VIDEO – The Humiliating Crash of a Lotus at Goodwood

Mastering a 2,000-horsepower monster is not for every right foot. An illustration in true Lotus style.

The Lotus Evija X was supposed to be the highlight of a week of dreams at Goodwood for the Sino-British manufacturer. It ultimately turned out to be a nail on the pillory…

The Lotus Evija X, a demonic fully electric prototype, crashed straight into the only barrier protected by hay bales just a few meters after its departure in a cloud of burnt rubber. This unique piece, based on Lotus’s electric hypercar Evija, develops nearly 2,000 horsepower, is equipped with slick tires, and has enough downforce to withstand over 3G in a corner. But unfortunately, at low speed, this aerodynamic downforce is completely ineffective. Similarly, during a burnout, any difference in grip between the right and left wheels leads to an immediate fatal crabwalk. The infamous wheel hop well-known to drag racers. On track, a failed performance results in a trip through the gravel trap, but at Goodwood, it ended in a fatal embrace with the hay bales placed on either side of the super-narrow track.

In a cloud of shredded hay and carbon fiber, the beautiful Lotus came to a stop under the astonished gaze of the track marshals who took a while to react. One doesn’t often witness 2.5 million euros ruthlessly crushed up close!

Lotus hit in the wallet and… in self-esteem!

It’s probably embarrassing for the unfortunate driver who had to face the wrath of his bosses, but their identity may remain secret. As the car was only entered for demonstration and not for a “Time Attack,” the manufacturer is not required to disclose their identity. We only know that the Evija X was driven on the Nordschleife of the Nürburgring by German veteran Dirk Müller, who helped develop a large part of it. It’s therefore possible that he was on board during the accident.

There are better ways to enter the history of the Festival of Speed…

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