Lotus builds new ‘Lightweight Laboratory’

LOTUS has announced that it has managed to shave 207 kilograms from the weight of its cars in the first quarter of 2016, continuing a trend towards the lightweight elixir of a solid metric tonne.

Its heaviest car manufactured at the Lotus site in Norfolk weighed 1,395 kg, and many of its Elises are much closer to around 1,000.

Lotus has pioneered a lightweight approach to manufacturing and has now created its very own ‘Lightweight Laboratory,’ where engineers use special techniques and material to strip away excess baggage.

Carbon fibre, forged alloy wheels, carbon sports seats, louvred rear windows and thinner body panels are key, as is the philosophy spouted by CEO Jean-Marc Gales who says “to make a perfect sports car, you must consider weight your enemy.”