A new team at Caterham Cars

Remember Caterham cars? The company launched its new Caterham Seven a few months ago and Working Lunch covered it.

Have a look at the story

Now more change is underway.

Caterham has been a family business for 40 years and it's now taking a bold step.

The Nearn family, which owned the business, has sold out to a team led by Ansar Ali - who used to be general manager at Lotus, the original creators of the Caterham Seven.

Caterham produces more than 500 cars per year and exports more than 40% of them.

It was a tough decision for Graham Nearn, who set up the business, and his son Simon, who now runs it.

It's always hard to part with something you've created. The change won't be too tough for Simon as he's staying on as a consultant.

Just think...

Why do you think Ansar Ali and his team were interested in buying Caterham?

Why do you think the Nearn family decided to sell up?

Looking ahead

Graham and Simon have been looking for investors for years.

Developing high performance cars is an expensive business.

The Caterham Seven claims to be the fastest production car on the planet.

It does 0-60 mph in just 3.4 seconds.

It takes a lot of investment to maintain this leadership position.

Developing racing cars takes time, money and lots of expertise.

There are always other businesses which want to take your place.

The Nearn's have given up control in order to see the future of the business in save hands.

Just think...

Why do you think the costs of developing cars like the Caterham 7 are so high?

Deciding to buy Ansar Ali's team is backed by a company that specialises in putting money into companies that want to grow - and it expects a return on its investment.

It looked carefully at Caterham before it went ahead.

There were all sorts of questions that needed answers.