The all-electric coupe seen in Caterham's Project V concept, unveiled ahead of this weekend's Goodwood Festival of Speed, might be on sale in late 2025 or early 2026.
The vehicle has a 268-horsepower electric motor at the back axle and a 55 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. According to Caterham, a 150 kW DC quick charger can recharge the vehicle from 20 to 80% in as little as 15 minutes, and the powertrain can reach 62 mph (100 km/h) in less than 4.5 seconds. It can travel up to 143 mph (230 km/h) at its highest speed, and its intended WLTP range is 249 miles (400 km).
Anthony Jannarelly, the creator of specialised carmaker Jannarelly, was hired as Caterham's new head designer and worked on Project V. Project V features design elements that mix contemporary flair with traditional refinement, making it unlike any other Caterham that has gone before it.
Caterham claims a 2+2 configuration will be an option, but a 2+1 seating arrangement is the default. Despite being relatively basic by contemporary standards, the cabin has space for a sizable central touchscreen, digital binnacles in the dashboard's centre, and an all-digital instrument panel. According to Caterham, drivers may modify the acceleration and handling of the vehicle by selecting between Normal, Sport, and Sprint driving modes.
Project V checks all the necessary boxes to be a pleasant and exciting sports car on paper. It boasts electrically assisted power steering, double-wishbone front and rear suspension with entirely adjustable geometry, 19-inch front and 20-inch rear Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, and high-performance brakes on all four corners. Due to the extensive usage of aluminium and carbon fibre, Caterham hopes to achieve a curb weight of just 1,190 kg (2,623 lbs) for the vehicle.
Caterham CEO Bob Laishley said, "Project V is not just a concept or design study; we have conducted engineering and production feasibility throughout the development process." "An electric Caterham of any size or form must adhere to the qualities that make us unique from the competition: being light, uncomplicated, and providing an unmatched driving experience; it's in our DNA. Project V isn't meant to replace Seven; it's meant to complement it. By upholding the basic Caterham principles, Project V will appeal to the brand's current fan base and win over new ones.
