Four world-beaters are due to be heading to Brands Hatch this weekend for the annual Lotus Festival, which returns to Kent for 2012.
However despite the marque’s association with power and speed, one of its greatest triumphs was pedal-powered.
Hot on the heels of London 2012’s cycling gold rush, the bicycle that started the British revolution will be making a rare public appearance. 20 years ago Lotus lent their considerable expertise to create a bike that not only utilised exotic materials to form its aerodynamic shape, but forced the rider to adopt an equally slippery position. Chris Boardman’s Gold Medal at the 1992 Barcelona Games and subsequent stage success in the Tour De France on board the road version of Lotus’ design inspired a generation and this year’s domination in the velodrome, road and the Tour owes much to the marque. The bike appears just weeks before Brands Hatch stages Paralympic Road Cycling, which will feature former Lotus driver Alex Zanardi.
On more familiar territory, the Type 49 and 79 Formula 1 cars are not only a huge draw, but put the British company on top of the world. The 49 introduced the Ford Cosworth engine that went on to dominate the sport for 15 years as well as the design practice of bolting it to the chassis that continues to this day, as well as powering Graham Hill to the 1968 World Championship. Ten years later Mario Andretti benefitted from the 79 that pioneered aerodynamic ‘ground effect’ and engineers have been paying close attention to airflow in Grand Prix racing ever since. Both will be demonstrated on track alongside other Lotus F1 racers.
On the road, the Lotus Elan celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2012 and the diminutive roadster epitomised the swinging 60s. It’s popularity amongst a care-free generation was secured when it was featured in the cult TV series The Avengers, as the car of choice for Emma Peel. A huge collection of Elans, including a rare shooting brake conversion, will parade the circuit before a special race for the classic.
The Lotus Festival will also feature a packed programme of racing including the Lotus Cup UK and Elise Trophy. Trade stands, a presence from both Lotus Cars and Classic Team Lotus, plus rally demonstrations, air displays and live music will complement the largest gathering of Lotuses in Europe. Exact content is subject to change and the latest news can be found at www.lotus-festival.com
Tickets for the Lotus Festival at Brands Hatch are available in advance from £17 with free entry for children aged 12 and under. For more information call 0843 453 9000 or visit www.brandshatch.co.uk