The Italian based vehicle importer, UK Garage, has just transformed the Lotus Exige->ke525. The Lotus->ke49 which is now referred to as Extrema exchanges the four cylinder engine that came from the factory in favor of a larger displacement V8. The chassis was widened to fit twice as many cylinders and even wider rubber to handle the additional power. An interesting note is that the engine runs from north to south. The mechanics at UK Garage changed the set-up from a transversely mounted motor (almost all front wheel drives, NSX->ke307, Miura->ke378) to a longitudinal layout. There are several GM V8 options buyers can choose from, ranging from 420 HP LS3 all the way up to the 638 HP Supercharged LS9 found in the Corvette ZR-1.

The Lotus Extrema, in its most powerful form will be able to accelerate from 0-60 mph in only 2.9 seconds, reach 100 mph in 7 seconds and have a top speed of more than 200 mph. The Extrema weighs 970 kg with the V8 engine installed.

Further upgrades to the car include a Koni suspension package, 4-piston AP Racing brakes, a full roll cage, a video recording system and a fire suppression system. Pricing has not been confirmed at this time.

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