Emira GT4 positioned as next motorsports winner for Lotus

Lotus has revealed an all-new competition-spec GT4 challenger based on its Emira sports car.

Developed in collaboration with RML Group, the Emira GT4 concept is among the motorsport engineering firm's contribution to the Lotus motorsport story. It also marks Lotus' "start in performance GT racing."

Most recently, RML Group has developed the Evora GT4, which won prestigious races and championships including the British GT, Dubai 24hrs, Barcelona 24hrs, European GT, Sepang 12hrs, and the Pirelli World Challenge.

The advanced composite bodywork promises to make the Emira GT4 light and agile at an estimated 1,260 kilograms. Toyota’s race-proven 3.5-litre V6 engine and GT4 aerodynamics add to the car's racing arsenal.

As per the spec sheet, the Emira GT4's supercharged V6 generates up to 405hp and is linked to a six-speed gearbox with paddle shifters. Öhlins coil-over dampers and anti-roll bars lower the car to the ground, while the Pirelli GT4 rubber is sure to offer Velcro-like grip. 

Brakes are comprised of Alcon discs and calipers and a Bosch Motorsport ABS. The Emira GT4 is also race-ready with an FIA-compliant roll cage, six-point harness, and fire extinguisher.  

Lotus said its return to "world motorsport is a key pillar of the company’s transformation." Earlier this year Lotus Engineering, the consultancy division of the business, became technical partner to JBXE, the Extreme E race team led by F1 world champion Jenson Button.

The Emira GT4 will be officially launched later this year at an event on the Hethel test track. The British auto marque also aims to build a limited number of Emira GT4 race cars for the 2022 season. 

Lotus has been competing in racing ever since the Mark I, a trials car hand-built by founder Colin Chapman in 1948, and since then, "the company has pioneered many of the technical innovations." The brands racing accolades include seven Formula 1 Constructors' titles, six Drivers' Championships, and Indianapolis 500 successes. 

Photos from Lotus

Also read:

Lotus presents its last gasoline-powered car, the Emira

Final gas-powered Lotus Emira, electric hypercar Evija appear at Goodwood Festival