Caterham reveals ‘Project V’ concept

Caterham, the British brand best known for their ‘Seven’ range of performance roadsters, may soon be entering the coupe space following the presentation of an all-new concept – Project V.

Aside from aftermarket hardtop conversions and the aborted C120 collaboration with Alpine, all Caterhams up to this point have been open-top vehicles. Project V changes that, with Caterham touting the fixed-roof concept as a future production model, potentially arriving as early as 2025.

Project V is also fully-electric, reflecting work Caterham have already undertaken in the EV space. Power comes from a 200kW electric motor on the rear axle, while the battery is a two-piece 55kWh lithium-ion unit that’s capable of up to 80 per cent charge in 15 minutes using a DC fast charger. 

Created by Caterham’s Chief Designer Anthony Jannarelly and built by ItalDesign, Project V stays true to the British carmaker’s lightweight mantra. A combination of carbon fibre and aluminium construction sees the concept weigh just 1,190kg.

“An electric Caterham of any shape and size has to stay true to what sets us apart from everyone else: being lightweight, simple and offering an unparalleled driving experience,” said Bob Laishley, CEO of Caterham Cars Ltd. “That’s our DNA.

“Project V fulfils our ambition to sustainably grow the company and explore electrification simultaneously. Subject to the next phases of development and technical capability, Project V could be brought to market towards the end of 2025 or early 2026 with a target price starting from less than £80,000.” (AU$118,000 approx.)

The concept includes 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, double wishbone suspension at each end, three driving modes, a digital instrument display and smartphone mirroring infotainment system. An unusual feature is the 2+1 seating layout (with central rear seat) for easier passenger entry/exit, but Caterham say this can be reconfigured to a 2+2.

“Project V isn’t instead of Seven, it’s complementary to it,” Laishley adds. “We believe that, by retaining the core Caterham values, it will appeal to both our existing customer base and attract new fans to the brand.”

To support Project V’s development, a new arm of the business – Caterham EVo – has been established.