Peter Lyon
June 17, 2024
In early June, British sports car maker Caterham announced that it had just opened a new factory. Still located in Dartford, Kent, the new state-of-the-art building will be home to Caterham’s production, engineering, motorsport and commercial teams, with all divisions now located under the one roof.
A multi-million-pound investment from owners VT Holdings – one of Japan’s largest retailer groups – will see Caterham increase its production capacity by 50%, to 750 units annually.
The 54,000 sq ft facility is situated in a brand new nine-acre industrial park development called Dartford X. It is within close proximity to the existing factory, enabling the retention of the skilled workforce who are responsible for hand assembling all cars.
Following a nine-month fit out and transformation, the new building now features the very latest paint booths, an engine shop, a parts warehouse and 33 individual bays, where each car builder is responsible for the complete build of a Seven. The additional floor space and layout will enable the business to operate in a more streamlined and efficient manner.
From today, Caterham enthusiasts can book a factory tour of the new facility to coincide with their vehicle handover.
Mr Kazuho Takahashi, CEO, VT Holdings, said: “We are thrilled to announce the start of operations at the new Caterham factory. This modern facility exemplifies VT Holdings’ unwavering dedication and support for the iconic British sports car brand, Caterham. From this new location, we will continue to take pride in delivering increasingly high-quality vehicles to our customers worldwide.”
Bob Laishley, CEO of Caterham, said: “Moving into our new global headquarters is a significant moment in our brand’s history and will be transformational for the business and the future of the Seven.
“Not only will we be able to increase our production capacity by 50%, but for the first time in our 50-year history the production, engineering, motorsport, and commercial teams will all be housed under one roof. It will make us a more efficient, streamlined business.
Caterham was an independent company until their acquisition by Team Lotus in 2011, leading to the formation of Caterham Group. In 2021, Caterham Cars was acquired by VT Holdings, the Japanese importer for the Caterham Seven since 2009.
“Caterham fans and customers will also be able to see first-hand where our cars are assembled. It’s a hugely impressive modern facility and I have no doubt they’ll be blown away by it. I certainly am and I know our staff are thrilled to be operating in such a world-class facility.”
CARLIST THOUGHTS
Caterham has been an iconic brand for the past 50 years, having done numerous stints in motor racing including F1. The South East of England has been home to Caterham since it started building cars in 1973 in the town of Caterham, Surrey. In 1987, production moved to Dartford where its cars had been assembled up until 2024. Following the brand’s 50th Anniversary last year, Caterham now enters a new chapter in the company’s history in the new global headquarters.
