Lotus Evora, Service Notes

Page: 245 / 370

Page 21
Lotus Service Notes Section MR
Inertia Switch
The safety inertia switch is designed to operate on impact, typified by vehicle collision, to switch off the fuel
pump, and thus minimise any fire hazard. The central door locking will also be triggered to unlock the doors.
The inertia switch is mounted on the backstay at the left hand side of the engine bay, ahead of the airbox,
and is reset by pressing the rubber diaphragm button on the top of the unit.
Lotus Traction Control
Lotus Traction Control (LTC) is a software programme integrated within the engine management and
ABS electronic control units (ECUs) and uses inputs from the wheel speed sensors to determine if wheelspin
is occurring. If an excessive degree of wheelspin is detected, LTC will modulate fuel injector delivery, throttle
opening and rear brake application, in order to control engine power output and spinning wheel inertia, until
grip is restored. This feature can improve vehicle stability in some extreme conditions of use, especially where
variable or differential side/side surface grip prevails, or when maximum vehicle performance is being exploited.
Refer also to 'EDL' (see below).
If the traction control tell tale in the instrument panel is seen to flicker, this is an indication that the LTC
has been triggered and electronic intervention is taking place; the tractive limit has been reached and driving
style should be modified accordingly.
WARNING: The enhanced vehicle control that this feature provides should not induce any relaxation
of caution or vigilance by the driver. Physical limits of cornering and braking still apply, and exces-
sive speed may result in loss of control and an accident. The driver is at all times responsible for the
judgement of appropriate speed.
Traction Control ‘Off’ Button: In certain unusual circumstances, such as loose surfaces, deep snow or when
‘rocking’ the vehicle free from mud, it may be desirable temporarily to switch off the LTC. An LTC ‘off’ button
is provided in the fascia, outboard of the steering column, and is operative only with the ignition on.
To switch off LTC, hold the button pressed for one second, until the button surround lights up in conjunc-
tion with the amber ‘LTC off’ tell tale in the instrument panel.
WARNING:
• Lotus Traction Control should always be active when driving on the public highway in normal
conditions.
• If the system is switched off when driving off-highway, be aware of the consequent change in
vehicle behaviour and modify driving style accordingly.
To re-activate LTC, briefly press the button a second time and check that the tell tale goes out. Irrespective
of the system status when the ignition is turned off, LTC will automatically be activated next time the ignition
is switched on.
If the on-board diagnostic system detects a fault with the LTC, the tell tale will be lit continuously; see your
dealer without delay.
Sport Mode (if fitted)
In order to cater for the preferences of some sport oriented drivers, a Sport Mode selector button is provided
to deliver quicker throttle response, increased wheel slippage thresholds, no throttle reduction on detection of
understeer, and a maximum continuous engine speed raised from 6,600 to 7,000 rpm. Note that switching off
the Lotus Traction Control (see above) in conjunction with selection of Sport Mode, will retain the Sport features,
but without any power induced wheelslip intervention. In all cases, anti-lock braking will be retained.
WARNING: Be aware that selecting Sport Mode and/or LTC OFF, will alter the handling characteristics
of the car. Drivers should excercise caution until familiarity has been gained in a controlled safe en-
vironment.
The Sport Mode switch is located in the fascia panel outboard of the steering column. To switch on Sport
Mode, turn on the ignition, and hold the button pressed for one second until the button surround lights up
amber, accompanied by the amber ‘SPORT’ tell tale in the instrument panel. In order to prevent unintentional
acceleration if the button is pressed whilst driving, in these circumstances, the button surround will flash in
acknowledgement, but Sport Mode will not be activated until the throttle pedal has been fully released.