Obvio! picks Lotus to develop two trybrid microsports cars

‘Obvio! Automotoveiculos’, a Brazilian car manufacturer is in the process of creating two new sports-cars hand in hand with Lotus Engineering. The sports-cars will be trybrids – able to run three different kinds of fuel, including petrol, bio ethanol and natural gas, and possibly even electricity.

The sport-scars will be manufactured under the names 828 and 012, and Obvio!’s aim is to create extremely lightweight sports-cars – the 012 is expected to weigh just 750 kg, while the 828 will tip the scales at an almost Caterham-like 600kg. Of course, the lightweight design raises obvious safety concerns, especially as you’ll be sharing the roads with the likes of Hummers and Escalades. Because of this, Lotus will be developing advanced vehicle safety structure taking cues from aerospace technology. It is this aerospace technology that also allows the vehicles to be so incredibly light.

The engines are expected to come from Tritec Motors, a Brazilian firm. At first the cars will feature 1.6L engines planted in the middle of the car. Lotus will tinker with them so that they can handle the cars intended trybrid capabilities. Lotus will also be creating 170hp and 250hp versions for higher spec models.

While the styling is certainly interesting, its not that bad, and we have a feeling after driving it that it’ll grow on you. Inside, it will seat three adults, including the driver all in one single row. It will also feature scissor doors for making stylish entrances and exits.

We’re pretty excited about this car – it’s finally a step in the right direction for the whole chicken-egg problem that alternative fuels are facing with the lack of fueling stations. We’re also a big fan of microsports cars, that combine outstanding handling with great fuel economy. Watch out for this one.