Lotus Announces Elise for USA - 01/02/2003
HETHEL, ENGLAND, January 2, 2003 (Group Lotus PLC) - Group Lotus PLC and its subsidiary Lotus Cars U.S.A. Inc. will expand Lotus' presence in the U.S. market with the introduction of a U.S.A. specific version of the world-acclaimed Elise and a future product strategy that will include a new family of exciting models over the next several years.
U.S. sales of the 2005 Elise are scheduled to begin in mid 2004. The "Federal" Elise will retain the benchmark performance, handling and dynamics that have proven so popular in the U.K. and Europe but at the same time complying with U.S. regulations.
The recipient of numerous industry awards and accolades for design, performance, drivability, and handling, the Elise is constructed around a strong, rigid, yet lightweight extruded and bonded aluminium chassis. Consistent with the Lotus design philosophy of achieving performance and efficiency through light weight, this high tech chassis weighing less than 150 lbs (68kg) allows for a complete vehicle weight of approximately 1700lbs (770kg) (current European specification).
Demand for the product and high quality standards are key A careful study of the U.S. market and the success of the Elise in Europe and the other markets have shown Lotus that there is a demand for a small, lightweight and very high performance sportscar in the U.S. While remaining a hand-built car, a new state of the art manufacturing facility at its Headquarters in Hethel, England has enabled Lotus to build cars at a higher volume and introduce unprecedented quality standards vital for today's demanding customer.
Arnie Johnson, Lotus Cars USA's President/CEO explains why Lotus recognises the USA as a key market for the Elise and future models. "Our market analysis studies and surveys have overwhelmingly confirmed demand for the car. Based on customer and dealer reaction, we are very confident that the Elise will enjoy the same success here in the U.S.A. as in other markets.
"The introduction of the Elise marks the beginning of a new era of growth for Lotus Cars USA as well as for our dealer network. Over the next few years we anticipate further expansion and growth with new models to follow for the U.S. market."
Lotus Cars USA will implement a plan to provide the highest quality sales and service support throughout the dealer network and add new dealers in key market areas, thereby making the brand more accessible to its expanded customer base.
Complete specifications and price for the U.S.A. Elise will be published closer to the time of launch in mid 2004. A copy of the current European Elise 111s specifications is attached for information.
Specification of Lotus Elise 111s (European version) - U.S.A. version will be slightly different.
Engine: Transverse mid engine
4 cylinders in line, 1796cc
Double overhead camshaft: 16 valves
All aluminium lightweight constructionMaximum output: 160 PS (156bhp) @ 7,500/min Maximum torque: 175Nm (129lb.ft) between 3,500 - 4,650r/min Performance: Maximum speed 212 km/h (132 mph)
0 - 100 km/h (0 - 62 mph) 5.1 seconds
0 - 160 km/h (0 - 100 mph) 14.0 seconds
Fuel Consumption: litres/100km mpg
Urban Cold 9.4 30.0 mpg
Extra Urban 5.5 51.8 mpg
Combined 6.9 40.9 mpg Transmission: Close ratio 5-speed transaxle driving rear wheels. Dimensions:
Wheel base 2301 cm (90.6")
Front track 1457mm (57.3")
Rear track 1503mm (59.1")
Overall length 3785mm (149")
Overall width 1719mm (67.7") (excluding door mirrors)
Overall height 1143mm (45") Weight:
Dry weight 757Kg* (1665 lbs*)
Unladen weight 806Kg* (1773 lbs*) - including full tank of fuel
Weight distribution 39% front 61% rear
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