Caterham and Royal Air Force Unveil Unique Charity Car for Auction
A special edition Caterham Seven 360R, created using authentic components from the retired Puma HC2 helicopter, has been revealed by Caterham Cars in partnership with the Royal Air Force. This distinctive vehicle, to be auctioned for a charitable cause, serves as a touching tribute to the Puma HC2’s long-standing service of over five decades.
Renowned for its adaptability and dependability, the Puma HC2 has been a pivotal asset in numerous military and humanitarian operations worldwide since its inception in 1972. From volatile situations in Northern Ireland and the Gulf Wars to peacekeeping efforts in Bosnia & Herzegovina and Kosovo, the Puma has been pivotal in troop transport and emergency medical evacuations.
When the Puma HC2 approached the end of its operational life, the concept of transforming its essence into something tangible and beneficial was born. The collaborative initiative between RAF Benson, the Puma’s final operating base, and Caterham Cars, aimed to create not just a car, but a narrative of service and dedication.
The meticulous conversion process involved engineers and technicians from RAF Benson working alongside Caterham’s team to dismantle the Puma HC2 and repurpose its components thoughtfully. The car’s outer panels are crafted from the helicopter’s aluminum frame, sourced from the doors and tail boom, preserving the marks of its aerial service. This commitment to authenticity extends to the interior, where the cabin is lined with the helicopter’s quilted soundproofing material, and its fully operational emergency jettison handle is installed on the rear bulkhead.
The most distinctive feature within the Caterham Seven 360R is its dashboard, reconstructed using the helicopter’s original military-grade controls and navigational clock. The dashboard mirrors the helicopter’s control panel, complete with a three-stage ignition sequence reminiscent of the Puma’s operational procedures.
Unveiled at the British Grand Prix, the car not only captivated audiences with its engineering and design but also resonated with its profound narrative. Bob Laishley, Caterham’s CEO, expressed his sentiments on the project: “The journey has been extraordinary. This endeavor allowed us to venture into a domain where military precision and automotive aesthetic intersect in unexpected ways. It’s more than just constructing another vehicle; it’s about recognizing the legacy of the Puma HC2 and providing it with a new purpose that benefits others.”
Besides its charitable aspect, the project serves as a conduit for the Royal Air Force to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education within the military and broader society. Sqn Ldr Morley from RAF Benson emphasized the broader impact of the venture: “This initiative exemplifies the possibilities when military engineering converges with automotive innovation. We look forward to touring the unique Caterham across the nation, advocating STEM education and potentially inspiring the next generation of engineers.”
The proceeds from the forthcoming auction will be devoted to the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund and Mission Motorsport, aiding injured service members and their families. The auction commences on 15 August and runs until 12 September, hosted by the Collecting Cars online auction platform.
This exclusive Caterham RAF 360 signifies more than just an automobile – it stands as a tribute to the RAF Puma HC2’s decades of service and a testament to the ingenuity and collaboration between the Royal Air Force and Caterham Cars. It stands as an emblem of gratitude towards the dedicated individuals in service, converting a piece of military history into a legacy that will persist in aiding and inspiring others.
