Finding Order within Creative Chaos – The 2013 Caterham AeroSeven Concept
It was with considerable anticipation that the world of automobile enthusiasts awaited the reveal of the Caterham AeroSeven Concept in 2013 at the SingTel Singapore Grand Prix. This performance concept road car seemed poised to redefine how we perceive automotive design.
The Road Ahead for Caterham
This strikingly innovative vehicle is not merely another model, but a bold signal from the brains behind Caterham Group about their plans concerning product engineering processes and speed to market—the AeroSeven Concept has marked itself as an exciting precursor to future models including an all-new sportscar being co-developed with Renault slated for a 2016 release.
Innovative Performance Features
To say this car is technologically groundbreaking doesn’t do justice—sporting traction control (a first-ever feature for any Caterham model), it also boasts fully-adjustable traction and launch control functionality via a tailor-made engine management system. Drawing inspiration from its F1 team resources, this carbon-fibre bodied beast can break the 62.5mph barrier in less than four seconds, powered initially by a normally-aspirated, EU6-approved, 237bhp engine birthed specifically for the newly launched Caterham Seven 485; however, other engines are still under scrutiny for suitability.
A Race Car Disguised As A Street Vehicle?
Lending further weight to its racing pedigree roots, features such as aerodynamic styling reminiscent of high-performance cars on tracks worldwide add to its distinct personality. Noteworthy highlights include driver-centric functionality integrated into an exclusive steering wheel design and a state-of-the-art Graphical Display Unit (GDU). Let’s just say expectations run rife regarding its possible reception come Autumn 2014 when deliveries commence.
Exterior: Art Meets Purpose
The most jarring departure of the AeroSeven Concept from Caterham’s traditional approach is its exterior design. It showcases a fully revamped bodywork styling that serves dual purposes—enhancing downforce while significantly improving drag coefficient, subsequently altering handling characteristics to sync with the revised chassis.
Leveraging Power for Performance
The heart of this car beats with vigour—a 237bhp Ford Duratec-based engine which ensures EU6 emissions regulations compliance while also providing impressive performance figures. Aided by one of the world's highest revving EU6-compliant engines, it reaches speeds of 62.5 mph in under four seconds. This potent two-litre unit collaborates seamlessly with Caterham's six-speed manual gearbox driving the rear wheels.
Marrying Dynamics and Functionality
Built upon an acclaimed CSR platform reminiscent of F1-style inboard (pushrod) front suspension systems, the AeroSeven Concept demonstrates exceptional agility and famous handling finesse courtesy of new dampers, springs and anti-roll bars harmonised exquisitely with aerodynamic attributes. Driver-centric features such as variable traction control functions debut on this concept vehicle—indicating Caterham’s dedication towards blending technological sophistication and practical usability.
A Step into Tomorrow
The interior echoes steps toward future innovation—a novel graphical display unit centralises all displays and instrumentation, rendering high-resolution information ranging from fuel levels to brake settings in real time using groundbreaking 3D technology. The steering wheel includes unique options such as ‘Flash-to-Pass’ function revealing its racing DNA.
