Lotus has announced four limited-edition versions of the Elise, each featuring an exterior color combination designed to evoke memories of some of the most iconic racing cars in Lotus history. These special editions are a tribute to the brand’s rich motorsport heritage and are sure to appeal to both enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Iconic Liveries and Their Inspirations
The liveries include a striking black and gold version, reminiscent of the livery of the Lotus Type 72D driven by Emerson Fittipaldi in 1972. This car is particularly famous for its success in Formula One, where Fittipaldi clinched the World Championship, making it a significant piece of Lotus history.
The red, white, and gold version pays homage to the Type 49B raced by Graham Hill in 1968. This car is notable for its innovative design and engineering, which included the first use of a Cosworth DFV engine. Hill’s success in this car further cemented Lotus’s reputation as a leader in motorsport innovation.
The blue, red, and silver car is a nod to the Lotus Type 81 raced in 1980 by a trio of legendary drivers: Nigel Mansell, Elio de Angelis, and Mario Andretti. This livery captures the spirit of a competitive era in Formula One, where Lotus was a formidable force on the track.
The fourth car features a blue and white color scheme, a throwback to the Lotus Type 18 driven by Sir Stirling Moss in 1960. This car is particularly significant as it marked Lotus’s first Formula One victory, with Moss’s win at the Monaco Grand Prix.
Exclusive Features and Limited Availability
Only 100 of these special edition cars will be built, with demand for each variant determined by customer request. This limited production run ensures that each car will be a rare and highly sought-after collector’s item. The cars will feature unique interior and exterior elements, including bespoke trim and detailing that set them apart from the standard Elise models.
In addition to their distinctive liveries, these Heritage Editions come with standard equipment that is typically optional on the Elise 220, the model on which these editions are based. This includes features such as upgraded suspension, enhanced braking systems, and advanced infotainment options, providing a blend of performance and comfort.
Each car will also come with a special plaque showing its build number, adding an extra touch of exclusivity. This plaque not only signifies the car’s place in the limited production run but also serves as a reminder of its connection to Lotus’s illustrious racing past.
Pricing for these exclusive models in available markets will be £46,250. Given the unique features and limited availability, these cars are expected to be highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of modern performance and classic racing heritage.
The Lotus Elise Heritage Editions are a fitting tribute to the brand’s storied history in motorsport. By combining iconic liveries with modern performance and exclusive features, Lotus has created a series of cars that celebrate its past while offering a thrilling driving experience for the present. Whether you’re a long-time Lotus fan or a newcomer to the brand, these limited-edition models offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history.
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