Adding to the Lotus Evora 400 and Evora Sport 410 models, the new Evora GT430 range now includes two body options and a choice of manual or automatic transmissions. Joining the recently announced Evora GT430 is the Evora GT430 Sport. Both models are powered by the same 3.5-litre V6 supercharged and charge cooled engine, producing 430 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque or 332 lb-ft with the automatic transmission.

The Evora GT430 Sport does not have the same aerodynamic elements at the GT430 and weighs 10kg less bringing the power-to-weight ratio to 345 hp/ton and a top speed of 315 km/h (196 mph) making it the fastest Lotus production car ever. The Evora GT430 is differentiated from the Evora GT430 Sport through the inclusion of motorsport derived aerodynamics provided by a carbon fibre splitter, a large, profiled carbon wing and louvers on top of each front wheel arch which reduce pressure within the front wheel arches together with wider wheels and tires.

An automatic transmission will be available for both the Evora GT430 body configurations starting in 2018. With more torque, the automatic version is even quicker, with a 0-60 mph (96.5 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds. The six-speed automatic transmission utilises an optimised gearbox ECU for ultra-fast changes. Gear selection is made via lightweight aluminium paddles mounted to the steering wheel.

“The Evora GT430 already has cemented its place as a true collector’s car, but we know that many of our customers want the option of choosing a less aggressive version, with the same power, but without some of more arresting design and aero elements,” said Jean-Marc Gales, CEO, Group Lotus plc. “With the Evora GT430 Sport, we have responded to this demand to add to the whole range of thoroughbred Lotus cars that are great on the track as well as supremely capable on the road.”

The new Evora GT430 Sport makes full use of carbon fibre to help hit its low kerb weight. This means that standard components include full carbon front and rear bumpers, front access panel, roof panel, rear quarter panels as well as a one-piece louvered tailgate with integrated spoiler. The whole of the Evora GT430 range also benefits from advanced aerodynamics, including two enlarged carbon fibre front ducts, with integrated air blades, to efficiently move air though to the front wheel cavities and reduce turbulence created by the wheels.

The Evora GT430 Sport generates up to 100 kg of downforce at 315 km/h (196 mph), 56% more downforce than the Evora Sport 410. The Evora GT430 generates up to 250 kg of downforce at 306 km/h (190 mph).

“This is a car that epitomises a purity of engineering that many car manufacturers fail to match,” Jean-Marc Gales continued. “Lotus founder, Colin Chapman not only pursued lightweight design, and pioneered the use carbon fibre in F1, but he also led the way in the field of aerodynamics in road and race cars. The Evora GT430 range continues this legacy, combining our expertise in highly efficient engineering and aerodynamics with more power and torque to provide one of the most rounded and rewarding driving experiences on the road or track.”

Once inside, the use of visible-weave, carbon composite components continues. These include Lotus’ beautifully detailed carbon race seats, new carbon door sills and a new lightweight carbon instrument binnacle cover with a new design of graphic on the instrument panel. The steering wheel, dashboard, door panels, transmission tunnel and centre console are all trimmed in a combination of black Alcantara® and perforated leather, complemented by contrast twin colour stitching, in red and white, and matt black interior panels.

No word yet on whether or not the GT430 will be available in Canada. The Lotus Evora 400 has a list price of $145,000 Canadian, plus fees and taxes.