Radford confirmed that his first sports car would be a mid-engined coupe directly inspired by the Type 62 racing car developed by Lotus in the 1960s, with the model name signifying the model’s total stroke. Developed by a three-man team with Jenson Button, the 2021 car – nicknamed Project 62 for now – will be a two-seater “with luxurious appointments worthy of a high-end bespoke coachmaker”, as well as a sporty behavior ensured by a partnership with Lotus Engineering, which will see the British firm co-develop the foundations.

As previously reported, Button, the 2009 F1 champion, will be responsible for deciding the final car setup, with mechanic Ant Anstead and designer Mark Stubbs contributing engineering and styling, respectively. Now, however, the influence of the original Lotus Type 62 is clear, as evidenced by photos of Button driving the motorsport-derived ’60s model to learn more about his character and abilities – and make sure. that they are reflected in the new 21, much more sumptuous.^st model of the century. The design of which, just to confirm, has yet to be revealed. The photos here are of the original Lotus.

You would be forgiven if you weren’t familiar with the history of the Type 62 as it was quite short, with the model born as a test bed for Lotus’s 2.0-liter four-cylinder 907 engine in the late sixties. Only two prototypes were made, using a Spaceframe chassis design and F1-derived suspension, with the 240-horsepower mid-engine powering the rear wheels. Lotus actually entered one of the competing prototypes and it won in class in its first event, the 1969 BOAC 500, which was held at Brands Hatch and featured Porsche 908s and Ford GTs leading the way. platoon.

“For me, one of Radford’s main goals is to celebrate iconic automotive moments by bringing them to life for a new, modern audience. Our first car, Project 62, perfectly embodies this philosophy, ”said Button. “With the dynamic development of our car already well underway, we are working hard to make sure we do this car justice, and I look forward to putting it to the test on the Radford track before inviting the owners of the project 62 today to come do. the same.”

Radford’s business case is to make low-circulation luxury commissions “true to timeless designs”, with the Type 62-inspired model being its first offering. There is no doubt that it was Button’s involvement and the promise of Lotus’ manipulation that sparked the initial interest in construction locations – according to the company itself – although no awards were made. has yet been revealed. And we have little guidance on what the car looks like when not featured as a teaser image.

Gas-powered horsepower seems almost inevitable (though not guaranteed) given the promise of raw driving performance and lip service to its inspiration. One thing is for sure, with an engine in the right location and Lotus Engineering pulling the levers, the car will likely deliver in the chassis department. And in 25-year-old Elise’s final year, we certainly won’t regret another example of her work.