Official: Caterham EV Seven (2023) – electric, but light

Caterham is testing a 100% electric version of the Seven. Installing an electric motor is not a problem, during the development the engineers of the British sports car manufacturer reduced the weight of the road. Because “Light is right,” as the late Colin Chapman would say.

And that has been successful, because the weight of the Caterham EV Seven remains below the limit of 700 kg. Unlike the Caterham 485, powered by a 2-liter petrol engine, it is only 70 kg.

Swindon Powertrain

The Caterham EV Seven electric powertrain was developed in partnership with Swindon Powertrain and combines a 240 hp electric motor with a 51 kWh battery pack. Surprisingly: the batteries, cleverly placed under the body, have a useful capacity of only 40 kWh. A conscious choice to compensate for high load during cycle use. Fast charging is possible with a maximum of 152 kW.

We have to guess the driving range of the new Caterham EV Seven, the English manufacturer only says that the model should last at least 20 minutes on a track masterpiece. Then 15 minutes at the plug is enough to prepare the electric road for another 20 minutes against the clock.

Production version?

The Lotus EV Seven is nothing more than a development model, blessed with the best equipment of the production models. We’re basically talking about the 420 Cup’s adjustable Bilstein fluids and its mechanical low-slip differential. The brakes have four piston calipers and provide energy during deceleration.

Lotus EV Seven is impossible Like in production, but it would form the technical basis of a new design that should be ready for production in the period of 2024.