GT racing is enjoying a surge in popularity at the moment. Several car makers are producing custom machinery to compete in GT-based categories around the world. Lotus, of course, is no stranger to racing and the UK-based firm has just finalised the Emira GT4 for delivery to customers. 

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The Emira GT4 has been homologated for competition use in global GT4 classes. The new Lotus racer will compete against the likes of the BMW M4 GT4, the Mercedes-AMG GT4 and the Toyota Supra GT4.

It is also eligible for other non-homologated and specialist race series around the world thanks to a comprehensive options list. The price, converted to local currency, is R4,2m using today’s exchange rate.

Uprated

The Emira GT4 is based on the company’s latest sportscar, the Emira, but features all the necessary upgrades to go racing. The changes include a power increase to the 3,5-litre supercharged engine. The power peak is now 340 kW along with 500 N.m of torque. An all-new six-speed paddleshift sequential racing gearbox sends power to the rear wheels through an LSD. Incidentally, the Emira GT4 is fitted with forged aluminium rims.

The car rides on double wishbone suspension front and rear. Two-way adjustable Ohlins dampers are fitted standard. It has a 96 litre, FIA-spec fuel cell and all up weighs 1 360 kg. 

In His Own Words

Gavan Kershaw, director of vehicle attributes, Lotus, and a former British GT Championship winner has been heavily involved in the development of the Emira GT4 from day one. 

He commented: “The Emira road car was such an excellent starting point for a GT4, and we’ve now further refined and tuned the package with the team at RML to create what we believe is a highly competitive and performance-oriented race car. We know our customers are keen to get behind the wheel and we’re looking forward to seeing their results.”