The Lotus Elite was a groundbreaking vehicle when it debuted, utilizing innovative materials and construction techniques. It featured a monocoque made entirely from glass-reinforced plastic, which bore the entire load of the vehicle. Additionally, a steel subframe that supported the engine and front suspension was bonded into the front of the monocoque. This design also included a square-section windscreen-hoop, which served multiple purposes: it provided mounting points for door hinges, a jacking point for lifting the car, and components for roll-over protection.

Despite its revolutionary design, the Lotus Elite faced significant issues with durability. The vehicle’s parts had a propensity to wear out quickly, which undermined its reliability and contributed to its commercial failure. This flaw prevented the Elite from achieving lasting success in the automotive market.