Reservations open for Lotus Emira GT4

Australian reservations for the 2022 Lotus Emira GT4 have opened and the new-generation British race car will be priced from $299,990 before options, freight, import duty and GST.

Designed to give cashed-up punters a foot in the door to motorsport, the Lotus Emira GT4 is the next level up from the now-defunct but road-legal Lotus Exige Sport 410 Targa Edition and was developed in collaboration with esteemed racing outfit RML Group.

Lotus Cars Australia CEO Lee Knappett confirmed two build slots have already been locked in by local customers and said the car represents a “unique opportunity to own a factory specced and built” car designed specifically for motorsport.

“We are very active in the Australian motorsport arena, providing comprehensive technical support and operational services to our customers, many of whom have gone on to win Targa and track championships,” he said.

“Every element of this spec is purposely designed to provide a no-compromise platform that is accessible to everyone.

“We have begun our exploration to see just how many motorsport classes across track and Targa formats the car will be eligible for.”

In exchange for the extra $115,000 over the road-going Emira, the hand-assembled GT4 scores an X-Trac six-speed sequential transmission, 145kg weight reduction, overhauled aero package, full suite of FIA-compliant safety gear, new lightweight body, Motec-instrument panel with data-logging and an enlarged 96-litre fuel tank. Those wanting a slice of the action will have to lay down a $70,000 deposit to secure their build slot. And if you are put off by the lack of road legality, you’ll have to wait for the Targa Edition – or something equivalent to it – to materialise in the coming few years.