The legendary British firm Caterham returns to the limelight today thanks to its current owners, the Japanese importer VT Holdings. They do it with a new challenge under their arm, the Project Va next-generation electric sports car that has had the invaluable help of Yamaha Motor in its development. The latter is responsible for supplying the plug-in engine that propels the slender English coupe.
If we look back in time, we can remember how Caterham tried to make its first steps in the motorcycle sector at the end of 2013. It even founded a Moto2 competition team, the Caterham Moto Racing Team, with Johan Zarco as a rider. official. At the same time they presented the prototype of a spectacular trail 750 automatic convertible into a snowmobile and two e-bikes.
New era of Caterham with the support of Yamaha Motor
The dream of two wheels ended on deaf ears and in 2021, VT Holdings took over 100% of the brand’s assets. Since then they have worked on the so-called “Project V”, an electric sports car with a stylized silhouette and a 2+1 seating arrangement (2+2 as an option) that is powered by an engine developed by the tuning fork firm. This made its debut last January at the Tokyo Motor Show.
Project V uses a battery-electric propulsion system, powered by a single 200 kW motor (272 HP) mounted on the rear axle. This is paired with a 55 kWh USOC lithium-ion battery pack with advanced thermal management and the ability to recharge from 20 to 80 percent in just 15 minutes using a 150 kW DC fast charger.
Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport and Sprint driving modes, which intelligently adjust acceleration and steering for different environments. Caterham claims acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 4.5 seconds, and a top speed of 230 km/h, all with a maximum range of 400 km. Bob LaishleyCEO of Caterham Cars Ltd and COO of the newly created Caterham EVo, said:
“Project V is not just a concept or a design study; We have carried out engineering and production feasibility studies throughout the development process. An electric Caterham of any shape and size has to be true to what sets us apart from all others: being light, simple and offering an unparalleled driving experience; “That is our DNA.”
Now Caterham announces that it is opening the reservation period for its new electric sports car with the idea of making the first deliveries at the end of 2025 or beginning of 2026. Its tariff price starts at 80,000 pounds, just over 95,000 eurosa figure within the reach of very few lucky people.
For more information and details you can consult directly on the official Caterham website.