Lotus reveals Range Extender engine

Lotus announces a purpose built engine for use in hybrid cars

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Luke Madden

08th September 2009

Lotus has disclosed its first step into the hybrid market but it's not what you might expect! The new Range Extender engine is designed specifically to work in a series hybrid vehicle by either powering the electric motor directly or by charging the vehicles battery.

The 1.2-litre three cylinder engine, which produces 47hp at 3,500rpm is described by Lotus as a monoblock construction with the cylinder head and block integrated into the engine reducing the amount of parts needed and decreasing weight to just 56kg.

This low weight and small engine size means lower costs, improved emissions and a longer lifespan making the Range Extender an ideal choice for hybrid vehicles. The first car to get the new engine will likely be a prototype in association with Jaguar, MIRA and Caparo as part of the "limo-green' project to develop a luxury saloon with emissions of under 120g/km of CO2.

The Range Extender, which can be run on either petrol or ethanol, will be officially unveiled at next week's Frankfurt Motor Show.

3 Comments

At last!

Brilliant! Now we might see an electric vehicle that's practical or a hybrid that isn't just a conventional car with half a ton of batteries bolted on. Currently small diesel engines with a stop-start system make more sense than hybrids.

What is the point of an electric car that has to have a gear box, etc. I hope this works as well as it should - we might finally be seeing the (medium-term) future of motroing. At least until we solve the problem of limited range and lack of recharging facilities.

By inicholson on 10 September, 2009, 10:29am

shades of the coventry climax firepump engine, which ended up as the core of Lotus for a zillion years.

By bruce_f_hyman on 12 September, 2009, 10:59pm

Resistance Is Futile...

I am Lo(cu)tus of Borg. We will assimilate your historic sports car manufacturers into our eco empire. We will not stop until all your Noble brands are free from the spirit of petrol. We will trawl the universe from Caterham to Westfields to achieve our goal. Captain Morgan, surrender your vessel!!!

By sgtgrash on 24 September, 2009, 1:23am

You need to register to post comments. Existing members can log in below to comment, otherwise click here to join.