Wednesday 16th April 2003

T Bar

Versatile roof solution now available for Elise S2

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When Lotus launched the second generation Elise, there were firm plans to provide a solid roof with lift out panels - the perfect compromise between soft top and hard top.

Lotus developed a prototype and filed for patent protection for the concept. However, so far technical difficulties have prevented Lotus from offering a finished product to a standard that they'd be happy to offer to their customers.

That's not to say that options aren't open to Elise owners though. Autostyle independently developed a prototype of a removable targa top roof for the Elise. Lotus looked kindly on the venture - recognising that early availability of such a product would be of benefit to Elise owners - and they've agreed not to use their patent rights to stop the sale of the finished product.

Autostyle was set up by three Elise enthusiasts to produce accessories for the Elise. The T Bar roof solution is their most exciting product to date. It's a three piece glass fibre hard top that hinges on both sides with gas struts supporting the panels. It allows easier access into the car if necessary but more importantly allows the roof panels to be lifted out and stored in the boot for roof-off motoring with little fuss.

Tigga Reese, co-founder and CEO of Autostyle solutions stated "After many months of hard work and several setbacks, I am extremely pleased to see the fruits of our labour become a reality. The T-Bar roof now offers a high quality alternative to the traditional ‘hard top or soft top’ approach which not only enhances the styling but also increases the comfort and convenience levels of the car."

The T-bar solution has been designed to fit on both the early (long roof) and later (short roof) models of the Elise S2.  Price for a fully painted roof is £1999.95 including VAT and UK mainland delivery.

Link: www.autostyle-solutions.com

[MEMSDesign]

Please don't mention the 'T' word. You'll start a riot!

[tonykart]

I live in Hong Kong and am definitely interested in this. A few questions:

1) How much does it weigh?
2) What's the installation like?
3) Have you tested this in pouring rain to check for leaks?
4) Do you have a package price for the roof and the allround mesh kit?
5) What's the delivery time?

Thanks very much. I'm extremely keen on this and will order asap once I receive the answers.

Cheers

Tony

[alunr]

tonykart said: I live in Hong Kong and am definitely interested in this. A few questions:

1) How much does it weigh?
2) What's the installation like?
3) Have you tested this in pouring rain to check for leaks?
4) Do you have a package price for the roof and the allround mesh kit?
5) What's the delivery time?

Thanks very much. I'm extremely keen on this and will order asap once I receive the answers.

Cheers

Tony

You're probably best off emailing tigga directly via the autostyle solutions website.

[jeremycs]

what happens to the water on the roof when you open it when it's been raining??

[laner]

It falls on your head Jeremy

[Ye Olde Esprit]

Their bit's and bobs definiyely make me want to have an Elise more now. If Lotus had included those mods on the 111s, I would not have walked out that showroom that day without one.

Nicholas

[PetrolTed]

The first 5 PH readers to order one (quoting ref: 'piemeup') will get a £200 discount. (This is for real)

[tonykart]

looks like this is not designed for an elise with front fog lamps. bummer. that counts out my 111s.

[Bonce]

You what? No Elise has front fog lamps!

And how the heck would fog lamps affect the fitting of a roof?

[Podie]

PetrolTed said: The first 5 PH readers to order one (quoting ref: 'piemeup') will get a £200 discount. (This is for real)

Excellent ref...

[tonykart]

sorry, was talking about the mesh products...and yes, the 111s has front fog lamps...

[abz 7001]

Are they not just driving lights like everyone elses that only come on with your full beams???

[Bonce]

As Stuart says, they're driving lights, not fog lamps!

They're fantastic for driving on country lanes at night and they're no use whatsoever in the fog.