Caterham distances itself from crossover teaser sketch

Caterham has made no secret of its desire to expand beyond the continuation Lotus Sevens that are its core business. That, according to statements made by company owner Tony Fernandes, could include a crossover SUV in the near future, but Caterham insists the one you see here isn't it.

The image above has been circulating Twitter and seems to fit Caterham's modus operandi for previewing new cars, showing the silhouette of the upcoming model in question with just a teaser caption. But according to Autocar, the company says this sketch doesn't belong to it, leaving us to assume it is the work of a prankster. Either that, or the image leaked out ahead of schedule and Caterham is trying to cover its tracks.

Caterham's plans for product expansion could come to fruition through its tie-up with Renault. The French automaker provides the Caterham F1 team with its engines, is partnering with Caterham on developing the new Alpine sportscar, and is expected to begin replacing the Ford engines in the Seven range in the near future.