Caterham Cars has just revealed Project V which is their lightweight fully-electric coupé concept vehicle which has a sales target launch in 2025.
Designed as an electric vehicle from the start, Project V is the creation of new Chief Designer, Anthony Jannarelly. His vision has been brought to life by world-renowned Italian engineering firm, Italdesign.
The indicated selling price is about £80,000 which is about RM482,000 right now before logistics, warranty and marketing costs and included for sale in Malaysia. This puts it very close to the Lotus Emira 3.5 V6 selling price which is RM478,800 before local duties are added on.
However, since the Project V is a full electric car, its direct rival in Malaysia will be the Audi e-tron at RM559,000 or Porsche Taycan which has a price that starts from RM725,000..
Project V uses a battery electric powertrain, powered by a 272PS single motor mounted in the rear axle. This is paired with a 55kWh USOC lithium-ion battery pack with advanced thermal management, and the ability to recharge from 20-80 percent in as little as 15 minutes using a 150kW DC rapid charger.
With acceleration of 100km/h in less than 4.5 seconds, Project V will reach an estimated top speed of230km/h and deliver a target WLTP range of 400km.
The minimalist design philosophy means Project V, just like the Seven, is lightweight and simple. Caterham has targeted a kerb weight of 1,190kg (2+1 configuration) which will be achieved by using an innovative carbon fibre and aluminium composite chassis.
The Project V show car uses a 2+1 seating layout – 2+2 as optional – which optimises ingress and egress, provides more comfort for the rear seat passenger and offers greater flexibility in how a prospective owner may use the car.
At the centre of the interior is a simple, driver-focussed infotainment system featuring smartphone mirroring, and a digital instrument cluster is used to display key information. Drivers can choose between Normal, Sport and Sprint driving modes that intelligently adjust the acceleration and steering for different environments.
The concept features double wishbone front and rear suspension with fully adjustable geometry, electrically assisted power steering, Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres (19″ front and 20″ rear), and brake discs all-round with high-performance calipers.
The Project V show car made its public debut on the Caterham stand at 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed.
