Introducing the First Ever Lotus Exige – Restored to its Original Glory in Chrome Orange
At Dragontek, we take immense pride in restoring exceptional vehicles, and this one is nothing short of legendary. We’re thrilled to present Lotus Exige Chassis #0001 – the very first Exige ever built – now resplendent in its iconic Chrome Orange, fully restored to its original condition.
At Dragontek, we take immense pride in restoring exceptional vehicles, and this one is nothing short of legendary. We’re thrilled to present Lotus Exige Chassis #0001 – the very first Exige ever built – now resplendent in its iconic Chrome Orange, fully restored to its original condition.
The Lotus Exige holds a unique place in motoring history. Launched in 2000, it was Lotus's answer to the growing track day scene – a focused, high-performance coupé that offered the lightweight construction and sheer exhilaration Lotus was famed for, but with a fixed roof. At a time when the Elise was just reaching Sport 160 power, the Exige pushed boundaries with its potent 180hp engine and lightweight 780kg chassis. It quickly became the go-to car for those seeking immersive track-day thrills without sacrificing comfort on the drive home.
Although not as commercially significant as the Elise, the Exige has carved out its own legacy. The S1 version, like this one, was produced in very limited numbers, with fewer than 600 ever built between 2000 and 2001. The Exige was designed for purists, offering a raw, undiluted driving experience that few cars can match. Over the years, the model has evolved, gaining power and size, but the original Exige remains a true classic, highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
This particular car, chassis #0001, is where the Exige story begins. Originally a Lotus press car, it was featured in top motoring publications like Autocar and evo, making it one of the most recognisable examples of this iconic model. However, when it arrived at our workshop, it had undergone previous repairs, and its colour had been changed to a different shade of orange.
To restore this rare car to its full, original glory, we carefully sourced the exact Chrome Orange paint used when it first left the factory, ensuring the vehicle would be returned to its authentic appearance. Our team undertook meticulous preparation, readying the car for a complete respray that honoured its historical significance while preserving its stunning design. The result is a beautifully restored masterpiece that remains true to the spirit of the very first Exige.
With its lightweight chassis, razor-sharp handling, and fixed roof, the Exige was designed to be an uncompromising driving machine. While the Elise captured hearts with its open-top fun, the Exige brought something different to the table – a more focused, hardcore approach to driving. Whether you’re navigating tight corners on the track or simply admiring its classic lines, this car delivers an experience that is second to none.
The Exige’s rarity and motorsport-inspired design have helped it to quickly attain classic status. Chassis #0001 represents a unique piece of Lotus history – the car that paved the way for a new generation of track-ready sports cars. To own such a vehicle is to own a piece of motoring heritage, and thanks to our careful restoration work, it has been lovingly returned to the exact specification it had when it made its debut over two decades ago.
This is more than just a car – it’s a living piece of Lotus history, restored with the care and precision it deserves, ready to be admired and enjoyed for many years to come.
