Caterham Project V: A Bold Leap into the Electric Future of Sports Cars

The automotive world thrives on innovation, and few names embody the spirit of lightweight, driver-focused performance quite like Caterham. Known for its iconic Seven, Caterham has long been associated with purist motoring—stripped-down machines that prioritize agility and connection over luxury. Now, with the Caterham Project V, the British marque is stepping into uncharted territory: the realm of electric sports cars. This ambitious project is not just a new model; it’s a statement of intent, a redefinition of what Caterham stands for in the age of electrification.

⚡ The Vision Behind Project V

Project V was first unveiled as a concept at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, designed by French automotive visionary Anthony Jannarelly. Jannarelly, known for his work on the Jannarelly Design-1, brought a fresh perspective to Caterham’s DNA. His challenge was clear: how do you create an electric car that remains true to Caterham’s ethos of simplicity, lightness, and driver engagement?

The answer lies in Project V’s philosophy. Unlike many electric vehicles that chase ever-larger batteries and luxury features, Caterham has focused on minimalism and performance. The car is designed to be lightweight (1,190 kg), nimble, and uncompromisingly fun to drive.

🔋 Technical Highlights

At its core, Project V is powered by a Yamaha-developed rear-mounted electric motor, delivering 272 PS (268 bhp). This setup promises Caterham’s trademark rear-wheel-drive excitement, ensuring that the car feels alive in the corners. The battery system is equally innovative: a cell-to-pack design with cells immersed in dielectric liquid for superior cooling and rapid heat dissipation.

Performance figures are impressive:

• 0–62 mph in under 4.5 seconds
• Top speed of 143 mph
• Range of up to 249 miles (WLTP)

These numbers place Project V firmly in the territory of usable, everyday sports cars, while still offering the thrills enthusiasts crave.

🎨 Design Language

Visually, Project V is a departure from Caterham’s traditional open-top roadsters. It’s a sleek, modern sports coupe, with Italdesign collaborating on the show car’s execution. The design balances aerodynamic efficiency with bold styling cues, making it both futuristic and unmistakably Caterham. Shortlisted for Best Exterior Design Award, Project V has already captured the imagination of enthusiasts worldwide.

🏁 Development Milestones

After its concept debut, Caterham went quiet for a while, leading some to wonder if Project V would remain a dream. But in January 2026, the first functional prototype will be unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, marking a major milestone in its journey. This prototype is not just a showpiece—it’s being used to test the durability of the chassis, the safety and performance of the battery, and the reliability of Yamaha’s drivetrain.

Caterham’s new CEO, Kazuho Takahashi, has emphasized that Project V is central to the brand’s future. As the head of VT Holdings, which acquired Caterham in 2021, Takahashi brings both financial backing and strategic vision. His leadership signals Caterham’s commitment to seeing Project V through to production.

🌍 Why Project V Matters

The significance of Project V extends beyond Caterham itself. In a world where electric cars are often criticized for being heavy, detached, and overly complex, Project V offers a refreshing counterpoint. It proves that EVs can be lightweight, engaging, and true to the spirit of driving. For enthusiasts worried that electrification means the death of fun, Caterham is offering hope.

Moreover, Project V positions Caterham as a forward-thinking brand ready to compete in a rapidly evolving market. With production slated for late 2025, it could arrive just as demand for compact, performance-oriented EVs begins to surge.

🚀 The Road Ahead

Of course, challenges remain. Caterham must ensure that Project V delivers not just on paper but in real-world driving. Reliability, affordability, and production scalability will be key. Yet, if Caterham succeeds, Project V could become a landmark car—one that bridges the gap between classic driving purity and modern electric innovation.

✨ Conclusion

The Caterham Project V is more than just a car; it’s a bold experiment in redefining what an electric sports car can be. By staying true to its DNA of lightness and driver focus, Caterham is proving that electrification doesn’t have to mean compromise. With its sleek design, innovative engineering, and thrilling performance, Project V could very well be the car that ushers Caterham into a new era—without losing sight of the joy that made the brand legendary.