For the first time in nearly 20 years Caterham has developed an all-new car that is not based on its bread-and-butter model, the 7. It's a prototype racing car designed in conjunction with Lola and powered by Ford.
The new Caterham-Lola SP/300.R makes its debut at the Autosport International Show in Birmingham this weekend, with the 300 relating to the expected 300hp from the supercharged 2.0-litre Ford engine.
Just 25 examples of the SP/300.R will be produced each year, and Caterham will organise a one-make championship for the cars from 2012.
Caterham describes the new car as a natural progression for its international racing series and drivers wanting to continue ascending the ladder. It will also appeal to what Caterham calls the 'premium trackday community'.
Regardless, the firm promises that the SP/300.R will follow the proven value for money route of Caterham's existing motorsport structure.
Underneath the aerodynamically sculpted bodywork is an aluminium tub with the engine longitudinally mid-mounted behind it. Weighing under 600kg the 300hp from the supercharged 2.0-litre unit should translate to a 0-100km/h time of less than three seconds and a top speed around 275km/h - depending on gearing.
Full race suspension with dual front and rear wishbones and bespoke Avon tyres - designed specifically to cope with the lightweight car's large torque output - also feature.
Being built as a race car the SP/300.R features easily removable crash structures, a six-point harness, fire extinguisher, roll cage and it complies with MSA safety regulations.
Caterham is quoting a price of about €72,000, excluding local taxes, and if you want one we suggest you make the call pretty quickly - as the first 25 are likely to sell out pretty quickly.