Lotus reveals new racing car weighing less than 1 ton

Weighing just 998 kg and boasting impressive acceleration, the Lotus Exige Race 380 is considered the best car Lotus has ever produced.

Lotus has just announced its latest model, expected to launch in 2017, the Lotus Exige Race 380. This is a lighter, faster and more aggressive version of the Lotus Exige Sport 380.

Lotus Exige Race

True to its name, the Lotus Exige Race is lightweight, aerodynamically enhanced and equipped with a host of standard racing technology. The car weighs less than 1 tonne dry, just 998 kg compared to 1066 kg of other 380 models.

The weight reduction of the Lotus Exige Race 380 is achieved by removing the headlights and airbags of the regular car, along with the doors being made from polycarbonate and the cockpit using carbon fibre.

Lotus Exige Race suspension.

The suspension includes Ohlins two-way adjustable front and rear, the transmission has been upgraded: a 6-speed sequential gearbox from Xtrac with carbon shift paddles. In addition, the Lotus Exige Race 380 also has the usual safety features such as an integrated roll cage, compatibility with HANS carbon racing seats, a fire extinguisher and an isolated battery.

At the heart of the Lotus Exige Race 380 is a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine.

The heart of the Lotus Exige Race 380 is a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing up to 375 horsepower and a maximum torque of 409 Nm. On Lotus's test track in Hethel, UK, the Lotus Exige Race 380 accelerated 1.5 seconds faster than its predecessor, the Lotus Exige Cup R. It only took 3.2 seconds to reach 100 km/h from a standstill, equivalent to the McLaren F1.

The Lotus Exige Race 380 is aimed at Lotus Cup series racing teams.

The Lotus Exige Race 380 is aimed at teams and drivers in the Lotus Cup series (franchised regional championships around the world). It costs around £99,500 including VAT. The Lotus Exige Race 380 is expected to go on sale in May 2017.

According to Zing