors each limited to providing 152 kW (207 PS/204 hp) of power and 400 Nm (295 lbft) of torque to each wheel via independent, single speed, reduction transmissions integrated into a single housing, enabling torque vectoring dynamic control of the vehicle.

The Lotus Range Extender engine provides 35 kW (48 PS/47 hp) of power at 3,500 rpm via the integrated electrical generator and features an innovative architecture comprising an aluminium monoblock construction, integrating the cylinder block, cylinder head and exhaust manifold in one casting. This results in reduced engine mass, assembly costs, package size and improved emissions and engine durability. The engine uses an optimised two-valve, port-fuel injection combustion system to reduce cost and mass and can be operated on alcohol-based fuels and/or gasoline. The generator converts mechanical energy to electrical energy to replenish the battery pack charge and provides additional vehicle range in a small light weight package. The generator is also used as a motor to start the range extender engine. The low mass of the range extender unit (85 kg) and compact package makes it ideal for the series hybrid drivetrain in the Lotus Evora 414E Hybird.

All the operation and management of the range extender engine, the power management of the batteries and motor control are controlled by Lotus' electronic control units and software systems. Full energy management of all the operating systems is the key to maximising performance and operation while minimising energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

For everyday commuting journeys, up to 35 miles can be travelled using battery power. The battery can be charged overnight using a conventional domestic mains supply through a socket concealed by the rear number plate. This permits the vehicle to operate with zero tailpipe emissions. For longer journeys, exceeding the battery capacity, the highly efficient range extender engine is used as a generator to supply the motor with electrical power and top up the battery.

Lotus has used its own vehicle simulation tools to determine the size, capacity, power and performance of all the components in the drivetrain system to optimise the system operation. Overall this is far more energy efficient, weight efficient and cost effective than fitting the vehicle with a larger and more expensive battery, which for the majority of short journeys is a redundant weight, which increases energy requirements. With regard to the total lifetime CO2 emissions of the vehicle, including the energy required to manufacture and run it, the range extender solution has a lower overall CO2 footprint than a fully electric car of comparable performance and operating range running with a larger battery.

The Package
The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept structure is the same award-winning, versatile vehicle architecture used on the Lotus Evora. The low volume architecture was designed with the upmost flexibility in mind. The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid is a perfect example of how to integrate a compact packaged drivetrain, with excellent performance and range, while using this underpinning. The complete chassis has remained unchanged from the Evora which maintains the structural integrity and strength performance of the original car.

The structure progresses the Lotus 'bonded and riveted' technology with new and unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing production build modularity and lower cost repairs. The chassis has been designed for scalability so that it can be extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume VVA chassis can be modified cost effectively by varying the wall thickness of the extrusions, without altering the exterior dimensions. The ability to lengthen or shorten extrusions with the option to tailor the chassis stiffness vastly increases the number of vehicles that can be developed from this vehicle architecture.

Driving Dynamics
The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid offers exhilarating, all-round dynamic performance and takes advantage of Lotus developed torque vectoring dynamics. Torque vectoring, which is the capacity to generate different torques at each of the driving wheels, is particularly suited to electric vehicles and significantly reduces the conflict between stability and response.

A key benefit of separate motors to drive each rear wheel individually is that this facilitates a much higher level of vehicle dynamics control. Driving the wheels with different levels of torque can not only generate all the capabilities of a conventional ESP system using energy regeneration as opposed to brake application, but it can also actively drive each wheel forward at different rates, producing a turning moment at the rear of the vehicle in addition to the steering input.

This can be used to enhance low speed manoeuvrability and ease of parking but can also be used to produce a much greater level of straight line high speed stability. Incorporating lateral sensors the system also provides stability control capabilities and levels of steering response normally only associated with heavy and expensive rear steer systems. This can provide automatic correction of both understeer and oversteer characteristics. In addition, the standard method to provide high speed stability of designing the rear wheels to toe-in is not required as the torque vectoring system automatically provides this stability control, with toe-in increasing rolling resistance, lowering fuel economy and increasing tyre wear. Lotus' long history of active suspension control provides the core capability to develop this technology and provides extraordinary driving pleasure on the Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid.

Driver Interaction
The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept provides less of a psychological step change for people familiar with high performance cars compared to other electric and hybrid sports cars. The car has a simulated paddle shift gear change offering ultra quick gear changes reminiscent of a dual clutch transmission, while actually single speed. This enhances the driver interaction with the vehicle and provides a driving experience similar to current internal combustion engine high performance sports cars. The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid uses a column mounted paddle shift to simulate the gear change and a synthesised engine sound changes frequency with virtual gear selection. The drive torque is also modulated to simulate a physical feeling of a gearshift jolt.

The Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid Concept uses the Lotus Engineering and Harman International developed HALOsonic suite of noise solutions. The first of which is Electronic Sound Synthesis. This generates engine sounds inside the vehicle through the audio system where it provides an exciting sports sound in line with the brand and nature of the vehicle together with a high level of driver feedback in an intuitive manner. In addition, it also generates sound on the outside of the vehicle through speakers mounted at the front and rear to provide a warning to increase pedestrian safety, which is especially important for electric and hybrid vehicles which can be difficult to hear at slower speeds.

There are four driver selectable engine sounds currently on the vehicle, two of which have been designed to have characteristics of a multi-cylinder conventional V6 and V12 engine. There is also a futuristic sound and a combination of a conventional engine and a futuristic sound, enhancing the brand identity of the vehicle as a step forward in electric vehicle design.

The Design
The distinctive colour scheme and 'floating' roof have been carefully designed to accent the cars electric vehicle technology whilst complementing the iconic lines of the Evora.

The signature copper theme is consistently carried throughout the car from the dramatic seat stripes and instrument panel inserts to the copper callipers that nestle behind the carbon grey forged wheels. Inside the cabin a sense of quality and richness has been created by carefully juxtaposing the different tactile qualities intrinsic to leather, Alcantara and metal.

Lotus Evora, 2010

Lotus Evora, 2010

  

 The first all-new Lotus since the iconic Lotus Elise made its debut in 1995, The Lotus Evora enters the sports car market as currently the world's only mid-engined 2+2. Powered by a Lotus-tuned 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 280 PS, and weighing just 1350 kg (prototype specification), the Lotus Evora promises breathtaking performance. During preliminary testing around the famous Nürburgring, the Lotus chassis engineers report that it is extremely agile and great fun to drive - even when clad with the full development disguise that hid the beautiful lines from the prying motor-industry paparazzi.

In addition to its excellent performance and exemplary handling, the Lotus Evora offers a more refined ownership experience than Lotus's existing smaller four-cylinder models. Its elegantly styled cabin is elegantly trimmed and its equipment list includes contemporary features such as an advanced touch-screen multi-media system and electric power-fold door mirrors.

THE LOTUS EVORA IN DETAIL
The Style or function? Have both... Designed 'in-house' by Lotus Design, the sleek and athletic form uses fluid forms and crisp surfaces to communicate velocity, agility and sophistication. Low and wide with modern cab forward proportions, muscular rear haunches and function optimised hip air intakes this is clearly a serious mid engined sportscar that skilfully hides the practicality of its two plus two capability.
Ingress and egress, for example, dictated a minimal "step-over" to get into the Lotus Evora. We simply cut away the surface under the door and created a unique and dramatic piece of sculpture that enhances the stance of the car as well as its useability.

Elsewhere, aerodynamic considerations for drag, down force and cooling had significant but positive influence on the overall form and details such as air intakes. A desire to create balanced down force, that increases cornering performance, led to the adoption of, the now, "signature" top exit radiator vent, race car inspired diffuser and "floating rear wing". Drag limitation, drove the dramatic tear-dropped cabin layout and the curvaceous plan view has given the car a more muscular rear shoulder and conveys a level of sophistication appropriate to this market segment.
This inherent understanding of the relationship between the technical and the aesthetic paid dividends the first time a full-scale model of the Lotus Evora was wind-tunnel tested - only minimal adjustments were required to the car's aerodynamic package to meet the targets for downforce and stability.
The view from the rear three-quarters is just as striking and the one that many will become familiar with as the car passes them on the road. The tapered cabin, diffuser, floating wing, centrally mounted twin tailpipes and distinctive engine bay vents all combine to create a completely unique look.

The design language of the interior reflects that of the exterior - simple, fluid surfaces, soft forms and crisp feature lines wrap around the cabin cosseting the occupants. Unlike recent Lotus products that use a race car inspired, technical minimalism, the Lotus Evora employs a softer approach that utilises premium quality materials and finishes to create a contemporary but luxurious ambience that is unique to Lotus products.
Focused courtesy lighting is used throughout the interior, giving a spectacular illuminated feel to the sculpture design feature of the cabin.

Easy in, easy out
With the Elise and its derivatives, the no-compromise character of the car makes getting in and out across a wide sill and through a comparatively narrow door/window aperture part of the charm of ownership. For the Lotus Evora and its remit for the serious daily driver, and to attract newcomers to the Lotus brand, greater convenience and practicality is provided.
As a consequence the sill is now lower and slimmer (80mm wide compared with 100mm in the Elise), and the whole door aperture taller. The doors open wider than on the Elise and its siblings, while the height of the front seat is raised by 65mm.
But while the Lotus Evora is undeniably more 'lifestyle' in respect of its everyday practicality, once you're seated behind its flat-bottomed steering wheel, it feels every bit as exotic and sporting as you would expect a Lotus to be.

The chassis: Production Low Volume Versatile Vehicle Architecture
The Lotus Evora's chassis is an evolution of the Versatile Vehicle Architecture (VVA) from the Lotus APX concept vehicle previously showcased at the Geneva Motorshow, and allows for the development of a range of vehicles up to a gross vehicle weight of 1,900 kg. This architecture has been designed to be more applicable to mid-volume applications by utilising our low capital investment manufacturing processes. The Lotus Evora structure progresses the Lotus 'bonded and riveted' technology used in the Elise family of vehicles with unique extrusions and folded panels, whilst providing contemporary ease of ingress/egress, build modularity and improved, lower cost repairs.

The Low Volume VVA architecture has been designed so that it can be extended in width, length and height. The strength and stiffness of the low volume VVA chassis can be modified cost effectively by varying the wall thickness of the extrusions, without altering the exterior dimensions. The ability to lengthen or shorten extrusions with the option to tailor the chassis stiffness, vastly increases the number of vehicles that can be developed from this vehicle architecture. Front and mid engine installations have been considered, as well as hybrid and Electric Vehicle (EV) applications.
The Lotus Evora employs a composite roof as a stressed structural member to give an exceptional vehicle stiffness of 26,000 Nm per degree, thanks in part to the seatbelt anchorage frame's secondary function as a roll over structure, and partly because the high-tech composite body panels are stressed items. However, despite this high stiffness, the complete chassis and modules weight just 200 kg (prototype weight), helping to keep the weight of the whole car to just 1350 kg (prototype weight).

The Suspended & animated
The Lotus Evora suspension wishbones are forged from aluminium to reduce the unsprung mass. These are similar in weight, and stiffer than the steel items found on the much smaller Elise, Exige and Europa vehicles, and have a far higher vehicle weight capacity. They are attached to the front and rear modules via bespoke bushes. The Lotus Evora will use Bilstein high performance dampers and Eibach springs with unique dual path top mounts for optimised vehicle refinement. Hydraulically assisted power steering is provided by a Lotus tuned TRW steering rack.
All in all, the Lotus Evora delivers. It has incredible Lotus handling and provides unsurpassable driving pleasure. In fact, word from the ride and handling team is that the new car is likely to become a class standard-setter for speed and agility.
Stop right now... Vented and cross-drilled brake discs - massive 350mm items on the front and 332mm at the rear - and high performance bespoke Lotus AP Racing 4 pot callipers ensure impressive stopping power.
Everyone connected with the brake testing programme, conducted on the punishing corners, climbs and descents of the Nürburgring, has described the brakes as 'phenomenal' with excellent thermal performance and outstanding feel even after extended sessions of extreme use.
Part of that testing programme was to finalise settings for the ABS system being developed in conjunction with Bosch. The system is set to very high thresholds and operates so progressively that drivers are often unaware that they have actually triggered the ABS.

Safe. Fun. Lotus Traction Control
The Switchable Lotus Traction Control (LTC) system has been developed simultaneously with the ABS and works through the engine management system to reduce power when required to maintain traction. Unlike many traction control systems, LTC has been tuned to complement the skills of the driver without taking over. The Lotus LTC is active above 5 mph (8 km/h) and operates much more quickly than many brake based systems. The system can be deactivated completely, giving no traction control intervention.

Keeping a grip - 18 inch at the front, 19 inch at the rear
Tyre choice is a vital component in the handling performance of every Lotus and for the Lotus Evora, Yokohama was chosen as development partner.
Lotus's long-term relationship with Yokohama was swiftly rewarded during development when initially the front tyre size did not generate the Lotus required lateral grip, the Japanese grip gurus went away and developed bespoke tyres especially for the Lotus Evora - a 225/40 ZR18 at the front and larger diameter; 255/35 ZR19 at the rear. Both have carcass construction and a rubber compound unique to Lotus and are identified by the letters 'LTS' on the sidewalls.

Lotus Elise Club Racer, 2010

 

Lotus Elise Club Racer, 2010

The Special Edition Lotus Elise Club Racer introduces new and exclusive colour schemes, bespoke interior and lightweight components all in a world class, high performance and low emission sportscar.

Lotus has taken four of the classic colour schemes used by Lotus in the 1960s (Elite Yellow, Carbon Grey, Sky Blue and Old English White) and combined them with exclusive Club Racer interior design features to give a stunning sportscar that beautifully morphs function and form.

The firm and supportive Lotus Elise seats are clad with lightweight microfibre comfort pads perfectly positioned to give the right amount of support with the minimal amount of weight, but still keeping the body coloured seat shell partly exposed.

The exterior body colour theme is carried over to the transmission tunnel and combined with silver and black paint highlights, bisecting the cockpit and tying together the whole sporty theme unique to the Lotus Elise Club Racer.

Another exclusive interior design features of the Lotus Elise Club Racer are the anthracite anodised gear knob and handbrake sleeve, the Club Racer (CR) logo hand embroidered on the seat headrest and the unique anodized aluminium flooring in the driver's and passenger's footwell. The small 320 mm diameter leather rimmed steering wheel has an on-center marker, enabling the more spirited driver to quickly and safely identify the straight ahead position of the front wheels.

The lightweight six spoke alloy wheels, shod in bespoke Yokohama AD07 LTS tyres are also anthracite anodised, complementing the key interior components.