Caterham will unveil a near-production prototype of its first electric vehicle, Project V, on January 9th at the Tokyo Auto Salon. This represents a significant step forward for the British sports car manufacturer, which has been relatively quiet about the project’s progress since announcing a partnership with Yamaha for electric motors in October of last year.
Development & Testing Phase
The prototype will undergo rigorous testing, focusing on Yamaha’s rear-mounted electric motor, battery safety and performance, and the durability of the car’s chassis. Caterham CEO Kazuho Takahashi, who also leads VT Holdings (Caterham’s parent company since 2021), emphasized the importance of this phase for a “comprehensive vehicle testing programme.”
Timeline & Challenges
Originally revealed as a concept at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed, Project V was initially slated for a 2026 market launch. However, given that testing is only now commencing, this timeline appears optimistic. The initial concept boasted 268bhp, a 249-mile range, and a price tag under £80,000.
The current market environment presents challenges: while electric technology has advanced, the economic viability of electric sports cars has become less certain. This raises questions about whether Caterham will maintain the original performance and pricing targets.
Leadership Transition
The prototype debut follows a recent leadership change at Caterham, with Kazuho Takahashi taking the helm after Bob Laishley’s departure. This shift in management may influence the final direction of Project V.
Caterham’s decision to proceed with testing now suggests a renewed commitment to electric sports cars, despite emerging market headwinds. The upcoming prototype reveal will be critical for assessing the vehicle’s feasibility and potential market appeal.
