CALLUM, which has among its founders well known British designer Ian Callum, has revealed the SKYE, a high-performance multi-terrain electric vehicle. Fully conceived, designed and engineered in-house, it is the 4-year old company’s first vehicle to carry its own brand name.
SKYE (also the name of a famous island off Scotland) is said to occupy ‘a distinctive space in the automotive landscape’. Differentiated from counterparts in the compact multi-terrain vehicle segment, it measures 4047 mm in length and 1900 mm in width, which is almost the same length as a Perodua Ativa but wider.
The SKYE uses a rugged space frame chassis with trail-capable suspension that delivers appropriate ground clearance as well as comfort and compliance across diverse terrain. Its occupants are fully enclosed in a comfortable, refined cabin environment with a purposeful 2+2 layout.
The exterior features a striking accent loop, intersected by a strong horizontal structure, flanked by organic forms front and rear. The design is kept a level of necessity and understatement. For example, the lower section of the doors have beautifully integrated glass, offering outstanding visibility in all conditions.
“I believe the SKYE is truly authentic – unique in concept and presence in the market,” said Ian Callum. “At 4 metres long, the SKYE is dramatically proportioned with a concise exterior aesthetic driven by its capabilities. It has been designed to exceed expectations: minimal mass, maximum capability – exceptionally usable and an absolute joy to drive.”
With regards to the technical aspects, CALLUM says that it has a durable technical specification at its core. The drivetrain will be all-wheel drive, of course, and with a target weight of 1,150 kgs, the 0 – 60 mph (96 km/h) time is expected to be under 4 seconds.
The motors will be powered by a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery pack which will give up to 270 kms of range. CALLUM will use advanced battery technology to enable empty-to-full recharging in less than 10 minutes.
While the SKYE is now undergoing engineering refinement and rigorous testing in the UK and Europe, the company invites registrations of interest. More details will be released next year, along with the production schedule.