Lotus CEO Dany Bahar presented Toyota Motor Corporation President Akio Toyoda with the vehicle during a special ceremony held at the British Embassy in Tokyo. The two companies highlighted the fact that the event marked the start of an even stronger relationship between them.
The 2ZZ-GE engine was actually designed by Yamaha. It is a high-revving unit that uses variable valve timing and lift system that allows it to offer a high level of power in naturally aspirated form (it delivers between 160 and 180 hp). The unit also uses supercharging to deliver up to 250 hp.
"The presentation of Toyota's last 2ZZ engine in the Elise is a symbolic gesture of our continued respect and deep appreciation for our partner not only acknowledging our past but also looking forward to our future together,” Bahar said.
"A Toyota engine in a Lotus car creates a completely unique drive feeling – a special blend featuring the best of Lotus and Toyota that we hope many car lovers continue to experience and enjoy,” Toyoda responded.
The two companies also announced that their future intentions will be revealed at the upcoming Paris Auto Show.
autoevolution will be attending the 2010 Paris Auto Show, so stay tuned for some real up close and personal shots of the vehicles, as well as for first-hand details of the motorized contraptions presented at the event.
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