Additional Information

Launched as a more mature, family-oriented 4 seater alternative to the original two-seater Elan, the Plus 2 was officially branded simply as the Lotus Plus 2 rather than bearing the Elan name. The Plus 2S variant, introduced in October 1968, pushed the car further upmarket, adding a plusher interior, standard fog lights, electric windows, and improved cabin refinement. 

Despite being larger and heavier than the standard two-seater Elan, the Plus 2 remains celebrated for its nimble handling and spirited performance. It boasts agile cornering, a rigid steel backbone chassis, and a lightweight fiberglass body

The Plus 2S retained the Lotus Twin Cam engine and Weber carburettors. Contemporary Lotus advertising described the car as a high-performance sports car that combined luxury with traditional Lotus handling.

Additional historical points:

The Plus 2S emerged as an evolution of the original Plus 2 rather than an entirely new model. Sources differ regarding the exact introduction date, with references indicating either October 1968 or March 1969. Regardless of the precise launch timing, the Plus 2S quickly became the preferred version of the Plus 2 range.

Lotus developed the model in response to demand for a more luxurious and better-equipped grand touring car. The objective was not to alter the core engineering package but to enhance the ownership experience through improved trim, greater equipment levels, and increased refinement.

The introduction of the Plus 2S coincided with continued development of Lotus production quality. Martin Drury, a former Rolls-Royce apprentice, was recruited to improve wiring loom quality, an increasingly important challenge due to the growing number of electrical accessories installed in the vehicle.

Demand for the Plus 2S eventually exceeded demand for the original Plus 2, leading to the discontinuation of the earlier model in December 1969.