Lotus has announced the introduction of the Exige S Automatic, a new model equipped with a six-speed auto with paddle shifters.
Lotus says the new automatic transmission combines the involvement of a manual paddle-shift with the convenience of an automatic, and says the transmission has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the Exige.
The gear shifts are said to be smooth and intuitive, and have been calibrated to reflect the dynamic system changes that are activated when the driver selects either Sport or Race mode.
Scheduled to go on sale in January 2015, the new Exige S Automatic is currently undergoing its final stages of testing. Lotus says the automatic model is expected to exceed the manual variant in terms of performance. The Exige S with automatic transmission has proven to be as fast as its manual counterpart around the Hethel test track and 0.1 seconds quicker to 100 km/h (62 mph) than the Exige S manual, covering the sprint in 3.9 seconds.
“By introducing a paddle-shift, we have expanded the Exige product range to make it more accessible to customers worldwide. Now, customers who are more accustomed to two pedals and automatic transmissions can enjoy the unbelievable performance and handling of the Exige S without compromise,” said Jean-Marc Gales, Chief Executive Officer, Group Lotus.
The automatic transmission will be offered as an optional extra to the Exige S and Exige S Roadster models in all markets where the Exige is currently on sale. The Exige S Automatic will cost an extra £2,000 including VAT in the UK and €2,185 in Europe, excluding local taxes.
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