- replaceable composite energy-absorbing front sturcture
- front -mounted top exit radiator for aerodynamic downforce
- patented extruded pedal box and pedals
- bonded joints using high performance structural adhesives
- passenger safety cell comprising side rails, dash beam, tank bay cross members and roll hoop
- anodized thin wall aluminium extrusions with interlocking joints for tolerance control
- fully protected fuel tank at centre of gravity
- full roll hoop
- replaceable aluminium energy absorbing rear structure
- optimized lightweight steel rear subframe
- wishbone pivot bushes with high radial and low torsional rates
- compliance steer control link on rear suspension
- structure utilises front and rear torque cell concept
- 2D bending for structural continuity
- side rails and cross car stuctures for side impact protection
- patented bond gap control
- extruded door beam and hinge
- flat underbody for greater aerodynamic efficiency
- steering rack mounting minimises column intrustion
- aluminium Metal Matrix Composite (M.M.C.) brake rotor
- extruded aluminium suspension upright
- independent toe and camber adjustment
Strategic Partners
(Please provide a URL and logo for any of these partners and I will link to their page. Links are current as of September, 1997.)
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Hydro Aluminium: Manufacture and combined development of the high strength extruded alunimium spaceframe structure. There is an Elise press release and the French division has a nice web site. |
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ciba: Heat cured epoxy adhesive, with superior impact resistance, used in the CIBA/Lotus bonding process. |
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Lanxide: Aluminium Metal Matrix (M.M.C.) brake rotor combining low mass, low operating temperatures and very low wear rates. |
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AP Racing: Development of the hydraulic braking system (including unique opposed piston front callipers) to integrate with M.M.C. braking technology. |
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Allied Signal Automotive: Brake pad technology compatible with M.M.C. rotors providing low wear and enhanced friction characteristics |
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Alusingen: Lightweight extruded aluminium suspension uprights. There is mention in a paper on aluminium extrusion control. |
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Koni Shock Absorbers: Inverted monotube dampers with assisted rebound function to enhance roll characteristics. |
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Stack:Compact and lightweight analogue electronic instrument pack with multifunction L.C.D. read-out.
Verlinden does sell Stack and other intstrumentation. I did not keep the person's email and so have not been able to confirm any of the above.) |
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| Project Partners | |
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ACCO, office products |
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AUTOLIV |
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A.W.I |
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COBRA |
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Du Pont |
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Freeman and Proctor |
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Matador |
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Dunlop Metalastik, with more specific information on metalastik |
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Michelin for tires |
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Nardi |
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Park Sheet Metal |
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Reed Automotive |
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Rioglas |
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Rover: Unofficial site, there does not appear to be an official Rover site devoted to Rover cars. Rover: Official site, but little here about cars. Mini site: This is the best site I have ever visited, absolutely wonderful! Too bad it is hidden here where no one will find it... |
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Titan but it is not clear these are the people Lotus intends, satellite communications and data acquisition. |
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Volex (appears to be cables and connectors) |