Ian Callum, renowned as one of the world’s foremost car designers and the former styling head at Jaguar and Aston Martin, has taken a bold step with his latest venture, the Callum Skye. After parting ways with Jaguar in 2019, Callum, along with former JLR executives, established his eponymous company, Callum, which initially focused on a high-end restomod of the original Aston Martin Vanquish. Subsequently, the company discreetly engaged in significant “white label” collaborations with other automakers before unveiling its independent project—the Callum Skye, an innovative electric vehicle (EV).
Named after the Scottish island, the Skye promises a departure from convention, boasting a space-frame chassis, all-wheel drive, and genuine off-road capabilities. According to Adam Donfrancesco, the engineering director, Skye’s design incorporates a space frame utilizing carbon-fiber links unique to Callum, not shared with any other manufacturer. The bodywork will consist of lightweight composite materials, and the suspension will feature fully independent components with customizable articulation options for varying ground clearance preferences.
Measuring 159 inches in length and 74.8 inches in width, Skye’s proportions suggest a side-by-side coupe appearance, though it will offer a spacious two-plus-two seating configuration. Callum acknowledges the challenge of categorizing the Skye, emphasizing its versatility. He envisions it as both an urban car and a capable off-roader, drawing parallels to the unpredictability of categorizing the i-Pace.
The Skye’s power source is a 42.0-kWh lithium-ion battery with an ambitious ultrafast charging alternative aiming for a full 10-minute recharge. While specific power figures remain undisclosed, the sub-four-second 0 to 60 mph target implies a robust performance with at least 300 horsepower.
Despite the departure from his previous projects, Ian Callum’s distinctive design touches are discernible in details, such as the contoured fenders and the subtle roofline curve. Described as a unique blend of a sports car profile with off-road capabilities, the Skye features double-glazed doors, combining aesthetics and functionality by providing an unobstructed view of the ground during off-road maneuvers.
Production of the Skye is planned at Callum’s existing factory in Warwick, England, with an anticipated output of approximately one vehicle per week. Customer deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2025, and although the pricing remains undisclosed, it is expected to be less than the $600,000 (plus donor car) price tag associated with the Vanquish 25. While Callum’s primary target market is Europe, the possibility of obtaining U.S. federal-type approval is under consideration, acknowledging the additional cost and effort involved.