The Emira is an important new model for Lotus. Not only is it the first new Lotus sports car in over a decade, but it's also the last combustion-powered Lotus car before the brand switches to electrification. With its sleek lines, powerful engine, and sharper handling, the Emira looks like the perfect send-off.

The road car debuted back in July at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and now Lotus has already revealed a new lightweight GT4 racing version of the Emira that will replace the successful Evora GT4, which has won races and championships at the British GT, Dubai 24hrs, Barcelona 24hrs, European GT, Sepang 12hrs and Pirelli World Challenge. Developed in collaboration with RML Group, the new Emira GT4 is being shown as a concept for now.

The final version will be shown off at the Hethel test track later this year, but we aren't expecting it to be drastically different from the concept. Compared to its road car sibling, the new Emira GT4 tips the scales at 2,777 pounds, making it 319 pounds lighter. This weight loss was achieved thanks to its lighter composite body and an optimized aerodynamics package that includes a larger rear spoiler.

These upgrades "deliver outstanding dynamics and high-speed stability." Other track-focused upgrades that improve the driving dynamics include adjustable Ohlins dampers and Alcon brakes. It also features a unique motorsport livery. Like the road car, the Emira GT4 is powered by a Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6 engine producing around 400 horsepower, which is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic and a limited-slip differential.

Unlike the GT4 racer, the road car can also be fitted with a six-speed manual. With less weight, the Emira GT4 should be quicker than its road car sibling, which accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds and maxes out at 180 mph.

"The all-new Emira GT4 is an exciting next step following the hugely successful launch of the Emira road car," said Richard Selwin, Lotus race program manager. "We have worked hard with the team at RML Group to ensure this next-generation of Lotus GT car will deliver race-winning performance."

Lotus will build a limited number of Emira GT4 race cars for the 2022 season and will increase production for 2023 depending on the demand.