Analogue Automotive VHPK: The Ultimate Lightweight Elise
In September 2025, Analogue Automotive announced the VHPK – a radically lightweight, limited-production reimagining of the Series 1 Lotus Elise, built around a central driving position.
The first customer build is now complete and represents the pinnacle of what's possible with the S1 Elise platform, while it retains the original car's unique character and authenticity. Analogue Automotive finished this one-of-one example in bespoke 'PK Purple' and specified it with a matching Alcantara interior and contrasting gold exhaust tips.
The VHPK sets a new benchmark for stripping weight from the Elise, achieving a wet weight below 600kg. A rebuilt and highly tuned 250bhp K-Series engine gives the VHPK a power-to-weight ratio of 400bhp per tonne, elevating the Elise's performance from sportscar to supercar territory.
In keeping with its exotic performance, exquisite, ultralight carbon fibre bodywork covers the VHPK. Rather than opting for a cheaper, splash-mould process, Analogue Automotive manufactures its carbon fibre panels using moulds made from CNC-milled patterns – the same techniques the aerospace and F1 industries use. This process not only ensures a perfect finish but also increases strength and further reduces weight.
Reducing unsprung mass formed another key objective for the VHPK. Removing weight from the wheels improves suspension performance, acceleration and braking – a philosophy Lotus founder Colin Chapman championed. Analogue Automotive achieved this through lightweight forged wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes and bespoke ultralight hubs. Owners can also opt for a full carbon wheel package, which saves a further 12kg.
A single carbon fibre bucket seat and carbon interior trim, a stainless steel exhaust system, plus a lightweight fuel tank and wiring loom, further lighten the VHPK. Optional extras include fully exposed carbon bodywork, an electric air conditioning and HVAC system, and a carbon hardtop, which owners can trim or specify as a lightweight single-skin unit.
The iconic single-seat Elises that competed in the Autobytel Lotus Championship at the turn of the millennium inspired the central seating position. Lotus Motorsport conceived this one-make series to support the British Touring Car Championship.
To ensure the VHPK handles like those legendary motorsport cars, Analogue Automotive fitted a bespoke wide-track suspension system, carried over from the Analogue SuperSport – Autocar magazine's second-best drivers' car in 2024. The system incorporates lightweight aluminium uprights and steering arms, plus multi-way passive dampers. Customers can also opt for a fully active suspension system.
The VHPK name derives from the high-performance, 190bhp 'VHPD' derivative of the original car's K-Series engine, which powered the Elise Sport 190, Series 1 Exige and 340R. Using modern technology and 25 years of experience, Analogue Automotive has pushed the AA-spec K-Series in the VHPK even further.
Analogue Automotive has upped displacement from 1.8 to 1.9 litres and increased power by over 30%, while also reducing weight and vastly improving the engine's strength through bespoke billet and forged internals. Analogue Automotive mates the engine to a Quaife PG1 five-speed close-ratio gearbox with a limited-slip differential – an upgraded version of the car's original transmission.
Crucially, this approach ensures the car's powertrain retains its original character, authenticity and feel. The VHPK delivers exhilarating performance without a complete engine swap or forced induction, keeping it closely aligned with the spirit of the original car.
Analogue Automotive has limited the VHPK to just 35 individually numbered examples worldwide. The VHPK is now available to order and costs £350,000 plus taxes, which includes a Series 1 Elise donor vehicle.
Steffen Dobke, Analogue Automotive: "The VHPK brings together all of our experience and expertise – gained from racing, restoring and servicing the Series 1 Elise for over 20 years – as well as our vision of the 'ultimate S1' into one breathtaking package."
"This isn't simply a restored Elise. It's a complete reimagining of what's possible with the original S1 recipe – the legendary combination of the Type 111 chassis with that high-revving, lightweight K-Series engine."
"Every VHPK is rebuilt from the ground up. We only source the best donor cars, which are then stripped right back to a bare chassis – no component is left untouched. What our customers end up with is a car which is superior in every way to a brand-new S1 Elise."
