Nearn, who started his automotive live as a dealer for Lotus before setting up Caterham Cars in 1959, is largely considered the sole contributor to the success of the Lotus 7 (or Seven). His dealership not only sold 7 kit cars, but also was among the first to try and help out customers with the complicated task of building one from the ground up.
“I have the greatest respect for what Graham achieved with Caterham Cars and fully accept that it was his personal touch that made the brand what it is today. I know that, despite our involvement today, Graham will always be considered the heart and soul of Caterham Cars," Ansar Ali, Caterham director was quoted as saying by Autocar.
“On behalf of myself, my co-directors and fellow shareholders, I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Graham’s family at this difficult time.”
The 7 lived on even after Lotus and the vehicle's creator, Colin Chapman, decided to give up on the project. Nearn and Caterham bought both the rights for the 7 in 1973, keeping the car alive to the modern day.
The Lotus/Caterham 7 will remain in history as one of the most iconic sports cars ever made. Now in its 52nd year, "the car that's Too Fast to Race" was made successful by Nearn, who's contribution to the automotive industry, although not that obvious, will always be remembered.
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