Lotus has announced in Geneva that it is replacing the Elise Cup 220 with the new Elise Cup 250 that brings a series of improvements. Compared to its predecessor, the new model is not only 21 kilograms lighter, but also 26 horsepower stronger. It now tips the scales at just 931 kg and delivers 243 hp and 250 Nm thanks to the upgraded supercharged 1.8-liter engine.
To reduce weight even further, Lotus is introducing an optional carbon aero package that slashes another 10 kg by replacing the front splitter, side floor extensions, rear wing, and rear diffuser with carbon fiber parts. Fitted with the optional kit, the Elise Cup 250 will weight as little as 921 kg. The added power corroborated with a significant diet have enabled the upgraded Elise to run the 0-60 mph (0-96 kph) sprint in 3.9 seconds and max out at 154 mph / 248 kph. It’s the fastest road-legal Elise ever made and has lapped the company’s Hethel test track in only 1 minute and 34 seconds.
Lotus has fitted the revised model with Bilstein sports dampers and Eibach springs that work together with a double wishbone suspension while the car sits on 16-inch front & 17-inch rear lightweight forged alloy wheels. These are shod in Yokohama 195/50/16 and 225/45/17 tires backed by AP Racing two-piston front and Brembo single-piston rear calipers. It’s bound to go on sale next month and production will be limited to only 200 cars each year. Lotus will sell the Elise Cup 250 as a roadster, but an optional hard top will be offered as well. The car is still on display in Geneva alongside newcomers in the Lotus range, such as the Evora Sport 410 and Exige Sport 350 Roadster.
