Lotus T125 gives punters a taste of F1

Lotus is a company renowned for producing track-day specials -- remember the berserk 2-Eleven? -- but the British sportscar specialist has outdone itself with its latest creation.

Witness the Lotus T125, an F1-inspired open-wheeler that will be pitched as a £650,000 ($1.13m) image leader that provides punters with a tangible link to the marque's rich motorsport heritage.

The Hethel-based concern plans to build just 25 examples of the ultra-focused T125, which derives power from a 3.5-litre Cosworth V8 engine that pumps out 471kW and 450Nm. The V8 screamer revs to 10,300rpm, but a 'push-to-pass' button bumps up the redline by 500rpm.

Drive is relayed to the rear wheels by a six-speed semi-automatic sequential gearbox with paddle shifters, and the carbonfibre-tubbed T125, which weighs just 650kg and delivers optimal torsional rigidity, allegedly serves up performance to all but match a GP2 racer.

In keeping with its track-only job description, the T125 has adjustable carbonfibre suspension and carbon ceramic brakes.

But unlike a bona-fide F1 car, the T125 doesn't require a battalion of technicians and an armoury of computers to run and maintain. In fact, the company claims it can be operated by a single person, and it can cover 4500km before requiring a trip back to the Hethel factory.

"It's very easy to run and maintain. It has a starter motor so you can run it yourself. It’s a fantastic opportunity for a very lucky band of individuals who purchase the car," said Lotus Motorsport's Stephen Wright.

Buyers get more than just the car for their princely outlay, as ownership also gains them access to the 'Exos' club, which ostensibly gives them a taste of the F1 lifestyle.

Among the perks of club membership will be special events where buyers receive coaching from aces such as Lotus F1 pilot Jarno Trulli, as well as tips from race engineers, nutritionists and fitness experts.

Expected to make its debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in California, which begins on August 15, the high performance Lotus should easily eclipse the 300km/h mark thanks to its powerful engine and slippery aero work.

Costing more than $1million each, which may sound pricey, consider that the annual development costs of modern day F1 cars are estimated to reach hundreds of millions of dollars.

-- with staff

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