Innovations from Lotus have helped shape F1 as we know it – the monocoque chassis, ground-effect aerodynamics and car sponsorship were all pioneered and popularised by the Norfolk-based manufacturer. Celebrating its heritage, Lotus has introduced the Emira Limited, a series of five special liveries, all based on the four-cylinder model.

Unlike the recently announced Turbo SE, the Emira Limited retains the 360bhp and 317lb-ft (430Nm) output of the standard car. Each one will be limited to just 12 units – the number adorning Ayrton Senna’s car whilst racing for Lotus.

Moving chronologically, the Type 25 is the first source of inspiration, with its green and yellow livery being applied to the Emira. A large central stripe runs from bumper to bumper, with yellow pinstriping accentuating the window and character lines. Continuing the theme, yellow contrast stitching appears within the Alcantara-clad cabin. The Team Lotus wordmark appears behind the front wheel arches, just as it did on the car which introduced the monocoque chassis to F1. At the hands of Jim Clark, the Type 25 won the 1963 Constructors and Drivers World Championships, with the car securing 14 wins and 18 podiums from 1962 – 1965.

Lotus’ Type 78 started the ground effect revolution in F1, with aerodynamic elements contained in the sidepods that provided maximum downforce while reducing drag. It would score seven wins and eleven podiums, and the second Emira Limited model is painted in dark Shadow Grey with gold striping and detailing.

Just like Mario Andretti’s Type 78, the Emira carries the number 5 with a half Union Jack on each side. The brake callipers, front and rear splitters are painted red, while the wheels and LOTUS wordmark are finished in gold.

The ground effect concept evolved with the Type 86, which used a “twin-chassis” design. The prototype racer supported the engine, gearbox, tub and suspension, while the other played host to the aerodynamic and cooling elements.

The style of the blue, red and silver machine is replicated on the Emira, which features bright silver accents on the splitters, and the number 11 on the wheel arch. The bicolour side stripe sees the LOTUS wordmark in blue with a red S, channelling team sponsor Essex.

A Lotus looks just right in black and gold, doesn’t it? The John Player Special livery became synonymous with the F1 team and their successes throughout the 1970s and 80s, with it now making its way to the Emira.

The turbocharged 97T was driven by Ayrton Senna in 1985, with his first F1 win coming at a rain-soaked Monaco Grand Prix. Dark Shadow Grey paint with gold window surrounds, gold 20” wheels and Senna’s number 12 complete the style.

Finally, the Lotus 99T with its unmistakable yellow and blue Camel-sponsored livery is honoured by the Emira Limited. The 99T was the first F1 car with active suspension to take a Grand Prix win. Senna won with the Honda-powered car in Monaco and Detroit, with him and the team securing third in the standings in the 1987 season.

The yellow Emira gains blue detailing for the front and side air intakes, along with the air outlets at the extremities of the bumper. Senna’s number 12 sits by the front wheels, and the LOTUS wordmark with a silver outline sits on the rear spoiler.

In addition to the five F1-inspired liveries, each car gains a commemorative “Emira Limited 1/12” badge on the dashboard and on the B-pillar. Black logos also feature on the nose and wheel centre caps. The special editions preview the customisations that will be available in the Lotus Chapman Bespoke programme that launches in Europe in 2025. Having already launched in China, the service offers an expanded colour palette and personalised details, limited edition designs, or the option of making a one-off model. From next year, the Emira, Emeya and Eletre will benefit from the customisation service.

The Emira Limited is a tasteful example of how to add classic motorsport themes to a modern road car, nicely paying homage to the cars that shaped the trajectory of both Lotus and F1. The five special models are available to order now in 12 European markets, but this is where the bad news lies: the UK isn’t one of them.