Caterham announced that Yamaha Motor, a renowned Japanese mobility manufacturer, has joined as a development partner for its all-new electric sports coupe, Project V. Yamaha will supply its latest cutting-edge e-axle to the prototype model.
A year after the design concept was initially unveiled at Goodwood Festival of Speed, and later shown at Tokyo Auto Salon, the company is moving to the next phase of its plans to bring the car to market and commercial production.
Project V will feature a lightweight compact electric powertrain developed by Yamaha, staying true to the Caterham DNA of lightweight, simple and fun-to-drive. In addition, Yamaha will also provide its technology and expertise in vehicle motion control.
The prototype model is being developed by Tokyo R&D, a specialist engineering house with a proven track-record in developing major OEM-commissioned prototype and production vehicles. It is due to be completed by mid-2025.
Project V is being developed under the Caterham brand, part of VT Holdings based in Nagoya, Japan.
The collaboration with Yamaha will not only deliver a powertrain to match the expectations of what an all-new Caterham should be, but confidently accelerate the delivery of Project V to the market.
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.
Project V uses a battery electric powertrain, powered by a 200kW (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% in as little as 15 minutes using a 150kW DC rapid charger.
With acceleration of 0-62mph (100kph) in less than 4.5 seconds, Project V will reach an estimated top speed of 143mph (230kph) and deliver a target WLTP range of 249 miles (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.
