Lotus will unveil at the British Motor Show the Eco Elise technology demonstrator, a new project that project promotes a different perspective on “green”, one which does not revolve solely around tailpipe CO2.

The Eco Elise features sustainable materials, hemp, eco wool and sisal have been developed for body panels and trim and, combined with hi-tech water based paint solutions.

A green gear change display has been integrated into the dashboard to promote greener driving as well as a weight reduction programme, illustrating the holistic approach taken. The energy expended to manufacture the car has been evaluated, working to the 3R’s - Reduce, Re-use and Recycle.

The Eco Elise weighs 32 kg (70.5 lbs) less than the standard Elise S, which means that the efficient Elise S engine in the Eco Elise will give higher fuel economy figures and even better performance. No word yet as to whether this car will be imported into the US.