by Caterham Project V: Electric sports car continues testing
Although Caterham did not manage to launch the Project V within the planned timeframe, work on the model continues. The manufacturer recently released a new video showing the prototype undergoing track testing.
Earlier this year, Caterham presented the first working prototype of the Project V at the Tokyo auto show. At the time, the company stated that the model would be used to evaluate the chassis, powertrain, and battery. Since then, there has been little news about the car, but a new video demonstrates the prototype undergoing testing. While it is difficult to glean many details from the video, the company previously reported that testing would continue throughout 2026.
Development history and design
Work on the Project V began back in September 2022. The concept was presented at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023, with the production model planned for release in late 2025 or early 2026. This did not happen, and it is still unknown when series production will actually begin. However, Caterham continues to test and refine the sports car.
The design of the Project V was created by Anthony Jannarelly, who adhered to a “clean and simple” aesthetic. Although the prototype remains fairly faithful to the original concept, the rear end has been redesigned. It now features four round lights to comply with “regulatory requirements of various markets.” Other features include an oval radiator grille and wheels of different diameters — 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear.
Interior and technical specifications
Changes have also affected the cabin: the prototype received a new 2+2 seating layout interior and a round digital display. The flat dashboard, inspired by the Seven model, has largely been retained.
The Project V is based on a tubular space frame and is equipped with a 47 kWh battery with immersion cooling, which “ensures high safety and reliability even under demanding operating conditions.” The battery powers a rear e-axle manufactured by Yamaha, producing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS).
According to the company, this will allow the 1,430 kg coupe to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than five seconds. The top speed will be 230 km/h. The expected WLTP range is 400 km. Charging the battery from 20% to 80% using a 100 kW fast charger will take approximately 20 minutes. However, the company cautions that “all specifications are target figures and may change during development.”
“All specifications are target figures and may change during development.”
Despite the delays, Caterham demonstrates its commitment to its electric project. The continuation of testing and refinement of the prototype indicates that the company is striving to bring the model to series production, even as the electric vehicle market undergoes changes. All that remains is to wait for official news regarding the launch date and final technical specifications.
