Just ask Lotus - the...
Just ask Lotus - the firm has invited members of its owners" club to suggest new badges for future models. Following company tradition, bosses are after words beginning with the letter E, in the spirit of vehicles such as the Elise (image), Esprit and Exige.
Based on the Rio saloon...
Based on the Rio saloon, the model aims to be the first truly affordable petrol/electric car.
When full-scale production starts in 2009, the green newcomer should cost around ÷£12,500. The Rio comes with an 88bhp 1.4-litre petrol engine that is linked to a 12kW electric motor which drives the front wheels through a CVT automatic gearbox. Plans have also been made for a 1.6-litre version with a 15kW motor.