The Lotus Evija has entered its initial build phase in the UK, as the hypercar’s global testing continues. To celebrate, Lotus premiered a new film at this week’s Guangzhou Auto Show revealing engineering prototype #2 in high-speed action on a private circuit.
Dynamic testing will involve further track testing at Hethel, UK, and on other demanding high-speed and performance handling circuits across Europe. Over the coming months several prototypes will cover many thousands of miles over hundreds of hours of driving assessment, including on public roads.
The Evija – with a target output of 2,000PS – has already been through kinematic and compliance testing and endured multiple dynamic load and suspension simulations. Virtual simulation has also played a key part on the program.
Gavan Kershaw, director of vehicle attributes, Lotus Cars, commented, “Physical prototype testing at speed is a landmark moment for the Evija and hugely exciting for everyone involved. Our aim is to make sure it’s a true Lotus in every sense, with exceptional performance that’s going to set new standards in the hypercar sector.”
Speaking from Guangzhou Auto Show, Matt Windle, executive director, sports car engineering, added, “Everything about the Evija is ‘for the drivers’. I don’t believe there is another EV in the world that can claim this. From the mid-engined-inspired Lotus layout, to the aerodynamics and downforce, the driving position, vehicle stance and unbelievable performance. It is instantly recognizable as special with a unique character, yet it is unquestionably a Lotus.”
