The Lotus high-performance Cup version of the Elise has shed 21kg and gained 26hp to become the fastest road-going Lotus Elise ever.

Weighing in at 931kg, the 243hp supercharged, 1.8-litre Elise Cup 250 is capable of 0-60mph in 3.9 seconds and replaces the Elise Cup 220.

It perfectly demonstrates the Lotus 'light is right' mantra as all vehicle components were optimised to add lightness and speed. Delivered to the marque's now famous 'Lightweight Laboratory', it emerged with a range of features, including a Lithium-ion battery which slashes 10kg off the weight, carbon fibre seats cutting 6kg and ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels save a further 1.5kg.

Available for the first time as a roadster as standard with an optional hard top, there is also a Carbon Aero Pack is available to cut an extra 10kg to just 921kg.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus, said: 'The Lotus Elise has long set the benchmark in its class, yet we've been able to hone its straight-line performance and handling. Yes, it is capable of amazing things on a track, but it also retains its road manners and is perfectly composed for day-to-day driving. No rival offers this level of performance and accessibility.'

The new car laps the company's Hethel test track in one minute 34 seconds – four seconds quicker than the Elise Cup 220 and the fastest recorded lap time for a production Elise.

The Lotus Elise Cup 250 goes on sale from April, priced £45,600, with production limited to 200 a year.