Despite initial promises of a hard top from Launch of the S2 Elise, the much
in demand accessory hasn't been forthcoming, until now. Particularly now that
the Elise is sold in 30 countries, the pressure increased on Lotus and now they
are about to deliver. The Geneva Show will see the launch of both a hard top and
the provision of air conditioning in Elises.
A newly designed dashboard features 4 additional face level vents for
improved air circulation and driver comfort. This, combined with the new
composite hardtop makes the Elise a more attractive proposition in climates more
extreme than Norfolk.
The price to be paid for the air-con unit is 15kg in weight. The air
temperature and distribution is controlled from the new centre control panel.
Airflow is delivered via the normal windscreen demist and feet vents or via the
4 additional face level vents. The system also has a recirculated air feature,
which, when actuated, draws 90% of the air from the vehicle interior, maximising
cooling efficiency when needed. Significant improvements in the heater
performance have been achieved by a newly designed heater element.
The Improved Soft Top and the New Hardtop The Elise for 2002 will feature an
all new soft top design and an optional composite hard top. The new soft top
design makes it far easier to cope with and Lotus claim a fitment time of less
than 30 seconds. To get the hard top on takes six minutes.
Again the Lotus philosophy of "performance through lightweight" is
adhered to, with the hard top tipping the scales at a class leading 9.5kg. The
new hard top and improved soft top can be retro fitted to 2001 model year Elises,
when used with a 2002 Elise roll hoop cover. Parts are available from Lotus
After Sales.