The Gentleman Magazine Issue 18 | December 2019 | Page 36
FIRST LOTUS EVIJA PROTOTYPES COMPLETE
HIGH-SPEED TESTING AS WORLD TOUR ARRIVES
AT GUANGZHOU AUTO SHOW
Lotus confirms that the Evija has entered its initial build phase
in the UK, as the hypercar’s global tour continues this week
with its Chinese debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show.
To celebrate, Lotus premiered a new film during its press
conference at Guangzhou. It reveals engineering prototype #2
in high-speed action on a private circuit, and marks a landmark
moment – the dynamic world debut of the all-electric British
hypercar.
The film highlights just how far development work has
progressed since the Evija was unveiled last July. It also
confirms the pioneering two-seater is on course for start of
production next year.
Dynamic testing will involve track time at Hethel, UK – the
home of Lotus – and on other demanding high-speed and
performance handling circuits across Europe. Over the coming
months several prototypes will cover many thousands of miles
and many hundreds of hours of driving assessment, including
on public roads.
The Evija – with a target output of 2,000 PS making it the most
powerful production series road car in the world – has already
been through kinematic and compliance testing and endured
multiple dynamic load and suspension simulations.
36 | The Gentleman Magazine “Powered by
Both the dynamic and static testing are part of a comprehensive
validation process designed to guarantee the car will meet
customer expectations and demands in key global markets
and environments. They are in addition to the extensive
programme of computer simulations already completed as part
of the hypercar’s development.
Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes, Lotus Cars,
commented: “Physical prototype testing at speed is a landmark
moment for the Evija and hugely exciting for everyone involved.
Our aim is to make sure it’s a true Lotus in every sense, with
exceptional performance that’s going to set new standards in
the hypercar sector.”
Speaking from the Guangzhou Auto Show, Matt Windle,
Executive Director, Sports Car Engineering, added: “Everything
about the Evija is ‘For The Drivers’. I don’t believe there is another
EV in the world that can claim this. From the mid-engined-
inspired Lotus layout, to the aerodynamics and downforce, the
driving position, vehicle stance and unbelievable performance.
It is instantly recognisable as special with a unique character,
yet it is unquestionably a Lotus.”
Illustrative of the innovative thinking and ingenuity which has
always been part of the Lotus DNA, the Evija is a technical tour
de force. It continues the legendary Lotus bloodline that’s rich
in firsts and technical game-changers, both in the automotive
and motorsport sectors.
, Securing the Internet of Things”