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"The newest Le Mans Prototype contender broke cover last week at the Paul Ricard Circuit near Marseille, in France. The highly anticipated new Lotus T128 turned its first laps in preparation for its debuts at the FIA World Endurance Championship in a couple weeks.  Designed by Munich-based engineering firm Adess AG, the all-new prototype was completed on-site at the French circuit following several months of production delays. And even though the team did have an issue with the oil tank, which sidelined the vehicle for several hours, team engineers did say it performed to their expectations.  The Lotus T128 is the first LMP2 prototype to be meet LMP1 safety standards, which were designed to improve overall driver safety and visibility, in addition to improving driver comfort.  This particular T128 was built for the German racing team Kodewa. It features a carbon fiber monocoque chassis with an integrated roll-over structure, as well as a double wishbone suspension on both ends with push-rod actuated springs and dampers. Brembo carbon ceramic disc brakes and electric power steering are also part of the standard package.  From the factory, the T128 will be able to accommodate most normally aspirated or turbocharged engines. This one is powered by Praga-badged Lotus Judd HK engine, a V8 that was originally developed from the BMW S65 used in the M3. While still using the production block, the engine&amp;#039;s displacement was reduced to 3.6 liters to optimize performance. Regardless of the engine selected, the T128 will be delivered with a six-speed sequential gearbox developed specifically for the car by Hewland.  via Lotus "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
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