ANTHONY COLIN BRUCE CHAPMAN - 1928-1982 - (the ACBC monogram is incorporated in the Lotus badge) built and raced his first competition car in 1947. So successful was this and his subsequent designs that in 1955 he formed Lotus Cars Limited, operating from small premises in London.
LOTUS PRODUCTION
1957 - The Lotus Elite - The Lotus Elite was the first closed passenger car to carry the Lotus badge. It featured a unique advanced glass fibre monocoque structure comprising eight moulded sections reinforced with steel tubing and plates. The original Elite is still judged to be one of the most beautiful cars ever produced. Road versions were powered by the famous 1216cc Coventry Climax engine. The model ran until 1962 when it was replaced by the Lotus Elan.
Also, the Lotus Seven was produced (in kit form) and enabled many enthusiasts to own a dual purpose road/racing sports car at a reasonable price. The model was produced by Lotus until 1973, when the rights to manufacture were taken by Caterham Cars Ltd., which still produces the Caterham Seven today.
1959 - In June the factory moved from Hornsey to Delamare Road, Cheshunt, into a purpose-built facility
1962 - The Lotus Elan - The classic sportscar featured neatly styled glassfibre bodywork on a steel backbone chassis, pop-up headlamps and a new Lotus engine. The engine was based on a Ford 1500cc block, bored to 1558cc. It sported a Lotus twin overhead cam cylinder head equipped with two twin-stroke Weber carburettors, and produced 105 bhp at 5500 rpm.. Through the years the engine was progressively developed to the Big Valve form by Tony Rudd and the power increased to 126 bhp with surprising economy and flexibility. During its 11 years' production run, the Elan became a legend; it was a sports car by which owners were judged.
1965 - Fixed Head Elan Coupe introduced with detail trim and bodywork revision.
1966 - Drophead Elan Coupe introduced - known as the Elan S3. The Lotus Europa was introduced with the Renault 16 engine and initially was marketed in Europe. The design of the car featured a mid-engine layout similar to racing practice. It was one of the first mid-engined coupes available on the market. Company moved from Cheshunt to present purpose-built home in Norfolk, which was originally one of the many wartime airfields; USAF B24 bombers were based here.
1967 - Elan +2 launched. A full 2+2 seat coupe utilising the 1558cc twin-cam engine developing 118 bhp.
1968 - Lotus Cars Limited went public.
1969 - In this year Tony Rudd left BRM to join Lotus as engineering director. He assumed responsibility for the development of the Twin-cam and the new 16-valve 2-litre type 907 Lotus engine. In April the first deliveries took place of the new +2S model. This was a luxurious update of the existing Elan +2, featuring cast wheels and the 115 bhp Special Equipment engine. The Plus Two range dropped the Elan name, kit cars being dropped from the range simultaneously. In June the Lotus Europa was launched on the British market.
In October the Elan won a gold medal for coachwork at the London Motor Show for the second year running.
In December, ACB Chapman was awarded the CBE for "Services to Export"
1970 - January: The Elan Sprint was introduced with the new 126 bhp Big Valve engine.
The Big Valve engine was also utilised in the +2S which was redesignated the Lotus +2 S130.
1971 - Road version of the LV 220 2-litre engine announced. The new engine (Type 907), though derived from the earlier LV series racing engines, was specifically developed for road use and to meet the stringent emission laws already enforced or proposed. Based on a light alloy block, with four linered cylinders, the 907 had 16 valve cylinder head with twin overhead camshafts and a displacement of 1973cc. Despite a fairly modest compression ratio of 8.7:1, power output was 140 bhp. The engines were sold to Jensen for use in the Jensen-Healey. It was no secret, however, that one day Lotus would utilise it in a road car of its own.
The Europa was revised and appeared as the Europa Twin-Cam. The new bodyshell incorporated cut-away rear fins to increase three-quarter vision, and modified seats plus a lower floor pan contributed to a better driving position. Wider footwells with a revised pedal location and a revised gear change linkage and suspension were other worthwhile modifications. The engine was the 105 bhp Lotus Twin-Cam unit as opposed to the Renault previously used. This boost of power transformed the Europa into one of the world's quickest cars. A well driven Europa Twin-Cam was almost uncatchable along a winding road.
1972 - Lotus was already an engine manufacturer and in 1972 produced its own 5-speed gearbox as well, based on proprietary gear-clusters. The first four ratios were much the same as before but the indirect fifth gear gave an overdrive effect. It was produced to cater for long distances, on major roads and allowed cruising speeds in excess of 100 mph. At 70 mph a car fitted with a five-speed gearbox would need little more than 3000 rpm.. The new gearbox was offered as an option on the +2 S130 and a 5-speed was introduced on the newly announced Europa Special. The Special differed from its predecessor in minor details and was also fitted with the 126 bhp Big Valve engine. The bodywork featured a spoiler under the nose and gold coachlining.
1973 - The middle of the year saw two very sad occasions for Lotus enthusiasts. The Lotus Seven and Lotus Elan were dropped from production. Their combined production time was 27 years and yet they still remained well ahead of the opposition in performance and handling. The majority of these cars were sold in kit form and with the introduction of VAT, kit-car building was no longer a money-saving exercise. Happily, however, the Seven lives on: its manufacture having been transferred to Caterham Cars Limited.
1974 - Introduction of the Lotus Four-seater - 1974 saw the introduction of the first full four-seater - The Elite. A graceful GRP bodyshell, attached to a steel backbone chassis and powered by the 160 bhp 16-valve dohc 2-litre 907 engine, designed and built by Lotus. The Elite, the most luxurious and expensive Lotus road car to date, was designed to meet all European and American regulations and specifications in force at the time of launch and those to be introduced in the foreseeable future.
1975 - May: Elite awarded DON Safety Trophy by Minister of Transport
Award Citation: - "Whilst recognising the limited clientele for the Elite owing to its price and the sporting type of vehicle it represents, the Panel nevertheless felt the successful use of GRP body construction plus the wide margin by which the Elite meets the US and European Legal Safety Requirements and the emphasis placed on reduction of the risk of fire in the case of a collision, allied to the good fuel economy and low emission of pollutants, added up to a substantial improvement in terms of both primary and secondary safety in a high performance car." October: Paris preview release of new mid-engined Esprit, styled by Guigiaro.
Worldwide launch of Esprit and Eclat (2+2) at Earls Court London International Motor Show. Both new models incorporated GRP coachwork on a steel backbone chassis and the 2-litre 16-valve 907 engine. Lotus received coachwork medals at the Motor Show: Esprit - Gold; Eclat - Gold; Elite - Silver (unlimited price class). The Elite was approved for exhibition in the Design Centre, London, by the Design Council.
1976 - March: Royal visit to Lotus by HRH Duke of Kent. November: Lotus celebrated 10 years of operation at its Hethel factory, Norfolk.
1977 - February: Launch of Eclat Sprint option pack model. Available only in white with black body lining: specification included black interior trim, "E" cam version of the Lotus 907 engine, oil cooler, alloy wheels.
July: The James Bond film "The Spy Who Loved Me" was premiered in the presence of HRH Princess Anne, the mechanical star of the film being 007's Lotus Esprit.
The Design Council Car Assessment Committee examined the Lotus Esprit and declared the model eligible for exhibition in the Design Centre.
1978 - August: Release of S2 Esprit.
October: Launch of Limited Edition Esprit S2 to celebrate the Team Lotus World Championship. Only 100 of this model built for each of our three markets, each car being numbered in gold script on the exterior of the car from 001 to 100.
Available only in black and gold coachlining and insignia, specification included radio/cassette, competition steering wheel and commemorative plaque.
November: An agreement was reached between the De
Lorean Motor Company and Lotus Cars Limited whereby Lotus would co-operate in the completion of the design and development of the DMC-12 sports car to be produced in Northern Ireland for the American market.
December: Chrysler United Kingdom (Talbot), and Lotus Cars Limited signed a contract to co-operate in the production of a high performance version of the Chrysler Sunbeam to be known as the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus. The Rally version went on to win the World Rally Championship in 1981, using a 2.2 litre version of the 907 engine.
1979 - January: Lotus Cars Limited took over the marketing of its products in North America from its four independent distributors and proceeded to stabilise the market and reevaluate the dealer strength. Following this move a facility was established at Costa Mesa in Southern California.
September: An arrangement was negotiated with Rolls-Royce Motors International s.a. for its American subsidiary, Rolls-Royce Motors Inc., to distribute Lotus products in the USA through a Lotus/Rolls-Royce dealer network.
October: Royal visit to Lotus by HRH Duke of Edinburgh.
1980 - February: Essex Lotus Turbo Esprit launched at spectacular Essex party at Royal Albert Hall, London. First 100 units in Team Essex Lotus racing livery. Modified competition-based body shape. New galvanised chassis, new suspension and 2.2 litre 210 bhp 16-valve turbocharged engine. 150+ mph. 0-60
in 5.5 seconds.
May: Introduction of revised 1980 model range - Elite Series 2.2 - Eclat Series 2.2 - Esprit Series 2.2
All models updated with 2.2-litre Lotus engines. The Elite and Eclat revised with new interiors, instrumentation and switchgear.
The entire model range, including the Esprit Turbo, incorporate galvanised chassis - guaranteed for five years.
October: Announcement of formation of Lotus Engineering and Technology unit made at Motor Show.
1981 - April: Release of Lotus Esprit Series 3 incorporating chassis and suspension of Esprit Turbo allowing rationalisation of components between S3 Esprit and Esprit Turbo thus permitting a considerable price saving on both models to be passed on to the market place.
June: Press statement announcing long term engineering and, manufacturing co-operation between Lotus Cars Limited and Toyota Motor Corporation.
July: Royal Premiere of James Bond film "For Your Eyes Only" featuring the Lotus Esprit Turbo.
August: Visit to Norwich by the Prime Minister, Mrs. Margaret Thatcher, to have a close look at Lotus road and racing car activities.
1982 - October: Launch of Lotus Excel 2+2 at Paris and UK Motor Shows. Replacing the Eclat, the Excel had a softer body shape, new chassis and suspension.
ANTHONY COLIN BRUCE CHAPMAN, Founder and Chairman, died on Thursday 16 December, aged 54.
December: Formation of Lotus Performance Cars to import and distribute Lotus products throughout North America.
1983 - May: Lotus Active Suspension System was announced and demonstrated to the press.
June: Completion of refinancing package for Group Lotus Car Companies. As at end 1985 holdings were as follows:
British Car Auctions 29%
Toyota Motor Corporation 20%
JCB 18%
Schroeder Wagg 10%
October: Motorfair, London. Introduction of updated 1984 Excel and Turbo Esprit.
December: Mr. David Wickins, Chairman and founder of British Car Auctions, elected Chairman, Group Lotus Car Companies.
1984 - April: Completion of two of the most sophisticated computer controlled engine test cells in Europe at a cost of £500,000. May: Completion of the 30,000th. Lotus Car from the Norfolk factory - 1966-1984.
October: Worldwide accolade for Guigiaro-styled V8 concept car shown at the British International Motor Show in Birmingham. The Lotus four-litre 909 V8 developed 320 bhp, and was capable of propelling the high-tech. concept vehicle to a projected 180 mph top speed with a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds.
The Lotus Excel was displayed with major body styling changes resulting in a sleeker and smoother-looking car.
1985 - March: Announcement that Chrysler Corporation USA had signed a contract with Lotus Cars to develop and engineer a family of high performance 16-valve engines for future passenger cars.
June: Announcement at annual general meeting that work-in-hand had jumped from £3 million in June 1984 to £31 million in June 1985. The massive growth of contract work (96% export) from clients worldwide resulted in a major factory expansion plan to increase floor space by 45%.
One new factory of 28,500 sq. ft. had been completed, and occupied. Another 28,500 sq. ft. was completed early 1986. By then the total increase in factory floor space was 87,000 sq. ft.. Group Lotus Car Companies name change to Group Lotus plc.. Staff numbers had grown to over 600.
Launch of new Lotus Excel SE at Motorfair in Earls Court, London. This new model featured a new 180 bhp High Compression version of the Lotus 2.2 litre 16-valve engine and brand new dashboard and interior. Externally the Excel SE is clearly identifiable by new spoilers front and rear.
1986 - January: Announcement that General Motors had acquired a majority shareholding in Group Lotus plc., with subsequent formation of new Group Lotus plc. board in May.
October: Launch of Esprit Turbo HC (High Compression), at Motor Show. A Limited Edition version of the Esprit Turbo also shown to mark 20th. year in Norfolk. Also announced was a four-speed automatic Excel option designated the Lotus Excel SA.
1987 - January: Group Lotus acquired control of its USA importer and established a new importation and distribution operation, Lotus Cars USA Inc..
March: Team Lotus announce new Type 99 Fl car fitted with Lotus Active suspension. Ayrton Senna wins two races and demonstrates 25,000 miles of race and test durability.
April: Group Lotus acquired the Millbrook Proving Ground for £7.5 million. Located in Bedfordshire the 700-acre site contains 30 miles of test tracks and surfaces including a two-mile highspeed bowl. With its emission laboratories, HYGE sled and crash-testing facilities, Millbrook is the most advanced independent test and validation facility in Europe.
October: Launch at Motorfair of a new Esprit Turbo. Styled in-house, the entirely new body featured a smoother more rounded appearance. A more modem interior completed the package. A normally aspirated version of the new Esprit was shown at the same time.
1988 - October: Limited edition of the Esprit Turbo announced to commemorate the company's 40th. anniversary. Available only in pearlescent white, it featured a rear spoiler and came with a blue leather and suede interior and comprehensive in-car entertainment system including a CD player.
Detail changes to both the Excel and Esprit are announced.
1989 - May: Esprit Turbo SE announced, the most powerful and quickest road-going Lotus to date.
It is powered by a 264 bhp charge-cooled version of the Lotus 2.2 litre engine giving a top speed of 164 mph and a 0-60 mph of 4.7 seconds.
Detailed chassis changes further improved the Esprit's ride and handling, while specially developed Goodyear Eagle tyres were specified as standard equipment.
External changes included a deeper front bib, side sills and a boot-mounted spoiler to achieve neutral balance throughout the speed range.
Standard equipment included full leather interior, air-conditioning and tilt/removable glass sunroof.
October: London Motorfair. The new Lotus Elan was unveiled to universal acclaim. Lotus's first front-wheel drive car, it featured unique, patented "Interactive Wishbone" front suspension.
The sleek two-seater convertible was designed in-house by Lotus's own team. Powered by an Isuzu-Lotus four-cylinder, 1.6 litre, twin-cam fuel-injected engine producing 130 bhp and 105 lb-ft. in normally aspirated form and 165 bhp/148 lb-ft. when turbocharged. Top speeds for the cars were 122 and 137 mph respectively with 0-60 mph times of 7.6 seconds, for the less powerful engine and 6.7 seconds, for the turbo model. A totally new method of construction was developed for the Elan although it retained the classic Lotus backbone chassis to carry the suspension components and power unit. The bodyshell was produced from a number of VARI panels which were mounted to an immensely rigid sub-structure consisting of a floor-pan with welded steel sills and outriggers rivetted and bonded to it.
1990 - February: Vauxhall/Opel announced the Lotus Carlton (Lotus Omega outside UK) - the ultra-high-performance production four-door saloon car developed and built by Lotus Engineering. The car is basically a Carlton/Omega GSi model, but completely stripped and rebuilt by Lotus, with a 3.6 litre, 24-valve twin-turbocharged six cylinder engine giving 377 bhp at 5200 rpm and 419 lbs-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm, plus a six-speed gearbox, special limited-slip differential, Group C-derived brakes, unique wheels with ultra low profile tyres and dozens of other improvements. 0-60 mph time is 5.2 seconds; 0100 is 11.5 seconds. Maximum speed not published by Opel/Vauxhall, but magazine tests achieve around 175 mph. May: £2 million semi-anechoic chamber opened by Rt. Hon. Cecil Parkinson, then Secretary of State for Transport. 1990 also saw the return to the race-track for Lotus sports cars. A works supported team of 3 Lotus Esprit Turbo SE's were entered in a "Showroom Stock" series in the USA, contesting 9 races. The team took 4 victories, 6 pole positions, 6 fastest laps, and 2nd. place in the Manufacturer's Championship.
1991 - March: Lotus Elan wins British Design Council Award.
Team Lotus, still privately-owned, reforms under new management led by Peter Collins and Peter Wright. The new Lotus 102B F1 car reaffirms the Lotus tradition of elegance and efficiency sporting heritage-inspired green and yellow racing colours.
In USA, Lotus Engineering supports Lotusport Inc. with 3 new '91-spec. race Esprits for a revised driver lineup which includes film star Paul Newman.
June: Lotus announce development of "Sound Synthesis" - the addition of computer-generated engine sound through the ICE, which follows the development of Antinoise.
August: Lotus Engineering's Design Analysis Group commission Cray supercomputer to accelerate customer service. 300 jobs go as recession bites in Lotus Cars.
September: Lotus unveils the M200 Concept Car at Frankfurt IAA - a dramatic "speedster" based on the Elan.
October: Lotus reveals '92 Esprit range with significant customer-inspired improvement for the passenger room, better access, and improved rear visibility.
Alan Curtis, Group Lotus Chairman, retires, to be succeeded by Michael J Kimberley, (previously Group CEO).
1992 - January: Lotus Engineering exhibits "SID" and "JEWEL" at SAE Show in Detroit. Lotus Cars announces further job
losses.
March: Due to unprecedented worldwide recession, Lotus halts all production for 5 weeks to control stock levels.
April: Forthcoming emission legislation forces cessation of Lotus Excel 2+2 production.
May: Lotus Engineering reveals Alvis Scorpion tank fitted with "Lotus Active" suspension featuring high-bandwidth energy-saving control of comer bogies. Carried out in conjunction with UK and US defence departments, work is ongoing.
June 15 1992: Lotus Cars announces cessation of Elan production with loss of 300 jobs, after total build of 3857 cars. Worldwide recession and introduction of USA "luxury tax" is blamed.
July 29: Chris Boardman takes Olympic 4000m Gold Medal on epoch-making "LotusSport" carbon-composite monocoque bicycle.
August 22: Boardman and the Lotus "superbike" smash World 5km pursuit record by over 8 seconds. Boardman's unofficial Olympic 4km record is ratified also.
October: Doc Bundy, driving the LotusSport Esprit X180R, takes the Driver's title in USA national sports car series. Tom Langeberg wins Dutch Production Car Series in Lotus Esprit.
Launch at NEC of Esprit Sport 300 - the highest performance Lotus to date. Based on the X180R, the Sport 300 blends racetrack performance with road manners in a dramatic variant of the classic Lotus Esprit shape.
1993 - January: Lotus Esprit S4 introduced - new elegant bodyshell encloses dynamic improvements such as power steering (standard).
March: Lotus Engineering wins major contract with Taiwanese government to design new family of engines.
May: Lotus Esprit Sport 300 goes into production.
June: Two Lotus Esprit Sport 300's race at Le Mans - first works-supported entry for over 30 years.
July: New LotusSport 110 road bike debuts on Tour de France with Team ONCE.
August 27th. - Bugatti buys Group Lotus from General Motors; Romano Artioli of Bugatti Industries named Chairman, Group Lotus Limited.
FACTORY DETAILS
Facilities
Factory covered area:
Factory 1: 175,027 sq. ft.
Factory 2: 28,800 sq. ft.
Factory 3: 40,410 sq. ft.
Factory 4: 31,200 sq. ft.
Factory 5: 28,800 sq. ft.
Factory 6: 38,295 sq. ft.
Area of Site: 55 acres
Length of test track: 2.2 miles
Length of airfield runway: 900 yds. approx. (prior permission required)
Thirteen computer-controlled engine test cell suites, ranging from 30-750kW absorption.
Emission laboratory providing full certification worldwide including: Europe, Japan and USA. This facility is one of only three in the UK recognised by world authorities.
NVH laboratory providing latest technology and equipment to combat Noise, Vibration and Harshness in all types of road vehicles. Semi-anechoic state-of-the-art test facilities for whole vehicle and engine NVH analysis under all conditions of speed, load and temperature.
Superb equipped CNC machining facilities constantly being updated with the latest equipment.
Modern Composites research department and factory.
Lotus fabricates its own steel backbone chassis and suspension components for the Esprit; produces composite bodyshells, and interior trim, styled by its own styling studio, Lotus Design.
The lightweight Lotus 16-valve all-alloy turbocharged engine built in both 2 litre and 2.2 litre capacity is machined and handbuilt on site.
MODEL HISTORY
Production build of early models
Seven 1957-1972 3,300
Elite 1957-1962 990
Elan 1962-1973 12,224
Elan +2 1970-1973 5,200
Europa 1966-1974 9,230
Elite 1974-1982 2,531
Eclat 1975-1985 2,351
Excel 1985-1992 1,322
New Elan 1989-1992 3,857
Current Model Range
Esprit S4: Two-seater mid-engined sports car (available in 2 and 2.2 litre versions, according to market)
Esprit Sport 300: As above, road-race version, 2.2 litre only.
LotusSport Pursuit bicycle: Replica of Olympic Gold medal-winning bicycle
LotusSport 110: Road-going bicycle, introduced on 1993 Tour de France.
FACTORY DETAILS EMPLOYMENT POLICY
Lotus is a non-unionised Company and negotiations on terms and conditions and all other employment matters are dealt with by the appropriate Staff Council internally.
LOTUS PRODUCTION
1957 - The Lotus Elite - The Lotus Elite was the first closed passenger car to carry the Lotus badge. It featured a unique advanced glass fibre monocoque structure comprising eight moulded sections reinforced with steel tubing and plates. The original Elite is still judged to be one of the most beautiful cars ever produced. Road versions were powered by the famous 1216cc Coventry Climax engine. The model ran until 1962 when it was replaced by the Lotus Elan.
Also, the Lotus Seven was produced (in kit form) and enabled many enthusiasts to own a dual purpose road/racing sports car at a reasonable price. The model was produced by Lotus until 1973, when the rights to manufacture were taken by Caterham Cars Ltd., which still produces the Caterham Seven today.
1959 - In June the factory moved from Hornsey to Delamare Road, Cheshunt, into a purpose-built facility
1962 - The Lotus Elan - The classic sportscar featured neatly styled glassfibre bodywork on a steel backbone chassis, pop-up headlamps and a new Lotus engine. The engine was based on a Ford 1500cc block, bored to 1558cc. It sported a Lotus twin overhead cam cylinder head equipped with two twin-stroke Weber carburettors, and produced 105 bhp at 5500 rpm.. Through the years the engine was progressively developed to the Big Valve form by Tony Rudd and the power increased to 126 bhp with surprising economy and flexibility. During its 11 years' production run, the Elan became a legend; it was a sports car by which owners were judged.
1965 - Fixed Head Elan Coupe introduced with detail trim and bodywork revision.
1966 - Drophead Elan Coupe introduced - known as the Elan S3. The Lotus Europa was introduced with the Renault 16 engine and initially was marketed in Europe. The design of the car featured a mid-engine layout similar to racing practice. It was one of the first mid-engined coupes available on the market. Company moved from Cheshunt to present purpose-built home in Norfolk, which was originally one of the many wartime airfields; USAF B24 bombers were based here.
1967 - Elan +2 launched. A full 2+2 seat coupe utilising the 1558cc twin-cam engine developing 118 bhp.
1968 - Lotus Cars Limited went public.
1969 - In this year Tony Rudd left BRM to join Lotus as engineering director. He assumed responsibility for the development of the Twin-cam and the new 16-valve 2-litre type 907 Lotus engine. In April the first deliveries took place of the new +2S model. This was a luxurious update of the existing Elan +2, featuring cast wheels and the 115 bhp Special Equipment engine. The Plus Two range dropped the Elan name, kit cars being dropped from the range simultaneously. In June the Lotus Europa was launched on the British market.
In October the Elan won a gold medal for coachwork at the London Motor Show for the second year running.
In December, ACB Chapman was awarded the CBE for "Services to Export"
1970 - January: The Elan Sprint was introduced with the new 126 bhp Big Valve engine.
The Big Valve engine was also utilised in the +2S which was redesignated the Lotus +2 S130.
1971 - Road version of the LV 220 2-litre engine announced. The new engine (Type 907), though derived from the earlier LV series racing engines, was specifically developed for road use and to meet the stringent emission laws already enforced or proposed. Based on a light alloy block, with four linered cylinders, the 907 had 16 valve cylinder head with twin overhead camshafts and a displacement of 1973cc. Despite a fairly modest compression ratio of 8.7:1, power output was 140 bhp. The engines were sold to Jensen for use in the Jensen-Healey. It was no secret, however, that one day Lotus would utilise it in a road car of its own.
The Europa was revised and appeared as the Europa Twin-Cam. The new bodyshell incorporated cut-away rear fins to increase three-quarter vision, and modified seats plus a lower floor pan contributed to a better driving position. Wider footwells with a revised pedal location and a revised gear change linkage and suspension were other worthwhile modifications. The engine was the 105 bhp Lotus Twin-Cam unit as opposed to the Renault previously used. This boost of power transformed the Europa into one of the world's quickest cars. A well driven Europa Twin-Cam was almost uncatchable along a winding road.
1972 - Lotus was already an engine manufacturer and in 1972 produced its own 5-speed gearbox as well, based on proprietary gear-clusters. The first four ratios were much the same as before but the indirect fifth gear gave an overdrive effect. It was produced to cater for long distances, on major roads and allowed cruising speeds in excess of 100 mph. At 70 mph a car fitted with a five-speed gearbox would need little more than 3000 rpm.. The new gearbox was offered as an option on the +2 S130 and a 5-speed was introduced on the newly announced Europa Special. The Special differed from its predecessor in minor details and was also fitted with the 126 bhp Big Valve engine. The bodywork featured a spoiler under the nose and gold coachlining.
1973 - The middle of the year saw two very sad occasions for Lotus enthusiasts. The Lotus Seven and Lotus Elan were dropped from production. Their combined production time was 27 years and yet they still remained well ahead of the opposition in performance and handling. The majority of these cars were sold in kit form and with the introduction of VAT, kit-car building was no longer a money-saving exercise. Happily, however, the Seven lives on: its manufacture having been transferred to Caterham Cars Limited.
1974 - Introduction of the Lotus Four-seater - 1974 saw the introduction of the first full four-seater - The Elite. A graceful GRP bodyshell, attached to a steel backbone chassis and powered by the 160 bhp 16-valve dohc 2-litre 907 engine, designed and built by Lotus. The Elite, the most luxurious and expensive Lotus road car to date, was designed to meet all European and American regulations and specifications in force at the time of launch and those to be introduced in the foreseeable future.
1975 - May: Elite awarded DON Safety Trophy by Minister of Transport
Award Citation: - "Whilst recognising the limited clientele for the Elite owing to its price and the sporting type of vehicle it represents, the Panel nevertheless felt the successful use of GRP body construction plus the wide margin by which the Elite meets the US and European Legal Safety Requirements and the emphasis placed on reduction of the risk of fire in the case of a collision, allied to the good fuel economy and low emission of pollutants, added up to a substantial improvement in terms of both primary and secondary safety in a high performance car." October: Paris preview release of new mid-engined Esprit, styled by Guigiaro.
Worldwide launch of Esprit and Eclat (2+2) at Earls Court London International Motor Show. Both new models incorporated GRP coachwork on a steel backbone chassis and the 2-litre 16-valve 907 engine. Lotus received coachwork medals at the Motor Show: Esprit - Gold; Eclat - Gold; Elite - Silver (unlimited price class). The Elite was approved for exhibition in the Design Centre, London, by the Design Council.
1976 - March: Royal visit to Lotus by HRH Duke of Kent. November: Lotus celebrated 10 years of operation at its Hethel factory, Norfolk.
1977 - February: Launch of Eclat Sprint option pack model. Available only in white with black body lining: specification included black interior trim, "E" cam version of the Lotus 907 engine, oil cooler, alloy wheels.
July: The James Bond film "The Spy Who Loved Me" was premiered in the presence of HRH Princess Anne, the mechanical star of the film being 007's Lotus Esprit.
The Design Council Car Assessment Committee examined the Lotus Esprit and declared the model eligible for exhibition in the Design Centre.
1978 - August: Release of S2 Esprit.
October: Launch of Limited Edition Esprit S2 to celebrate the Team Lotus World Championship. Only 100 of this model built for each of our three markets, each car being numbered in gold script on the exterior of the car from 001 to 100.
Available only in black and gold coachlining and insignia, specification included radio/cassette, competition steering wheel and commemorative plaque.
November: An agreement was reached between the De
Lorean Motor Company and Lotus Cars Limited whereby Lotus would co-operate in the completion of the design and development of the DMC-12 sports car to be produced in Northern Ireland for the American market.
December: Chrysler United Kingdom (Talbot), and Lotus Cars Limited signed a contract to co-operate in the production of a high performance version of the Chrysler Sunbeam to be known as the Talbot Sunbeam Lotus. The Rally version went on to win the World Rally Championship in 1981, using a 2.2 litre version of the 907 engine.
1979 - January: Lotus Cars Limited took over the marketing of its products in North America from its four independent distributors and proceeded to stabilise the market and reevaluate the dealer strength. Following this move a facility was established at Costa Mesa in Southern California.
September: An arrangement was negotiated with Rolls-Royce Motors International s.a. for its American subsidiary, Rolls-Royce Motors Inc., to distribute Lotus products in the USA through a Lotus/Rolls-Royce dealer network.
October: Royal visit to Lotus by HRH Duke of Edinburgh.
1980 - February: Essex Lotus Turbo Esprit launched at spectacular Essex party at Royal Albert Hall, London. First 100 units in Team Essex Lotus racing livery. Modified competition-based body shape. New galvanised chassis, new suspension and 2.2 litre 210 bhp 16-valve turbocharged engine. 150+ mph. 0-60
in 5.5 seconds.
May: Introduction of revised 1980 model range - Elite Series 2.2 - Eclat Series 2.2 - Esprit Series 2.2
All models updated with 2.2-litre Lotus engines. The Elite and Eclat revised with new interiors, instrumentation and switchgear.
The entire model range, including the Esprit Turbo, incorporate galvanised chassis - guaranteed for five years.
October: Announcement of formation of Lotus Engineering and Technology unit made at Motor Show.
1981 - April: Release of Lotus Esprit Series 3 incorporating chassis and suspension of Esprit Turbo allowing rationalisation of components between S3 Esprit and Esprit Turbo thus permitting a considerable price saving on both models to be passed on to the market place.
June: Press statement announcing long term engineering and, manufacturing co-operation between Lotus Cars Limited and Toyota Motor Corporation.
July: Royal Premiere of James Bond film "For Your Eyes Only" featuring the Lotus Esprit Turbo.
August: Visit to Norwich by the Prime Minister, Mrs. Margaret Thatcher, to have a close look at Lotus road and racing car activities.
1982 - October: Launch of Lotus Excel 2+2 at Paris and UK Motor Shows. Replacing the Eclat, the Excel had a softer body shape, new chassis and suspension.
ANTHONY COLIN BRUCE CHAPMAN, Founder and Chairman, died on Thursday 16 December, aged 54.
December: Formation of Lotus Performance Cars to import and distribute Lotus products throughout North America.
1983 - May: Lotus Active Suspension System was announced and demonstrated to the press.
June: Completion of refinancing package for Group Lotus Car Companies. As at end 1985 holdings were as follows:
British Car Auctions 29%
Toyota Motor Corporation 20%
JCB 18%
Schroeder Wagg 10%
October: Motorfair, London. Introduction of updated 1984 Excel and Turbo Esprit.
December: Mr. David Wickins, Chairman and founder of British Car Auctions, elected Chairman, Group Lotus Car Companies.
1984 - April: Completion of two of the most sophisticated computer controlled engine test cells in Europe at a cost of £500,000. May: Completion of the 30,000th. Lotus Car from the Norfolk factory - 1966-1984.
October: Worldwide accolade for Guigiaro-styled V8 concept car shown at the British International Motor Show in Birmingham. The Lotus four-litre 909 V8 developed 320 bhp, and was capable of propelling the high-tech. concept vehicle to a projected 180 mph top speed with a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds.
The Lotus Excel was displayed with major body styling changes resulting in a sleeker and smoother-looking car.
1985 - March: Announcement that Chrysler Corporation USA had signed a contract with Lotus Cars to develop and engineer a family of high performance 16-valve engines for future passenger cars.
June: Announcement at annual general meeting that work-in-hand had jumped from £3 million in June 1984 to £31 million in June 1985. The massive growth of contract work (96% export) from clients worldwide resulted in a major factory expansion plan to increase floor space by 45%.
One new factory of 28,500 sq. ft. had been completed, and occupied. Another 28,500 sq. ft. was completed early 1986. By then the total increase in factory floor space was 87,000 sq. ft.. Group Lotus Car Companies name change to Group Lotus plc.. Staff numbers had grown to over 600.
Launch of new Lotus Excel SE at Motorfair in Earls Court, London. This new model featured a new 180 bhp High Compression version of the Lotus 2.2 litre 16-valve engine and brand new dashboard and interior. Externally the Excel SE is clearly identifiable by new spoilers front and rear.
1986 - January: Announcement that General Motors had acquired a majority shareholding in Group Lotus plc., with subsequent formation of new Group Lotus plc. board in May.
October: Launch of Esprit Turbo HC (High Compression), at Motor Show. A Limited Edition version of the Esprit Turbo also shown to mark 20th. year in Norfolk. Also announced was a four-speed automatic Excel option designated the Lotus Excel SA.
1987 - January: Group Lotus acquired control of its USA importer and established a new importation and distribution operation, Lotus Cars USA Inc..
March: Team Lotus announce new Type 99 Fl car fitted with Lotus Active suspension. Ayrton Senna wins two races and demonstrates 25,000 miles of race and test durability.
April: Group Lotus acquired the Millbrook Proving Ground for £7.5 million. Located in Bedfordshire the 700-acre site contains 30 miles of test tracks and surfaces including a two-mile highspeed bowl. With its emission laboratories, HYGE sled and crash-testing facilities, Millbrook is the most advanced independent test and validation facility in Europe.
October: Launch at Motorfair of a new Esprit Turbo. Styled in-house, the entirely new body featured a smoother more rounded appearance. A more modem interior completed the package. A normally aspirated version of the new Esprit was shown at the same time.
1988 - October: Limited edition of the Esprit Turbo announced to commemorate the company's 40th. anniversary. Available only in pearlescent white, it featured a rear spoiler and came with a blue leather and suede interior and comprehensive in-car entertainment system including a CD player.
Detail changes to both the Excel and Esprit are announced.
1989 - May: Esprit Turbo SE announced, the most powerful and quickest road-going Lotus to date.
It is powered by a 264 bhp charge-cooled version of the Lotus 2.2 litre engine giving a top speed of 164 mph and a 0-60 mph of 4.7 seconds.
Detailed chassis changes further improved the Esprit's ride and handling, while specially developed Goodyear Eagle tyres were specified as standard equipment.
External changes included a deeper front bib, side sills and a boot-mounted spoiler to achieve neutral balance throughout the speed range.
Standard equipment included full leather interior, air-conditioning and tilt/removable glass sunroof.
October: London Motorfair. The new Lotus Elan was unveiled to universal acclaim. Lotus's first front-wheel drive car, it featured unique, patented "Interactive Wishbone" front suspension.
The sleek two-seater convertible was designed in-house by Lotus's own team. Powered by an Isuzu-Lotus four-cylinder, 1.6 litre, twin-cam fuel-injected engine producing 130 bhp and 105 lb-ft. in normally aspirated form and 165 bhp/148 lb-ft. when turbocharged. Top speeds for the cars were 122 and 137 mph respectively with 0-60 mph times of 7.6 seconds, for the less powerful engine and 6.7 seconds, for the turbo model. A totally new method of construction was developed for the Elan although it retained the classic Lotus backbone chassis to carry the suspension components and power unit. The bodyshell was produced from a number of VARI panels which were mounted to an immensely rigid sub-structure consisting of a floor-pan with welded steel sills and outriggers rivetted and bonded to it.
1990 - February: Vauxhall/Opel announced the Lotus Carlton (Lotus Omega outside UK) - the ultra-high-performance production four-door saloon car developed and built by Lotus Engineering. The car is basically a Carlton/Omega GSi model, but completely stripped and rebuilt by Lotus, with a 3.6 litre, 24-valve twin-turbocharged six cylinder engine giving 377 bhp at 5200 rpm and 419 lbs-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm, plus a six-speed gearbox, special limited-slip differential, Group C-derived brakes, unique wheels with ultra low profile tyres and dozens of other improvements. 0-60 mph time is 5.2 seconds; 0100 is 11.5 seconds. Maximum speed not published by Opel/Vauxhall, but magazine tests achieve around 175 mph. May: £2 million semi-anechoic chamber opened by Rt. Hon. Cecil Parkinson, then Secretary of State for Transport. 1990 also saw the return to the race-track for Lotus sports cars. A works supported team of 3 Lotus Esprit Turbo SE's were entered in a "Showroom Stock" series in the USA, contesting 9 races. The team took 4 victories, 6 pole positions, 6 fastest laps, and 2nd. place in the Manufacturer's Championship.
1991 - March: Lotus Elan wins British Design Council Award.
Team Lotus, still privately-owned, reforms under new management led by Peter Collins and Peter Wright. The new Lotus 102B F1 car reaffirms the Lotus tradition of elegance and efficiency sporting heritage-inspired green and yellow racing colours.
In USA, Lotus Engineering supports Lotusport Inc. with 3 new '91-spec. race Esprits for a revised driver lineup which includes film star Paul Newman.
June: Lotus announce development of "Sound Synthesis" - the addition of computer-generated engine sound through the ICE, which follows the development of Antinoise.
August: Lotus Engineering's Design Analysis Group commission Cray supercomputer to accelerate customer service. 300 jobs go as recession bites in Lotus Cars.
September: Lotus unveils the M200 Concept Car at Frankfurt IAA - a dramatic "speedster" based on the Elan.
October: Lotus reveals '92 Esprit range with significant customer-inspired improvement for the passenger room, better access, and improved rear visibility.
Alan Curtis, Group Lotus Chairman, retires, to be succeeded by Michael J Kimberley, (previously Group CEO).
1992 - January: Lotus Engineering exhibits "SID" and "JEWEL" at SAE Show in Detroit. Lotus Cars announces further job
losses.
March: Due to unprecedented worldwide recession, Lotus halts all production for 5 weeks to control stock levels.
April: Forthcoming emission legislation forces cessation of Lotus Excel 2+2 production.
May: Lotus Engineering reveals Alvis Scorpion tank fitted with "Lotus Active" suspension featuring high-bandwidth energy-saving control of comer bogies. Carried out in conjunction with UK and US defence departments, work is ongoing.
June 15 1992: Lotus Cars announces cessation of Elan production with loss of 300 jobs, after total build of 3857 cars. Worldwide recession and introduction of USA "luxury tax" is blamed.
July 29: Chris Boardman takes Olympic 4000m Gold Medal on epoch-making "LotusSport" carbon-composite monocoque bicycle.
August 22: Boardman and the Lotus "superbike" smash World 5km pursuit record by over 8 seconds. Boardman's unofficial Olympic 4km record is ratified also.
October: Doc Bundy, driving the LotusSport Esprit X180R, takes the Driver's title in USA national sports car series. Tom Langeberg wins Dutch Production Car Series in Lotus Esprit.
Launch at NEC of Esprit Sport 300 - the highest performance Lotus to date. Based on the X180R, the Sport 300 blends racetrack performance with road manners in a dramatic variant of the classic Lotus Esprit shape.
1993 - January: Lotus Esprit S4 introduced - new elegant bodyshell encloses dynamic improvements such as power steering (standard).
March: Lotus Engineering wins major contract with Taiwanese government to design new family of engines.
May: Lotus Esprit Sport 300 goes into production.
June: Two Lotus Esprit Sport 300's race at Le Mans - first works-supported entry for over 30 years.
July: New LotusSport 110 road bike debuts on Tour de France with Team ONCE.
August 27th. - Bugatti buys Group Lotus from General Motors; Romano Artioli of Bugatti Industries named Chairman, Group Lotus Limited.
FACTORY DETAILS
Facilities
Factory covered area:
Factory 1: 175,027 sq. ft.
Factory 2: 28,800 sq. ft.
Factory 3: 40,410 sq. ft.
Factory 4: 31,200 sq. ft.
Factory 5: 28,800 sq. ft.
Factory 6: 38,295 sq. ft.
Area of Site: 55 acres
Length of test track: 2.2 miles
Length of airfield runway: 900 yds. approx. (prior permission required)
Thirteen computer-controlled engine test cell suites, ranging from 30-750kW absorption.
Emission laboratory providing full certification worldwide including: Europe, Japan and USA. This facility is one of only three in the UK recognised by world authorities.
NVH laboratory providing latest technology and equipment to combat Noise, Vibration and Harshness in all types of road vehicles. Semi-anechoic state-of-the-art test facilities for whole vehicle and engine NVH analysis under all conditions of speed, load and temperature.
Superb equipped CNC machining facilities constantly being updated with the latest equipment.
Modern Composites research department and factory.
Lotus fabricates its own steel backbone chassis and suspension components for the Esprit; produces composite bodyshells, and interior trim, styled by its own styling studio, Lotus Design.
The lightweight Lotus 16-valve all-alloy turbocharged engine built in both 2 litre and 2.2 litre capacity is machined and handbuilt on site.
MODEL HISTORY
Production build of early models
Seven 1957-1972 3,300
Elite 1957-1962 990
Elan 1962-1973 12,224
Elan +2 1970-1973 5,200
Europa 1966-1974 9,230
Elite 1974-1982 2,531
Eclat 1975-1985 2,351
Excel 1985-1992 1,322
New Elan 1989-1992 3,857
Current Model Range
Esprit S4: Two-seater mid-engined sports car (available in 2 and 2.2 litre versions, according to market)
Esprit Sport 300: As above, road-race version, 2.2 litre only.
LotusSport Pursuit bicycle: Replica of Olympic Gold medal-winning bicycle
LotusSport 110: Road-going bicycle, introduced on 1993 Tour de France.
FACTORY DETAILS EMPLOYMENT POLICY
Lotus is a non-unionised Company and negotiations on terms and conditions and all other employment matters are dealt with by the appropriate Staff Council internally.
