![\"311a[1]\"](\"http:\/\/www.lotusregister.co.za\/wp-content\/uploads\/2015\/07\/311a1-300x182.jpg\")
Lotus has finally unveiled the 3-Eleven at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. To be made available in both road-legal and track-only models, it will be the Hethel-based firm\u2019s fastest and most expensive vehicle ever.Both versions boast a bonded and riveted aluminium monocoque with roll cage for the road going model and additionial safety bars for the racecar. Body panels consist of a new composite material that, according to Lotus, is 40 % lighter than fibreglass. The track-only model weighs in at less than 900 kg. The 3-Eleven is also equipped with lightweight alloy wheels that measure 18-inches up front and 19-inches on the rear axle \u2013 they\u2019re wrapped in 225\/40 R18 and 275\/35 R19 rubber respectively.\nThe 3-Eleven employs the familiar supercharged 3,5-litre V6 that also does service in the range-topping Evora \u2013 but has been further tweaked to develop 336 kW at 7 000 r\/min and 450 N.m of torque at 3 500 r\/min. Drive is sent to the rear axle via a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox and through a Torsen limited-slip differential (the track model will get a six-speed sequential transmission).
\nLotus says the 3-Eleven will complete the 0-96 km\/h sprint in less than 3 seconds and hit a top speed of 290 km\/h \u2013 while track models will be restricted to 280 km\/h. The anchors are applied by a Lotus tunes Bosche anti-lock brake system and AP Racing four-pot calipers.
\nOnly 311 units will be made, with production starting in February next year. Pricing will start around the R1 million mark.<\/p>\n