Aftermarket

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Jordan Aquistapace – November 09, 2023

BRABUS Debuts Its All-New Performance-Inspired Winter Fas...

BRABUS expands its fashion range with a new, elegantly designed winter collection. As the winter season approaches, the aftermarket specialists at BRABUS are excited to unveil a new line of fashion pieces, infusing the high-end automotive market with its unique blend of high-quality, style-conscious apparel. This launch represents an expansion of BRABUS's fashion offerings, bringing a fresh wave of distinctive design elements to the forefront of elegant streetwear. The collection, featuring an all-new coat collection that complements the brand's lineup of Mercedes-AMG, Porsche, Rolls-Royce, and Range Rover, embraces monochrome tones punctuated by avant-garde logo prints and the brand's signature BRABUS red accents. Crafted with an unwavering commitment to quality and meticulous attention to detail just like every BRABUS vehicle, these fashion pieces are produced in Portugal and uphold the highest standards of manufacturing. The new BRABUS collection is a testament to the synergy of form, style, and comfort, offering modern statement looks that exude flexibility and sophistication. With a range of fits designed to cater to the diverse preferences of car collectors and fashion aficionados, the apparel and accessories collection ensures that everyone can find a piece that resonates with their personal style. The entire clothing line is now accessible through the BRABUS SHOP, inviting owners and enthusiasts to explore and choose from the latest BRABUS Collection offerings. View all BRABUS inventory currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All BRABUS Inventory For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by BRABUS (@theofficialbrabus) Source: BRABUS

By Jordan Aquistapace – October 17, 2023

LOKI Coach Unveils A Revolutionary Battery Monitoring Sys...

LOKI Coach introduces a game-changing battery monitoring system for motorhomes, offering 96,000 watts of lithium batteries, solar panels, and remote control features. Are you tired of noisy generators ruining the tranquility of your luxury motorhome travel experience? LOKI Coach has just the solution for its extensive lineup of custom builds. The team of professionals at LOKI Coach is proud to introduce a new state-of-the-art battery monitoring system that optimizes power consumption and offers exceptional convenience and efficiency. LOKI Coach is changing the way modern travelers experience luxury motorhome trips with this innovative system. Accessing real-time battery data and control settings remotely, the system revolves around making your journey smoother than ever before. Powered by a whopping 96,000 watts of lithium batteries, boasting a capacity of 8000 ampere-hours, LOKI Coach doesn't stop there. The system also incorporates high-efficiency solar panels that generate 2540 watts and dual custom supercharged alternators, delivering an incredible 1200 ampere-hours of ultra-fast charging capability. What this means for you is remarkable power, reliability, and efficiency, all bundled into a sustainable package that significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels. Lithium batteries are the heart of this advanced system, offering a consistent voltage output that is virtually maintenance-free and incredibly eco-friendly. These batteries can endure a large number of charge and discharge cycles, ultimately saving you money on replacements and reducing your carbon footprint. By utilizing renewable energy sources like solar panels, LOKI Coach helps you move towards a greener, more sustainable future. LOKI Coach's revolutionary system plays a crucial role in optimizing the charging and discharging processes, making sure the batteries operate within their ideal voltage and temperature parameters. The advanced features authorize users to monitor both AC and DC consumption and even track what was directly powered by solar energy. Imagine a luxury motorhome experience that is entirely battery-powered, allowing you to charge your electric car directly from the motorhome itself. With LOKI Coach, you can take your eco-conscious journey a step further by charging your electric car. In a nutshell, LOKI Coach is setting new standards in luxury motorhome travel with its innovative battery monitoring system, designed to make your travels quieter, cleaner, and more enjoyable. With LOKI Coach, you don't just travel; you experience the future of luxury travel. Discover LOKI Coach and the future of its power management system by clicking the link below. Discover LOKI Coach Source: LOKI Coach

By Jordan Aquistapace – February 24, 2022

Check The Spec: LOKI Basecamp Falcon 8 x RAM 3500 Cummins

The all-black LOKI build for a lucky new customer. Presented by LOKI Basecamp - The outlander lifestyle starts with a vehicle platform capable of traveling on any excursion thrown its way while providing a comfortable living space for the great outdoors. The adventure experts at LOKI Basecamp are proud to showcase its newest Flacon 8 Series build featuring a RAM 3500 Cummins as the truck of choice. LOKI Basecamp The exterior of the Falcon 8 is finished in gloss black to match the stealth-like spec of the RAM diesel truck. The build features additional exterior upgrades that include an LED lighting system, side supports, a utility roof rack, multi-system drawers, ladders, an electric rear panel door, and many more to help create the journey of a lifetime. The interior layout transforms the space into a modern living space that highlights the traditional aspects of any home for an on-the-go lifestyle. LOKI Basecamp The mudroom is the first area to greet you when entering the Falcon 8, which converts the space into an area with a removable shower, rail drying system, ARB air compressor, and various power outlets for charging capabilities. Beautifully illuminated by an LED lighting system, the kitchen offers a spacious area with a fully functional sink to help prepare meals to enjoy on the lounge table. For the most important area in the Falcon 8, the bedroom is constructed o have an open feel with a queen bed capacity that works on a removable aluminum platform. Engineered with comfort in mind, LOKI fits the bedroom area with amenities like reading lamps, a multimedia monitor, dimmable LED lights, various USB and AC/DC outlets, and extra storage space. The LOKI Falcon 8 is prepared for all four seasons, which is why it's equipped with heating/air conditioning and plumbing that uses two different water tanks. LOKI Basecamp The technology that operates the LOKI’s state-of-the-art build is managed through a REDARC automotive electronics system that is mounted to the interior of the Falcon 8. This new LOKI Basecamp Falcon 8 delivers optimum performance from the RAM 3500 Cummins and features everything you need on your next outlander expedition. Discover LOKI Basecamp and its series of off-road living spaces by clicking the link below. Check back into duPont REGISTRY Daily for more luxury lifestyle news and gear releases. Discover The LOKI Basecamp Falcon Series Source: LOKI Basecamp

By Edward Jones – December 11, 2020

Himalaya x Kodiak Offering the Ultimate Adventure Package...

A new package from Himalaya and Kodiak is perfect for anyone looking to go on the adventure of a lifetime. Within this bespoke package, priced at $3 million, is a customized Kodiak 100 Series II plane, a fully-loaded Himalaya Defender 110 and a trip to Himalaya's experience center in Alpine, Wyoming. It's at the experience center that guests can experience back-country guided tours, snowmobile and snow bike riding, and more off-road adventures. "When we first built this Experience Center, our goal was to emphasize exactly what the HIMALAYA brand is all about, which is the desire to seek-out adventure," says HIMALAYA President Greg Shondel. "In partnering with a legendary aircraft brand like Kodiak, we’ve established another element that sets us apart." Only a handful of K110 Series II planes have been created with the custom Himalaya branding, making this package truly exclusive. For more information, be sure to visit DriveHimalaya.com.

By Andrew Nabors – August 17, 2020

Brabham Automotive & Kyron Audio Unveil $250,000 Home Ent...

Kyron Audio builds incredible speakers and amplifiers that combine art with incredible performance. Down the road from their headquarters in Adelaide, the Brabham BT62 is being assembled as Australia's flagship supercar. If your surround sound needs automotive inspiration, Kyron is building 35 sets of their "Celebration Series". Each one will represent one of Brabham's 35 F1 wins, complete with the liveries of each winning car. First Brabham BT62 Competition Delivered for Britcar Debut While these are being built to order, audio engineers are working with Brabham to cancel unwanted noises and vibrations. This will ensure the exhaust note is perfect while the driver can soak up the best in-car audio. Click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your Brabham updates. Learn More

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