by The British sports car manufacturer Caterham continues to work on its first fully electric coupe, despite general trends in the automotive industry. The company is preparing to present the first working prototype of the Project V electric car at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
Key Facts About the Project
Development Status and Plan Changes
Much has changed since the Project V concept was presented in July 2023. Many automakers are reviewing and postponing their electrification plans, but Caterham is not backing down. The presentation of the prototype in Tokyo signals continued investment in a project the company considers promising.
This first prototype is being used for testing and evaluation prior to series production. Although exact launch timelines have not yet been announced, it has become known that the previous plan for late 2025 or early 2026 is no longer relevant.
Technical Details and Partners
The last major updates regarding the technical aspects occurred in the autumn of 2024. At that time, Caterham confirmed that Project V would use an electric drive unit (e-axle) supplied by Yamaha. The concept promised 268 hp from a single electric motor, and this figure appears to remain unchanged.
In December 2024, the company shared another important technology: the car will receive immersion-cooled batteries from supplier Xing Mobility. These battery cells, built on a ‘cell-to-pack’ (CTP) architecture, are expected to provide an energy density of 200 Wh/kg, surpassing traditional liquid cooling systems. In practice, this could mean greater range and lower weight.
Next Steps and Public Events
The next steps for the company will be further evaluation of the electric drive, additional testing of the Xing battery system, and durability testing of the chassis. These trials will help shape the final look of the production model, which appears to retain many features of the original concept.
In addition to the rolling prototype debuting on January 9, Caterham also confirmed that the show car will be shown for the first time in the USA at CES 2026 in Las Vegas on January 6. It is likely to be the same white car displayed at the IAA Mobility Show in Munich in September. The simultaneous presence of both cars at the show indicates that the exterior and interior of Project V will move to the next stage of development virtually unchanged.
Changes in Company Leadership
Separately, it is worth noting the changes in Caterham’s leadership. Last month, Bob Laishley stepped down as CEO after four years at the helm. His successor is Kazuho Takahashi, who is also the president and founder of the parent company VT Holdings.
Commenting on the prototype debut, Takahashi stated:
“This is an important milestone in the development of Project V, as our prototype makes its public debut for the first time at the Tokyo Auto Salon. This next step allows us to begin a comprehensive vehicle testing program in collaboration with our technical partners. Our goal remains unchanged: to realize our vision of a pure electric sports car that embodies the indomitable DNA of Caterham.”
Caterham’s decision to continue developing an electric sports car at a time when other manufacturers may be showing caution demonstrates long-term faith in this product. The use of technologies from partners like Yamaha and Xing Mobility indicates a desire to create a competitive car, not just a symbolic project. The success of Project V could significantly expand the brand’s audience, traditionally known for its lightweight and minimalist Seven series cars, by offering them a closed, more technological, yet still sporty option. The debut of the prototype on major platforms like Tokyo and Las Vegas is a strategic step to attract the attention of a global audience and potential customers.
