This is a unique opportunity to acquire the Lotus CLM P1/01, chassis #001, a truly one-of-a-kind Le Mans Prototype with a storied career. Originally developed under the Lotus/Kodewa banner and later campaigned by ByKolles Racing, this spectacular machine stands as a testament to innovation, determination, and racing heritage. Built to challenge the might of factory teams at the pinnacle of endurance racing, chassis 001 combines Lotus’s legendary engineering DNA with a fearless privateer spirit. It competed in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) across three full seasons (2014–2016) – including multiple entries in the 24 Hours of Le Mans – and remained the stalwart torch-bearer for independent teams in an era dominated by manufacturer giants . Now eligible for premier historic racing events, including the newly launched “Legends of Le Mans” class by the ACO , this modern classic is primed to continue its racing legacy with a new owner.
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The Lotus name is steeped in motorsport glory, and this CLM P1/01 proudly upholds that tradition. Lotus’s involvement in endurance racing dates back to the 1950s, when company founder Colin Chapman applied his revolutionary ideas to sports cars. Lotus made its Le Mans debut in 1955 with the Lotus Mark IX, with Chapman himself among the drivers. Just one year later, Lotus achieved a class victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the petite Lotus Eleven, winning the 1,100cc category in 1956 . The trend continued as the Lotus Elite coupe dominated its class at Le Mans six years in a row (1959–1964) – a remarkable streak that underscored the brand’s ingenious design and lightweight philosophy.
From pioneering aerodynamics to “adding lightness,” Lotus redefined what a racing sports car could do on the endurance stage. Throughout the 1960s, Lotus prototypes and GT cars (from the sleek Lotus 19 and 23 to the later Type 30/40) carried this spirit, often punching above their weight in international sports car races. Fast-forward to the modern era: after decades focused on Formula One and road car excellence, Lotus returned to endurance racing by lending its name and expertise to new prototype programs. In the early 2010s Lotus partnered with German outfit Kodewa (run by seasoned race director Colin Kolles) to field Lotus LMP2 cars in the WEC, culminating in an LMP2 class win and proving the team’s capabilities.
Buoyed by that experience, the Lotus/Kodewa squad ambitiously stepped up to Le Mans Prototype 1 – the top echelon – with a car initially dubbed the Lotus T129. This bold move set the stage for the creation of the Lotus CLM P1/01.
The CLM P1/01 is thus a direct descendant of Lotus’s endurance racing legacy. It embodies the same principles Lotus was famous for in the 1950s and ’60s – innovation, light weight, and agility – but applied to a 21st-century Le Mans prototype. As a privateer-built LMP1, it also represents the independent racing spirit that Lotus championed from its earliest days. Owning this car means owning a piece of that Lotus legend – a fusion of classic heritage and modern engineering in one breathtaking machine.
The Lotus CLM P1/01 was developed to compete in the 2014 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) under the LMP1-L regulations for non-hybrid privateer prototypes. Built by Kodewa with support from Lotus, it aimed to challenge dominant factory teams like Audi, Toyota, and Porsche. Initially planned as the Lotus T129, it was rebranded mid-2014 as the CLM P1/01, making its competitive debut at the 6 Hours of Circuit of the Americas.
Throughout its career, the car underwent extensive development. Engineers focused on aerodynamic refinements, chassis updates, suspension improvements, and weight reduction to enhance performance and reliability. The gearbox was upgraded from a 6-speed to a 7-speed sequential, and significant aerodynamic revisions were implemented, especially for high-speed circuits like Le Mans.
Despite lacking the resources of factory-backed rivals, the CLM P1/01 made steady progress through technical resilience and continuous innovation. Each reliability issue was met with targeted improvements, and the car evolved into a faster, more stable, and more durable prototype over time.
Its design reflected Lotus’s lightweight, high-performance philosophy. Built around a carbon-fiber monocoque chassis with advanced suspension and aerodynamic versatility, the P1/01 was known for its straight-line speed, stability, and adaptability across different circuits. It stood as a symbol of privateer persistence and ingenuity in top-tier endurance racing.
Entered the WEC mid-season and debuted at the 6 Hours of COTA in Texas . In its very first race, the Lotus clinched a 8th-place finish in the LMP1 class, immediately demonstrating its potential. The season saw the car endure the typical teething issues of a new prototype, including a dramatic fire at Fuji (from which the chassis was repaired and improved) . By the end of 2014, it had achieved two race finishes – a solid foundation to build on for the next year.
| Date | Race | Number | Drivers | Overall | In class |
| 20. Sep 2014 | 6h of COTA | #9 | Auer, Bouchut, Rossiter | P15 | P8 |
| 12 October 2014 | 6h of Fuji | #9 | Bouchut, Kaffer, Rossiter | DNF | |
| 02. Nov 2014 | 6h of Shanghai | #9 | Auer, Kaffer | P14 | P9 |
| 15. Nov 2014 | 6h of Bahrain | #9 | Berthon, Kaffer, Trummer | DNF | |
| 30. Nov 2014 | 6h of Sao Paulo | #9 | Auer, Kaffer | DNF |
With a new bright yellow-grey livery and now under the ByKolles Racing name , the team hit its stride. The Lotus P1/01 raced the full 2015 WEC calendar and became a multiple class winner. The entry at the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2015 showed strong pace (even clocking near 330 km/h on the Mulsanne), though an accident and subsequent technical infraction meant it didn’t classify – a reminder of how close to the edge this cutting-edge machine was.
| Date | Race | Number | Drivers | Overall | In class |
| 12. Apr 2015 | 6h of Silverstone | #4 | Trummer, Liuzzi, Klien | DNF | |
| 02 May 2015 | 6h of Spa | #4 | Trummer, Liuzzi, Klien | DNF | |
| 13-13 June 2015 | 24h of Le Mans | #4 | Trummer, Monteiro, Kaffer | DSQ | |
| 30. Aug 2015 | 6h of Nürburgring | #4 | Trummer, Kaffer | P18 | P1 |
| 19. Sep 2015 | 6h of COTA | #4 | Trummer, Kaffer | P8 | P1 |
| 11 October 2015 | 6h of Fuji | #4 | Trummer, Kaffer | P8 | P2 |
| 01. Nov 2015 | 6h of Shanghai | #4 | Trummer, Kaffer | P8 | P2 |
| 21. Nov 2015 | 6h of Bahrain | #4 | Trummer, Kaffer | P12 | P2 |
For the 2016 WEC season, the Lotus P1/01 returned with significant upgrades – especially in aerodynamics – and continued to take the fight to the competition . In the 6 Hours of Silverstone it finished 3rd in class (behind the new-generation privateer entries) , and then at the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps the car had one of its best performances ever: finishing 6th overall and 3rd in class in a very fast field, proving its pace on one of the most demanding tracks. At the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2016, the car qualified and ran competitively until an engine issue forced retirement in the night – yet its early race speed again underlined that this Lotus had truly become a serious contender.
| Date | Race | Number | Drivers | Overall | In class |
| 17. Apr 2016 | 6h of Silverstone | #4 | Trummer, Webb, Rossiter | P14 | P3 |
| 07 May 2016 | 6h of Spa | #4 | Trummer, Webb, Rossiter | P6 | P3 |
| 18-19 June 2016 | 24h of Le Mans | #4 | Trummer, Webb, Kaffer | DNF | |
| 24 July 2016 | 6h of Nürburgring | #4 | Trummer, Webb, Kaffer | DNF |
The Lotus CLM P1/01 chassis 001 has transitioned from a competitive Le Mans prototype to a revered historic racing machine. Once an underdog in the top class of endurance racing, it now enjoys a second life in prestigious historic motorsport events. Notably, it’s eligible for the new “Legends of Le Mans” series organized by the ACO, allowing former Le Mans cars to return to the track at major WEC events and the Le Mans Classic. The car is also welcomed in established series like Masters Endurance Legends and Endurance Racing Legends, which host races at iconic circuits such as Spa, Silverstone, and Daytona. It has already made appearances at these events, proving its continued performance and appeal.
For collectors who enjoy active participation, chassis 001 offers a unique opportunity: a historically significant race car that can still be driven in high-profile events. Thanks to its demonstrated reliability in recent outings and access to expert support, it’s both practical and thrilling to run on track.
As a collectible, the CLM P1/01 is equally compelling. It holds the distinction of being the first and only Lotus-badged LMP1 prototype of the modern era and represents a determined privateer effort in the face of dominant factory teams. Its historical value, striking design (especially in Lotus black-and-gold or ByKolles yellow livery), and completeness—including detailed WEC race documentation and data logs—make it a centerpiece-worthy addition to any high-end motorsport collection or museum. Whether admired in a garage or unleashed on a track, it continues to tell the story of endurance racing’s most ambitious privateer efforts.
In summary, the Lotus CLM P1/01 (chassis 001) offers an unparalleled combination of racing pedigree, historical significance, and future enjoyment. It is the physical embodiment of Lotus’s enduring legacy in prototype racing – from its class-winning triumphs in the 1950s to its courageous campaigns against 21st-century superteams. This car’s story is one of innovation, passion, and perseverance, and now you have the chance to write the next chapter.
For the discerning collector or enthusiast who demands something truly special, this Lotus delivers on every front:
– It’s exceedingly rare (a singular development chassis with no direct counterparts).
– It’s technically fascinating, showcasing state-of-the-art engineering from a transformative era in endurance racing.
– It has a rich, documented history at Le Mans and around the world, wearing the scars and glory of competition.
– And importantly, it remains a thrilling, visceral machine that can still stretch its legs on track – offering an experience few other collectibles can match.
Don’t miss the chance to own this extraordinary piece of endurance racing history. The Lotus CLM P1/01 chassis 001 is now available to qualified collectors and racing connoisseurs. For further information, technical details, and pricing, please contact us at your earliest convenience. Our team will be delighted to discuss the car’s background, arrange a private viewing, or answer any questions you may have.
