Lotus has announced the intention to build a dedicated and specialist advanced technology centre, which will also be home to a new headquarters for the company’s engineering consultancy.
Located on the University of Warwick’s Wellesbourne Campus, the new facility is established in partnership with WMG at the University of Warwick – one of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult centres.
The facility, consisting of offices, workshops and laboratory space with opportunity for future expansion, will initially home 130 engineers, complementing the 500-strong engineering team at the home of Lotus Cars in Hethel, Norfolk.
Matt Windle, executive director for engineering at Lotus Cars, commented: “This is a big step forward for Lotus and our engineering consultancy. The new space, facilities and job opportunities at Wellesbourne will be in great demand as we rapidly build our portfolio of external projects.
“Our team and specialist skills have grown significantly in the last two years as renewed impetus has been put into the business with new shareholders and management. The all-electric Evija hypercar [pictured above] is the first new Lotus Cars product for us to deliver, with significant focus on this at Wellesbourne as we complete the project and continue to advance its technologies for our future programmes.”
Artist’s impression of the advanced technology centre when established, subject to formal planning approval
CEO of Lotus Cars, Phil Popham added that the business’ “engineering and R&D strategy around advanced propulsion systems” was aligned to the government’s vision and broader global ambitions for a low-carbon automotive future.
Executive chair of WMG, Margot James, said: “The UK needs to retain R&D capability in our manufacturing sector, and at WMG we are working with partners on many R&D programmes which are focused on innovation and future growth towards net zero.”
Lotus Engineering, which celebrates 40 years since its incorporation in 1980, works with customers all over the world. The confidentiality of its work is paramount with strict firewalls in place between project teams.
Some of the more widely acknowledged Lotus Engineering programmes from the past include the Lotus Carlton, Tesla Roadster, multiple Formula 1 campaigns, and a host of products outside of the auto industry from Olympics track bikes to boats and light aircraft.
Today, Lotus Engineering’s specialisms include vehicle dynamics and advanced propulsion systems, encompassing lightweight structures, ride, handling and performance.
*All images courtesy of Lotus Cars
