Lotus USA now offering supercharger kits for standard Elise, Exige

The power-to-lightness ratio of the naturally-aspirated Lotus Elise and Exige models has never been found lacking, being some of the most competent street/track cars available today. But for those that would like a little more grunt with their grace, Lotus Cars USA is now offering the same kit available on the Lotus Elise SC as a standalone upgrade for existing Elise and Exige owners.

The kit uses the same supercharger and integrated intake manifold as the production Elise SC, and can be installed on any Elise or Exige with the Toyota 2ZZ-GE engine. Power output is increased from the standard 189hp to 218hp when the kit is applied in conjunction with new high-flow fuel injectors and a reprogrammed ECU.

Fitting the extra power bits into the Elise's already tight mid-engine bay is no doubt a feat of engineering, so the availability of the factory-engineered piece will be a welcome addition to many Lotus-filled garages.

More than just raw power, however, the upgrade lifts torque output to 155lb-ft and moves the torque peak down to a much more available and enjoyable 5,000rpm from the 6,800rpm naturally-aspirated peak. That will give the Elise and Exige much more stoplight potential as well as better part-throttle response in real-world driving conditions.

“Lotus Elise and Exige owners are genuine driving enthusiasts and that’s what has attracted them to Lotus cars in the first place,” said Lotus Cars USA Director of Operations Arnie Johnson. “They will fully appreciate the dramatically enhanced driving character these Lotus Supercharger Kits will bring their vehicles and the peace of mind from a fully warranted, factory engineered kit.”

Pricing hasn't been released yet, but the kit is available for purchase and installation at all U.S. and Canadian authorized Lotus dealers.