Dartford, Wednesday, 5 June 2024 – Caterham, the renowned British lightweight sports car manufacturer, proudly announces the opening of its new state-of-the-art factory in Dartford, Kent. This milestone comes as a result of a significant multi-million-pound investment by VT Holdings, one of Japan’s largest retailer groups and the current owner of Caterham.
The new facility, located within the brand-new nine-acre industrial park development known as Dartford X, represents a 50% increase in production capacity, allowing Caterham to produce up to 750 units annually. This expansion underscores VT Holdings’ commitment to the iconic Caterham brand and its future growth.
The 54,000-square-foot building, just a stone’s throw from the existing factory, ensures the retention of the highly skilled workforce responsible for the hand assembly of each Caterham car. The new headquarters will consolidate Caterham’s production, engineering, motorsport, and commercial teams under one roof for the first time in its history, enhancing operational efficiency and streamlining processes.
The facility’s transformation over the past nine months has included the installation of advanced paint booths, a dedicated engine shop, a parts warehouse, and 33 individual assembly bays where each car builder oversees the complete construction of a Caterham Seven. This modern setup promises to enhance productivity and maintain the high standards of craftsmanship that Caterham is known for.
From today, Caterham enthusiasts and customers can book tours of the new factory to witness firsthand the meticulous assembly process of these legendary sports cars. Additionally, Caterham plans to host various customer experiences, including exclusive events and personalized vehicle handovers, further engaging its passionate fan base.
Kazuho Takahashi, CEO of VT Holdings, expressed his enthusiasm: “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. 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, added: “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 fans and customers will also be able to see firsthand 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.”
Since its inception in 1973 in Caterham, Surrey, and subsequent relocation to Dartford in 1987, Caterham has remained a staple of British automotive engineering. The opening of this new global headquarters marks a new chapter in Caterham’s illustrious history, following the celebration of its 50th anniversary last year.
