Fernandes, Kamarudin sell Caterham Cars to Japanese company

KUALA LUMPUR: AirAsia Group founders Tan Sri Tony Fernandes and Datuk Kamarudin Meranun have sold Caterham Cars Ltd to Japanese automotive group VT Holdings.

The British sports car maker said in a statement on Tuesday VT Holdings had bought the firm from Fernandes and Kamarudin on March 31.

Caterham did not disclose the value of the deal or specify why Fernandes and Kamarudin sold it to VT Holdings.

VT Holdings chief executive Kazuho Takahashi said the company is proud to welcome Caterham to the group.

“We have not only purchased a globally renowned performance car manufacturer but also become custodians of a motoring legend.”

VT Holdings is one of Japan’s largest retailer groups with over 200 showrooms globally and investments in the United Kingdom, Spain, Thailand and South Africa.

The new owner is the official Japanese importer for the Caterham 7, or the Seven, since 2009, with annual sales of over 120 cars.

“We will protect and develop the Seven to meet the legislative challenges that lie ahead,” Takahashi said in the statement.

Caterham chief executive Graham Macdonald said Takahashi and the team truly understood the DNA of the Caterham brand, its heritage, customers and passions.

“As a team, we are all excited about starting to write the next chapter for this very special brand.”

VT Holdings is also the importer for a collection of two and four-wheeled British brands, including Royal Enfield and Lotus in its home market.

Motorsport and the global track-day communities have always played a central role in Caterham’s commercial success.

Takahashi had raced competitively in the Japan Grand Touring Championship, Super GT and Super Taikyu championships for the past 20 years.

We will protect and develop the Seven to meet the legislative challenges that lie ahead.

KAZUHO TAKAHASHI VT Holdings chief executive