Caterham unveils production-bound AeroSeven Concept

Caterham has officially unveiled the AeroSeven, its first concept in several years, ahead of its scheduled debut at this weekend’s Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix.  The AeroSeven is billed as an ultra high performance model that will enter limited production next year.

Boasting a body built entirely out of carbon fiber, the AeroSeven is a 21st century spin on the timeless Lotus Seven.  It features the same general proportions as current members of Caterham’s Seven-based lineup but it adds fully enclosed fenders, a tall front end, slender LED headlights and an oval radiator grille that harks back to the firm’s existing cars.  The back end of the car is equipped with LED tail lamps and a functional air diffuser that incorporates a F1-inspired fog light.

Caterham’s concept was designed and built with input from subdivisions such as Caterham Technology & Innovation, Caterham Composites and Caterham F1 Team. Â

Inside, the AeroSeven offers a race-inspired cockpit with a large serving of unpainted carbon fiber and room for two passengers.   The steering is commanded through a three-spoke wheel wrapped in Alcantara and the instrument cluster has been replaced by a configurable 3D graphic display unit (GDU) controlled by a high-resolution touch screen mounted on the center stack.  

The AeroSeven rides on a modified version of the race-derived CSR’s platform.  It is powered by a Ford-sourced 2.0-liter four-cylinder Duratec engine that sends 240 horsepower and 152 lb-ft. of torque to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission.  The sprint from zero to 62 mph takes less than four seconds.

Disc brakes all around and a Bosch-designed ABS system help keep the power in check, but the AeroSeven is not fitted with electronic driving aids such as traction control.

Caterham says production of the futuristic AeroSeven Concept will begin next year in Dartford, England.  The car will be added to the lineup as a limited-edition halo model but its exterior design will influence upcoming vehicles such as the closed-top mid-engined sports car currently being developed with Renault-Alpine.

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