Lotus rebirths GT-inspired two-seater Europa

It is this attention to detail that lead to Lotus to be awarded the prestigious 'World Class Manufacturer of the Year' award in 2005. Each Europa S will take about three days and 130 man-hours to build.

Tony Shute, Head of Product for Lotus Cars explains the concept behind the new product: "The Europa S has allowed Lotus to exploit its extensive capabilities in developing a sophisticated GT-inspired car which successfully complements the range of existing cars. The 'Grand Tourer' concept underpinning the Europa S provides the driver with a refined environment, incorporating innovative styling features which do not compromise the superior performance and handling that is synonymous with the Lotus marque."

Chassis

The market and customer requirements for a GT-inspired car are quite different to the current range of Lotus cars, the Elise and the Exige. Therefore the challenge for the Lotus engineers was to design a car that could be constructed around the extruded and bonded Aluminium chassis - similar to that used in the Elise and Exige - but which also incorporates significantly enhanced levels of practicality, refinement for the occupants and increased touring and cruising capability.

The chassis for the Lotus Europa S weighs just 68 kg while maintaining high levels of stiffness and strength. To make access to the cockpit easier for driver and passenger, the sills, when compared to the Elise and Exige have been lowered by 40 mm (1.6 inches) and reinforced to maintain chassis stiffness. Again, when compared to the Elise and the Exige, the door glass is 50 mm (2 inches) higher giving a total door opening access for the driver and passenger of an additional 90 mm (3 _ inches).

The engine is mounted to a lightweight and strong, galvanised steel subframe. The lightweight steel wishbones are also mounted to this steel assembly. The Lotus vehicle dynamics team were set a tough challenge to produce a ride and handling package for the Lotus Europa S that combines compliance and comfort with the legendary Lotus agility, responsiveness and handling.

Steve Swift, Head of Vehicle Engineering explains the relationship between ride and handling for the Lotus Europa S: "The Europa is a true GT concept and the ideal companion for a long journey home." Elegant and lightweight 17" diameter wheels front and rear are shod with bespoke Bridgestone Potenza tyres (175/55 R17 on the front and 225/45 R17 on the rear).

Brakes

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