Caterham unveils Project V, an electric concept car with a single 200kW motor

Caterham has revealed Project V, a lightweight electric coupe concept car created by the OEM’s new chief designer – Anthony Jannarelly – and made a reality through a partnership with Italian engineering firm Italdesign.

The latest version of the company’s sports car features a battery-electric powertrain with a single 200kW motor mounted on the rear axle, paired with a 55kWh USOC lithium-ion battery pack and advanced control of fat. The battery can be charged from 20-80% in 15 minutes using a 150kW DC fast charger; on a full charge, the car has a range of 400km. Furthermore, Project V can reach 0-100km/h in less than 4.5 seconds and has an estimated top speed of 230km/h.

With the standard 2+1 configuration (a 2+2 is optional), Caterham is aiming for a weight of 1,190kg, which will be achieved by using carbon fiber and aluminum alloy to make the chassis.

“Project V is not just a concept or design research; we have run engineering and production feasibility studies throughout the development process,” explained Bob Laishley, CEO of Caterham Cars and COO of the newly formed Caterham Evo. “An electric Caterham of any shape and size must stay true to what sets us apart from everyone else: being light, simple and offering an unparalleled driving experience; that’s our DNA.”

Laishley added, “Project V fulfills our ambition to grow the company in a sustainable way and explore electrification at the same time. Depending on the next phases of development and technical capabilities, Project V could be brought to market in late 2025 or early 2026 with a target price starting from under £80,000.”

“The design of the Caterham Seven is simple and understated. It is designed for the purpose of work, to be light and fun to drive,” said Jannarelly. “With Project V, we apply this philosophy to the design of the sports coupe to create an attractive silhouette and timeless. Each element has to defend itself from a weight perspective to maintain agility and improve driver engagement.

The Project V features a front and rear fairing with fully adjustable geometry, electric power steering, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and brake discs on all sides.

“We are delighted to partner with Caterham and Anthony Jannarelly to bring the V project to fruition,” commented Andrea Porta, business development manager at Italdesign. “At every stage, we have used our experience in developing commercially viable concepts and prototype vehicles, to ensure that any future production version can be brought to market quickly.”

The Project V show car will make its public debut on the Caterham stand at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.