Lotus’ green machine

The two-seater demonstrator, the Norfolk firm says, capitalises on “great strides forward in green technology” and promotes a different perspective - one which does not revolve solely around tailpipe CO2. Sustainable materials, hemp, eco wool and sisal have been developed for body panels and trim and, combined with hi-tech water based paint solutions, showcase new affordable green technologies. The green credentials of the technology on show in the Eco Elise have been analysed throughout the lifecycle of the car. A green gear change display has been integrated into the dashboard to promote greener driving as well as a weight reduction programme. The energy expended to manufacture the car has been evaluated, working to the 3R’s - reduce, re-use and recycle. Lotus CEO Mike Kimberley said the Eco Elise was a great example of the advanced and affordable green technologies Lotus is developing. “We are at the cutting edge of environmental technology and are determined to push forward with our green agenda, he went on. The Lotus brand values of lightweight, fuel efficient, and high performance are more relevant today than they ever have been. We are keen to ensure that Lotus as a company and its products offer an ethical, green option that appeals to our customers". The car weighs 32kg (70.5 lbs) less than the standard Elise S, which means that the Elise S engine in the Eco Elise will give higher fuel economy figures and better performance. Improvements to the culture and operations at Lotus have rewarded the company with reductions in energy (electricity 14%, gas 30%) and water (11%) consumed across its Hethel headquarters in 2007, compared to 2006. Additionally, 57% of waste product is now being recycled. The car offers lower emissions of both solvents and CO2 in the lifecycle of the vehicle, with reductions in energy consumed during manufacture. The Eco Elise will be displayed in the Greener Driving Pavilion at the British International Motor Show from 23 July until 3 August. The project displays affordable green technology that is intended to be feasible and production viable in the near term future. Renewable materials incorporated into the project include locally farmed hemp, eco wool and sisal providing natural, biodegradable engineering materials. Cleaner manufacturing processes have been sought, utilising the water based paint technology that saves energy and reduces emissions of solvents from the paint shop. Solar panels have been set into the hemp hard top to help power the electrical systems and give a means of renewable energy generation. Technical fabrics made from the hemp have been used as the main constituent in the composite body panels and spoiler, while hemp fibres have also been used in the manufacture of the lightweight seats which are upholstered in ethically produced and EU ‘flower’ certificated biodegradable woollen fabric. Carpets in the Eco Elise are made from sisal. Lotus says the use of these materials illustrates the capability and flexibility of its manufacturing facilities.