Lotus has announced that its 2008 lineup will includes two new models; the Supercharged Elise SC and the Performance Package Exige S — similar to the Exige Sport 240 shown at the Sydney Motor Show. In addition, Lotus also revealed that the company is developing a 2+2 mid-range sports car — as earlier rumored — as well as a high-performance supercar to fill the void left by the Esprit.

Lotus failed to mention any details about its upcoming 2+2 or supercar — including a time frame for production — but did reveal details about its two new models for 2008.

Supercharged Elise SC

The Supercharged Elise SC model adds a supercharger to the already capable Elise and can be identified by its new rear spoiler and unique new design of alloy road wheels. While similar to the current Exige S’ setup, the Elise SC actually uses a smaller Eaton rotor pack than the induction system on the Exige S and is married to the intake manifold plenum as part of a single-piece casting. The Elise SC also forgoes the Exige S’ intercooler, resulting in an 8 kg (17.6 lb) reduction in engine weight.

The result of the supercharging the Elise’s 1.8L engine is 220 horsepower, capable of launching the 1,987 pound Elise SC from 0-60 in just 4.4 seconds. Lotus claims a top speed of 150 mph and, despite its added performance, the Elise SC is said to return an impressive 31 mpg.

Performance Pack Exige S

Also new for 2008 is the Lotus Performance Pack Exige S. The Performance Pack brings the Exige S’ output to 240 horsepower and 170 ft-lb of torque. Power has been increased across the rev range, resulting in a 0-60 time of 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 153 mph. Even with its additional horsepower, Lotus claims the Performance Pack Exige S achieves 31 mpg.

The Performance Pack also adds several other high-performance goodies. To help rein in all that extra power, Lotus upgraded the Exige S’ standard brakes. The Performance Pack Exige S’ branking system includes cross-drilled and vented discs, front AP Racing four-piston calipers and sport brake pads.

The Performance Pack also includes launch control combined with variable traction control — a technology derived from the Exige GT3 racing program. The launch control system allows you to determine the number of revs you wish to use during a standing start. Having programmed that limit, you then hold your foot down hard on the throttle and sidestep the clutch at departure from the line time. The Performance Pack’s added clutch damper helps reduce the stress put on the drivetrain. The system keeps wheel spin under control through 6 mph, after which the traction control system takes over.

2008 option packages

For 2008, Lotus has reduced the number of option packages from four to two. The reduction was partly due to customer demand and the fact that airbags are now standard across the Elise and Exige ranges. The Super Touring and Super Sport packages have been dropped from the Lotus lineup. All 2008 models will feature a revised instrument pack with new graphic design and increased functionality, including a high-definition LCD message panel that can display a scrolling text message with vehicle systems information.

The contents of the revised Touring pack, for both Elise and Exige, now includes:

•Full leather or Microfibre suede-effect interior
•Leather trimmed center console
•Leather handbrake gaiter
•Sound system iPod connection
•Full carpets, with embroidered logo
•Auxiliary driving lights (where legally allowed)
•Sound insulation kit
•Cup holder

•Bilstein sports dampers
•Traction control
•Twin oil coolers
•ProBax Sport seats
•Hi-Power silver ultra lightweight Forged wheels with standard AD07 tires

•Traction control
•Twin oil coolers (standard on Exige S)
•ProBax Sport seats
•Adjustable front anti-roll bar
•T45 roll bar, with integrated harness mounts