AE News and Announcements

Forum Costs

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 07:42:55 +0000

To this point the costs of hosting this forum have come out of Ashton's pockets, thank you Ashton.

Obviously we do not wish to continue in this way, although Ashton is happy to keep paying, so which way do we want to go with it?

Depending on number of users and additional packages the costs will be about AU$400 per year including hosting. As you can see this is sod all.

Arrest Warrant For Fearless Leader Will Be

Sun, 05 Sep 2010 09:51:09 +0000

Ahem.....http://www.meltingclock.com/ashton-1.jpg

His Lordship is now on notice.......

Australian Festival Of Speed

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 06:35:06 +0000

Looks like it's going ahead.
Could we see the new F1 World Champ in a Formula 1 car in Perth???

Australian Festival of Speed 2010

Quote

This is an exclusive opportunity to indulge your passion for speed.

Introducing the Australian Automobile Club's Festival of Speed.

This is your opportunity to share the rush as you witness Mark Webber on track and racing the clock in his Red Bull Formula One car.

Hear Australia's most successful F1 prospect since Alan Jones speak about his incredible season at the top of the world' fastest, most dangerous and expensive motor sport.

This is your opportunity to immerse yourself in a day dedicated to the worship of racing and the vehicles human beings have developed to make themselves go faster.

The Fastest Day of Your Life is coming.

Be there.

Additional Tax Contributions

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 01:04:00 +0000

We've all been reading about the new speed cameras, and seeing them on TV. Designed to improve road safety, - yes it is true, - watch the Roads Minister on TV, see he says: "READ MY LIPS, WOULD I LIE?"

But what are the facts?

Victoria has draconian enforcement – they allow drivers who exceed the posted limits absolutely no slack – they have raised a lot of revenue from motorists, yet the road toll in Victoria has increased by 13% this year

NSW State government know this; But, they have a problem, their budget deficit increased by 422%. From a surplus of $268 million they face a deficit of $917million (source – NSW Business Chamber). They’ve got to find over 900 million dollars and they will be tapping you and me on the shoulder to contribute in whatever way they are able to make us pay. They have privatised the speed camera enforcement and Macquarie bank are shareholders in the company doing the enforcement. So, knowing of the pressure on State Government, mindful of the reputation of the bank to making profits (profit last year, end of the GFC or not, = $1.05 Billion), and knowing of the feral attitude of private speed camera contractors I expect the revenue raising to be fierce.

The Government is budgeting fines to increase by $137 million, - it is estimated that 1,600 extra drivers a day will be booked. In Victoria, 50,000 drivers a month are booked.

So, who does not think that the state Government are simply installing the speed cameras to raise revenue?

How many people are aware that recently, 50 red light cameras were changed so that they record speed through the intersection when the lights are green? With another increase in cameras, this time randomly placed mobile cameras, and the proposed reduction in leeway to 4kmh, all of us will get pinged. It is only a matter of when.

I wonder how many Aussie Elise members remember that a few years ago, the demerit points basis was changed from points accumulating on your licence from 2 years to 3 years? Points remain on our driver’s licenses 50% Longer. No one said a thing . . . . . . so this year, around 55,000 drivers accumulated so many points that they lost the right to drive. This number will increase dramatically if the current proposals go ahead. Imagine the impact on a tradie or truckie, let alone on ourselves. This is regressive, bad policy and will not achieve any stated safety target. It will, however, achieve a major revenue boost, expected to be an additional $137 million, of which around $100 million is estimated to be new revenue from the mobile cameras. The total fine revenue of $295 million for the 2008-2009 is expected to increase to $570 million by the 2011 - 2012 year. Nice.

So, what can we do?

We have people elected to take our views to the government. It does not matter whether we voted directly for the sitting member or not; they are in parliament to represent you and I. We have to let them know that in the light of the poor results in other states with draconian enforcement, we view the sudden arrival of another 19 speed cameras as blatant revenue raising. Other countries have achieved positive results with improved driver training, in other words by encouragement not by a big stick approach.

It is essential that each one of us write to our local member and make our views known; if we don’t we will just end up copping it yet again. We will pay, and what is worse, we will wear demerit points on our licenses and run the risk of losing the right to drive.

Labor politicians in State Government need to know that their policies are politically dangerous and against road safety and they are losing votes and that speed cameras are well known as revenue raisers . The fear of loss will galvanise the local members to contact the Roads Minister to pass on the complaint .

I suggest letters to Labor Members complaining about this policy, requesting they raise it with the Roads Minister and the Premier along the lines that their constituents are lodging a complaint against the govts road safety policy and the use of speed cameras

· especially the new maq bank mobile ones .
· they do nothing for road safety
· they don’t catch drunk drivers
· bad drivers
· dangerous drivers
· their overzealous use in Victoria has made no difference to road toll which has in fact increased
· the suggestion by rta that the tolerance limit be reduced to 4kph is outrageous and
· that the public will not be voting for a govt that has these policies and allows the rta to run rampant with bad road safety policies
the public view is that the cameras are nothing more than a revenue raising exercise.

The Liberal shadow cabinet will be well aware of the community backlash, so I also suggest letters be sent by everyone to EACH member of the shadow cabinet, encouraging them to adopt more positive policies . Its really important to be heard at this level, and also to send a copy to our local liberal member advising we’ll vote for them if the shadow cabinet adopts more enlightened policies .

The issues should be

· that we reject labors revenue raising policies

· that the coalition pledge to introduce driver safety training as a central policy

· that labor is under real threat at the polls due to its revenue raising policies

· coalition can benefit by introducing soundly based popular policies like driver training

· pledge to have a public enquiry into revenue raising by speed cameras and pledge to do it if elected

· removing road safety functions from RTA due to a conflict of interest with it also being responsible for roads and licencing and setting up a specialist independent road safety body

· developing a new method of setting main road speed limits based on overseas model which is measuring traffic speed and setting the limit at the internationally accepted level of the 85th percentile, not well below it as at present as this overseas model reduces accidents and increases road safety

· giving police a discretion by adopting a ‘ yellow card ‘’ warning system for minor offences thereby improving police ; community relationship

· using marked not unmarked hwp cars

· removing the mobile speed camera cars just introduced,

· with a final message if the opposition pledges to these policies it will be hugely supported and set the opposition apart from the revenue raising policies of the labor party

All that we can do is make our opinion known to our elected representatives. That is why they are in Parliament. Far better to do something now than sit with unpleasant driving situations almost impossible to manage in our special vehicles. If we don’t act now, we will end up with watching our speedometers instead of watching the road. It is far easier and more productive to write a letter or two now and I do hope that most members will write in support of positive road safety measures rather than draconian enforcement and revenue raising.

I’ll be happy to forward a list of MP names and addresses to those that feel that they want to have a say in this important issue, I will also email them the bullet points I’ve listed and am available to assist them with editing and formatting their letters should they want any assistance.

Don't be complacent,
Don't allow your freedom to be negatively impacted,
Don't allow another unfair tax because that is what this policy is all about,
Don't run the risk of losing your licence because of complacency,
Do something

Death Of The K20A

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:00:13 +0000

EURO 5 SIGNALS DEATH KNELL FOR CIVIC TYPE R

Lotus T125 Exos

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 06:11:31 +0000

http://www.gtspirit.com/2010/08/08/lotus-exos-t125-revealed-ultimate-track-day-toy/
http://axisofoversteer.blogspot.com/2010/08/lotus-exos-t125-world-premiere-lotus.html

Interesting.

I love the idea behind this. Reminds me of the Ferrari FXX program - but 1.5 million dollars cheaper and I think you get to keep the car. Obviously very limited appeal and I doubt it would help their bottom line but the opportunity to mix and learn with some F1 guys would be priceless.

SM.

Ssc / Harrop Htv 1320 Sc Kit Launched

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 13:00:11 +0000

Simply Sports Cars has just produced a brochure on 2ZZ Elise & Exige power upgrades utilising the next generation Harrop HTV 1320 Supercharger.

2 offerings -

Exige S upgrade kit - retaining the factory A/A IC.

Elise and n/a Exige charge-cooled 'Transformer' kit.

If you email: ian simplysportscars com with your address, I will post you out a brochure.

Will have a PDF of the brochure up on the SSC Website soon and will advise here when I have done that.

Just when the Porkas thought it couldn't get any worse.

For Those With Kids

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 09:21:39 +0000

Haynes internal combustion engine

http://www.crazysales.com.au/products_pictures/169/16913_80603_F.jpg

Speed Entrapement In Victoria

Sat, 14 Aug 2010 22:21:23 +0000

what a disgraceful , stupid and revenue driven bunch of donut munchers you have in mexico .

everytime we go to victoria , we drive in a totally safe manner and at an appropriate speed in the circumstances . everytime we go to victoria , someone in the family gets booked by a hidden hi-tech speed measuring device resulting in a fine being sent a month or 2 later for some random '' offence 'in a place and at a time we cant reacll . other than recalling we were proceeding safely at all times .

we went to P/I last weekend and had a ball at the regularity . during our 4 days we encountered

1 ] average speed cameras on a stretch of the hume where the speed limit was set 10-20 kph too slow . thats outrageous

2 ] a freeway [ M1 ] where the sped limit was set 10-20 k too low and everyone was going over the limit .. on the VERY SAFEST bit of the M1 , with no traffic , no intersections , widely divided and totally free of danger , the traffic , being sensible , was at its highest rate of progress . thats exactly where a copper set himself up disguised with a laser device .

3 ] on a freeway , there was a roadworks sign . it was sunday and there wasnt a roadworker within 20 kilometers of the place . there was no danger to anyone and no need for the 60kph signs . in fact , it looked like the motorway was 'normal ' . as a result , the traffic flow picked up to a safe speed . the 60 area went on for a couple of klm , during hich 2k's the traffic had worked out '' hey , there are no roadworks , the sign is stupid , we'll resume a safe speed '' . right at THE END , was a hidden copper with a laser raising considerable revenue .

4 ] on the way from P/I theres a 80k zone , in between 100 k zones . there was no traffic . no people about . nothing . the traffic was travelling at a safe speed which was above the posted sign [ a sign put there by fats cats in head office to cater for peak traffic times ] . right at the end , just before the 100k resumed , was a contractor in dark clothes with a tripod radar device raising revenue .

5 ] on the way up the hume , maybe halway to albury at 10 at night , on a clear open stretch of smooth , wide divided road without intersection or traffic , hidden in the middle of the road was a donut muncher with radar zapping people for travelling at a safe speed that didnt happen to correspond with the posted speed sign . raising a lot of tax .

6 ]on the other side of the road over a 20k area , we saw not 1 not 2 but 3 mobile cars with lights flashing booking poor motorists heading back to melbourne [ presumably skiiers as munchers hate them as munchers are jealous people :]

we're trying to influence the debate here in nsw at present . you guys need to start a campaign . this victorian govt revenue raising under the guise of '' raod safety 'is beyond a joke !

Evora

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 14:14:43 +0000

Howdy, I'm new, so forgive any transgressions!!!

I'd like to give you all my impressions after 2500km in my Evora.

1 This car is excellent! I have had Porsches (Boxter and 911-964 C4), Audis and even a few Minis (new and old), and this is the first 'real' sports car I have had.

it sits very low, handles delightfully, is smooth, rauchous and looks wild in the flesh.

It's a mini Italia 458.

2 Some minor probs exist, the gearshift, and ahh, well thats it. Back lighting could be better.

3 It is fast, fast as, maybe I have a good one but it is a very quick car, better than numbers suggest.

4 The cabin is very un-lotus, moddern, sleek, comfortable and stuck together well, reeks of glue! (I like that).

5 you can go anywhere in it, shops, speed bumps etc are no prob.

6 It fits a weeks shopping and kids (they scream faster faster!!!) in the back.

7 The price of options are a problem but mine was a launch edition, so I got them all.

You need reverse camera and xenons, sports gearing and that's it.

I can't wait to work on the intake and exhaust....

So, basic answer is, go for it!!!!! Keep the El/Ex for weekends and drive the Evora all week.

Life will be better.

I have never seen another one in Qld. You can't say that about the competition..... and trust me, the front is big and the back seats will carry humans.

Cheers,

aido.

Led Tail Lights

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 11:51:13 +0000

Hi guys

I'm looking to buy a set of 4 LED tail lights for my 05 Exige and understand they are pretty simple to fit. Does anyone know how easy these are to wire up??? Does anyone have some up for sale??

Any advice/suggestions would be appreciated.

Cheers
Pete

The New Lotus Family

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 22:17:50 +0000

Pretty radical (and worrying) changes taking place at HQ.

http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpressnews/254983/new_lotus_family_is_coming.html?CMP=NLC-Newsletters&uid=0f467ab1fce8a8d632bad6b359b09a77

T E S L A

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 02:30:43 +0000

Get that external power point installed today, the Tesla will soon be here.

http://theage.drive.com.au/motor-news/charge-to-order-electric-roadster-20100528-wjv6.html

Something Else You Lot Can't Have

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 05:40:19 +0000

http://www.scuffham.com/Temp/Honda/2-11/2-11-1.jpg
http://www.scuffham.com/Temp/Honda/2-11/2-11-2.jpg
http://www.scuffham.com/Temp/Honda/2-11/2-11-3.jpg

Extra Gauges

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 11:52:02 +0000

Any tips, set ups people have done to get some more info?

I'm after two, discrete gauges to monitor IAT and BOOST.

Not wanting Boy Racer look, just on dash, beside Stack or telepathic into my retina......

News From Ssc

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 05:53:21 +0000

A new newsletter about happenings at Simply Sports Cars here:

http://www.simplysportscars.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=63:simply-lotus-issue-001&catid=41&Itemid=76

Demerit Point Time Window Extended

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 13:06:08 +0000

Cast your minds back;

a few years ago, the demerit point window was 2 years

All of a sudden it became 3 years, - 50% longer

What did we all do about it?

Why, nothing of course, we all just smiled and copped it sweet

Now, all I hear around the dinner table is complaints that we are becoming a nanny state

of course we are, no one does a bloody thing about changing stuff that should not be there, and our politicians know it.

Who in Victoria is fighting their speed cameras? They take well over $400 million in revenue off motorists, cost people their licences and their livelihoods, and the politicians still spruik the same old tired cr4p that speed cameras save lives. Well, they don't. Victoria's speed cameras make a lot of money, but the road toll has increased by 13%

When Skaifey stood up and told it like it is, what happened? Why, nothing of course. Who is supporting him?

Who is putting up a fight in NSW about the imposition of speed cameras? Are we going to cop it just like we did when the demerit point time window increased?

If NSW can defeat the speed camera imposition, then Victoria may be able to roll back theirs. Maybe we should all get together on this one and do something about it?

My11 Elise - First Impressions

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:53:16 +0000

Hello all.

Yesterday afternoon and evening I got the chance to drive the MY11 Elise for the first time with the arrival of my demo.

Thoughts:

The Look – opinions will always be divided on this matter. I always liked the look of the photos however still had the standard “need to see it in the flesh” level of dubiousness. Now having seen it I think it is great. They have managed to make the car look sharper and yet smoother at the same time. The treatment on the rear diffuser is a lot better and all S owners can now dance with joy. The Lotus letters on the back are now badges and not stickers, however this does add some weight! Finally with the addition of little extras like LED daytime lights, which aren’t really necessary, the car has a more grown up look which in turn, I think, will have the car being taken more seriously.

The Drive – The dynamics of the car are obviously very similar however, interestingly, the ride is more alike to a series 2 car with a touring pack. I have felt the bumps in the road have always been a little more deadened in touring pack cars and less harsh than those with the standard interior. More than likely this false sense is only due to sound insulation however the new car with the standard interior does feel a little more refined.

The Engine – The new 1.6 is obviously the large question mark for everybody. It is much smoother. Much more elastic and has a power delivery not dissimilar to the 2zz. The slightly lower torque is barely noticeable and in saying this it gives the engine an almost power cam feeling at 3000rpm.

The Gearbox – Lotus have worked a little magic with the ratios in this car. As many S, and even R and SC owners will know, sitting at 3500 – 4000rpm at 110-120kmh can becoming a little tiring after a while. 6th is high so highway driving is now nicer with 2000-2500rpm at 110-120kmh. However as you all furrow your brows and remind me that Lotii are not for the freeway there are now 3 gear changes before 100kmh with the change to 3rd happening at 98kmh. This may also answer the question for all of you as to why the 0-60mph and 0-100kph times are so different. The car doesn’t feel any slower and in the real world wont be however the radar cannot disregard the time it takes to change a gear. In saying this with 3 gears to play with before 100 there is still plenty of fun to be had in the twisty bits.

The Noise – A little too refined for my liking. A stage 1 sports exhaust is now an option and with an extra 5 kw included this is one box I would tick. We will certainly be fitting one to my demonstrator.

To all those in Sydney, if you would like to come down for a sticky beak to satisfy your curiosity, please feel free.

Regards,

Chris – Lotus Sydney.

Oz Clubbies

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 07:18:44 +0000

Dave
Oz-cubbies is off the net --is it broken or reforming
Cheers Bryan

Of Particular Interest To Nsw Car Owners

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 06:09:08 +0000

Hi All,

I received this message from a trusted friend of mine at Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce:

The NSW RTA is proposing changes to the current registration system for modified vehicles. These changes will mean that the majority of modified vehicles will be classified as individually constructed and will have to comply with the ADR's current on the day that it goes for registration. Please follow the link below and sign the petition to assist us in taking the fight to the NSW Transport Minister. Don’t forget to forward this message to all your family and friends and ask them to sign it on your behalf.

Petition here

Cheers,

Cocky

Lotus Terminates European Dealer Network

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 04:46:30 +0000

Check this out

Back To The Future... Today Is That Day !

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 03:50:07 +0000

Today is the day that Marty McFly arrived in “the future” after hitting 88mph in a pimped out Delorean in 1985.

I WANT MY HOVERBOARD!!

Now make like a tree...

New Meets Old: Lotus F1 Gathering. '58-'94

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 08:01:03 +0000

My dear old Mum posted me this story.

About a week old, but it's nice to see the new Lotus F1 drivers trying out some classic Team Lotus machinery. Do we know anyone who went to the Lotus Festival?

Team Lotus Meeting

Loss-Making Lotus Pledges 5 Year Turnaround

Sat, 03 Jul 2010 07:23:02 +0000

Pistonheads again

"Lotus will be transformed from 'a track car specialist' to a premium competitor for Porsche and Ferrari, under new plans revealed by its owner Proton."

Aussie Tarmac Challenge Review

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 08:46:19 +0000

Two Lotuses prepared by Simply Sports Cars dominated the latest round of the Australian Tarmac Challenge (formerly known as the Dutton Rally) at Eastern Creek.

The Elise of Sydneyʼs Jeff Morton and Exige S owned by Victorian Mark OʼConnor took out first and third places ahead of a field of 60 high performance cars which included Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, Mercedes-Benz, Corvettes, HSV V8's, Nissan GTR Skylines, Mitsubishi EVO's and Subaru WRX's.

This was the debut event for the Morton Elise, having only just left the SSC workshop a few days ago.

Jeff handed the driving duties to John Boston - who drove so well at the recent SuperLap event at “The Creek” - and whilst he has raced Lotuses before it was his first stint in the red/white striped car.

On the subject of firstʼs...Simply Sports Cars' Lee Knappett decided to enter his first competitive event and shared Markʼs Exige. Leeʼs outstanding runs were rewarded with him being being named champion rookie driver.

Had Mark not clipped a cone on one of the stages - incurring an instant five second penalty - he would have registered a 1-2 finish with John.

Targa Tasmania winner Steve Glenney split the Lotuses with his second place result (EVO8).

The Eastern Creek round of the 2010 ATC included a total of 18 events - long and short circuits, hill climb, motorkhana, figure eight - with the Lotuses claiming 5 first places (including a 1-2), 5 seconds and 5 thirds.

In their class, M-RWD, the three Lotus drivers finished 1-2-3.

The Lotuses featured the SSC-designed and manufactured TVS (Twin Vortices Supercharger) supercharger.

Lee has spent eight months testing the new ʼcharger kit. Testing has realised power gains of approximately 80% over naturally aspirated cars (and an average of 65% more power than other supercharged cars).

Lee has announced this week (in his new monthly e-newsletter, if you didn't get a copy ask him to send you one) that they are now available for purchase.

Eu Kills 1.8-Litre Lotuses

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 17:43:03 +0000

News on Pistonheads...

http://images.pistonheads.com/nimg/22101/RGBlotus_1-L.jpg

My Nick Name

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 07:35:48 +0000

All,

in an effort to maintain some clarity - I have changed my nick name to 'BarryM' as the nickname 'Baz' is in use on other forums, and another user would like to maintain using it over here.

Cheers

Baz (BarryM)

Shannons Fosc 2010 Winter Invitation

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 02:52:01 +0000

see www.fosc.com.au

Early August ...

any takers ?

No More Unleaded?

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 22:04:04 +0000

Check this out:
Petrol costs to rise as unleaded fuel axed

Mr Haley warned against using the higher-quality fuel if a car is not calibrated for it.

"There are very few vehicles around that are designed for 98 octane," he said.

Hennessey Venom

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 10:42:22 +0000

On Jalopnik

And, apparently, on UK plates:

http://images.pistonheads.com/nimg/21549/IMG_1620-L.jpg

Thought I'd Let You Know..

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 06:29:30 +0000

Hey Everyone,

Its Codie or Eleven7 as my Username stated however there came a slight problem. I am no longer getting a 117 model elise.

So I thought it wise to change my name to something that made a bit more sense. Its my nickname since I was a baby.

Just letting you know in case you start to wonder where that annoying Eleven7 went

Cheers,
Codie

Aussie Elises...a Coming Of Age....

Mon, 24 May 2010 00:02:07 +0000

While setting up our latest member to transfer over, Graeme Martin overin WA, I noticed he is our 601st member

Congrats on making it here Graeme!

Here I was thinking we might be lucky if a couple of hundred were interested....

Latest Lotus News

Fri, 21 May 2010 01:20:14 +0000

For those of you who may be interested, go to the link...& enjoy.
http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/ganews?readform&make=Lotus&model=Elise&start=2

A Write Up Of Greggo's Honda Exige

Thu, 20 May 2010 23:27:09 +0000

Greg/anyone seen this write up before ?

http://www.blazingtype-r.com/2009/03/aussies-lotus-exige-s1-with-jr.html

Simply Sports Cars Has Moved

Tue, 18 May 2010 11:19:47 +0000

SSC has moved to -

59 Whiting Street,
Artarmon NSW 2064
(Workshop entry from Sawyer Lane)

Phone: 0406 767 472

For all things Lotus.

Or visit SSC here:

http://www.simplysportscars.com/index.php?option=com_wrapper&view=wrapper&Itemid=1

Mark Webber Leads F1 2010 Leader

Mon, 17 May 2010 10:35:55 +0000

What an excellent example of racing winning the Monaco GP and what a cheeky (standard) Schumi move on the last corner.

Well done Webber who now leads the F1 table with 78 points and Vettel with 78.

Lotus Racing Newsletter - Downloadable

Sun, 16 May 2010 11:47:22 +0000

As I am now subscribed to the newsletter I thought I'd put them up for others to download. Lotus Monaco GP Report Edition

Nurburgring 24 Hours - Exige On Fire

Sun, 16 May 2010 11:42:54 +0000

Video of Evo magazine's Roger Green's Exige ablaze and his ensuing exit. Although the tumble out of the door at 2:57 is a bit undignified... http://bit.ly/dp5FoZ

John Bower's Type 25 is on the road

Thu, 13 May 2010 01:42:10 +0000

I thought this to be a suitably exciting piece of Lotus news to start the ball rolling...

The following email was received from John yesterday following the extensive rebuild of his beautiful Type 25:

Hi Lotus lovers

Well, 25/R4 has finally hit the track! The engine was finished on Monday night and installed in the car on Tuesday (all while Margaret and I were still in flight), quickly tested at Hethel on the Wednesday, transported to Goodwood on the Thursday, and ran in race practice on Friday and the Glover Trophy race on Saturday.

It was a very good weekend. The car and engine ran almost faultlessly, both in practice and the race. We were 11th in practice (out of about 30), which is not at all bad for a car that had not raced in a very long time, and had not yet been set up on a track. A few lessons learned in the practice session improved the car, and we ended up finishing 6th in the race, just behind a 32B. All things considered, this was a brilliant result. Andy Middlehurst, the driver, did very well - fast and safe. The driver of the Brabham that came 7th told me later that he had a great view, and Andy was smooth and secure.

Photo 2562 shows the main contributors to this outcome: Tony Mantle, Bob Dance, and Andy. In photo 2598 you can see an anxious owner. The other photos are to let you see our attempt at '60s clothing (the redhead is our daughter). The level of spectator interest in the car was amazing. As you can see from photo 2691, the paddock position allowed the public to lean over the fence from 2 sides and almost touch the car. The fence railings were full most of the weekend - this photo was taken just before pack-up on the Sunday evening.

We now need a full track setup session, because we know the front springs are too soft, the damper settings wrong, the brake balance needs adjusting, etc. This car will get quicker.

The weekend was also interesting for some other reasons. In particular, it was announced last week that Lotus will re-enter F1 next year, and I met the new sponsor/chairman, Tony Fernandes, who is the head of Air Asia.

John

Lotus Racing Newsletter

Thu, 13 May 2010 01:33:19 +0000

http://www.lotusracing.my/newsletter/2010/05/06/LotusRacingNotes_GPSpain.pdf

Hot 4S Magazine Just Out

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:40:55 +0000

just got a look at HOT 4's mag , may issue , the latest one with the blue RX7 with open boot lid and a top heavy blonde on the cover .

theres a great article with pics on an elise .

grab a copy . worth a read !!

Blues Music

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 15:34:54 +0000

This is my second favorite blues man... Bob Brosman
Probably the best from a technique standpoint.
John Butler mentioned him as a the best guitarist in Australia.

Au Revoir: Jon Stretton, Lotus Australia

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 15:01:56 +0000

Guys

As some of you may be aware, Jon Stretton is leaving us for an exciting new role back in Blighty at Hethel.

I'd like to take this opportunity to publicly thank Jon for his contribution to resurrecting the Lotus marque in Australia; he has been an enlightened and engaging sales and marketing manager, and I for one wish him all the very best in his future career.

Whilst we'll be sorry to see him go, he leaves the Lotus brand in a lot more healthy condition than when he arrived, and we now have the added benefit of a direct line into Hethel

Sadly we are too late to organise a leaving bash as he's off in the next fwe days, but please join me in wishing him well in the virtual world

2 New Lotus Fans

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 01:01:35 +0000

I am very proud to announce the arrival of our twins Harper and Jacob.

Our two tiny bundles of joy arrived a week earlier than expected yesterday and whilst a liitle on the light side (2kg & 1.9Kg), a week or two in the nursery should see them get to a more respectable S2 weight soon. Mum is doing great and Dad is still getting a bit emotional.

Lotus Elise 2013

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 08:52:55 +0000

pinched from lotustalk

http://mobilez.roadandtrack.com/index.php/future-cars/sports-cars-of-the-future-2013-lotus-elise

May Edition Of Motor Mag

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 03:54:41 +0000

Given the man's modesty, thought I'd point you in the direction of May edition of Motor (just dropped on my desk) to read Easton's excellent write-up of his visit to Hethel.

Nice scribing Easton (shots aren't too bad either ) and brought back memories of my own pligrimage last year.

Article is on page 108 if you're too cheap to buy a copy and just want to read it in the news agents

Porsche Spyder Concept

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 10:51:45 +0000

Click

Looks a bit like an Elise on steroids, doesn't it?

Pilbeam / Rs Performance Rsw Evo

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 12:32:33 +0000

Seen this?

http://www.pilbeamracing.co.uk/rsw_evo.htm

http://www.rsperformance.co.uk/gallery.htm

Well.... It's Dirty, But.....

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 05:04:53 +0000

Picked up my new (Craig S's old) black 111s from Damelians yesterday, and drove it 420km in not stop belting rain home to Port Macquarie.

Didn't get booked once!

I've been waiting about 12 years to own one of these gizmos, and I think its gonna be a fair while till the smile subsides

(And no, before the head shaking starts, I didn't pay anything CLOSE to the asking price for it)

Get Together On The Grand Prix Weekend

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 06:48:11 +0000

As suggested in my other thread about a regular Vic get together, we'll have the first one to coincide with the GP. For those interested, please vote quickly for preference of the night, as I'll need to book asap for a Fri or Sat night at my local Greek eatery

http://www.eatability.com.au/au/melbourne/white-village-greek-tavern/

Will also then open up the invitation to all LCV members and visitors from interstate.

Eastern Creek Twilight Drive & Pizza Time - March 10Th

Wed, 24 Mar 2010 13:24:15 +0000

Hey, the last one was great, does anyone want a repeat twilight drive.

If its okay to hijack the Narremburn Pizza night ....

Driving Solutions has a day on Wednesday March 3rd, should be easy to tack on at end of that still before daylight savings ends.

How many are interested.? If we have a reasonable chorum we just go & ask them to put it on, he needed 20 minumum.

Recommend it to newbies and we should see if we can arrange a " no drive attendance / pizza only " so new faces can come and poke their head in to say hi.

New Lotii

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 04:28:36 +0000

Here is some news of new Lotus developments

There is a bit of delay at the beginning.. (but there are 2 stories Lotus related)

Lotus On Foxtel Tonight 11/3

Fri, 12 Mar 2010 08:13:07 +0000

just flicking thru foxtel and turbo max channel has a doco on lotus tonight .

halfway thru at present on turbo channel but its on again at 9.30 . looks interesting history wise

Not S3 S4

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:10:33 +0000

Well reading lotus uk site new elise is due(news)

1.6 = s
1.8 = r etc....still toyota on both
love to see how cosworth get in to it(sierra was good in my day)

as clarkson would say the new car has lost the SWOOPINESS

engine had major chop to suit to body

ahhhh well we shall see

Lotus F1 Is ! Struggling

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 22:32:54 +0000

an article from jarno trulli at the barcalona test on saturday

Jarno Trulli is not expecting Lotus to be able to fight with any of the established Formula 1 teams in the first four races of the season.

The Italian had his final day of pre-season testing in the T127 at Barcelona today, where his best time was 4.3 seconds down on the pace set by Nico Rosberg.

While he was pleased to log over 100 laps after experiencing some reliability problems on Friday, the 35-year-old admitted that he expects to be at the back of the grid when the season gets underway.

"We cannot be happy about the pace, but this is what we have at the moment so we have to deal with it," Trulli told AUTOSPORT. "We have a lot of work to do.

"We are short on time and everything had to be hurried up to get the car ready for testing and for Bahrain, so we can't really ask for any more from the team.

"We are ready to race, but I can't say we are ready to fight. Maybe with Virgin, but the rest are out of reach at the moment."

Trulli expects the situation to remain the same for the first four races of the season, but he took heart from being able to complete a race simulation today.

"Once we are back in Europe it will be better," he added. "The reliability is ok, so we should be fine. I'm pretty happy with these two days, it was good to put some mileage on the car.

"We are here to discover the problems we have and we know we are lacking in some areas, but there is little we can do now. Things will come later."

Lotus And Cosworth Form Strategic Partnership

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 02:10:22 +0000

Fantastic news for Lotus enthusiasts!!

Quote

Lotus Press Release
Two of Britain’s most renowned automotive names to become closely associated through a strategic partnership looking at the opportunity to develop high performance engines for Lotus road and race cars

The new partnership includes the supply by Cosworth of high performance engines based upon existing Toyota engines for future Lotus cars and the assembly by Cosworth of racing engines for all motorsport activities which are based on Toyota powertrains. The first application of these race engines will be for the V6 engine in the new Lotus Evora Cup racing car.

Dany Bahar CEO of Group Lotus commented, “The ties between Lotus and Cosworth are, of course, already historical ones but our new strategic relationship is based purely on Cosworth’s competencies, brand and race engine development capabilities. This new strategic partnership will align two of the most renowned names in the automotive world and will be of huge benefit for both organisations.”

Tim Routsis, CEO & Managing Director of Cosworth Group said, “I am delighted that the Cosworth name is once again linked to Lotus through this new strategic partnership and these new high performance engines. Our mutual history over many decades resulted in a great number of racing successes and I expect to see further triumphs not only on the racetrack but also in the competitive high performance sportscar market, where Lotus is already acknowledged as a world leader.”

ENDS

About Lotus
The main operating subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is Lotus Cars Ltd, which has two operating divisions - Lotus Engineering and Lotus Cars. Lotus Engineering is an internationally recognized automotive engineering consultancy based in Norfolk, UK. Global facilities include those in Michigan (USA), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), China and offices in Germany and Japan, with rapid expansion in new territories such as South East Asia.

Lotus Engineering provides comprehensive and versatile consultancy services to many of the world's OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers, offering a full engineering service from initial concept and project design through development and integration of the complete vehicle to meet all worldwide markets and customers to full production. This includes third party 'niche vehicle' engineering and manufacture worldwide.

Lotus Cars builds world class, prestige, high performance sports cars for sale in 37 countries. These include the iconic Lotus Elise, the Exige, the 2-Eleven and Lotus’ latest model, the Lotus Evora. Lotus is a global high-tech company, expanding rapidly and committed to driving forward technology for both Lotus Cars and its Engineering clients, spearheading research into such areas as hybrids, electric vehicles and renewable fuels.

About Cosworth
The Cosworth Group provides high performance technologies to a diverse range of global industries including automotive, defence, clean energy generation and sports.

The Cosworth Group is headquartered in Northampton, UK and operates additional facilities in the UK, North America and India to leverage its unique combination of advanced technologies, mechanical and electronic engineering expertise and globally recognized brand to deliver performance solutions.

Cosworth has been at the forefront of international motorsport for over 50 years and is a brand synonymous with success. Cosworth high performance race technologies have delivered championships in every major series across the globe including Formula 1, IndyCar, NASCAR, World Rallying, World Touring Cars and MotoGP.

For more information about Lotus please contact:

Alastair Florance
Group PR Manager
PR Department, Group Lotus plc, Potash Lane, Hethel, Norfolk, UK,
NR14 8EZ
Tel: +44(0)1953 608264;
Email: pr@lotuscars.co.uk

For more information about Cosworth please contact:
Pio Szyjanowicz
Head of Communications
Cosworth, The Octagon, St. James Mill Road, Northampton, UK
NN5 5RA
Tel +44 (0)1604 598574
Email: pios@cosworth.com

Evora Hybrid 414E Hybrid Concept

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 02:00:07 +0000

It's been on the news for days but no one has posted anything about it. I thought I'd start.

It's seems pretty cool.
0-60mph in under 4s
483km range
Lotus range extender engine.
Fake engine noise (meh... but important in silent cars)
Fake shifts (I don't like the idea of this but the ability to control engine braking is cool and new to me)
Cool coppper paint and circuit design.

http://www.worldcarfans.com/110022524744/lotus-evora-414e-hybrid-teased

I like the fact that the technology is being demonstrated more in the real world. It would be awesome if they produced it.

SM.

Lotus Provides A Peek At Proton City Car

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 05:33:48 +0000

A new Proton concept 1.2-liter three-cylinder + electrical
It is engined by Lotus design by Italdesign

Link
http://www.autoblog.com/2010/02/22/geneva-preview-lotus-provides-a-peak-at-proton-city-car-concept/

New Elise (S3 Or S4) At Geneva Motor Show

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 12:44:31 +0000

Lotus has a 8:45am slot booked for a press event on the Opening Press-only day (2nd of March) of the Geneva Motor Show.

It is rumored that Lotus is going to unveil the new Elise S3 then.

Lotus will be on stand 1259 in Hall 1.

Lotus Evora Cup Test/media Day

Sat, 13 Feb 2010 09:28:02 +0000

Lotus proved they are serious about their sporting ambitions for the coming years when they organised a two-day event at a decidedly chilly Snetterton on 10/11 February to showcase to prospective teams, competitors, series organisers and the press their new Evora Cup car together with the already familiar GT4 2-Eleven, both cars being demonstrated on the circuit together with a Caparo that has also had Lotus involvement.

More on Lotus-Central

Forum Speed

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:29:04 +0000

Ok,

I've noticed a goodly number of mentions over the course of about a week now that folks reckon the forum is slow. Can't say I've personally noticed it myself, so couldn't comment.

However, perception is reality. So let's see if we can't recognise times/days/Nr online at the time, etc. to see if we can't start to nail it down.

Oh, and just in case, those of you who feel the corp. firewalls might be taking offence to the Kiddie Naughties laws thread, I've renamed it FOR THAT PURPOSE ALONE. To see if it doesn't help you guys out. NOT out of some moral concern, etc.

Personally, you could name your thread Miserly A s r e F c u k i n g C c o k s c u k i n g L e b s i a n P r o n if you really want.

But we'll see how this works out.

First 50 Combined "red Light & Speed" Camera Locations

Thu, 28 Jan 2010 06:02:16 +0000

The first of the combined red light/speed cameras has already gone in at Haberfield.

The new signage refers only to “Safety Camera Ahead” and there is ONLY ONE sign on approach.

It is planned to convert all existing red light cameras and some school zones.

The government intends to install 200 over the next four years. FYI, below is a list of the first 50 locations.

Initial 50 Safety Camera Locations

Street Street Suburb
CUMBERLAND HWY ST JOHNS RD CANLEY HEIGHTS
GREAT WESTERN HWY RESERVOIR RD BLACKTOWN
SHOWGROUND RD VICTORIA AV CASTLE HILL
PENNANT HILLS RD BEECROFT RD PENNANT HILLS
BOTANY RD MCEVOY ST ALEXANDRIA
MOORE-OXLEY BYPASS BROUGHTON ST CAMPBELLTOWN
CLEVELAND ST SOUTH DOWLING ST REDFERN
BOTANY RD BOURKE RD ALEXANDRIA
CHURCH ST VICTORIA RD PARRAMATTA
CUMBERLAND HWY CABRAMATTA RD WEST CABRAMATTA WEST
NEW NARELLAN RD KELLICAR RD CAMPBELLTOWN
SILVERWATER RD M4 W/B ON RAMP SILVERWATER
SILVERWATER RD M4 E/B ON RAMP SILVERWATER
CANTERBURY RD KING GEORGES RD LAKEMBA
GEORGE ST LIVERPOOL ST SYDNEY
GREAT WESTERN HWY HAWKESBURY RD MAYS HILL
SOUTH DOWLING ST FITZROY ST SURRY HILLS
GREAT WESTERN HWY CHARLES HACKETT DR ST MARYS
WALDRON RD HECTOR ST CHESTER HILL
THE KINGSWAY PORT HACKING RD MIRANDA
HUME HWY WOODVILLE RD LANSDOWNE
PARRAMATTA RD BURWOOD RD BURWOOD
PRINCES HWY BAY ST ROCKDALE
BROADWAY CITY RD ULTIMO
OXFORD ST LIVERPOOL ST SYDNEY
PITT ST EDDY AV SYDNEY
CRAIGEND ST MCLACHLAN AV RUSHCUTTERS BAY
ANZAC PDE FLINDERS ST MOORE PARK
ROBERTS RD NORFOLK RD GREENACRE
PARRAMATTA RD WOODVILLE RD GRANVILLE
WINDSOR RD SEVEN HILLS RD BAULKHAM HILLS
COPELAND ST ELIZABETH DR LIVERPOOL
HENRY LAWSON DR MILPERRA RD MILPERRA
OXFORD ST MOORE PARK RD PADDINGTON
VICTORIA RD WELLINGTON ST ROZELLE
OLYMPIC DR VAUGHAN ST LIDCOMBE
CENTENARY DR ARTHUR ST HOMEBUSH WEST
HUME HWY MEREDITH ST BANKSTOWN
PARRAMATTA RD FLOOD ST LEICHHARDT
NEW CANTERBURY RD LIVINGSTONE RD PETERSHAM
GARDENERS RD O'RIORDAN ST MASCOT
BUNGARRIBEE RD RESERVOIR RD BLACKTOWN
THE KINGSWAY GANNONS RD CARINGBAH
VICTORIA RD EVANS ST ROZELLE
GREAT WESTERN HWY STATION ST WENTWORTHVILLE
PENNANT HILLS RD COPELAND RD WEST PENNANT
HAMILTON RD THE BOULEVARDE SFAIRFIELD HEIGHTS
CANTERBURY RD BEXLEY RD CAMPSIE
KING GEORGES RD MOOREFIELDS RD ROSELANDS
NEWTON RD FLUSHCOMBE RD BLACKTOWN

More information is available on the RTA website at: http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/speedandspeedcameras/safetycameras/

and at: http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety/speedandspeedcameras/safetycameras/safety_camera_faqs.html

Gallery

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 12:44:28 +0000

For an extra cost* we can add a gallery feature to this site.

http://www.invisionpower.com/products/gallery/

Is this something that is of any use or do most of you have other image hosting site and happy to leave it at that?

*see other post for discussion on costs. http://aussieelises.com/index.php?/topic/139-forum-costs/

Edit. oops, I think the gallery is only available to self hosted forums. This still may be an option depending on demand.

Number Of Fora (Forums)

Wed, 20 Jan 2010 00:08:28 +0000

After some discussion, we're kinda thinking there a probably a few too many forums as it currently stands.

It was probably more a case of new environment, split things up, let's get it all separated. But like with any new things, we've probably gone a bit overboard.

So the thinking at the moment is; Do we REALLY need 6 different technical forums?

I mean you've got a question to ask and you first have to spend 5 minutes deciding which forum you're going to use.

So far in the forced induction and ECU forums, we have one topic each.

Is there REALLY that much difference between S1's and S2's? Can we not differentiate which model we're asking about in the "Topic Description"?

So, have a vote and let us know.

Help !

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:28:43 +0000

If anyone needs help navigating the forum of creating an avatar etc. please ask. More than happy to help make this place as easy to use as possible.

Exige on autojournals.com

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 20:30:55 +0000

Thought I'd post a link to this site that I contribute too, gives a good insight I to alsorts of car ownership.

This is my 08 Sprint

Auto-Journals / Journals / Lotus / Exige /

View the full article

2010 Detroit Auto Show Coverage

Fri, 08 Jan 2010 19:42:01 +0000

http://www.autoguide.com/images/content/detroit-coverage-main_rdax_334x238_rdax_334x238.jpg

Subdued in 2009, America's most important auto show is back on track at the start of a new and more optimistic year. General Motors and Ford will take center stage with a long list of new and important products including the 2011 Ford Focus, 2011 Ford Mustang GT, Chevrolet Camaro Convertible, 2011 Chevrolet Aveo, Buick Regal GS, GMC Granite Concept, Cadillac XTS Concept and Cadillac CTS-V Coupe. As for Chrysler, it doesn't have any press conference scheduled, but it will display a rebadged five-door hatchback from Fiat's Lancia brand, as well as a lineup of Fiat 500 models, including a convertible, electric version and a sporty Abarth model. Now under Fiat's wing, the Chrysler booth with also display amazing machines from both Ferrari and Maserati.

Other important vehicles debuting at the show include the Honda CR-Z Hybrid, a dedicated hybrid concept from Toyota, the 2011 BMW 3 Series, BMW Z4 sDrive35is, 2011 Hyundai Santa Fe, MINI Beachcomber Concept and the Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet.

There's sure to be plenty more as well, so check back often as we update this page with the latest breaking news from the Detroit Auto Show starting January 11th.

Plus: Don't forget to sign on to get email updates from AutoGuide.com's live coverage of the 2010 Detroit Auto Show.

More: 2010 Detroit Auto Show Coverage on AutoGuide.com

View the full article