Caterham have been forced to release images of their 2012 car a day earlier than scheduled.

The CT01 was due to be 'unveiled' in magazine F1 Racing on Friday, representing a distinct break with a more traditional launch at a circuit or other venue.

However, as some readers have received copies of the magazine a day early, that has led to pictures appearing on social media sites.

In response, Caterham - previously known as Lotus for their first two seasons in F1 - have now made available an official image of the first car to be revealed ahead of the new season.

The most significant feature is the new 'stepped' nose where the suspension meets the chassis in response to new regulations which demand a lower nose.