The latest race car from Lotus, the new Elise Race 250 has lapped the company’s Hethel test track in 1 minute 33.5 seconds – 0.5 seconds quicker than the previous Elise Cup 220 R, thereby making it the fastest recorded lap time for a Lotus developed race-variant of the Elise.

Eligible for race series around the world, the new hardcore, track-orientated Race 250 gets a raft of performance-orientated features as standard. Packing a supercharged, 1.8-litre 4-cylinder engine with a 6 speed manual gearbox, the car boasts 243 bhp at 7200 rpm and 184 lb-ft 250 of torque between 3500 rpm and 5500 rpm.

With an aluminium chassis tipping the scales at just 68 kgs, the designers say every aspect of the model has been optimised to help slash lap times. This covers track-oriented features including Nitron adjustable dampers, uprated brake pads, FIA approved carbon-fibre race seat with six-point racing harness, a removable steering wheel and a polycarbonate rear windscreen.

The Race 250 also features a full aero package, including front splitter, rear diffuser, floor extensions and a rear wing. As a result, the car’s design generates plenty of downforce, equal to 66 kg at 100 mph and 155 kg at maximum speed of 154 mph.

Typical of a race car, the cabin is fitted with an A-Frame harness bar and an FIA compliant front roll-cage section, fire extinguisher, battery isolator and front and rear towing eyes. The front headlamps are replaced with lightweight composite blanking panels.

“The Elise Race 250 is the fastest, most focused Elise we’ve ever produced and, judging by what it’s capable of on track, it looks set to become a favourite with our racers around the world,” says Lotus CEO, Jean-Marc Gales.

Source: Lotus

Tags: Elise Race 250, Jean-Marc Gales, Lotus, motorsport, racing car, track car