Want to Become a Racing Driver? Caterham's Academy Package Is The Way to Go

Caterham has kept Colin Chapman’s legendary Lotus Seven design alive for more than 48 years, updating it with modern components and making it available to aspiring race car drivers at an affordable price.

In 1995, the company launched the Caterham Scholarship in the UK, a rookie-only racing series to introduce new drivers to motorsport.

It quickly became popular and for the 2000 season, the series was rebranded to the Caterham Academy as it became one of the most popular factory-backed competition in the country.

Those who are interested in experiencing the thrills of racing can purchase the Academy Package which includes an awesome, race-ready but also road-legal Seven.

Powered by a 127 hp (95 kW) 1.6-liter Ford Sigma engine connected to a five-speed gearbox, the car comes with an Academy ‘Road & Race’ specification suspension system that uses Bilstein adjustable shocks and a wide-range of other race-spec extras.

Among these, 13-inch Apollo silver alloy wheels equipped with Avon Academy control tires, a push-to-start ignition system, FIA approved rain lights, aluminum “Aero” gas tank cap, composite race seats, and a quick-release Momo steering wheel.

Racing can be dangerous, especially in a lightweight car such as the Seven so improving safety was critical. Compared to the standard models, the Academy Seven’s chassis features improve side impact protection, an MSA-approved roll cage with high-quality padding, and professional arm restraints that protect aspiring drivers in the event of a rollover.

To further improve safety and ensure that it is compliant with MSA (Motor Sports Association) regulations, the car also comes with a six-point race harness, battery master cut-off switch, integrated fire extinguisher, and fuel sampling connection.

Completing the race car look is a Championship sponsor decal pack with competition numbers. The carmaker also offers three standard paint choices for free and an additional sixteen extra-cost finishes.

Apart from the car, the Academy Package includes registration for Caterham's Championship, a single-day racing driver license course, a full medical exam, a car handling program, technical training events, and an exclusive pre-season test day.

The Championship consists of a single sprint event and six 22-car races on some of Britain’s most famous tracks including Snetterton, Brands Hatch, and Silverstone. Customers will also receive trackside technical support for every event.

For the 2021 season, the handling day is scheduled for the 6th of March at the famous Silverstone circuit, followed by the Curborough Sprint a month later and the first race of the season which will be held at Mallory Park on the 22nd of May.

The beauty of Caterham’s Academy is that fun doesn’t stop after one season. Drives can continue racing by sending their car to the factory for an upgrade, allowing them to take part in the Caterham Roadsport Championship.

The next step up the progression ladder is the 270R and 310R championships where they can use their upgraded Academy Sevens.

Although not cheap, Caterham’s Academy Package is an amazing opportunity for those who want to experience the fascinating world of motorsport.