Sports car hire enthusiasts with a passion for the environment may be interested in news that preliminary figures released for the new Lotus Elise show that it has the lowest CO2 emissions for a petrol-based sports car.

Set to be unveiled to the world at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, the Elise has incorporated an array of changes to its engine and exterior framework.

Among the design modifications are a new rear bumper and engine cover, redesigned headlights and improved aerodynamics, which result in better fuel economy.

Meanwhile, Lotus says that the innovative 1ZR-FAE 1.6-litre engine will boast less than 155 g/km CO2 emissions and return 46mpg on a combined cycle.

Andreas Prillmann, chief commercial officer for Lotus Cars, said: "The 2011 model year Elise is greener, purer and more desirable, making it even more relevant to today's marketplace.

"The new Elise underlines Lotus' reputation as one of the most innovative sports car manufacturers in the world."

Originally, the first Elise was introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1996.

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Posted by Lucy Jones