British automotive manufacturer Caterham and Japanese giant Yamaha Motor have joined forces to develop a cutting-edge electric sports coupe, known as Project V. This collaboration aims to blend Caterham’s legacy of lightweight, driver-focused vehicles with Yamaha’s advanced electric powertrain technology.
Project V represents a significant step forward in the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs). Caterham, renowned for its minimalist and performance-oriented cars, unveiled the Project V concept at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2023. The concept was later showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2024, where it garnered significant attention for its sleek design and innovative features.
Yamaha Motor’s involvement in Project V is pivotal. The company is developing a state-of-the-art e-axle, a crucial component of the electric powertrain, which will be integrated into the prototype vehicle. This e-axle is expected to deliver exceptional performance while maintaining the lightweight characteristics that Caterham vehicles are known for. Additionally, Yamaha will provide expertise in vehicle motion control, ensuring that the Project V offers an exhilarating driving experience.
The development of Project V is being carried out in collaboration with Tokyo R&D, a Japanese engineering firm. The prototype is slated for completion by mid-2025, with mass production and commercialization targeted for 2026. However, Caterham CEO Bob Laishley has indicated that the production timeline may be challenging, and the company is yet to finalize a manufacturing location.
While specific details about the Yamaha-sourced e-axle are yet to be disclosed, the Project V concept featured a rear-mounted electric motor producing 268 horsepower. The vehicle is expected to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of 230 km/h (143 mph). A 55 kWh lithium-ion battery pack will provide a targeted WLTP range of 400 km (249 miles) and support up to 150 kW of DC fast charging.
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