The big news from Lotus this week is the announcement of an all-new model in the pipeline. But its next newest model is sticking around, at least for the time being. In fact the British sports-car manufacturer, now owned (in part) by Chinese automaker Geely, has just revealed a concept version of the Evora at the Shanghai show.

Called the Evora GT4 Concept, the show car is based on the road-going Evora we already know, but amped up for the track to replace the existing GT4 racer that has already won races and championships in competitive series around the world.

Closely based on the road-going Evora GT430, the GT4 Concept adopts (among other upgrades) a carbon-composite body to help keep its curb weight down to 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs). The aerodynamic package is further enhanced to provide more downforce, better balance, and improved cooling. And the interior's been stripped out and fitted with an eight-point roll cage, HANS-compatible racing bucket with six-point harnesses, electrical kill-switch, and on-board fire extinguisher.

"Lotus as a brand was born from the thrill of competition," noted CEO Phil Popham, " and the Evora GT4 Concept will continue that legacy while opening up a new chapter in our racing experience."

"All of our cars retain motorsport within their DNA, and almost every road car in the company's history has raced successfully at some point. "

Lifted straight out of the GT430, the 3.5-liter supercharged V6 produces 450 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. But it's mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox with AP Racing clutch, Torsen limited-slip differential, semi-dry sump, and competition exhaust. The instruments are also track-specific, with a six-inch TFT color screen. With a power-to-weight ratio of 375 hp per metric ton, it's capable of reaching 170 mph on a long straight, with development ongoing at the Hethel test track.