Caterham reveals F1-influenced Seven for Japan

Caterham Formula 1 driver Kamui Kobayashi has helped design a new limited-run Seven that’s now on sale in Japan, priced at ¥6,000,000 (£34,950).

Based on the 125bhp Caterham Seven 250 R, only 10 versions of the Formula 1-influenced single-seat sportscar are available, with each one featuring a selection of add-ons as chosen by the Japanese Formula 1 driver. 

As part of the changes, the Seven's front and rear wing protectors are now finished in carbon fibre infused with a unique Caterham green lacquer – a first for Seven models. There’s also an aluminium tonneau cover for the passenger seating area, as well as a single-sided rollover hoop attached to the rear bulkhead.

Alongside new 13-inch diamond cut black wheel and a polished chrome exhaust, a gloss black paint scheme with matt sport stripes helps the Kamui Kobayashi edition Caterham stand out visually. To emphasise the racing pedigree, each model also wears a number 10 badge up front – Kobayashi’s Formula One driver number.

Inside, the dash makes further use of the carbon fibre and Caterham green lacquer combination, and will be hand signed by Kobayashi. There’s further interior personalisation in the form of green contrast stitching on the carbon fibre sports seats, a Kamui logo on the head rest and a green Takata-branded 4-point harness.

Other updates for the Kobayashi Seven include Kamui gauge inlays, in addition to anodised green key and gear knob.

As power comes from the same Ford-sourced 1.6-litre Sigma engine as found in the standard Seven 250 R, 0-62mph in the Caterham should take 5.9 seconds, with a top speed of 122mph.