Caterham has just opened its new global headquarters in Dartford, Kent, which will be home to the company‘s production, engineering, motorsport and commercial teams. 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 54,000ft
2 facility is situated in a brand new nine-acre industrial park development called Dartford X which is within close proximity to the existing factory, enabling the retention of the skilled workforce that is responsible for handling the assembly of 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 that the new facility offers will enable the business to operate in a more streamlined and efficient manner.
Caterham enthusiasts can now book a factory tour of the new facility and the company plans to offer a range of other customer experiences including events and vehicle handovers.
VT Holdings CEO Kazuho Takahashi 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. From this new location, we will continue to take pride in delivering increasingly high-quality vehicles to our customers worldwide.”
Caterham CEO Bob Laishley 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 fans and customers will also be able to see first-hand where our cars are assembled. It is a hugely impressive modern facility and I have no doubt they will be blown away by it. I certainly am and I know our staff are thrilled to be operating in such a world-class facility.”
The South East of England has been home to Caterham since it started building cars in 1973 when it first started building cars in Caterham, Surrey. In 1987, production moved to Kennet Road in Dartford where its cars were assembled up until the relocation this year.