MP4-12C Coupe

Make
McLaren
Segment
Coupe

Caterham has just announced today that they will be bringing their SP/300.R model to the U.S. in 2012. The new models will be distributed by Dyson Racing, the sports car team out of Poughkeepsie, New York. Dyson Racing is coming off their big win in the American Le Mans Series LMP1 Championship and now they will be upping their profile further by being the first to bring in the Caterham SP/300.R across the pond.

The SP/300.R is a collaboration between Caterham and Lola Cars (from Caterham, Surrey and Huntingdon, England respectively) and Dyson Racing. Lola Cars will work with Caterham to design and manufacture the US-spec cars, while Dyson will handle all the assembly at their place in New York. Of the project, Chris Dyson, Dyson VP and Sporting Director said: "Dyson Racing is pleased to partner with Caterham as the exclusive importer of the SP/300.R for the United States. Trackday driving is a rapidly-growing phenomenon in America and this car will be ideal for the many enthusiasts who enjoy this aspect of the sport."

The vehicle draws its 300-horsepower from a Ford engine and uses a new supercharged version of the American automaker's 2.0 Duratec four-cylinder engine. This is enough to attract a 0 to 60mph in just 2.5 seconds with a top speed of 170 mph. The car also features a 'push-to-pass' function to make sure there's lots of overtaking action in the races. The Caterham SP/300.R was launched at the Autosport International show at Birmingham's NEC in January this year and customer orders to date have been strong. The car will arrive in 2012, while deliveries should start shortly thereafter.