Just got back from the meeting hosted by HRM, with Nick Adams, Vehicle Development Manager of Lotus Enginering.
First off, got to see the Saffron Fed car in person (my color). Saffron looked at least as good as I expected ...
The reflectors which I had been concerned about (especially on a light color car) actually did not look bad in person. Nick said they had originally considered making them flush but it was not technically possible.
Stage 1 and 2 exhaust - don't expect HP gain from them or any aftermarket exhaust, as others have also said. A straight pipe would give maybe 2HP gain. The optional exhausts offer weight savings though, and improved sound (he thought the stage 2 might be too loud for street use).
stripes - maybe in a year
black wheels - sounded like if enough people pester their dealers they may offer it....
Confirmed you don't want to put LSS wheels and tires on standard suspension setup.
He seemed to confirm that if you are buying the car for street use only, you may be better off with the std suspension.
First off, got to see the Saffron Fed car in person (my color). Saffron looked at least as good as I expected ...
The reflectors which I had been concerned about (especially on a light color car) actually did not look bad in person. Nick said they had originally considered making them flush but it was not technically possible.
Stage 1 and 2 exhaust - don't expect HP gain from them or any aftermarket exhaust, as others have also said. A straight pipe would give maybe 2HP gain. The optional exhausts offer weight savings though, and improved sound (he thought the stage 2 might be too loud for street use).
stripes - maybe in a year
black wheels - sounded like if enough people pester their dealers they may offer it....
Confirmed you don't want to put LSS wheels and tires on standard suspension setup.
He seemed to confirm that if you are buying the car for street use only, you may be better off with the std suspension.