[ad_1]
We’d like to discuss the striking aesthetics of the 2020 Lotus Evija. It appears as if DaVinci himself sculpted the Evija’s remarkable aerodynamics, particularly those rear Venturi tunnels. Regrettably, all aspects, even its GQ-ready style, are overshadowed by the remarkably absurd 1,972 horsepower generated by its electric motors. That’s simply, well, causing us to chuckle uncontrollably. We’ll need a moment to compose ourselves.
The powertrain of the 2020 Lotus Evija—the pioneer all-electric vehicle in the brand’s 71-year legacy—is anchored in the hypercar’s drivetrain sourced from Williams Advanced Engineering. Williams has been instrumental in developing technology for Formula 1, Formula E, and other racing series, as well as recently contributing to several road-going EV solutions. This represents the company’s most potent unit until now. According to Lotus, “Power is transmitted from the battery pack to a specialized in-line axial configuration of two high-power density e-motors,” and from there, dispatches its all-electric vigor to the four hub-mounted e-motors. To handle 1,972 horsepower and 1,253 pound-feet of torque, you’ll need to be prepared.
Lotus Cars
The main battery is positioned directly behind the Evija’s seats, while each individual wheel houses a drive component. This setup allows the Evija’s torque manipulative mechanism to “offer exceptional dynamic response and agility,” and can self-regulate “immediately [to] allocate power to any combination of two, three, or four wheels within a fraction of a second.” Moreover, while Porsche, Lamborghini, and Bentley use rear-wheel steering systems, the Evija can adjust the torque distribution to each wheel in a manner that obviates the requirement for those bulky electrically operated systems.
Lotus claims that the Evija is “Designed for the Drivers'” and judging by its alleged performance figures, we tend to concur. Though we might rephrase it as “For the Enthusiasts’.” Reaching 62 mph occurs in less than three seconds and hitting 186 mph takes under nine seconds—our laughter has returned.
However, whoever acquires an Evija probably won’t be overly concerned about range. Lotus and Williams affirm that the battery, e-motors, and transmission function at a 98% efficiency rate, providing the hypercar the capability to cover 250 miles. Charging will be exceptionally fast as the Evija can accommodate an 800kW ultra-fast charge, enabling a full recharge in just nine minutes from zero. Even with more common 350kW units, as 800kW is still relatively new, the process takes only 18 minutes.
Lotus Cars
Regarding its design, kindly excuse our enthrallment.
The Design Chief Russell Carr for Lotus Cars remarked, “We took inspiration from how Le Mans race cars ingeniously utilize airflow to navigate over, under, and around the vehicle, as well as through it. This idea of ‘porosity’ is pivotal to the Evija and has enabled us to craft a timeless design with extensive downforce.” Thus, the pure carbon fiber exterior, coupled with the carbon fiber monocoque, was constructed not only to channel air across the hypercar but also to present a “tightly stretched” look, almost as if it’s “shrink-wrapped over the mechanical elements.”
The most remarkable aspect of this form-meets-function design are the substantial dual Venturi tunnels that cut through the Evija’s rear quarter panels. Lotus indicates that their research on Le Mans racers influenced the design to efficiently direct the airflow, resulting in beautifully sculpted features. Not only do these tunnels reduce drag by countering the low-pressure area behind the hypercar, but they also “draw air through the rear wheel arch louvers” to maintain “air quality in the diffuser.” Further back, an active rear spoiler lies flush and functions akin to an F1-style “Drag Reduction System,” activating automatically in Track Mode or manually in specific situations. Lotus also abandoned conventional side mirrors to further decrease the Evija’s aerodynamic drag.
According to the company, the design philosophy of the Evija will permeate upcoming Lotus models as the brand expands its range, and vehicles like the Evora, continue to evolve.
Lotus instructed its designers to develop a car “For the Drivers’,” resulting in an interior that resembles a cockpit suitable for a 1,972 horsepower hypercar. Upon entering the interior, drivers are immediately impressed, as even shutting the doors is a remarkable experience due to a roof-mounted actuator. The central console features a futuristic array of haptic buttons that allow the driver to have complete command over the entire vehicle. The dual carbon fiber seats are equipped with meticulously handcrafted Alcantara pads to guarantee a customized fit for the driver and passengers. Every component the driver interacts with is customizable, including the steering mechanism and seat adjustments for both forward motion and incline.
The focal point, however, is the steering wheel. Designed to mirror those in LMP or F1 cars, the square wheel exudes a serious demeanor. Integrated on the wheel are controls for phone usage, cruise control, mode selection, turn signals, and the Evija’s Drag Reduction System. The outward view is also impressive, with Carr noting, “The essence of any Lotus’ appeal lies in the seamless connection between the driver and the car, where the driver almost feels as if the vehicle is an extension of themselves. Looking out from the driver’s seat provides an emotionally stirring moment, as you can admire the bodywork from both the front and rear perspectives.” Every element was meticulously crafted to enhance the driver’s capabilities.
Lotus Cars
To ensure top-notch driving dynamics, Lotus collaborated with Multimatic. The carbon fiber chassis is equipped with three adaptive spool-valve dampers on each corner, akin to those found in Ford’s GT supercar. Two dampers are positioned on the corners, with one dedicated to controlling the vehicle’s vertical movement, all strategically placed in-board to optimize aerodynamic efficiency. A set of AP Racing carbon-ceramic brakes bring the hypercar’s blistering acceleration to a stop. Adhering to its reputation for prioritizing lightweight design, Lotus opted for lightweight magnesium wheels inspired by race cars and fitted them with specially crafted Pirelli Trofeo R tires to extract the maximum potential from the Evija.
Owners of the Evija also have the opportunity for extensive customization and unique builds through the brand, inclusive of exclusive VIP track experiences and “other high-performance racing opportunities.” A touch of exclusivity is integrated into the limited production quantity of the vehicle, with Lotus confirming only 130 Evija units will ever be manufactured. With deliveries slated to commence in 2020, the Evija will be one of the most exclusive vehicles globally, surpassing even renowned models like the Bugatti Chiron. Consequently, the hypercar carries a price tag commensurate with its 1,972 horsepower capabilities.
Lotus has already opened the order books for the Evija, which is evidently pronounced “E-vi-ya,” and clients will need to spend a hefty $1.9 million to possess Hethel’s supreme Lotus. Prior to the unveiling, CEO Phil Popham of Lotus Cars stated, “The Lotus Evija is a vehicle unlike any other. It will reinstill our brand in the hearts and minds of sports car enthusiasts and on the international automotive platform. It will also pave the path for further innovative models. This marks another remarkable moment in the narrative of our corporation. The Evija embodies a true essence of Lotus in every sense – it has been manufactured with an unflinching zeal to push boundaries, to delve into new thought processes, and to apply revolutionary technologies.”
Presently, if you’ll pardon us, we require a moment or two extra to examine the Evija’s specifics. Good day.
[ad_2]
