Sussex Police get lightweight Lotus Exige
Boy racers beware – Sussex Police have a new member on the force: a 140mph supercharged Lotus Exige.
But don’t expect to see it careering around your estate – Sussex Police are showcasing the lightweight Lotus at events to get keen young drivers to talk to them.
The police-liveried Lotus Exige – capable of topping 140mph and accelerating from 0-60mph in just 4.1 seconds – is touring Sussex to attract young drivers so police can drive home the dangers of reckless driving.
Sergeant Paul Masterton said: “Many places in Sussex have a problem with youths speeding around, with their stereos blaring, making a general nuisance of themselves.
“We get calls about it every weekend, but when we turn up they usually speed off in the opposite direction as soon as they see us. It means we can never engage directly with these young people, and tell them about the dangers they’re causing.
“When we pull up in this Lotus, however, it’s usually them that are approaching us to have a look at the car!”
Specialist Lotus dealer Dream Machines, based in East Sussex, has equipped the force with the Exige – complete with the Sussex Police insignia and flashing blue lights.
Sergeant Masterton is keen to engage with youths in language they understand – the £35,000 Exige is one of the most sought after and highly respected sportscars on the market.
He said: “A huge number of 17 to 25-year-olds die or cause other deaths on the roads each year, and even more suffer serious injury.
“Any initiative which can help reduce these numbers must be welcomed with open arms.”