Daniel Craig takes delivery of Lotus Evora 400 at Hethel
James Bond actor Daniel Craig collected his left-hand drive Lotus Evora 400 directly from the manufacturer’s Norfolk headquarters, ahead of the model’s official UK deliveries.
Daniel Craig, the British actor best known for his portrayal of James Bond, visited the Lotus headquarters in Hethel, Norfolk, to collect a new left-hand drive Evora 400. This visit took place while Craig was on a break from filming the Bond film SPECTRE. Although the Evora 400 was not due to begin UK deliveries until August 2015, Lotus granted Craig early access to the car, delivering it on 1 April 2015. This early handover was an exception, highlighting Craig's status as a high-profile customer.
Daniel Craig's Early Delivery of the Lotus Evora 400
The Lotus Evora 400: Specifications and Performance
The Lotus Evora 400 was officially introduced to the public at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. At launch, it was the most powerful production car ever made by Lotus. The car features a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, producing 400hp (298kW) and 410Nm of torque. This power is delivered to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, with an optional six-speed automatic available. The Evora 400 accelerates from 0 to 62mph (100km/h) in just 4.2 seconds and has a top speed of 186mph (300km/h).
| Engine | 3.5-litre supercharged V6 |
|---|---|
| Power | 400hp (298kW) |
| Torque | 410Nm (302 lb-ft) |
| 0-62mph (0-100km/h) | 4.2 seconds |
| Top Speed | 186mph (300km/h) |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual (optional 6-speed automatic) |
Technical Upgrades and Features
Compared to the previous Evora, the Evora 400 received several technical upgrades. These included uprated brakes, a limited slip differential, and a retuned suspension system. The car also benefited from weight-saving measures and chassis tuning, aiming to provide the sharp handling and driver engagement for which Lotus is known. These enhancements made the Evora 400 not only faster but also more responsive and capable on the road.
Daniel Craig's Choice and the Bond Connection
While Daniel Craig is closely associated with Aston Martin through his role as James Bond, his personal choice of a Lotus Evora 400 reflects a broader appreciation for British sports cars. The left-hand drive configuration of his car suggests a preference for driving performance vehicles beyond his on-screen persona. Lotus also has a historic link to the Bond franchise, with the Lotus Esprit famously appearing in "The Spy Who Loved Me." Craig’s selection of the Evora 400 nods to this legacy while highlighting his own tastes.
Early Delivery for a High-Profile Customer
Lotus’s decision to deliver the Evora 400 to Craig ahead of the official launch date brought additional publicity for its new flagship model. By granting early access to a well-known figure, Lotus demonstrated the appeal of the Evora 400 to enthusiasts and collectors, especially those with an affinity for performance and heritage. The Lotus Evora 400 was the marque’s fastest production car at launch, capable of reaching 186mph.
