Jenson Button Revives Lotus 62-2: A Modern Marvel by Radford Motors

Radford Motors, spearheaded by F1 World Champion Jenson Button and co-founders Ant Anstead and Roger Behle, has breathed new life into the iconic 1969 Lotus Type 62 Race Car. In an exclusive interview with designboom, Button shares the journey of resurrecting not only the historic vehicle but also the Radford Motors brand, committed to crafting personalized, bespoke cars for discerning drivers.

The result of their dedication is the modernized Type 62-2, available in three distinct forms: a road-legal version, a track-only variant, and an exclusive event car, as showcased in the recent Pikes Peak Edition at The Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb by Gran Turismo.

Delving into the design process, Button reveals the meticulous research that led them to a 1963 drawing by Ron Hickman, Lotus’ lead designer at the time, which became the basis for the Type 62-2’s reimagination. With an original Type 62 from 1969 as a starting point, the team embarked on a complex design exercise to bring a 50-year-old car into the modern era.

The interview also explores Button’s transition from F1 racing to automotive building, highlighting Radford Motors’ commitment to the coach-built era. The brand focuses on creating unique, high-quality vehicles, with the Type 62-2 serving as a testament to their dedication to craftsmanship and performance.

The Type 62-2 is offered in various editions, each with its distinctive features. The road-legal version sets the design DNA, emphasizing simplicity and lightness. In contrast, the track edition, built around an all-carbon monocoque and utilizing 3D printing technology, enhances performance and aerodynamics. Additionally, the Pikes Peak Edition exemplifies Radford’s capability to produce one-off cars tailored for specific events.

Button emphasizes the importance of driver-centric design, drawing from his F1 expertise to ensure optimal driving dynamics and ergonomics. The Radford Motors philosophy rejects unnecessary features in favor of a raw, unadulterated driving experience. The road-legal Type 62-2 embodies this ethos, becoming one of the lightest supercars on the market.

Looking ahead, Radford Motors has ambitious plans, including the acquisition of iconic brands like Gold Leaf and JPS (John Player Special), further expanding their portfolio. With a commitment to innovation and a keen eye on automotive heritage, Radford Motors continues to redefine the boundaries of modern car design and performance.