Lotus has been based at Hethel for fifty years now. To celebrate they have been releasing special edition car this year, and now they have revealed the third and final anniversary special edition. First we had the Evora 400 Hethel Edition then the Elise 250 Special Edition, and now we have the Exige 350 Special Edition. What makes this Exige 350 Special Edition different from just a regular one is that it’s lighter and has a unique colour scheme.
The Exige 350 Special Edition is 26kg lighter than the standard Exige Sport 350, weighing just 1099kg. The Exige 350 isn’t exactly full of superfluous options, so whittling it down by a further 26kg isn’t easy. Lotus has achieved this weight reduction by using a lithium ion battery that saves 10kg and carbon fibre seats that save 6kg. The remaining weight wasn’t just removed from the car but Lotus have reduced the rotating, unsprung mass by 10kg with forged wheels and vented, two-piece brake discs saving.
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Lotus has honed the Exige 350 Special Edition’s aerodynamics by using the front access panel from the Exige Cup 360. The panel improves airflow to the front, horizontally mounted radiator.
The Special Edition has the same excellent engine and chassis as the Exige Sport 350, and despite the reduction in weight it has the same 0-60mph time of 3.7sec.
To distinguish the Special Edition from the standard car it is only available in four colours: Essex Blue, Old English White, Dark Metallic Grey and Motorsport Black. To distinguish it further, a contrast coloured stripe stretches the length of the car.
Inside buyers will have the choice of either leather or Alcantara upholstery, both in black but with contrast stitching. And, despite the focus on saving weight, the Special Edition receives floor mats and cruise control as standard.
The Exige 350 Special Edition is on sale now, only fifty will be built and it will cost £61,900.
