F1 Lotus T128 – #02 rolling chassis

The Lotus T128 was the second Formula 1 car developed by Team Lotus after their return to the grid in 2010, competing in the 2011 FIA Formula 1 World Championship. Powered by the Renault RS27 2.4-litre naturally aspirated V8 and paired with a Red Bull Technology gearbox, the T128 marked a significant step forward in performance and technical sophistication for the young team led by Tony Fernandes.

This example is chassis #02, which was originally used as a factory test car throughout 2011. While it was not raced in a Grand Prix, it played an important role in the development program, contributing valuable mileage and data for the race team. Later, the car also served as a promotional and display car, but it has been preserved in its authentic 2011 Team Lotus livery, reflecting the season in which it was originally campaigned.

Driven in testing sessions by the team’s race drivers Heikki Kovalainen and Jarno Trulli, as well as by test drivers, the T128 was a key transitional car that helped establish Lotus (later Caterham F1) as a stable midfield contender.

The T128 is also notable for being part of the final years of the spectacular 750 hp naturally aspirated V8 era of Formula 1, before the introduction of hybrid technology.

KEY FACTS

• Model: Lotus T128 Formula 1
• Chassis: #02 – Official factory test car, later used for promotion/display
• Year: 2011
• Engine: none
• Gearbox: none
• Drivers: Heikki Kovalainen, Jarno Trulli, and test drivers
• Role: Test and development car – later promotional car
• Livery: Original 2011 Team Lotus colours
• Heritage: Second car developed by Team Lotus after their F1 comeback
• Status: Collector’s item – authentic modern-era Formula 1 chassis with development and promotional history

COLLECTORS’ APPEAL
The Lotus T128-02 offers collectors a rare opportunity to acquire a genuine Formula 1 chassis that not only contributed to the team’s technical development but also represented the brand publicly in its striking 2011 Team Lotus livery. After its active career, the car spent years as part of a private collection of a passionate car enthusiast, where it was preserved as an important piece of modern Formula 1 history.

Its visual presence, iconic green-and-yellow livery, and background as both a factory test car and promotional showpiece make it a highly desirable acquisition for collectors, museums, and display purposes alike – a car that represents both engineering history and brand heritage.

The description of this F1 car is, to the best of the our knowledge, accurate and not misleading. GPCARS4SALE requests a range of detail about the cars from the pre-owner and performs a level of due diligence. However, potential buyers must independently satisfy themselves as to the accuracy of the description. Potential buyers should view or arrange inspections in the showroom of GPCARS4SALE as well as conduct any research they feel is necessary before committing to buy. 

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