The first shipment of Lotus cars designed to cope with Middle Eastern conditions has left Norfolk for Saudi Arabia under a new deal. After two years of testing the impact on the Exige and Elise of intense heat and humidity in the Gulf, Lotus has signed a deal with Saudi firm Al Ghassan Motors to sell modified models in the region. Group Lotus chief executive Mike Kimberley described the move as “the first step in our plans to promote the Lotus brand in the Middle East region”. The Lotus Evora, launched in the UK last year, will be available in Saudi Arabia early next year. But a fleet of race specification Exige Cup 260 cars is also being built at Hethel for an all-Lotus racing series at the Reem Circuit, west of Riyadh. “We have spent two summers in the Gulf region testing the Elise and Exige in this very hot, humid and dusty environment,” Mr Kimberley said. “I am very pleased with the package of region specific changes which include an up-rated radiator, enhanced heat management package, heat reflective windscreen, dust filtration for the cockpit ventilation system and an optional auxiliary air-conditioning unit. These changes add very little weight to the Elise and Exige so drivers will still be able to experience the renowned Lotus driving experience.” Al Ghassan Lotus is based in Jeddah and will have dealerships and service facilities in the city, Riyadh and Al Khobar.
