Radford Type 62-2 completes track testing phase

Carbonfibre is emblazoned throughout and a 6.0in digital driver’s display screen is positioned behind the sports steering wheel. 

Screens at each end of the dashboard serve as wing mirrors, while handmade, customisable physical switches control the car’s major interior functions. The rear-view mirror has been replaced with a display and camera to compensate for the lack of a rear window. 

The Type 62-2 also gets a retro-style exposed gear linkage and a build plaque unique to each model, which doubles as a magnetic mobile phone dock and wireless phone charger. There's also a five-speaker sound system, Bluetooth functionality and wi-fi connectivity. Two bespoke Bremont timepieces are positioned in front of the passenger seat: one is a clock and the other a stopwatch for recording lap times.

Despite the Type 62-2's performance focus and race-inspired design, Radford claims it can accomodate luggage for two people, giving it touring potential. 

Radford design chief Mark Stubbs said: “With this interior, we still want it to be a Lotus Type 62-2, but with expert craftsmanship and using the finest materials available that don’t take anything away from a lightweight sports car driving experience.

“This interior expertly finds the fine line between luxury bespoke and high-quality craftsmanship but whilst still conveying the essence of an out-and-out sports car.

“Everything is driver-centric and built around that. It’s all about experiences, and the feeling the driver gets when getting in and out of the car is really important. You step into the car and slide into the interior, where the seat grips you and urges you to drive.”

Type 62-2 specification

The Type 62-2 remains faithful to the original 1960s racing Lotus, standing low at 1133mm tall, with wide wheel arches and side air intakes. Rear ducktail spoilers can be selected on some models and the interior has been described by the firm as "uncluttered".

Three specifications – Classic, John Player Special and Gold Leaf – will be available at launch, each inspired by a historic Lotus motorsport livery and driven by a Toyota-derived 3.5-litre supercharged V6, shared with Lotus's new Emira sports car, with a choice of either a six-speed manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The limited-run Type 62-2 features a mid-engined layout with ‘race-inspired’ underpinnings. The John Player Special specification will account for 12 of the 62 units being built. 

The basic Classic Type 62-2 produces 430bhp, with a claimed power-to-weight ratio of around 1:1. Gold Leaf models gain upgraded pistons, camshafts and electronic mapping, taking output to around 500bhp. In-depth performance figures for the models have yet to be revealed. 

The Gold Leaf version also gains design cues inspired by the race car’s livery and rear wings, which, on the original Type 62, were added by Lotus for additional downforce after track testing. It also has the option of a limited-slip differential when the dual-clutch transmission is selected, and advanced ABS and traction control.