While motorists in China aren’t usually known for their love of sports cars, Caterham sees a future for itself in the world’s largest new-car market. And thanks to a new deal with a local importer, the company will be offering its iconic Seven to Chinese buyers from 2012.

Courtenay Trading International expects to appoint six retailers in China and is estimating sales of up to 50 cars during the Seven’s first year on sale there. Included in the imported range will be the Roadsport 120, Superlight 120, Roadsport 175, Superlight R300 and CSR 175 – with the first examples scheduled to arrive in China in January.

As a development of the 1957-on Lotus Seven, the Caterham is one of the oldest models currently in production. Last year saw record sales and Caterham is confident of continued success via the company’s emphasis on fresh export markets and steady expansion.