Lotus has launched a new special edition of its Emira sports car to honour one of Formula 1's most iconic figures, Jim Clark. The Emira Jim Clark Edition celebrates the two-time world champion's remarkable achievements and longstanding association with the British automaker. The edition combines design elements drawn from Clark’s era with the modern engineering and dynamics that define the Emira range.
Jim Clark remains one of the most respected figures in Formula 1 history, having secured 25 Grand Prix victories and two world titles during his career in the 1960s. His success behind the wheel of Lotus cars earned him legendary status, and his partnership with Lotus founder Colin Chapman defined an era of motorsport innovation and dominance. The new Emira variant pays tribute to this legacy in both appearance and spirit.
Design Inspired by History
The Emira Jim Clark Edition is visually distinguished by its paintwork, which replicates the colours of Clark’s Lotus Type 25 race car — a vibrant red body with gold accents and detailing. This striking combination reflects the livery of Team Lotus cars that achieved success across circuits worldwide. A numbered plaque and Jim Clark’s signature stitched into the headrests further underscore the exclusivity of this model.
The car also features black forged wheels, gold brake calipers, and additional exterior badging that identifies it as part of the tribute series. Lotus has stated that this edition will be produced in limited numbers, making it highly desirable among collectors and enthusiasts of classic motorsport.
Performance and Specifications
The Emira Jim Clark Edition is based on the Emira V6 First Edition platform, powered by a supercharged 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 400 horsepower. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, offering a balance between performance and driver engagement. With a 0–100 km/h time of around 4.3 seconds, the car matches its aesthetic legacy with genuine on-road capabilities.
The suspension and chassis have been tuned for a dynamic yet comfortable ride, embodying the spirit of Lotus performance engineering. Advanced aerodynamics and lightweight construction ensure agility, making the Emira not only a tribute in form but in function.
Commemorating Jim Clark
The launch of the Emira Jim Clark Edition coincides with the 100th anniversary celebrations of Lotus’ Hethel facility, reinforcing the brand’s historical depth and racing pedigree. Lotus also plans to host special events and exhibitions celebrating Jim Clark’s contributions to the brand and motorsport at large.
Mike Johnstone, Group Vice President of Lotus, noted, “Jim Clark is an inseparable part of Lotus' identity. This edition is a way of acknowledging his enduring legacy and the impact he had not just on Lotus, but on racing globally.”
This launch underscores Lotus’ commitment to blending its storied past with modern design and performance. The Emira Jim Clark Edition stands as a fitting tribute to a driver whose name remains synonymous with racing excellence.
