Caterham’s Project V Hits The Track As Electric Sports Car Inches Closer To Production

Earlier this year, Caterham unveiled its first working prototype of Project V at the Tokyo Auto Salon. At the time, the company said the model would be used to evaluate its chassis, powertrain, and battery.

We haven’t heard much about the car since then, but the automaker has released a new video showing the prototype being put through its paces. Unfortunately, there’s not a lot we can glean from the clip, but the company has previously said testing would continue throughout 2026.

More: Caterham Won’t Let Go Of Its EV Dream Even If The World Already Has

Project V has been a long time coming as work started in September of 2022. A concept was unveiled at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023 and the production model was originally slated to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026.

That never happened and it remains unclear when production will finally begin. However, Caterham continues to test and refine the sports car.

As a refresher, Project V was designed by Anthony Jannarelly and embraces a “pure and simple” aesthetic. While the prototype remains relatively faithful to the original concept, the rear end has been revised and now sports four circular taillights to “comply with regulatory requirements in various markets.” Other highlights include an oval grille and staggered 19- and 20-inch wheels.

The changes continue inside as the prototype sports a new 2+2 interior and a circular digital display. However, the flat dashboard inspired by the Seven largely carries over.

Project V rides on a tubular spaceframe and features a 47 kWh immersion-cooled battery, which “ensures high safety and reliability even under severe operating conditions.” It feeds power to a Yamaha-sourced rear e-axle developing 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS).

This setup will reportedly enable the 3,153 lb (1,430 kg) coupe to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in less than five seconds. If drivers keep their foot planted, they’ll eventually reach 143 mph (230 km/h).

The company also expects a WLTP range of 249 miles (400 km). When the battery is low, a 100 kW DC fast charger is projected to take it from 20-80% in approximately 20 minutes. However, the automaker has cautioned that “all specifications are target figures and may be subject to change during development.”