This Lotus Eco Elise concept offers a glimpse into the future of a more sustainable industry.
Thankfully Lotus hasn’t just stuck on some ‘Biofuel’ stickers or hooked up a 9v battery to create a hybrid but instead the bods from Hethel have looked at the entire lifecycle of the car to reduce its overall environmental impact.
The even better news is that the modifications make the Elise lighter, faster, more frugal and, in theory, cheaper.
The most vital ingredient appears to be hemp. Everything from the body panels to the seat fabric features the locally-farmed crop which, as well as being hardwearing yet biodegradable, also reduces the carbon miles travelled during manufacture.
(Nobody was free to comment on what happens to the off-cuts but there are unconfirmed reports that extra vending machines have been delivered to the Norfolk plant due to high demand for snacks.)
Another innovation is the use of water-based paint that can be applied by hand and reduces the toxic waste that’s usually associated with spray shops.
The hard top also features flexible solar panels which charge the battery, reduce strain on the engine and therefore improve efficiency.
Meanwhile the driver is prompted to change gear at the most efficient time via a green dashboard light. Or you still have the option of revving the nuts off the Toyota engine and revelling in the 23kg weight loss programme.
We’ll be at the British Motor Show on 22nd July to find out if that interior really is as cool as it looks in these pictures.
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