111RS006 Build: Introduction to a Special Tribute

 We were approached by a client to refresh his '06 Exige which we were happy to do.  He sent the car to us from across the country with the intention of doing some basic upgrades and some bodywork.  After we reviewed the suggested work, he told me that he would be interested in turning the car into a 111RS.  Then he told me the full story.

This client wanted to build this car as a tribute to his brother, fallen Naval Special Warfare member John Douangdara, who along with his MWD Bart and 29 other Special Operations service members, were tragically lost in Afghanistan on August 6, 2011. He belonged to Seal Team 6 and the elite Gold Squadron of DEVGRU.

John was an Elise owner who loved his car.  He was a true driving enthusiast.  Most of his friends drove bigger, more powerful cars, but John preferred his Lotus.  I think we all can relate to this sentiment!

We plan to build a very special 111RS to honor John.  This black Exige will sport the Type 72 color scheme.  We will add some special touches that we hope will make this build even more meaningful for John's family and friends.  We plan to recruit our suppliers to make this a truly special car.  Nitron are already on board!

Drive Defensively, Think Like a Motorcyclist!

We get calls weekly from clients that have been in an accident.  Though we provide Collision work on cars, we would rather you not need this service!  This article has been written to provide tips that may help you avoid having to make that dreaded call to us.

 Driving is why we buy these lightweight cars.  However, these exhilarating drives often come with a caveat — visibility. The low profile of cars like the Lotus or Alfa or BAC or Drakan, can be a challenge when surrounded by towering SUVs and Cossovers.

Motorcyclists, with their even smaller profile on the road, have long developed a series of defensive tactics to ensure they're seen and safe. I bought my first motorcycle way back in 1990 and have been using these tactics since then.  

1. Assume You're Invisible

As many motorcyclists will tell you, always assume other drivers can't see you. Adopting this mindset ensures you're always prepared for sudden movements by other vehicles. Stay vigilant, be proactive, and always anticipate the next possible move by drivers around you.

2. Optimal Lane Positioning

Riders often shift within their lane to ensure they're in the driver's line of sight, especially at intersections. As a Lotus driver, choose your lane position wisely. The goal? Always be where you can be seen, and more importantly, where you can see others.  At intersections, especially when stopped, I like to position myself so I can see the car's driver side side mirror clearly - and hopefully they see me.  We have had more than one client get backed up onto by a SUV or Minivan that did not see the small sportscar behind them in their rear view mirror.

This lane position is dubious...

3. "See and Be Seen"

Motorcycle headlights are always on, making them more visible. While the Lotus already boasts distinctive lights, consider running your lights or periodically flashing your lights in dense traffic as an added precaution.  Make sure your headlights are working and consider an upgrade.

4. Beware of Blind Spots

Just as motorcyclists steer clear of blind spots, especially those of larger vehicles, Lotus drivers should be doubly cautious. Always aim to position your car in a space where you're visible to all mirrors of the vehicle ahead.  Do not pull up too close to the back of any tall vehicle.  Keep at car length or so behind.

5. Decelerate Smoothly

Abrupt changes in speed can catch drivers off-guard. Motorcyclists often tap their brakes a few times before slowing down, causing their brake lights to flash and alert drivers behind them. A similar approach can be beneficial in a small sportscar.

6. Defensive, Not Aggressive

There's a distinction between defensive driving and aggressive driving. Borrowing from the motorcyclist's playbook means always being alert and prepared but never taking undue risks that jeopardize safety.  I recently read an article from Aerostitch with more great tips and considerations that you may enjoy: HERE

The roads we traverse are shared spaces, and co-existing requires mutual respect and understanding. By adopting some of the tried and true tactics of motorcyclists, drivers of small sportscars can not only enjoy their drive but also ensure that each journey ends as safely as it began. Always remember, in the dance of road navigation, it's not just about the steps you know, but how you adapt to the rhythm of those around you. Safe travels!

Driving Forward: The Electrified Horizon of Sports Cars

 

As the automotive horizon of 2023 stretches ahead, we find ourselves not just on the precipice of technological evolution but a deeper, more symbolic transition. The amount of vitriol directed at Lotus EVs continues to baffle me considering they are being mandated in this direction.  The shift to Electric Vehicles (EVs) is far more than just a change of fuel source; it’s about reimagining the very soul of mobility. Many people associate the sound and feel of ICE as the soul of a sportscar.  Maybe this is the source of all that venom?  I created a video: HERE that makes a different argument.  The critical question that lingers is: can the electrification of our beloved sports cars capture their essence?  I say yes.  This article argues this point and discusses the upcoming Lotus EV sportscar - the Type 135.

concept Type 135 illustration credit: Car & Driver

Lotus's Electric Endeavour Lotus, historically celebrated for its dedication to lightness and simplicity, isn't just adapting but evolving. The Evija was created as an EV halo - though out of reach for most of us.  Their upcoming sportscar EV, the Type 135 (see above), aims to be a beacon of this new chapter, blending their cherished ethos with the promise of electric power and 'affordability'.   This rendering is essentially an Emira that has been tweaked to eliminate intakes.  I found this image in a C&D article: HERE  MotorAuthority also write a good article: HERE

LEVA

The Type 135 is slated for a 2025/2026 release and utilizing the new Lightweight Electric Vehicle Architecture (LEVA) platform (see image), the Type 135 promises to carry the legacy of its forebears like the Elise and Evora GT, albeit with an electric heartbeat.  I'm especially pleased with the weight distribtion of this LEVA chassis.  Our video discusess this in more detail: HERE

Broader Horizons: The Sports Car Realm

The Type 135 is just a single star in a vast galaxy of change. Like it or not, across brands and borders, the sports car realm is pulsating with electric energy. Traditionalists might argue that the purr of a gasoline engine is irreplaceable, but the whispering roar of an electric motor, with its instant torque and seamless acceleration, is crafting its own legacy on racetracks and winding roads alike.  Have you heard the sound of the Porsche Cayman EV race car?  Watch this fun video of it racing at the Race Of Champions: HERE

Behind the Scenes: The Evolution Continues With factories, like Lotus's iconic hub in Hethel and new Wuhan factory, gearing up for this electric future, it's evident that this isn't just a phase—it's the future. And as manufacturers delve deeper, the integration of performance with sustainability (this can be argued) is becoming clearer.  With the legislation that is in place in most countries, what choice do they have but move towards EV?  Porsche's eFuels may become a savior for fans of ICE.  They ran all their cars on this fuel at their recent Rennsport Reunion held at Laguna Seca.  This fuel holds potential.

911 GT3R - bad to the bone with the price tag to match!

Financial Frontiers & The Market Landscape As the EV market expands, pricing plays a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory. While Lotus's Type 135 starts at an estimated $80,000, placing it in competition with models like the Porsche 718 EV, the broader market offers a spectrum. The next decade promises a range that caters to both the elite and the everyday enthusiast.  VW have shown an EV GTi that looks great and should be more affordable.  The new e-Ray from Corvette portends their all electric Vette that certainly is in the works.  What better bang (pun intended) for the buck exists than the Corvette?  I expect Chevy's Vette team to deliver.  The first manufacturer to deliver a <$50k EV sportscar will likely gain many a client.  Though this may not seen for another 5-10years.

Concluding Thoughts The journey from gas pumps to charging stations isn't just about changing where we stop on long drives; it's about reimagining the journey itself. If I am honest, my favorite road trips were not 100% about the car I was driving.  They were/are journeys of experiences and the path is as important as the ride.  ICE will continue to power most of my foreseeable road trips but a time will come where an EV may be a viable option.

See you on the road and track, and remember: it's not about what powers the car, but the passion that drives it.

Oil & Filter Change Intervals?

So how often do I really need to change my oil and filter?  We attempt to shed some light on this subject in this blog post.

Oil is the lifeblood of an engine. As a vehicle operates, its engine oil accumulates contaminants ranging from metal shavings to dirt. The oil filter’s role is to capture and hold these impurities, ensuring the engine receives clean, optimal-performing lubrication. For this reason, regular replacement of the oil filter is crucial. In this report, we focus on the importance of oil filter change intervals for  the Lotus Elise & Exige equipped with the Toyota 2ZZGE engine.  But the principles apply to most cars - especially those with 4 bangers.

Why Regular Oil Filter Changes Are Crucial

1. Contaminant Capture: As the oil circulates, it picks up various contaminants. Over time, as the filter traps these impurities, it can become clogged, potentially allowing dirty oil to bypass it and circulate back into the engine.

2. Maintaining Oil Flow: A clogged filter can restrict oil flow. In engines like the 2ZZGE, which rely on oil for both lubrication and for actuating the variable valve timing system, compromised flow can significantly impact performance and lead to potential damage.

3. Engine Longevity: Regular filter changes help maintain engine health by ensuring that clean oil lubricates and cools the internal components. Dirty oil can lead to premature wear and potential engine failures.

Recommended Intervals 

While general advice for modern engines suggests changing the oil filter with every oil change (typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles), the specific requirements can vary based on driving conditions and style.

For the Lotus Elise & Exige, which often sees spirited driving or even track use, more frequent changes might be beneficial. Lotus, in its official documentation, generally recommends an oil and oil filter change every 7,500 miles or annually for regular driving conditions. See the following chart: HERE  

Factors Affecting Change Intervals

1. Driving Style: Engines subjected to hard driving, frequent short trips, or prolonged idling might benefit from shorter filter change intervals.

2. Oil Quality: High-quality synthetic oils, like Motul, often offer better protection and longer life than conventional oils, potentially allowing for longer intervals between changes. 

3. Environmental Conditions: Driving in dusty or dirty environments can lead to quicker filter clogging, necessitating more frequent changes.

For those driving in harsher conditions or using their car for performance-oriented drives frequently, a more conservative interval of 3,000 to 5,000 miles is often suggested by experts and enthusiasts.  If you are racing for the checkered flag, we would suggest an oil change after every other race weekend though we would leave the oil filter in place.  Why?  Keep reading....

The Intricacies of Oil Filter Operation: A Brief Overview

I spent time in the automotive filtration market as a media supplier to various OEM filter manufacturers.  During these years I learned a fair amount about how an oil filter actually works. 

An oil filter's primary role is to ensure clean oil circulates within an engine, safeguarding against premature wear and potential damage. At the heart of this mechanism is the filter media, often made from synthetic fibers or pleated paper, designed to trap and hold contaminants as oil passes through.  

As oil courses through the engine, it collects various impurities, from microscopic metal shavings to larger debris. The oil filter acts as a barrier, catching these contaminants in its media. Interestingly, a slightly dirty filter can, paradoxically, increase its filtration efficiency.   So a new filter will actually catch less than one that is slightly dirty.  Why does matter?  Keep reading...

As contaminants accumulate on the surface, they form a layer that can aid in trapping even smaller particles. This phenomenon is termed "filter cake." While this initially enhances the filter's effectiveness, there's a tipping point. Over time, as the filter becomes more clogged, it can restrict oil flow, which may lead to filter bypass valve opening, allowing unfiltered oil into the engine.

Since a normal oil change in these cars does not drain 100% of the oil (oil coolers and lines), some dirty oil will remain in the system.  I advocate leaving the oil filter in place for twice the interval that you choose to do for the oil.  Though I do recommend that the filter be changed at a max of 7,500 regardless.

Conclusion

While the general guideline for the Elise & Exige suggests an oil filter change every 7,500 miles, real-world conditions, especially spirited driving, might require more frequent changes. The filter can also be considered separately with intervals that are twice as long but a mazimum of 7,500.  Owners should always consult their vehicle's manual, consider their driving habits, and consult with specialists or trusted mechanics to determine the best maintenance schedule for their specific situation. 

Factory Bushes Will Walk!

The factory wishbone bushes have a tendency to wander out.  Our cars are driven in a spirited manner, usually, and this will expedite this issue.  We have seen this problem on street only cars along with track oriented cars.  This latest example is a street car with 38k miles on it.

Here is a factory bush moving out

This shows the damage to the wishbone after making contact with the subframe

This shows the subframe chassis damage

This is an easy problem to spot with our cars.  Remove your rear wheels and inspect where the wishbone attach to the subframe.  If you see the bush is moving out, then please consider addressing this ASAP.

We have three options: OEalt Bushes, MONOballs, and UNIballs.  Give us a call if you have any questions.