ProActive Newsletter

[F1 LOTUS]

Driving Dynamics



Welcome to the eighteenth issue of proActive. In this issue, we take a look at the future of driving dynamics. It is a complex picture since advancements in both technology and motoring will have a big effect. New vehicle, chassis and safety technologies all influence the behaviour of vehicles. Alternative powertrains – hybrids, electric – all pose new challenges. Future driving conditions – much greater congestion, greater restrictions on speed and so on – inevitably affect how we use our cars. The goal is still to create a pleasurable driving experience.

After discussing some of these issues facing the industry, we also take a look at just a few areas of technology and research on which Lotus Engineering is working in driving dynamics.

To ensure that Lotus and the industry can keep advancing its technology and techniques, the industry needs the people to do it. A continued flow of new engineers, with the necessary training and understanding of vehicle dynamics is important. Lotus has successfully teamed up with Kingston University to help develop these engineers for the future. Paul Brandon of Kingston explains this collaboration.

Driving dynamics and driving pleasure have an important role in consumer purchasing decisions but there are many other important factors. In the current climate, green issues and environmental impact are playing an increasingly prominent part. Interchange looks at the changing impact of these on buying habits.

We hope you enjoy this edition of proActive. If you have any views on this or a related issue please email me at proActive@lotuscars.co.uk.

You can download your own copy of proActive Issue 18 from here :

http://www.just-auto.com/proactive-s3fg4.asp