Lotus has revealed another limited-edition vehicle, but this time it is based on the Elise small sports car.
Called the Elise Cup 260, Lotus has upgraded the supercharged engine to produce 247bhp and have lightened it to improve overall performance. It has also added performance bodywork to give it a more dynamic look and helps with adding downforce.
With a race-inspired finish, the Cup 260 has a wide rear wing, new front splitter and rear diffuser, and louvred wheel arches to reduce lift. That means when it is used on the track, it can take advantage of the increased power output thanks to the added downforce.
Thanks to the lighter framework and increased power, the Cup 260 can get from 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds and on to a top speed of 151 mph, which doesn’t sound like much but Lotus models are known for being able to maintain their speed through the corners.
Inside, the Cup 260 comes with alcantara-trimmed sports seats and a body-coloured trim finish – and that’s about it. Optional extras include Bluetooth, iPod connectivity and an entertainment system. Leather and tartan trim packs are also on offer.
Models start from £59,500 and only 30 versions of this car will be built.
CEO of Group Lotus Jean-Marc Gales said: “Our philosophy for producing extraordinary vehicles is world famous, but the new Elise Cup 260 goes beyond what many believed possible from our smallest car.
“It is directly developed from the Elise race cars that are competing in series around the world, giving the ultimate Elise experience on the road. More power, motorsport components and the introduction of aerodynamics unheard of in its class make driving this Elise an unrivalled experience.”
Gales added: “As we near the 70th anniversary of the inception of Colin Chapman’s engineering legacy, it’s only right that we build the very best cars as special editions, and the Elise Cup 260 is certainly worthy of that accolade.
“Our special editions have always proved extremely popular with our customers around the world, and we know they value the extensive development work that goes into each one. With just 30 examples to be built, there’s no doubt that the Elise Cup 260 is a future classic.”
