Caterham AeroSeven Concept previews new Caterham in 2014

The Caterham AeroSeven Concept has been revealed at the Shanghai Grand Prix, previewing a new style direction and a new Caterham for 2014.

It’s a new Caterham, but a new Caterham that signals not only a new model for 2014, but a new design direction as Caterham moves towards the fruits of their alliance with Renault on the Alpine project.

The Caterham AeroSeven isn’t a look at Caterham’s version of the Renault Alpine project, but a new track-inspired road car designed in a collaboration between Caterham Technology and Innovation, Caterham F1 and Caterham Cars.

The new Aero Seven’s underpinnings come from a revised version of the Seven CSR’s chassis with pushrod suspension at the front and full IRS with new dampers and springs.

Under the bonnet is Ford’s Duratec 2.0 litre from the Seven 485 with 237bhp and 152lb/ft of torque, although by the time Caterham get round to launching the Aero Seven in 2014 there will probably be more power-plant options.

The performance with the current engine promises sub-4 seconds 0-62mph and launch control and adjustable traction should make sure you can get the most of what’s on offer.

The new carbon fibre bodywork is still clearly Caterham, but it gets enclosed front wheels and a more aerodynamic shape all round for more slip through the air and better handling characteristics.

Inside there’s a new graphic display for high-res instruments, which displays useful stuff like speed, gears, brake settings and fuel, and the steering wheel has a mode button for race or road.

Graham Macdonald, Caterham’s MD, said:

Over the coming years, we will be expanding our range of sportscars as we look to meet the differing needs and desires of potential customers – from the lifestyle customer to the ultimate thrill-seeker. The AeroSeven Concept is the first model in that journey.

Looks like the new Caterham AeroSeven will be just the start of some fun and appealing new cars from Caterham.