Callum Skye: The Bespoke Tarmac Rally Car
Former Jaguar design boss Ian Callum has unveiled the Callum Skye, the first bespoke production model from his design and engineering firm. Described as a “Tarmac rally car,” the Skye is equipped with two electric motors, a 42kWh battery, and has a claimed range of 170 miles. It boasts 247bhp, 221lb ft of torque, and can go from 0-62mph in under four seconds. The Skye will be available in two versions: one tailored for off-road capability and another focused on on-road dynamics. The off-road version features a higher ride height, up to 100mm of suspension travel, and a pared-back interior. Customers can also opt for a fast charger that can top up the battery in less than 10 minutes.
The Skye’s design is bold and driven by its capabilities. It features a unique ‘accent loop’ surrounding the door apertures and a horizontal body structure. Measuring 4047mm long and 1900mm wide, it has a compact footprint similar to the Renault Clio and Dacia Sandero. The Skye’s chassis is a rugged steel spaceframe with plenty of ground clearance, supporting a lightweight composite body that results in a total weight of 1150kg.
Ian Callum emphasized that the Skye is not just a pretty street car but a vehicle with real off-road capability. He sees it as being inspired by the west coast of America, where many potential customers are based. The Skye’s versatility is further highlighted by its interior design, which mirrors the exterior’s minimalist aesthetic. It features a stacked center console with touchscreen rotary dials for heating and ventilation control, similar to the Jaguar F-Type.
Callum’s design chief, Ian Callum, spoke about the company’s plans for future bespoke Callum cars. He stated that the Skye is just the beginning, and the company intends to create more of its own projects rather than being an agency for other brands. Callum believes they have the capabilities to make their own cars in batches of up to 1000 if things go well.
The Skye is set to enter production within two years, with the first deliveries expected in summer 2026. It will be produced in limited quantities, with 50 to 250 units made per year. The pricing ranges from £80,000 to £110,000, putting it in competition with the Ariel Nomad, a similarly conceived off-road electric car.
Before its release, the Skye will undergo a testing program around the Midlands and other extreme locations. Unlike traditional test mules, the Skye will not be camouflaged during testing, as the company believes it has a unique product and is not concerned about competition.
Overall, the Callum Skye promises to be an exciting addition to the electric vehicle market. With its focus on off-road capability, bold design, and bespoke production, it offers a unique driving experience for enthusiasts looking for a Tarmac rally car. As Ian Callum and his team continue to develop their own projects, we can expect more innovative and beautifully crafted cars from Callum in the future.
