Lotus Evora, EVO Car of the Year 2009

British carmaker Lotus announced today a double win for its vehicles after a competition hosted by British EVO Magazine. The Evora was named EVO Car of the Year 2009, while the 2-Eleven got the EVO Track Car of the Year 2009 title. The news comes as a breath of fresh air, as the British have already stated their goal of re-becoming Lamborghini, Ferrari, Porsche or Aston Martin contenders (brands which were beaten by Lotus in the EVO tests).

"I am delighted that the Evora took the title of “EVO Car of the Year 2009” and it is made even better that at the same time the 2-Eleven has won the Track Car of the Year competition," Luke Bennett, Lotus Cars director of operations said in a release.

"The Evora and 2-Eleven offer very different ownership propositions; however both have the same Lotus DNA and each reward the driver with a great Lotus driving experience.”

All the cars tested had to prove their worth on a 1,000 mile long route on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, during a three day event. For the track car of the year award, the cars were timed around the West Circuit, with the 2-Eleven scoring the highest in all aspects, despite reaching the finish line with the second best time.

The titles awarded to Lotus, although not as important in themselves, allow the manufacturer to begin changing the way the brand is being perceived. As the company's owner, Proton, said, "Lotus's potential is in the branding" a big thumbs up from EVO cannot hurt.