Lotus Type 66 track car makes debut at The Quail

The Type 66 was launched in Lotus’ 75th anniversary year, bringing the best elements of its heritage to life

Lotus has brought history back to life with the world premiere of the Type 66. A stunning track-only car that will go into production. The Type 66 is a new, ultra-exclusive low-volume car from Lotus that brings to life a “lost Lotus” drawing board programme. From the brand’s world-renowned motorsport heritage, combining it with today’s state-of-the-art racing technology and components.

The Type 66 has been launched in Lotus’ 75th anniversary year. A testament to the brand’s desire to reimagine the best elements of its heritage. Updating them in the most exhilarating way possible.

Originally designed in the late Sixties by Lotus draughtsman Geoff Ferris, the Type 66 project. A possible competitor in the Can-Am race series – never went beyond technical drawings and scale models. In a fitting tribute to the brand’s illustrious racing pedigree and heritage. Lotus has proudly fulfilled the original vision 53 years after the designer first put pen to paper.

Only 10 examples of this “rediscovered and reimagined” Lotus V8 will be built. It’s a total selected to commemorate the number of races the Type 66 would have competed in during the 1970 season.

Here are some of the key features of the Lotus Type 66:

A mid-mounted V8 push-rod engine tuned by Lotus to produce more than 850bhp at 8,800rpm
A lightweight carbon fiber bodyshell
Advanced aerodynamics with downforce in excess of 800kg at 150mph
A state-of-the-art driver-in-the-loop simulator to test the car’s performance on real-world circuits
A host of modern safety features, including an EPASS motorsport power steering column, a sequential racing gearbox with reverse, a race ABS braking system, an anti-stall multi-plate clutch, and a fixed rollover bar

The car made its public debut in a heritage-inspired livery. Reflecting the red, white, and gold colors Lotus raced in during the early Seventies. Founder Colin Chapman pioneered the idea of commercial sponsorship in motorsport.

The Type 66 is the most exclusive project Lotus has ever undertaken. And each example will cost in excess of £1million.

The Lotus Type 66 is a truly unique and exciting car that is sure to be a hit with collectors and racing enthusiasts alike. It is a testament to Lotus’ commitment to its heritage. And its ability to create world-class racing cars that are both elegant and technologically advanced.

The Type 66 will be available to order from Lotus dealerships in early 2024.

To learn more about the Lotus Type 66, please visit the Lotus website.