Engineering Transformation,
Not Decoration
LOTEC's tuning work was never superficial. It began in 1975 with GRP bodywork for Porsche — a discipline requiring precision mould-making and materials knowledge. By 1985, LOTEC was developing TÜV-approved turbo engines for Mercedes. The two disciplines — body and engine — were always pursued together.
The Mercedes 300 CE biturbo wide-body — with its dramatically flared arches and twin-turbocharged straight-six — was among the most comprehensive transformations LOTEC offered. The 190E received similar treatment. Both were particularly sought after in Japan, where LOTEC's work had a devoted following.
Later products — the SLR-Look for the Mercedes SL, gullwing doors, forged alloy wheels — maintained the same standard: every modification engineered to last, every price including a guarantee.
The Tuning Timeline
Porsche Bodywork Conversions Begin
BodyLOTEC begins producing GRP (glass-reinforced plastic) wide-body kits for Porsche vehicles. Model and mould construction becomes a core competency. Staff grows to 8.
Mercedes Bodywork & GRP One-offs
BodyBodywork conversions for Mercedes vehicles begin. GRP individual fabrications — one-off custom body parts — become a LOTEC speciality. LOTEC GmbH formally incorporated.
Patent-Protected Mercedes SEC Bonnet
BodyLOTEC develops and patents a manufacturing process for Mercedes SEC bonnets. The patent protection reflects the technical innovation involved in the production method.
TÜV-Approved Turbo Engines for Mercedes
EngineLOTEC develops turbocharged engine conversions for Mercedes vehicles, receiving official TÜV certification. This is the foundation of LOTEC's performance tuning reputation.
Mercedes 190E Wide-Body & Turbo
BodyLOTEC develops a complete wide-body conversion for the Mercedes 190E (W201), including flared arches, front and rear aprons, and side skirts in GRP. A LOTEC turbo engine conversion was also available, with the characteristic red LOTEC cam cover. These cars were particularly popular in Japan.
Mercedes 300 CE Wide-Body & Biturbo
BodyThe Mercedes 300 CE C124 coupe received LOTEC's most comprehensive treatment: a full wide-body kit with dramatically flared wheel arches, deep front and rear bumpers, and side skirts. The engine was converted to biturbo specification, producing up to 368 hp from the M103 straight-six. A complete transformation of the already elegant C124 platform.
Porsche 928 GT
BodyWide-body conversion and performance upgrades for the Porsche 928, producing the LOTEC 928 GT. Custom GRP bodywork, lowered suspension, and engine tuning.
Mercedes SLR-Look for SL R230
BodyLOTEC develops the SLR-Look facelift for the Mercedes SL R230 (SL 350 – SL 65 AMG) in three versions (A, B, C). The official LOTEC website states: 'Only LOTEC has the original SL-R Look!'
SLR-Look for SLK (R170)
BodyFacelift conversion for the SLK up to model year 2004 (R170). LOTEC changes only the bonnet, produced in carbon fibre composite. No other conversions necessary.
Wing Doors for SL R230
BodyLOTEC develops gullwing-style doors for the Mercedes SL R230. The hinges swing upward in one even movement, invisibly mounted in the A-column. Not welded — fully reversible to standard condition. Net price: €9,800.
Alloy Wheels — 19" and 20"
WheelsLOTEC offers four types of alloy wheels in both 19" and 20" sizes, including forged (Type 1) and cast variants in SL-R Look design. Prices from €3,808 to €10,115 including tyres, fitting, and wheel arch extensions.
Chiptuning
EngineLOTEC offers optimised chip tuning for Porsche, Ferrari, Mercedes, BMW, VW, and Audi. LOTEC states: 'Bundled know-how in mechanics and electronics, experience in motorsport, development and dyno testing — a serious plus in safety and economy. At affordable prices (including guarantee).'