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Caterham Cars reports record sales in 2021, up 41%
Caterham’s sales grew by 41% over pre-pandemic levels last year, with the 670 orders taken in 2021 not only surpassing the 442 received in 2019, but also beating the marque’s previous best tally of 667. It now intends to expand production capacity to meet the increased demand.
The record-breaking sales were made despite the limitations imposed by the Covid pandemic, and lack of limited-edition models launched during the previous 12 months. With 2017 seeing the release of the Caterham Seven SuperSprint, which sold out in days, 2021’s figure came largely on the back of strong sales of series-production models.
The new Seven 170 model played a large role in setting the new sales record, while the Seven 420, in production since 2015, finished the year as the best-selling model in both the UK and US markets. And, despite the sale of Sigma-engined models culminating mid-way through the year, Caterham sold more cars in H2 than H1, in what it says demonstrates the enduring appeal of the Seven formula.
Caterham sold a record 670 cars in 2021, a 41% increase on pre-pandemic sales in 2019 – it will expand production capacity to meet increased demand / Picture: Caterham Cars
While the UK dealer network was responsible for the largest single allocation of orders (37.6%), sales also grew around the globe. The opening of a new dealer in Portugal saw 22 cars sold in 2021, more than in the previous decade combined, while sales in Italy nearly trebled year-on-year (from 10 in 2020 to 27 in 2021).
The United States continued its strong upward trend, with its total of 49 cars representing more than double the 21 sold in 2019. Looking ahead, the next 12 months are already set to be another bumper sales year for the Seven, with order books filling up fast. Moreover, the 50-car grid of the 2022 Caterham Academy season was fully booked eight months before its first round, with next year’s championship also well on the way to following suit, the first grid of 25 cars having already sold out.
Graham Macdonald, Caterham’s chief executive officer, said: “While 2021 saw plenty of challenges across the automotive sector, I’m delighted to announce such positive sales figures for Caterham. The experiences of the last two years have led many people to re-evaluate what they want out of life, meaning Caterham’s philosophy of driver-focussed fun and thrillingly pure performance resonates even more clearly than before.
“This is a trend that looks set to continue into 2022 and beyond and, along with the planned expansion of our production capacity, gives Caterham an excellent opportunity to continue building a strong foundation for the future.”