This extends inside as well. The Project V show car features a 2+1 seating layout, although a 2+2 configuration will be optional on the production version. Caterham says the 2+1 set-up means getting in and out is easier, while there’s more space in the rear for the single passenger, making Project V a more usable machine than some other small sports coupes.
The interior is focused on the driver, with a simple instrument readout that includes key info. Smartphone mirroring will also be included, while the V offers three drive modes to choose from: Normal, Sport and Sprint. These settings adjust the steering weight and throttle response/acceleration for different driving environments, says Caterham.
According to Laishley: “Project V isn’t instead of Seven, it’s complementary to it, and we believe that by retaining the core Caterham values, it will appeal to both our existing customer base and attract new fans to the brand.”
The British firm recently revealed its Seven EV concept, a zero-emissions version of its iconic two-seater sports car, carrying it through into the modern era. The brand’s boss believes there’s room in the range for another model too, and that “by using a more practical coupe body style and by exploiting the packaging benefits of an electric car, this is a car that works as well for trips to the shops, or the school run, as it does for Sunday morning sprints.”
With a working prototype using Yamaha’s technology due by mid-2025 and a targeted production date towards the end of 2025 or early in 2026, the eventual road-going Project V could cost less than £80,000, the company has indicated.
Now read our review of the Wiesmann Project Thunderball…