Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid prototype coming to Goodwood 2012

Lotus has announced plans to unveil an Evora 414E Hybrid prototype at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Previewed by a concept that was introduced at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the prototype features two electric motors that produce a combined output of 414 PS (304 kW / 408 hp) and 1000 Nm (738 lb-ft) of torque. This enables the car to accelerate from 0-60 mph in approximately four seconds, hit a top speed of 130 mph (209 km/h) and travel up to 30 miles (48 km) on electricity alone.

When the batteries become low, a three-cylinder engine-generator activates to recharge them or power the electric motors directly. This should enable the model to have CO2 emissions of approximately 55 g/km.

According to Simon Corbett, Principal Vehicle Dynamics Test and Development Engineer at Lotus Engineering, "The Evora S has 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque which in such a lightweight car is already a healthy figure. But the Evora 414E has two and a half times that amount! The acceleration sensation is almost indescribable, the surge of torque is like an ocean wave!"

Source: Lotus