Introduction to Project V
The Project V EV marks Caterham’s serious entry into the US market, showcasing a driver-focused design combined with Yamaha power.
Key Features
- Caterham plans to take the US market seriously for the first time in 50 years.
- Project V uses two 27 kWh batteries paired with a Yamaha motor.
- It offers 268 horsepower while avoiding a conventional skateboard design for a better driving feel.
Progress and Debut
It has been over two years since Caterham first unveiled its fully electric Project V concept. Recently showcased at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, a functional prototype will also be presented at the Tokyo Motor Show later this week. Exciting news for US sports car enthusiasts is on the way.
Market Strategy
Justin Gardiner, Caterham’s overseas representative, confirmed during CES that Project V will soon be available in the US market. This is not just a symbolic gesture; it is part of a broader strategy.
“You are all charged”
Gardiner stated: “We have ignored America as a market for 50 years, and that is ridiculous, because you are all charged. We are going to take America very seriously starting this week. We are looking to sell many of these here.”
Project V will be offered alongside the iconic Caterham Seven, but Gardiner emphasised the need for the brand to “prepare for the future” in light of the eventual end of Seven production.
Engineering the Driving Experience
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In line with its commitment to a pure driving experience, Caterham has designed Project V to be agile and responsive. Instead of adopting a standard skateboard battery design, the engineers opted for a more innovative solution.
Two liquid-cooled battery packs from Xing Mobility are positioned both at the front and rear of the vehicle, optimising weight distribution to enhance driving dynamics reminiscent of the Seven model. These battery packs collectively provide just over 27 kWh to power a 268 hp electric motor from Yamaha.
As Gardiner explained, “While all other EV manufacturers tend to put the batteries in the skateboard, we have deliberately placed the driver’s seat as close to the ground as possible.” He added: “While all other car manufacturers want [the weight] all in the middle, we have deliberately pushed it forward and backward, because that is how it is in the Seven, and that is what makes the Seven fun to drive.”
Focus on the Powertrain
The battery system employs a dielectric liquid for cooling, ensuring optimal thermal management during spirited driving. Despite a relatively modest charging capacity of 100 kW, Caterham does not focus too much on rapid recharges.
As Gardiner commented, the emphasis is on how quickly the battery can discharge rather than how quickly it can recharge. Target buyers are likely more interested in performance on twisty roads or racetracks than in long commutes.
Price Expectations
While a definitive price for the US market has yet to be confirmed, Gardiner anticipates that Project V will be priced around $135,000 upon arrival.
