The Lotus Test Track at Hethel was completely refurbished and updated in 2011 when it was opened by Nigel Mansell. The circuit is 2.2 miles long and with its run-off areas is situated in approximately 30 acres of the 50 acre Group Lotus site. Built to put Lotus’ high performance cars through their paces the circuit incorporates a series of bends, hairpin corners and straights providing an excellent venue for honing driving skills.
Lotus on Track have run more track days at Hethel than all other organisers combined over the last 13 years; 7.5hrs of Open Pit Lane track time ensuring maximum, relaxed and safe track time.
General circuit information: HERE
Noise limit: 105db static & 95db drive by 20m
Static test – A noise meter is placed at a 45 degree angle to the exhaust outlet and 50cm away. The car is then held at 3/4 of its maximum rev limit and the highest reading recorded is the cars recorded noise output for the day. A static limit of 105db is very high and very few cars have an issue with this. At 98db cars with a cat, std factory manifolds and exhausts will generally be ok. Anyone with a very loud exhaust/manifold should be careful.
Drive by – This test is recorded at track side as the car is moving at track speed. Depending on the circuit the reading will be taken between right next to the track and up to 20 meters away. Cars with forced induction tend to have more issues with drive by, even though they tend to pass static tests as the s/c or turbo’s only kick in when run at speed. There are many things that affect drive by readings from wind direction, air temperature, how low the cloud cover is or even what line you are driving.
Experience level: All levels
All levels: Everyone
Beginner: 1st ever track day
Novice: 1-5 track days without a major circuit
Intermediate: 5+ track days including a major circuit
Advanced: Attended a number of open pit lane days at a range of circuits
Price: £189
Instruction: £25
Helmet hire: Not available due to Covid-19
2nd Drivers (over 21): £25
Passengers (over 18): FREE but MUST arrive with main driver
Access to the Lotus site is restricted. We are happy for you to bring a passenger or two but they must arrive with you. Unfortunately children under the age of 16 are not permitted on site. The venue is not open to the general public or spectators.
Strictly Lotus, Caterham & VX220 only. All cars must be road legal. Slick tyres are not permitted. Drivers with a full race license will not be accepted, speed license holders – ok.
You must bring a full driving licence which will be checked at sign on.
Itinerary: Registration – 7.45-8.30 / Drivers Briefing 8.35 / Driving Starts 9.00 / Driving Ends 17.00 (1hr lunch)
Driver & passenger safety:
Clothing must fully cover arms & legs.
Crash helmets must be worn that are suitable for driving a car on circuit.
ANY vehicle without a hard top or fixed roof will require occupants to wear full face helmets.
Jet style helmets or convertible helmets will be classed as open face.
(It should be noted that a cheap scooter helmet is not suitable for driving a car on circuit.)
Animals are not permitted within the venue.
Food (including gum) & drink must not be consumed while on circuit.
Alcohol must not be consumed, including at lunch time.
Final instructions will be emailed out 3 days before the event.
PLEASE READ OUR TERMS & CONDITIONS, BY SIGNING UP FOR THIS EVENT YOU AGREE TO ACCEPT THEM.
