Great Lives

Original version

BBC Radio 4 FM

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

BBC Radio 4

Radio 4

Radio 4 (FM)

Discussion & Talk

Factual: Life Stories

Biographical series in which guests choose someone who has inspired their lives.

BBC Radio 4 Extra

BBC Radio 4 LW

Great Lives: Rohan Silva on Colin Chapman

Colin Chapman, creator of Lotus Cars, nominated by Rohan Silva

Rohan Silva on Colin Chapman

BBC Radio 4 - Great Lives, Rohan Silva on Colin Chapman

Matthew Parris profiles the inventor of the car that changed the face of Formula One

Entrepreneur Rohan Silva chooses the charismatic Formula One car designer, Colin Chapman. With Matthew Parris. From 2019.

The arrival of Lotus shook up motor sport in 1960s and 70s.  In Formula One, Colin Chapman made his cars lighter and quicker than anyone else, often challenging the rules.  

But not everything he designed was safe.  On the roads, Lotus sports cars are an icon of the era.  

To discuss this colourful and controversial life, Matthew Parris is joined by the entrepreneur Rohan Silva and motor racing journalist, Maurice Hamilton.

Producer: Chris Ledgard

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2019.

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Great Lives

Rohan Silva on Colin Chapman

Genres

Brand

BBC Radio 4 FM

About BBC Radio 4