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Lotus ECO₂S

The 2002 Geneva motor saw the launch of Lotus Engineering's project: 'ECO₂s' (pronounced ECOS). The project uses a number of new techniques to reduce emissions and body weight with the ultimate goal of an environmentally friendly sports car.

Lotus Engineering are aiming to demonstrate that an ultra-low CO2 level of 75g/km can be achieved without sacrificing performance. Projections show that 'ECO2S' may even exceed today's Elise in terms of vehicle performance, whilst delivering superior economy and reduced emissions (all with a diesel engine).

To achieve its goal, Lotus will be utilising the following technologies:

• Light weight bonded and riveted aluminium vehicle structure
• First stage composite energy absorbing crush cells
• Recyclability promoted by using CF/TP Matrix
• Second stage metallic crush cell, giving linear energy absorption characteristics with low mass
• Dual Injection Thermoplastic Composite body panels with in mould colouring
• Chassis of lightweight construction, consisting of a mixture of forging and
  dual-plate steel components. Double wishbone front, multilink rear.
• Metal Matrix Composite brake discs (first seen on the Elise in 1996)
• 42 volt electrical system
• 1.2l turbo DI diesel engine!
• close-coupled acoustic shields
• 4-valve per cylinder camless valve operation
• multishot, very high pressure common rail fuel injection
• Active DeNOx technology with particulate trap
• Low level series hybrid drive giving automatic stop/start and transient torque boost
• Two mode Continuously Variable Transmission
• Active Noise Control - to retain that 'Sports Car Noise'

Performance targets are 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 200km/h (124mph).