Lotus will open a new advanced technology centre and headquarters for its Lotus Engineering consultancy division, as part of a new partnership with The University of Warwick (WMG).

It will focus on the development of new low-carbon technologies to support the Government’s vision to de-carbonise the transport sector.

The centre is located at the University of Warwick’s Wellesbourne Campus and will initially house 130 engineers, complementing the 500-strong engineering team at the home of Lotus Cars in Hethel, Norfolk.

Matt Windle, executive director, engineering at Lotus Cars, said: “This is a big step forward for Lotus and our engineering consultancy.  The new space, facilities and job opportunities at Wellesbourne will be in great demand as we rapidly build our portfolio of external projects. 

“Our team and specialist skills have grown significantly in the last two years as renewed impetus has been put in to the business with new shareholders and management.  The all-electric Evija hypercar is the first new Lotus Cars product for us to deliver, with significant focus on this at Wellesbourne as we complete the project and continue to advance its technologies for our future programmes.”

The facility consists of offices, workshops and laboratory space with ample opportunity for expansion.

WMG, formerly Warwick Manufacturing Group, is recognised as an international leader in successful collaboration between academic research, teaching, training, and industry.

Margot James, executive chair of WMG, added: “The UK needs to retain R&D capability in our manufacturing sector, and at WMG we are working with partners on many R&D programmes which are focused on innovation and future growth towards net zero. We look forward to collaborating with Lotus on projects which seek to create a greener, more connected future”.

Lotus Engineering, which celebrates 40 years since its incorporation in 1980, works with customers all over the world.  Some of the more widely acknowledged Lotus Engineering programmes from the past include the Lotus Carlton, Tesla Roadster, multiple Formula 1 campaigns, and a host of products outside of the auto industry from Olympics track bikes to boats and light aircraft.  Today, Lotus Engineering’s specialisms include vehicle dynamics and advanced propulsion systems, encompassing lightweight structures, ride, handling and performance.

Lotus Group is in the early stages of its Vision 80 plan which aims to increase the breadth of its car range and raise sales volumes this decade, while retaining core DNA of being driver-focused.