Callum Skye EV buggy answers a question no one asked
UK-based design firm Callum has revealed its next cutting-edge engineering project – the Callum Skye. A sort of modern-era beach buggy, the Skye sports all-electric power and versatility for competent on and off-road operation, with Callum going as far as to say it has “sportscar performance”. Being a Callum project, it also features more than its fair share of design fetishism. Let’s get into it.
You could uncharitably describe the Skye as Vauxhall Mokka meets Prodrive Hunter, though that’s probably more of a compliment than it sounds. Especially given we reckon there’s a bit of Norton or even Pagani-esque artistic licence in the metal-panelwork. It certainly pulls off the difficult job of melding rugged, futuristic and artisanal.
“The exterior features a striking accent loop, intersected by a strong horizontal structure, flanked by organic forms front and rear,” explains Ian Callum, founder and head of design at Callum.
“It is paired down to a level of necessity and understatement. At the heart of its story is its performance, style and capability, and a design integral to the engineering elements.
He cites the Senna-style door glass that gives driver and passengers a great view out at the terrain around them as an example of this form-meets-function approach. In terms of size it’s 4,047mm long and 1,900mm wide, riding on a space frame chassis. Target weight is 1,150kg, with a focus on achieving a 50/50 weight distribution.
In terms of powertrain, we have a reassuring list of hard and fast figures. The Skye features a 42kWh battery giving a 170-mile range, with optional ultra-fast charging battery that can go from full to empty in as little as ten minutes. The buggy is four-wheel-drive (expect a motor on each axle) and, although power figures aren’t mentioned, it should get from 0-62mph in less than four seconds.
“Throughout the development journey, we have held steadfast to the principles of simplicity and integrity,” said Adam Donfrancesco, Callum’s head of engineering.
"Ensuring the Callum Skye conquers the rigorous demands of a variety of off-road terrains, while still delivering the ride comfort and handling that transforms winding country roads into captivating experiences for both the driver and passengers.”
There’s conviction at Callum that the Skye will tap into an enormous gap in the market for vehicles that enable a broad range of lifestyle activities.
The car is in development now with final specs and more details to come early next year on various iterations, which could broaden both on and off-road ability.
What do you think of the Callum Skye? Is this the answer to as many questions from the market as Callum thinks it is?
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