Lightweight sports car manufacturer, Caterham, has opened its 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.

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, close 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. The brand also plans to offer a range of other customer experiences including events and vehicle handovers.

Bob Laishley, CEO of Caterham, said: “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.”

Caterham (Caterham Cars Ltd) has produced lightweight, two-seater sports cars since 1973 when Graham Nearn acquired the tooling, designs and exclusive rights to the Seven from Lotus founder Colin Chapman and set up a factory in Caterham, Surrey. In 1987, production moved to Kennet Road in Dartford where its cars had been assembled up until now.

As they might say on the BBC, other Factory Tours are available!