The Lobini H1 is a sports car produced by the Brazilian automaker Lobini between 2005 and 2013. It was the first and only production model from the manufacturer.
Background
The Lobini H1 was conceived by José Orlando Lobo and Fábio Birolini, whose surnames were combined to form the company name "Lobini." The prototype was first presented to the public at the 22nd São Paulo Motor Show in 2002. The first finished unit was sold in 2005, initially available only as a targa top configuration. The car was designed by Graham Holmes, a former Lotus designer, and was clearly inspired by the Lotus Elise. In 2006, minor redesigns were announced for the 2007 model year, and at the 26th São Paulo Motor Show, a new coupé model and a racing model were introduced.
Design and Specifications
The H1 features a carbon steel tubular chassis and a fiberglass body shell. It has a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout (MR layout) with the engine transversally mounted in front of the rear axle. The body style is a 2-door targa or 2-door coupé.
Dimensions
- Length: 3,720 mm
- Width: 1,800 mm
- Height: 1,180 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,400 mm
- Curb weight: approximately 1,030 kg
Engine and Performance
The H1 uses a Volkswagen 1.8L turbocharged 20-valve inline-four engine (EA113), the same engine used in the Brazilian Volkswagen Golf GTI and Audi A3. It produces 178 hp (133 kW; 180 PS) at 5,700 rpm and 24 kgfm of torque. The engine has a compression ratio of 9.5:1 and a displacement of 1,781 cm³.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): 6.5 seconds (manufacturer claimed)
- Top speed: 225 km/h (140 mph)
- Drag coefficient (Cx): 0.39
Suspension and Brakes
The suspension is independent with overlapping arms (double wishbone) at both the front and rear, with coil springs. Brakes are ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear.
Production
Production figures are limited. According to available data, total production reached approximately 69 units, with the highest annual output of 27 units in 2011. The car was priced at around R$170,000 (approximately US$90,000) in the Brazilian market.
Market and Reception
While the Lobini H1 was well received by Brazilian automotive enthusiasts for its sporty design and performance, it was considered expensive for the domestic market. As a result, a significant portion of its production was directed toward export markets, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The company was bought by Brax Automóveis in 2006. Lobini was formerly distributed in the UK by Lifestyle Automotive Ltd.
Legacy
The Lobini H1 remains a milestone in Brazilian automotive history as one of the few sports cars produced in the country, representing a blend of European-inspired design with Brazilian engineering.
