Caterham is set to challenge the belief that electric vehicles must be heavier than their petrol-fueled equivalents, unveiling an enticing electric sports car known as Project V.
The company is renowned for its lightweight race cars, built upon the original Lotus Seven blueprint. Caterham’s philosophy centres on a driver-focused experience that is light on the scales and thrilling to drive – a principle that strongly resonates within the Project V.
Currently under development, the vehicle aims to weigh less than 2,624 pounds. By way of comparison, the Lotus Evija hypercar, one of the lightest EVs currently in production, tips the scales at over 3,700 pounds, albeit with an unrivalled power output of 2,011 hp.
Specs released for the Project V include a 268-hp electric motor at the back axle and a 55-kwh battery situated within the floor. According to Caterham, this setup will enable the car to accelerate from 0-62 mph in under 4.5 seconds, reach a top speed of 143 mph, and offer a driving range of 249 miles as per the lenient WLTP test cycle. Even when measured under the stricter EPA cycle, the range should still exceed 200 miles. A DC fast charger can replenish the battery from 20-80% in roughly 15 minutes.
The comparatively small battery contributes to a lower overall weight, as does the carbon-fiber monocoque and composite body fashioned in the style of a coupe. The vehicle’s design is the handiwork of Caterham’s new design director, Anthony Jannarelly, who also designed the equally appealing Jannarelly Design-1 sports car.
Notable features of the Project V include an adjustable double wishbone suspension system at both ends, electric power steering, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres (19-inch front, 20-inch rear), and a high-performance braking system.
Inside, practically every component was chosen with the intent of maintaining lightness and maximising driver engagement. The interior boasts a stripped-back design, featuring a standard 2+1 seating arrangement, with a 2+2 configuration as an option.
Caterham anticipates that Project V will be launched by late 2025 or early 2026. The company has declared a prospective price tag of under 80,000 British pounds (roughly $103,650).
The car is set to be showcased at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the U.K. this week, along with two electric Seven prototypes. Caterham has stated that an electric Seven will only enter production following the Project V, due to current EV technology being too heavy for a vehicle like the Seven, as per the company’s perspective.
Kazuho Takahashi, CEO of Caterham’s parent company VT Holdings, said, “We are honored to be able to unveil two new vehicles from Caterham at Goodwood Festival of Speed. The new models are a result of an uncompromising fusion of two seemingly contradictory requirements: retaining the Caterham values that must never change, while evolving to meet the changing demands of customers, such as the shift towards electric.”
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Caterham Project V
What is Caterham’s Project V?
Project V is a lightweight electric sports car being developed by Caterham. This car is designed to challenge the common perception that electric vehicles need to be heavier than their petrol counterparts.
Who is the designer of Caterham’s Project V?
The Project V car body is designed by Anthony Jannarelly, the new design director of Caterham. He is also known for designing the Jannarelly Design-1 sports car.
What is the projected weight of the Caterham Project V?
The Caterham Project V is being developed with a targeted weight of less than 2,624 pounds.
What are the confirmed specifications for Caterham’s Project V?
Project V is equipped with a 268-hp electric motor and a 55-kwh battery. This combination allows for a 0-62 mph acceleration in under 4.5 seconds, a top speed of 143 mph, and a driving range of around 249 miles.
When is the Caterham Project V expected to be available?
The Project V is anticipated to be available by late 2025 or early 2026.
What is the expected price of Caterham’s Project V?
Caterham has announced a targeted price for the Project V to be less than 80,000 British pounds (approximately $103,650).
Where will Caterham showcase the Project V?
Caterham will showcase the Project V at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed in the U.K.
Will Caterham produce an electric version of the Seven?
Yes, Caterham has stated that an electric version of the Seven will only enter production following the completion of the Project V. The current EV technology, according to Caterham, is still too heavy for a car like the Seven.
More about Caterham Project V
- Caterham Cars Official Website
- Goodwood Festival of Speed
- Information about the Lotus Evija
- About the Jannarelly Design-1
7 comments
Sounds intriguing, the design chief Jannarelly, he designed that cool design-1 right? wonder what he’ll bring to the table for project V.
Really glad to see more companies going electric, but isn’t the price tag a bit high?
I’m old school. love me some gas engines, but this? i’m curious to see how it’ll stack up.
Seems like caterham’s really stepping up their game with this project V. Can’t wait to hear more about it!
Wait a min! Less than 4.5 secs for 0-62mph in an electric? thats crazy fast! Count me in.
Interesting! a small battery and carbon fiber monocoque should indeed keep the weight down, good thinking caterham! But 15mins for 20-80% charge? Gotta check the fine print on that.
Wow, a lightweight electric sports car! I can’t wait to see this one on the road. Anyone got a spare 80k lying around?