2023 Caterham Project V Concept

• Electrifying Performance: Experience the thrill of 0-62mph (100kph) in under 4.5 seconds with the 2023 Caterham Project V, a lightweight fully-electric coupé concept.

• Sustainable Innovation: Caterham's commitment to sustainability is evident in Project V, which features a battery electric powertrain and advanced thermal management for a WLTP range of 249 miles (400km).

• Lightweight Design: Embodying Caterham's DNA, Project V boasts an innovative carbon fibre and aluminium composite chassis, targeting a kerb weight of just 1,190kg (2+1 configuration).

• Italian Excellence: Collaborating with Italdesign, Caterham ensures the production viability of Project V, combining Italian engineering expertise with Caterham's distinct identity.

• Speed and Agility: With an estimated top speed of 143mph (230kph) and fully adjustable double wishbone suspension, Project V offers a thrilling and dynamic driving experience.

• Rapid Recharging: Project V's 55kWh USOC lithium-ion battery pack can recharge from 20-80% in just 15 minutes using a 150kW DC rapid charger, ensuring minimal downtime.

• Driver-Focused Interior: The 2+1 seating layout, driver-focussed infotainment system, and digital instrument cluster prioritize comfort, convenience, and an engaging driving experience.

• Versatile Driving Modes: Choose between Normal, Sport, and Sprint driving modes to adapt the acceleration and steering of Project V to different environments and preferences.

• Complementary to Caterham Seven: Project V expands Caterham's lineup, offering a more practical coupé body style that appeals to both existing owners and new enthusiasts.

• Future Release Potential: Caterham aims to bring Project V to market by late 2025 or early 2026, with a target price starting from less than £80,000, making this exciting concept accessible to a wider audience.

Caterham Unveils Project V: A Striking Electric Coupé Concept with Future Production Potential

Caterham, renowned for their lightweight and exhilarating sports cars, has recently unveiled their latest creation, the 2023 Caterham Project V concept. This fully-electric coupé, designed by the talented Chief Designer Anthony Jannarelly and brought to life in collaboration with the world-renowned Italian engineering firm Italdesign, showcases Caterham's vision for the future of electric vehicles. With a potential release date estimated between late 2025 and early 2026, Project V aims to combine sustainability, performance, and the unrivaled driving experience that defines the Caterham DNA.

A Cutting-Edge Electric Powertrain: Performance Meets Efficiency

Project V takes full advantage of its electric powertrain, featuring a 200kW (272PS) single motor mounted on the rear axle. This cutting-edge powertrain is complemented by a 55kWh USOC lithium-ion battery pack with advanced thermal management, allowing for rapid recharging from 20% to 80% in just 15 minutes using a 150kW DC rapid charger. The impressive performance capabilities of Project V include a blistering acceleration of 0-62mph (100kph) in under 4.5 seconds, an estimated top speed of 143mph (230kph), and a target WLTP range of 249 miles (400km).

Marrying Form and Function: A Striking Silhouette

True to Caterham's minimalist design philosophy, Project V features a sleek and seductive silhouette that echoes the simplicity and lightweight nature of the iconic Caterham Seven. The innovative use of a carbon fibre and aluminium composite chassis allows Caterham to target a remarkable kerb weight of just 1,190kg (2+1 configuration). This emphasis on lightweight construction ensures optimal performance and an engaging driving experience.

Engineering Feasibility and Production Viability: A Reality in the Making

Bob Laishley, CEO of Caterham Cars Ltd and COO of Caterham EVo, emphasizes that Project V is not merely a concept or design study. Throughout the development process, rigorous engineering and production feasibility assessments have been conducted to ensure the project's viability. Laishley further explains, "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; that's our DNA." With this commitment to maintaining Caterham's core values, Project V aims to sustainably grow the company and explore electrification simultaneously. Caterham is targeting a market release of Project V by the end of 2025 or early 2026, with an anticipated starting price below £80,000.

Enhancing the Driving Experience: Advanced Features and Intelligent Modes

Project V's interior showcases a driver-focused design with a 2+1 seating layout (optional 2+2 configuration) to optimize comfort and flexibility. The central infotainment system integrates smartphone mirroring, while a digital instrument cluster provides key information. Drivers can choose from three driving modes—Normal, Sport, and Sprint—intelligently adjusting acceleration and steering to adapt to different environments. The concept also boasts double wishbone suspension, electrically assisted power steering, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires (19" front and 20" rear), and high-performance brake discs with calipers, ensuring optimal handling and control.

A Collaboration of Expertise: Caterham and Italdesign

Partnering with Italdesign, a company renowned for producing commercially viable concept and prototype vehicles, Caterham has ensured that Project V can be swiftly transitioned into future production. Andrea Porta, Business Development Manager at Italdesign, expresses his delight at the collaboration, stating, "At every step, we have applied our experience to ensure that any future production version can be brought to market at pace." This collaboration has allowed Caterham to merge their distinct identity with the expertise of Italdesign, resulting in an electric coupé that captures the essence of Caterham while embracing the benefits of an EV.

Continuing the Legacy: Project V and the Caterham Seven

It's important to note that Project V is not meant to replace the iconic Caterham Seven. Instead, it complements the existing lineup, offering a more practical coupé body style that expands the possibilities for Caterham enthusiasts. By harnessing the packaging advantages of an electric vehicle, Project V seamlessly transitions between daily errands and exhilarating drives, appealing to both existing Caterham owners and a new generation of fans.

Unveiling at Goodwood Festival of Speed: A Glimpse into the Future

The Project V show car will make its highly anticipated public debut at the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed. This unveiling further solidifies Caterham's commitment to pushing boundaries and embracing the shifting demands of the automotive industry. As part of this endeavor, Caterham EVo has been established to oversee the business and investment aspects related to Project V, supporting the company's ambitious aspirations.

As the automotive landscape evolves, Caterham remains dedicated to delivering lightweight, exhilarating driving experiences while embracing electrification. The 2023 Caterham Project V concept embodies this commitment, fusing cutting-edge technology, striking design, and unparalleled performance. Stay tuned for further updates on this electrifying journey into the future of Caterham.

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