Wednesday, December 14, 2011

LOTUS ELISE 111R


The 2006 Lotus Elise 111R represents a new benchmark for both power and performance in a production Elise. Its VVTL-I engine produces 190 bhp and peak torque is 133 lb/ft, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, and an official top speed of 150 mph.


For 2006, the full Elise 111R range offers many more options, including four equipment setups – two sports variants and two touring options. There is even the option of combining elements from the different packs, for luxury and race-readiness.


Alongside the new equipments specs, LED rear lights with built-in reflectors come as standard, offering more responsive illumination and carrying less weight than standard bulbs. The door has been fitted with a window seal to decrease cabin noise, and the rev counter has been redesigned to accentuate the high end (3,000 – 10,000 rpm).



The pedal unit is now more lightweight, with steel arms and aluminium footpads. The unit comes with a DBW (drive-by-wire) throttle, increasing responsiveness and pedal feel. The 2006 seats have been designed by NuBax, providing optimal postural support. There are now 21 colours available, not including custom options.


Inside the Elise 111R
The interior of the Lotus Elise 111R suggests that this is a car which invites driving pleasure. The re-designed seats, racing steering wheel and aluminium pedals are complemented by the facia and trim. The chassis tub sides give the driver the impression of being in a racing-inspired cabin, but one which does not compromise on comfort. Blaupunkt provide the standard CD/stereo system.


Driving the Elise 111R
Blessed with the legendary Lotus aluminium chassis, the Elise 111R continues to set the standard for dynamic engineering. The new Elise builds upon the award-winning handling and ride which fuel the model’s celebrity. For 2006, the Bilstein monotube gas dampers and Eibach coaxial coils have been tweaked to maximise dexterity and agility.


The choice of engine was the subject of thorough research and evaluation by Lotus. The decision was finally made to fit a Toyota unit to the Elise 111R – the 2ZZ-GE, 1.8 litre, four cylinder, 16 valve VVTL-i. For the gearbox, Toyota’s six-speed C64 was chosen.


The engine has been tuned and modified by Lotus to suit the exact requirements of their latest Elise, using the company’s brand new Lotus T4 EMS (Engine Management System). Every modification has been carried out by Lotus engineers only. The relationship between the Toyota VVTL-i and the Lotus EMS has produced the outstanding torque statistics boasted by the Elise 111R: 133 lb/ft (6,800 rpm), and a maximum power output of 190 horsepower (7,800 rpm).


The 2006 Lotus Elise 111R was introduced to the market in November 2005.