She was the inspiration behind the name Lotus. A nickname from her husband. A powerhouse alongside its enigmatic founder and adored by all who knew her. Today, we learned of the passing of Hazel Chapman. Wife of Lotus Founder Colin Chapman.
Although, she had a career away from her husband’s reputation. Hazel was an accomplished driver in her own right and was a sharp-witted and savvy businesswoman who many believe was a key influence on the development and birth of Lotus Cars. To the point where Lotus Cars actually began in a garage owned by Hazel’s parents in North London where the Mk1 was born. However, during Colin’s mandatory time in the RAF, Hazel would take over the actual construction of the next generation, the Mk2.
During her time surrounded by some of the greatest Formula One drivers of all time including the likes of Clark, Senna and Andretti, Hazel formed a bond and love for her drivers and everyone involved in the team had nothing but respect and adoration for Mrs Chapman by all accounts. She was also instrumental with setting up Dog House, an all-female motorsport club run for and by women to support the interests of the blossoming female driver movement.
However, after Colin Chapman’s untimely death in 1982, she began to take more of a back seat in the running of Lotus Cars. But even to this day, Lotus carried on the tradition of Hazel Chapman signing off every single road car all the way from the beginning to the introduction of Evija.
Hazel Chapman was a key and influential figure in not only the history of Lotus Cars but of the enthusiasm around driving and its accesibilityno matter of gender or age. A true trailblazer and pioneer.
From all of us here at Bridge Classic Cars, we wish to send our deepest condolences to all those who knew this incredible woman.
