Lotus announces even lighter Exige S

Lotus has stripped 15kg of weight out of the already light Exige S for the new Club Racer version, which is also aerodynamically enhanced for track work.

The weight savings come from a new battery, lighter centre console, lighter seats and lighter doors.

Despite the lower kerb mass – down from 1176 to 1161kg – the Exige S Club Racer generates 42kg more downforce at a steady speed of 160km/h, the iconic sports-car manufacturer claims. The improved downforce is a consequence of the new front splitter, rear wing and flat underbody.

Mechanicals are unchanged and Lotus places the 0-100km/h acceleration time at 4.0 seconds, just like the standard car that shares its 3.5-litre supercharged V6. Traction control in the Club Racer can be adjusted manually by the driver for three different 'slip thresholds': Drive, Sport and Race. Throttle response is faster in Sport and Race modes.

Four colours are available for the Exige S Club Racer: Metallic White, Exige Orange, Metallic Yellow and Matt Black. All cars, irrespective of the colour selected, feature the front splitter, rear wing, front access panel, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear transom finished in matt black.

"Factoring the Club Racer ethos into the Exige enhances the track-focussed potential of this important model," said Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Lotus.

"It encompasses our legendary benchmark in handling, with lightweight and efficient construction and that we will always put a peerless and pure driving experience first."

There's no word yet as to how the Exige S Club Racer will be priced in Australia, if and when it comes here. Stay tuned...