Lola Cars has announced the launch of the T70S and T70S GT, meticulously engineered versions of one of the most celebrated racing cars in history, the Lola T70. Combining exacting historical fidelity with advanced manufacturing processes and pioneering sustainable materials, the project represents an impressive technical achievement in modern automotive engineering.

Originally introduced in 1965 by renowned designer Eric Broadley, the Lola T70 dominated the inaugural Can-Am Championship in 1966. It went on to become the weapon of choice for privateers taking on Ford, Porsche and Ferrari, with its competitive pedigree encompassing legends such as John Surtees, Jackie Stewart and Mario Andretti. Perhaps its most famous win came in 1969 at the Daytona 24 Hours with Mark Donohue and Chuck Parsons for Team Penske — beating the factory Ford GT40s and Porsche 908s.

The T70S has been developed using original archival drawings, augmented by high-resolution scans of the finest period examples, to ensure complete authenticity. Every component has been re-engineered to meet contemporary standards of precision while remaining faithful to the original design. The result is a vehicle that preserves the unmistakable characteristics of the T70, while benefiting from modern advancements in materials science, manufacturing and quality control.

Till Bechtolsheimer, Chairman, Lola Cars: “The T70 is not only one of Lola’s greatest designs, but one of the most iconic racing cars ever built. The T70S represents an entirely unique example of preserving motorsport heritage while advancing sustainable innovation; a car identical to the original fire-spitting, Steve McQueen-era, V8 monster, but refined with advanced manufacturing processes, sustainable materials and an unparalleled attention to detail.”

Limited to 16 cars, the vehicle is available in two specifications – the T70S and T70S GT. The T70S is the ultimate competition version, supplied with an FIA Historic Technical Passport. At its heart is a lightweight aluminium monocoque chassis paired with a 5.0 litre small block Chevrolet V8 delivering 530bhp. It achieves a top speed of 203mph and accelerates from 0 – 60mph in 2.5 seconds, with a power-to-weight ratio of 616bhp per tonne*. The drivetrain is complemented by a period-correct transaxle and double wishbone suspension system, ensuring that driving dynamics remain true to the original.

Supplied UK road-registered, the T70S GT is optimised for drivability on road or track, offering an unapologetically visceral driving experience. It features a 6.2 litre small block Chevrolet V8 which produces 500bhp, enabling a top speed of 200mph and acceleration of 0 – 60mph in 2.9 seconds. The T70S retains the fundamental DNA of the race car while incorporating subtle enhancements for usability, including refined ergonomics, climate control and limited storage solutions. It also benefits from damper adjustments and a Lola specification engine and gearbox pairing, developed for road use. These modifications have been executed with restraint, ensuring that the vehicle’s character and driver-machine connection remain authentic and uncompromised.

A defining innovation of the T70S programme is the introduction of the Lola Natural Composite System (LNCS), a patent-pending bodywork solution representing a world-first in automotive applications. LNCS features a unique combination of all-natural plant and basalt fibres with a fully renewable resin system derived from sugar cane processing waste, resulting in a groundbreaking 100% ‘natural’ (petrochemical-free) bodywork system. This approach delivers not only a significant reduction in environmental impact but also superior tensile strength and stiffness compared to traditional glass-fibre composites, and improved impact damage tolerance over both GRP and carbon-fibre composites.

The Lola team is actively optimising LNCS to further enhance its mechanical properties, alongside next‑generation finishing solutions, with the aim of setting a new benchmark for eco‑composites in automotive and motorsport.

Mishern Chetty, CEO, Lola Cars: “The T70S project forms part of Lola’s broader strategic focus on cutting-edge performance technologies. Since 2022, as part of our mission to drive innovation through motorsport, we have invested heavily in the development of advanced materials, powertrain systems and supply chain innovations aimed at reducing the carbon footprint of high-performance vehicles.”

Independent assessment indicates that the T70S achieves a reduction of approximately 54% in CO₂ emissions compared with conventional manufacturing benchmarks; with certain components, such as magnesium alloy parts, demonstrating reductions of up to 80%.

These improvements have been realised through a comprehensive re-evaluation of traditional production processes. For example, magnesium used in the T70S is extracted from seawater via solar-powered electrolysis – believed to be a first in automotive - eliminating the need for energy-intensive mining and refining. Innovative casting techniques and alternative shielding gases have been implemented to reduce environmental impact without impacting material integrity. An independently reviewed Life Cycle Assessment report has been made publicly available.

Despite these advancements, the T70S remains uncompromising in its commitment to driver engagement, characterised by direct mechanical feedback, precise steering response and a close physical connection between driver and machine.

Peter McCool, Technical Director, Lola Cars: “Driving the T70S will be a chance to experience the past and future of motorsport simultaneously. An entirely unique example of groundbreaking innovation in advanced sustainable materials, this project provides a blueprint for the future of historic motoring and motorsport.”

The design and engineering philosophy underpinning the T70S has been guided by a principle of respectful refinement. Rather than reinterpret the original, Lola has focused on perfecting the details that historical constraints once limited. This includes improvements in manufacturing tolerances, material consistency and component integration, all achieved without altering the essential T70 DNA. Each example comprises over 1,900 individual components and reflects extensive collaboration across a specialised global supply chain.

With the T70S, Lola Cars not only revisits a defining chapter in motorsport history but also demonstrates how legacy and innovation can coexist. The project underscores the company’s commitment to shaping the future of high-performance engineering through sustainable technologies, without compromising the emotional and technical essence that defines the greatest racing machines.