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Global Concepts (Part 1)
Lotus M250
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Bonded-aluminum technology is used to construct the chassis of Lotus's M250 concept revealed at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show. The two-seat coupe has a mass less than 1000 kg (2200 lb) with a body constructed of aluminum and composites. Power comes from a mid-mounted Lotus-developed 3.0-L V6 engine that should take the car from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in about 5 s and 160 km/h (100 mph) in less than 11 s. The engine drives the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox. Suspension uses upper and lower wishbones, together with co-axial springs and dampers. The styling includes a cab-forward design and short overhangs. Lotus says downforce was given priority over low drag, with a resultant Cz of 0.15. Although there is no official confirmation, the M250 could be in production in about two years. It would not be as starkly equipped as the Elise, but it is expected to offer air conditioning and other comforts.
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