As Ottawa’s unique green builder, RND Construction provides unequalled advantages

Ottawa’s RND Construction is a trend-setting builder whose unique green homes offer unparalleled quality.

And that’s saying something these days, as the industry shift toward sustainability is stronger than ever.

“In a lot of cases, people are being greenwashed,” says Roy Nandram, President/Project Manager with award-winning RND Construction. “We make it a point to properly educateconsumers. They want to know what the real nuts and bolts of green building are, and we provide that. We are dedicated to making sure they get the truth and most up-to-date information.

“We treat every single design or home that comes to us as unique, and then add green components. People come to us for green homes and they’ve been relying on us since our inception years ago.”

RND subscribes to a philosophy that promotes ‘green’ as a method of constructing homes and buildings which utilizes environmentally-friendly techniques while creating a sustainable and energy-efficient final product. Nandram says the advantages are many, including long-term savings and numeroushealthbenefits for the homeowners. Perhaps most importantly, he points out, it gives homeowners an active role in protecting against climate changes and preserving natural resources for future generations.

The benefits of green homes are many, and RND fills an important niche – it offers a much-needed top-shelf alternative to the status quo. This is essential, Nandram says, given the current state of the climate, new environmental protection laws, and rising costs.

The company realizes natural resources are becoming scarce… and more expensive, squeezing already tight margins. Despite these challenges, people continue to seek increasing levels of comfort in their homes.

To that end, RND focuses on incorporating design, comfort and operational efficiency into each project, always with an eye on anet-zero possibility. The combination of all three aspects helps to create an ideal living environment that is sustainable, as well as stylish and cost-effective.  (Note: A net-zero home produces the same amount of energy that it consumes annually through renewable energy resources).

It is RND’s mandate to not only build and renovate exceptional net-zero homes, but to be an educational resource for the public in general on the overall benefits of green homes and net zero.

RND regularly hosts free seminars at its Design &Innovation Centre that are open to anyone who is interested in learning more about green construction and materials. Topics change per seminar but cover indoor air quality, HRV systems and other green technologies.

Nandram, the president of the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association, also helps builders and renovators find cost-effective innovations to meet any upgrades of the building code, while stepping up and preparing for net zero by 2030.

“Great homes hinge on great design,” Nandram says. “When you combine green innovation, high intention, sincere effort, thoughtful direction, skillful execution and commitment, you generate a high quality home for the future.”

With over 30 years focusing on green building, RND has a team that is technically trained in building science and numerous green certifications, including R2000, LEED and net-zero affirmations. 

“Part of our vision is to exercise leadership in the critical field of sustainability,” Nandram says. “And our mission transforms that vision into reality. It is who we are, what we value, and where our aspirations for the future of the environment, the community and our own operations lie.

“We operate in a changing environment and proactively pursue creative ideas that can improve our construction processes. Our team takes a leadership position, embraces change and makes decisions that bring value as well as the opportunity to learn and share with each other and with the community.

“We work alongside experts in the field and people with values similar to ours, people who believe in the uniqueness and environmental responsibility of sustainable communities.

“We build living environments for our clients, and workplaces for our team, that are safe and healthy. We always aim to reduce environmental impacts and greenhouse gases, improve indoor air quality, and eliminate volatile organic compound materials and finishes.

“At RND Construction, we are redefining what a beautiful home is by shifting the focus to meet net-zero criteria. Beautiful homes come first, but we also help people contribute to the protection of the environment. Net-zero homes offer a unique opportunity to do just that.”

Web / rndconstruction.ca

RND Construction is a pioneer of building green homes. The Ottawa company has many honours to its credit, including a Canadian Home Builder’s Association award for the Production Home (2500 to 3000 square feet category) with their R2000-certified Meadow model in Riverpark Green. With its experience and commitment to green construction, RND Construction is uniquely positioned to see the path forward for net-zero homes.

Cam Thanh A&A Villa

This project was located in Hoian City, an ancient town in Vietnam. The house has an advantage of natural and cultural background because Hoian is famous for hundreds of years old houses along with diverse and unique flora and rivers. Therefore, we formed the idea to design this house based on the filtering and promoting the cultural and natural values of the locality. Specifically, the architectural form is transformed from the impression of native plants, and the architectural space is transformed from the native residential space. Besides that, we pay attention to the variation in the use of materials and in spatial design or morphology. All aimed at creating a unique and newness of the house, but VRA Design still adapting to the local climate, comfortable and familiar to indigenous living habits.

Because the investors of the project frequently receiving many friends and relatives, they require the house design not only to ensure daily life but also to have some breakthrough and newness, which must create a lasting impression for other users staying here. Around that requirement, we set a design goal that besides the comfortable of homeowners, the architecture must also show the characteristics of local architecture, and there is a break in the form of the house to create a good impression.

The house was located in Cam Thanh, Hoian City, that is an area with lots of coconut palm and nipa palm. Nipa palm forest tourism here is a prominent activity, so that coconut and nipa have become a symbol of this land. We take the shape of the leaves or trunk of the coconut and nipa as the starting point for special structural design. Whereupon, inclined column structure was created that purpose is to both create a visual impression and create new but familiar space, which like the under coconut space or nipa space.

In terms of the overall spatial layout, we rely on the spatial layout of the old houses in Hoian Ancient Town, that is, using some small gardens to split the long house into three short blocks, that would increase the effect of lighting and ventilation like the ancients did. With the prediction that in the future. there is a high possibility that the two sides of the house will have other adjacent houses, so such treatment is suitable for both present and future the house will always have enough light and ventilation for human life. 

Structural elements are presented in rough concrete colors, some brick walls retain the image of the material without plastering or painting, that helping to create a sense of roughness, closeness, and forming many visual outstanding. The interior is designed according to a simple trend, to ensure a harmonious feel, that abundant but not confusing. Indoor and outdoor spaces were arranged with many trees to bring abundance in the views. Not only that, the trees can shade the west sunlight meanwhile creating a cool living space for homeowners.

Text description provided by the architects. 

Kondan Retreat Resort

The vision for Kondan Resort goes beyond the primary purpose of providing hospitality with modern amenities at a scenic location, and seeks to address concerns related to its social, regional and environmental context. Only half the 30 acre property has been developed, with the resort facilities being restricted to 16% of the area, 10% allotted for rainwater harvesting and power generation, and 23% reserved for reforestation. Taking clues from traditional architecture, the built-form was evolved as a series of walls that define private and public spaces, and lend their peripheries to socio-economic activities reminiscent of historic citadels.  

Maval is located in the hills that separate the cities of Mumbai and Pune, and contains a series of large man-made lakes built to supply water and hydroelectricity to these urban areas. Although scenic, the region remains remote and lacks basic facilities, with the primary source of income being small-scale paddy and dairy farms. The client, originally from Maval, chose to return with a business model that would also create livelihood opportunities and stimulate the local economy. The attempt then was to provide the urban visitor an expected level of comfort housed in a built-form that respects its context and does not alienate its neighbours.

Located on a slope along the backwaters of a lake, only a fraction of the site has been developed, and where construction was undertaken, footprints were optimized to respond to topography, exiting trees and natural waterways, with portions of the natural surroundings either contained or revealed as views. Imagined on the lines of a historic citadel, the site is sub-divided into zones of increasing privacy, stepped down along the hillside and defined by eight intersecting walls, each with a unique character specific to its purpose. The resulting interweaving of enclosed, semi-open and open spaces cater to different activities.

Reception and Restaurant: accessed through the pramukhdwar (ceremonial gateway), the reception area creates an experiential connection from public to private zone via a gently rising, narrow and introverted lane that eventually opens onto the restaurant’s main deck with a stunning view of the valley to the south. 

Aamrai: four multi-level suites situated inside a mango orchard, the spaces of each being draped around one or more courtyards. Tarangan:  a series of six cottages cantilevered off an axial spine towards a grove frequented by fireflies. Swimming Pool: spreads organically through a cluster of trees, ending in an infinity edge towards the eastern valley.  Health club and Spa: located on the north-eastern end on the site, the spaces open onto the forest, with parts that are open to public, such as the indoor sports facilities and gym, being accessed directly from the public area.     

The walled campus lends its periphery to various elements of traditional public spaces that facilitate interactions and transactions between visitors and the local community. The kund(stepped reservoir), focal point for such activities, is flanked by the bazaar(shopping street) with workshops and stalls for artisans, a moha(Madhucalongifolia) orchard for weekly farmers’ market, and a hall for conferences or other informal gatherings. 

Much of the building material was sourced from the site itself. Stone from the excavation of water bodies and foundations has been used extensively in various interpretations of vernacular techniques ranging from dry pack to dressed masonry to composite boulder concrete. During the course of construction, objects such as stone light fittings were sourced from local craftsmen, and daily-wage labourers from nearby villages were trained in masonry or other vocational skills that would guarantee them employment as part of the resort’s maintenance staff. 

In India, where multiple and diverse cultures have evolved over generations of living in a specific geographies, regional identities and traditional wisdom are losing their relevance in an increasingly uniform global culture. Ideas of progress and permanence have found common expression in the incongruous concrete boxes found across the country. 

This project presented us with an opportunity to create a model for development that is as much about cultural sustainability, and the focus then was not merely inclusivity, but rather a celebration of the context. And for us the greatest reward was that, after seeing the resort, someone in a neighbouring village built a stone house for the first time in decades.

Text description provided by the architects. 

A MULTIPLE ARCHITECTURE REVEALING THE CULTURAL AND NATURAL FILIPINO HERITAGE

In the heart of East Asia, Cebu, in Cebuano Sugbo,is one of the largest islands in the Philippines. The eponymous capital of the Visayas province – Cebu City – is the oldest city in the archipelago. It was the first Spanish colony and was previously discovered by Portuguese explorer Fernando de Magellan in 1521. Cebu City is now the main maritime shipping port and the main economic business center specializing in the New Information and Communication Technologies (NICT) sectors.

The project is located inside the 50 hectare Cebu Business Park at the corner of Samar Loop and Avenue Cardinal Rosales. The objective is to construct a residential building with double environmental certification (LEED + BERDE) which offers the perfect balance between mixed cultural heritage and natural heritage of unparalleled splendor.

Looking for radical solutions to reduce the global carbon footprint, Vincent Callebaut Architecture has designed a 32-story, 115-meter high tower built of solid wood, as it is theonly natural, abundant, and renewable material. This organic tower integrates the principles of passive bioclimatism and advanced renewable energies. It was named “The Rainbow Tree” because it is an ode to Eucalyptus Deglupta, also known as Rainbow Eucalyptus, an iconic and colorful tree from the Philippines.

“The Rainbow Tree” tower is adorned with the most beautiful plant essences from the neighboring tropical forests. This luxuriant dress of more than 30,000 plants, shrubs, and tropical trees draws a flourishing spiral in the colors of the rainbow and brings a breath of freshness to the heart of Cebu Business Park which is mainly built of concrete and steel.

A MODULAR MASS TIMBER TOWER INSPIRED BY TRADITIONAL “BAHAY KUBO” HOMES

The Rainbow Tree is a staggered geometric stack of 1,200 modules, each with sides measuring 4 meters sides and a height varying between 3.2 to 4.8 meters. All these mass timber modules are prefabricated and standardized in a factory with a very high degree of precision. They are directly inspired by the “BahayKubo” (literally, cubic houses, also known as “Nipa Huts”).

These indigenous nomadic houses were made of natural materials from the forest such as wood, bamboo, and palm leaves. Before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers with their stone-base constructions, this traditional Filipino rural house originally rested on stilts and was anchored to the trunk of trees near the rice fields, coconut palms, and orchards.

These bio-based “Bahay Kubo” breathe! They are in symbiosis with nature. Their architectural identity reveals that they are based on ventilation, large open interior spaces, and terrace networks adapted to the tropical climate.  These three foundations are the basis of our architectural concept for building a CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) tower.

Invented in the 1990s in Austria and Germany, this construction technique consists of superimposing perpendicularly wooden slats and connecting them together using structural, now-organic adhesives such as tannins, lignin, cellulose, or even starch.

The Cross Laminated Timber manufacturing process requires much less energy than concrete or steel, and moreover it does not generate greenhouse gases. As a reminder, producing 1 ton of concrete generates 2.42 tonsof CO2 and producing 1 ton of steel generates 0.938 ton ofCO2.

In terms of fire resistance, remember that wood burns slowly, does not release toxic fumes, and transmits heat 250 times slower than melting steel and 10 times slower than concrete which cracks under the effects of the flames.

Being built from trees cut and harvested in short circuits in the archipelago in the heart of eco-responsible forests – where a cut tree is equal to a replanted tree – means that the Rainbow Tree is a real carbon sequestration well. In fact, during the growth of trees through natural photosynthesis, the stored carbon is found “trapped” in solid wood and is therefore not released into the atmosphere. For 1 ton of wood produced, about 0.9 tonnes of carbon is confined.

This means we are talking about a building with a negative carbon footprint!

MULTI-COLORED, CARBO-ABSORBING, AND DEPOLLUTING BALCONIES

The Rainbow Tree has sinusoidal balconies staggered between the even and odd floors allowing palm trees and deciduous trees to grow on a double height. The endemic plant species are listed according to the color of their flowering – pink, purple, green, yellow, orange, red – to draw 5 plant spirals wrapping around the solid wood facades.

This urban forest makes it possible to fight against the effects of urban heat and constitutes a true island of freshness by the evapotranspiration of plants bioclimatizing naturally the public space.

In addition, the 30,000 plants, shrubs, and trees planted on the tower will capture 150 tons of CO2 in the atmosphere of the Cebu City annually to transform them into oxygen through natural photosynthesis. The tower, which is already low in intrinsic carbon thanks to its bio-based construction materials, will also be breathable and depolluting during its operation.

A PASSIVE CONSTRUCTION INTEGRATING URBAN AGRICULTURE AND RENEWABLE ENERGIES

After choosing the mass timber construction to drastically reduce the carbon footprint of the project during its construction, the efforts have focused on the integration of passive systems and renewable energies to reduce its carbon footprint during its operation.

First of all, the tower benefits from double insulation – interior and exterior – and from natural materials such as thatch, hemp, and cellulose wadding. In addition, the plant cover makes it possible to control the solar gains and take advantage of the evapotranspiration of the plants to cool the temperature felt on the balconies by 2 to 5 degrees.

To ensure natural ventilation in each apartment, wind chimneys cross the central core over its entire height. These chimneys draw outdoor air at an average of 29 degrees annually from the urban forest on the ground floor. This hot air passes under the earthquake-resistant foundations where the thermal inertia of the earth is constant all year round at 18 degrees. This naturally refreshed 22-degree air then forced into the apartments as in a termite hill.

In addition to the vegetable tubs planted on the balconies of the apartments, an urban aquaponic farm is spread over the last three levels of the Rainbow Tree. Aquaponics is a technique of sustainable and virtuousagriculture that combines fish farming and plant cultivation and allows you to experience the countryside in the city by removing social ties.

The Sky Farm produces 25,000 kilos of fruit, vegetables, and algae and 2,500 kilos of fish per year, or almost 2 kilos of food per week for each family residing in the tower.

These foods are grown with water saving of 90%, without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or GMOs, but from natural fertilizers. In fact, fish excrement nourishes the plants with nitrates. This absorption then filters the water. The purified water finally returns to the fish pond: the cycle can start again. It is nothing less than a recreated natural mini-ecosystem, where the waste of one element becomes the food of another element. A “living market” will allow Cebuanos residents to not only buy farm products but also to eat them on the spot in a cozy atmosphere.

The greenhouse, which is naturally lit all year round, benefits from a low-consumption LED light complement which reproduces the light spectrum of the sun in order to recreate the ideal conditions for photosynthesis.

This urban farm is covered with a solar canopy producing electricity stored in hydrogen fuel cells and domestic hot water redistributed in a virtuous loop in the bathrooms and kitchens of the apartments.

To top it all off, a farm of 16 axial wind turbines with magnetic levitation also generates electricity in situ without any noise pollution.

By 2050, 80% of the world’s population will live in cities. It is now necessary to produce as close as possible to the consumer-actors and consume the minimum of resources while reducing wastes and greenhouse gas emissions. Within the framework of the new circular economy, the Rainbow Tree is a prototype of a completely biobased vertical forest respecting the four pillars of the ecological city of the future, namely: energy self-sufficiency (heating, cooling, and electricity); greening of buildings and development of urban agriculture; soft mobility centered on pedestrians, bikes and electric co-mobility; social innovation through spaces for sharing between residents and solidarity services.

8850 Sunset Boulevard

A pedestrian-oriented, dynamic, and sustainable take on the Sunset Strip

8850 Sunset establishes a new mixed-use development in the heart of West Hollywood, combining market-rate residences, affordable housing, retail, dining, a music venue, and luxury hotel. The building’s 15-story bridged form responds to the eclecticism of Sunset Boulevard, while prioritizing light, views, and open space connections. At the street level, a two-story podium with cafes, public spaces, and retail echoes the scale and granularity of traditional storefronts along Sunset Boulevard, while a new music venue re-envisions the storied Viper Room, adding a recording studio and updating the live music experience for the 21st century. The condo and hotel volumes are separated by a 100 ft-wide gap, avoiding a conventional large, flat building façade on Sunset to instead capture north/south views and sunlight through the property.

Between the two volumes, a rooftop garden and terrace brings a new outdoor dining and social space to the neighbourhood. At the peak of the building, a skybridge connects the two volumes and incorporates an upscale restaurant and bar with views to downtown and the ocean.

Guided by the WeHo Green Building Program Standards, the project is designed to a LEED Gold standard. Various passive and contextual strategies are used to improve the performance and energy efficiency of the design including using a landscaped surface for the residence volume, with drought-tolerant plantings that create a cooling microclimate while beautifying the neighborhood.

DESIGN THROUGH INSPIRATION Architect incorporates company philosophy when building his family home in Stouffville

It all started with a vision for architect Joseph Campitelli.

It ended with the completion of his family home on Park Drive in Stouffville, Ontario. 

Campitelli, whose Markham-based company, JNC Architect, adheres to a philosophy of ‘Design Through Inspiration,’ showed that he practises what he preaches, developing a vision for his family home, and then seeing that through to fruition.

“We design to create a lifestyle,” says Campitelli. “I inherently wanted to do the same for my family when we planned our own house. To realize vision, we work with a client (my wife and kids, in this case) to develop a concept to the point where we can eventually live within it and enjoy the space. To me, this is where the phrase ‘Design Through Inspiration’ comes from.”

With the build of his own home – completed in May 2019 – Campitelli embraced the opportunity to follow the JNC mantra, as well as involve family members in the entire process; a win-win situation that paid off in spades.

“All aspects of this home tied all my experience and exposure to processes and building together, going back as far as I can remember,” he says. “My father was a builder – including both childhood homes – and a manufacturer of windows and doors.

“So I grew up in the industry, working as a labourer for most of my childhood. I was on construction sites before the age of 16.  Later, my education in architecture became the thread that tied theory to practical work.

“I wanted my family to have a sense of the entire building process, so this specific build, of my family home, became an effort to translate this sort of experience for my wife and kids; to show them how and get them involved in the entire process.”

Right from the get-go, Campitelli concentrated on sustainable methods and materials. He stresses that local suppliers were also sought, as well as materials with a long-term life cycle and low energy usage.

“Although not LEED-certified, we promote safe materials and energy efficiency is always our goal.”

Some examples of how sustainability factored into the decisions made on the home include:

• Working with manufacturers and their specifications, respecting energy efficiencies and requirements for installation;
• Utilizing a standing seam metal roof. (This is a lifetime product, off-gassing is reduced, and additional labour and replacement materials are unnecessary, as compared to typical asphalt shingle models. The roof will also run cooler);
• Installing a 200,000 BTU boiler. (This runs hydronic flooring throughout the basement/tiled areas – bathrooms and mudroom – plus garage and pool);
• Making sure all lighting is LED technology;
• Installing windows of a heavier vinyl frame product with increased thermal and U-factor glazing);
• Using Interior trim and casings that were all locally manufactured and building materials that were mostly provided by a local lumber yard;
• Incorporating heat recovery systems for air and hot water efficiency. (Meet Ontario Building Code (OBC) energy efficiency requirements).

Before bringing his family into the mix, Campitelli searched for an appropriate property. In 2015, he decided on a 60-foot by 150-foot lot in Stouffville that fit the requirements – close to family and friends, including amenities. The property had an existing bungalow wood frame dwelling that had to be torn down.  Then there were other preliminaries and constructionbegan in September 2017.

Here is a timeline highlighting some of the main junctures along the way:

• Determined variances were required to maximize building/square footage on lot;
• Determined lot was regulated within the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA), due to a creek across rear portion of lot;
• Worked closely with local planning department and TRCA to have proposed design supported through a committee of adjustment and TRCA regulations;
• Visited neighbours to gain local support of requested variances, including building coverage, building setbacks;
• Received a Certificate of Approval (C of A) to prepare for building permit in March 2017;
• Produced working drawings for construction in the following months – cooperated with structural and mechanical engineers;
• Selected a builder – Upper Canada Homes;
• Submitted for building permit June 2017;
• Received approval to build in August 2017;
• Construction commenced September 2017;
• During the term of construction, architectural details were developed and provided to the site on a weekly basis. Finishes were listed, sourced out and purchased – ahead of time to be ready for install;
• JNC Architect determined sources of products and provided to the contractor to install. Each material was selected by Campitelli, along with his wife, and children;
• Millwork for all closets, cabinets, kitchen, pantry, great room and all washrooms were detailed along with the millwork company. Install for millwork began in October 2018;
• Custom tables (dining and kitchen) were designed by Campitelli, and brought to fabricators and carpenters to produce and install. Each were designed for/anticipated in the original plan layout of home. Installed March to June 2019;
• Occupancy permits cleared April 2019;
• Construction completed May 2019 – one year and eight months in total.

Web / jnc-architect.com

Joseph N. Campitelli (JNC) Architect Inc., established in 2004, is a design firm based in Markham, Ontario, offering a full range of architectural services. The firm offers comprehensive design solutions in architecture, interior design, and planning for all project types and scales. Together with a team of dedicated professionals, JNC Architect prides itself on being committed and resourceful, while providing the best in service and innovation. The firm is committed to each client’s needs and the completion of their vision. Through direct involvement and a hands-on philosophy, JNC Architect and its partners assure commitment and reliable service that clientele have come to depend on. Client objectives are resolved through innovative ‘good design’ principles. Commitment to practising ‘good design’ is proven by our integrity and service, therefore ensuring successful completions.

Welcome to the age of the electric hypercar, and Britain’s first entrant.

With unparalleled performance and a target power output of 2,000 PS, it sets new standards in terms of advanced EV engineering. Quite simply, the Lotus Evija is the most powerful series production road car ever built.

Like all Lotus cars throughout the brand’s storied 71-year history, the Evija has been precision-engineered to deliver an outstanding driving experience both on the road and track. It is the most dynamically accomplished model ever built by the company, setting new standards for Lotus driving performance. Above all else, it is ‘For The Drivers’.

As a name, Evija (pronounced ‘E-vi-ya’) means ‘the first in existence’ or ‘the living one’. It is highly appropriate; Lotus has an unquestionable reputation for its pioneering approach in both automotive and motorsport.

Exclusivity and desirability go hand in hand in the world of hypercars, and the Evija is blessed with an abundance of both. Production is limited to not more than 130 examples, making it among the most exclusive cars ever launched. It’s a figure set in tribute to the car’s project code, Type 130. Lotus road and race cars throughout the brand’s seven decades of success have been assigned a Type number, and the Evija is no exception.

Lotus Cars CEO Phil Popham said: “This is another amazing moment in the history of our company. The Evija is a true Lotus in every sense – it has been developed with an unwavering passion to push boundaries, to explore new ways of thinking and to apply ground-breaking technologies.”

A stunning piece of contemporary automotive design, the Evija features a dramatic Venturi tunnel through each rear quarter, giving it a truly breath-taking presence.

The Evija is the first Lotus road car to feature a one-piece carbon fibre monocoque chassis. The cabin, from the fully adjustable race-style seats to the multi-function steering wheel, is the very pinnacle of motorsport-inspired road car design and technology.

At the heart of the Evija is an ultra-advanced all-electric powertrain. It has been developed with technical partner Williams Advanced Engineering, famed for success in motorsport, from Formula One to electrifying the first four seasons of Formula E. The battery pack is mid-mounted immediately behind the two seats and supplies energy directly to four powerful e-motors. This highly efficient system is the lightest, most energy dense, electric power package ever fitted to a road car. With a target weight of just 1,680 kg, it will be the lightest pure electric hypercar ever to go into series production.

Engineered for precise and sustained performance, the Evija has five driving modes – Range, City, Tour, Sport and Track. It can race from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in under three seconds and accelerate to a top speed of more than 200 mph (0-320 km/h).

A stunning exterior

The most striking element of the Lotus Evija is its exterior. From every angle the full carbon fibre bodywork is stretched taut, appearing shrink-wrapped over the mechanical components. Crouching low to the ground, with a ride height of just 105 mm, the pronounced muscular haunches envelop the teardrop cabin that sinks between them.

Taking inspiration from the aeronautics industry, the exterior is a perfectly proportioned blend of fluid formsand crisp lines. This is clearly illustrated by the gently curved but sharp leading edge of the bonnet, which is reminiscent of so many classic Lotus road and race cars.

True to Lotus founder Colin Chapman’s core belief that every component should serve multiple purposes, the exterior design is also exceptionally efficient on every level. The most obvious example of this – and unquestionably the most dramatic element of the exterior – is the Venturi tunnel which pierces each rear quarter. Inspired by Le Mans race cars, they optimise air flow by directing it through the bodyshell.

When viewed from the rear of the car, each tunnel is edged with a red LED to create a striking ribbon-style light signature. The result is a stunning visual effect that’s akin to the afterburners on a fighter jet, especially when seen at night. As an extra detail, an LED hidden within each tunnel illuminates its interior.

The directional indicators are incorporated into the corners of the ribbon, while the reversing light is provided by the illuminated ‘T’ of the ‘LOTUS’ wordmark above the integrated charging flap.

Another key feature of the Evija’s sophisticated aerodynamic system is the bi-plane front splitter. It’s another illustration of form and function working perfectly in tandem. Designed in three sections, the larger central area provides air to cool the battery pack – mid-mounted behind the two seats – while the air channelled through the two smaller outer sections cools the front e-axle. Lotus aficionados may notice a respectful nod to the iconic Type 72 Formula 1 car, with its square front central section and two side wings.

Active aerodynamics for exceptional downforce

The Evija is the first Lotus road car to ever feature a full carbon fibre chassis. Moulded as a single piece for exceptional strength, rigidity and safety, the full length of the underside is sculpted to optimise downforce. It includes an integrated air diffuser, which extends from under the B-pillars to the rear.

The absence of traditional door mirrors plays a part in reducing drag. Cameras integrated into the front wings are electronically deployed on unlock, while another camera built into the roof provides a central view. Images are displayed on three interior screens.

Advanced pure EV powertrain means record-breaking power

With target figures of 2,000 PS of power and 1,700 Nm of torque, the Lotus Evija is the world’s most powerful production road car. Key to that exceptional power output is the 2,000 kW lithium-ion battery, supplied with its management system by Williams Advanced Engineering (WAE) as part of a joint venture with Lotus to collaborate on advanced propulsion technologies. WAE won a 2018 Queen’s Award for Enterprise for translating its EV expertise from the race track to road-going vehicles.

The battery pack is mounted centrally behind the passenger compartment, and its cover is visible through the glass rear screen. This positioning delivers significant advantages in terms of styling, aerodynamics, packaging, weight distribution, occupant comfort and dynamic handling. It also supports fast and convenient servicing and maintenance. Furthermore, the set-up has been designed so that in the future alternative battery packs – for example, to optimise track performance – can be easily installed.

Precision performance guaranteed

As with every Lotus, the Evija is ‘For The Drivers’ and its searing pace is delivered in one seamless, sustained surge. The 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) sprint is completed in under three seconds, while the top speed is in excess of 200 mph (340 km/h).

These headline statistics only tell part of the car’s performance story. Matt Windle, Executive Director, Sports Car Engineering, Lotus Cars, explained: “The Lotus Evija has astonishing acceleration at higher speeds. It takes less than nine seconds to reach 300 km/h which is better than any other direct competitor.”

Further performance figures include acceleration from 100-200 km/h in less than three seconds, and 200-300 km/h in less than four seconds.

A revolution in charging

Not only does the Lotus Evija feature the world’s most powerful automotive drivetrain, it also boasts the world’s fastest charging battery. Thanks to the partnership with Williams Advanced Engineering, the battery has the ability to accept an 800kW charge. Although charging units capable of delivering this are not yet commercially available, when they are it will be possible to fully replenish the battery in just nine minutes.

Using existing charging technology – such as a 350kW unit, which is currently the most powerful available – the Evija’s charge time will be 12 mins to 80% and 18 mins to 100%. The car’s range is 250 miles (400 km) on the WLTP Combined Cycle, or 270 miles on the NEDC Combined Cycle. Lotus is in discussions with external suppliers on a charging solution for customers.

Motorsport-inspired interior is a technical tour de force

The interior of the Lotus Evija is as dramatic as the exterior. Inspired by the technical precision of race car engineering, the dominant characteristic of the cabin is the ‘floating wing’ dashboard which can be glimpsed from outside through the windscreen. The design also echoes the porosity of the exterior.

Access to the cabin is through the two dihedral doors. Handle-free to preserve the sculpted exterior, they’re operated via the key fob. It’s the first time Lotus has used such doors, and while they make for a moment of dramatic theatre they also provide maximum space for getting in and out.

The design of the steering wheel, similar to that found in an LMP or F1 car, further reinforces the Evija’s sporting intentions. The outer ring is finished in Alcantara as standard with leather available as an option. Buttons are grouped in an intuitive manner and govern functions including phone use, cruise control and DRS deployment.

Ahead of the steering wheel is a state-of-the-art digital display, providing the driver with key information such as mode, battery charge and remaining range. It is the car’s only screen, putting all necessary information in one place. The screen displays essential functions only, with information appearing as required when the appropriate button is pushed, then fading when no longer needed.

Climate control and a premium infotainment system are fitted as standard. Customers can seamlessly integrate their smartphones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, accessing their own music and navigation.

World-first laser lighting technology The Lotus Evija is the first production road car in the world to feature laser lights for both main and dipped beams. Produced by Osram, the lighting modules are very compact and will provide an outstanding view of the road or track ahead.The strikingly thin vertical headlamps provide the perfect balance of crystal-like beauty and a highly technical design. Inside the lenses, unique ‘wing-like’ elements form the daytime running lights and directional indicators.

Connected to the cloud

The Evija is the first Lotus to provide drivers with a full suite of digital connected infotainment, which will benefit from over-the-air software updates. A powerful on-board modem enables communication to the cloud, and the driver can interact with that data through a Lotus smartphone app. The app will enable drivers to monitor their Evija from anywhere in the world, for example, to check the battery charge status and driving range. It will also support remote use of air-con, to heat or cool the cabin ahead of the next drive.

The ultimate in personalization

Lotus will offer Evija customers an unparalleled level of personalisation, enabling them to specify the car exactly as they wish. This will include the opportunity to select unique paint finishes, interior trims and detailing.

Marquetry-style badging will provide further bespoke opportunities. Lotus has developed the ability to inlay metal elements directly into the carbon fibre bodyshell, so that the badge sits completely flush with the bodywork. Currently the Evija carries a partial Union Flag badge on the C-pillar, signifying its status as a British-built hypercar. However, this could be another flag, a family crest or personal logo.

Zaha Hadid Architects to build new OPPO headquarters

Following the international competition, Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) has been selected to build OPPO’s new headquarters in Shenzhen, China.

OPPO launched their first phone in 2008, growing to become China’s leading smartphone manufacturer and the fifth largest worldwide with over 40,000 employees in more than 40 countries. Pioneering new communication technology in smart devices and internet services, OPPO has established six research institutes, four research & development centres, and a global design studio.

Accommodating this growth, OPPO’s new headquarters will continue their commitment to connectivity through design.

Conceived as four interconnected towers reaching a height of 200m (42 floors), the 185,000 sq.m design incorporates two towers of flexible, open-plan spaces linked by a 20-storey vertical lobby, and two external service towers providing vertical circulation. Orientated to maximize the views over Shenzhen Bay, the towers taper inwards at lower levels creating large civic spaces at street level.

Locating the towers’ service cores externally frees the centre of each floor from obstructions; providing uninterrupted views throughout the building that will enhance interaction between employees.

Large atrium spaces unite all occupants through visual connectivity, helping to foster collaboration between different departments of the company. The abundance of natural light, varied working environments and diversity of routes for staff and visitors to move through the building are all conducive to creative engagement and spontaneity.

Developed as a new civic space for the city with a public walkway diagonally traversing its centre, OPPO’s headquarters will include a landscaped plaza, art gallery, shops, restaurants and a direct link to the adjacent station of Shenzhen’s subway network.

The 10th floor Sky Plaza will provide local residents, visitors and OPPO employees with varied dining, leisure and entertainment facilities, while the rooftop Sky Lab will be a popular public space with spectacular views over one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

Following LEED Gold certification of ZHA’s Leeza SOHO tower in Beijing and Generali Tower in Milan, the new OPPO headquarters has been designed to target LEED Gold from the US Green Building Council; developed with 3D Building Information Modelling and energy management systems to optimise efficiencies.

Breaking ground later this year, OPPO’s new headquarters is planned to complete in early 2025.

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