Callum Skye launches as all-terrain electric SUV that's sporty and lightweight
The electric SUV is a popular category, but EVs with true offroading capability are relatively few and far between, with comfort and range more often being the bigger priorities. Ian Callum, former head of design at Jaguar and Aston Martin, is looking to change that. His company, Callum Designs, has just unveiled its first vehicle – a compact and lightweight, yet capable SUV called the Callum Skye.
The Skye is a four (2 + 2) seater, and uses two motors (one on each axle) to generate 247 bhp of power and 300 N m (221 lb ft) of torque. Combined with its relatively low weight of 1,150 kg (2535 lb), that should provide the kind of responsive performance needed to make off-roading fun. On the street, 0 to 62 mph is achieved under 4 seconds.
With that low weight also comes a battery that is on the lower end of the spectrum – 42 kWh, delivering what Callum calls an “anticipated range” of 270 km (170 miles). One very exciting feature, however, is the option for a fast-charging setup that can top up the battery in under 10 minutes. The vehicle’s dimensions are also compact, at 4,047 mm long and 1,900 mm wide.
Despite its looks and driving feel, which Callum says is inspired by rally cars, the Skye’s interiors are suitably futuristic-looking for an EV. A slender central pillar has three rotary dials that control HVAC and other features, while a distinctive fourth one selects drive modes. Sitting atop that pillar is a 10-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Skye will be made in two versions – a more off-road capable one with taller suspension and all-terrain tyres, and a slightly toned-down one that’s equally at home in urban settings. Depending on the specification, it costs £80,000 to £110,000 (~$102,000 to $140,000). Reservations are open on its website. It is a bit of a wait, though, as customers will be receiving their vehicles by the summer of 2026.
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