Concept Cars

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 Andrew Nabors – May 04, 2021

What Is The Suzuki Misano?

Enticing is an understatement One of Japan's most powerful families has just shocked the world. Yes, Suzuki is still in the car business, and they just dropped a wild concept. This project was undertaken by the Instituto Europeo di Design in Torino. Our real question is how does it compare to the 2022 Hayabusa? Sponsored by OZ Wheels and Pirelli, it has some fancy shoes. The details were honed by Torino Crea Engineering at the behest of Suzuki of Italy. We'd like to thank PEPE Photografia for the teasers and the film, so tell us your favorite parts of this concept in the comments below and stay with us for all your Suzuki news! Images (C) Suzuki Italia

By Andrew Nabors – April 28, 2021

Williams & Italdesign Join Forces To Build An Electric Fu...

Composite chassis gain Italian styling Williams Advanced Engineering is a powerhouse in racing. But you might not know they have been working on a new modular chassis for street-legal supercars. The suspension and dimensions will be made to order, and this has piqued the interest from automakers around the world. Their previous electric news was the unveiling of Triumph's new TE1 motor. The EVX will integrate the battery cell into the structure of the car, an optimal way to save weight. The flat surface allows for a variety of bodies and applications, including sports coupes and family haulers. The goal is to offer 10,000 examples per year, with 500 already committed by Italdesign. Room for a 160 kW battery opens the door for a streamlined coupe to potentially offer 1000km (621 miles) of range. Tell us what you would like to see on the EVX in the commets below, and stay with us for all your EV news. Images (C) Williams & Italdesign

By Andrew Nabors – April 13, 2021

Yamaha Unveils Compact 470 HP Electric Motor

Time to finish your project car When building a car to suit your needs, the engine is often the starting point. Now it's time to take your project in a green direction thanks to Yamaha's new 800-volt motor. Rated at 470 horsepower, it is poised to shakeup the world of hybrids and electrics. The world's biggest companies are in a race for electric supremacy, much like how Porsche has upped their stake in Rimac to 24%. The press release highlights their abilities to power everything from motorcycles to track cars, all you need is a battery and a little time. It is self-contained without the need for cooling pumps or radiators. Instead, the oil filter is mounted on the case for easy maintenance. Their goal is create new opportunities in mobility and fun in the aftermarket, so tell us what you would do with 470 horsepower in the comments below.

By Andrew Nabors – March 18, 2021

Opel Teases an Electric Restomod Revival of the Manta

A gorgeous car appeared on European roads back in 1970, so now is a perfect time for a comeback. Opel has teased an electric restomod revival of the Manta with a high-voltage heart. Opel was the luxury & sporty arm of General Motors in Germany. Along with their English cousins at Vauxhall, Americans have had a few opportunities to buy them from Buick & Cadillac dealerships over the years. GM sold the brand to Stellantis, the owners of Fiat-Chrysler & Peugeot. This teaser of the GSe ElektroMOD definitely has retro styling, something not yet embraced by electric automakers. Their press release mentions the name is a reference to their world-record setting Elektro GT from the 70s along with MOD for modern technology. With a stiff injection of cash, Opel is poised to bring back the glory days, so we'd like to see it offered at Dodge & Chrysler lots. Their goal is to be all-electric by 2024, so we think this is a great starting point. Browse Sports Cars For Sale Image (C) Stellantis NV

By Andrew Nabors – February 01, 2021

Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Shows Off 'Formula 1 Power'

We are poised to welcome the second-generation of hybrid hypercars. To compete with the Ferrari SF90 Stradale and the McLaren Artura, the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE shows off 'Formula 1 Power'. Their recipe for the future starts with a 1.6-liter V6. Where it gets really interesting is incorporating a generator inside the turbocharger. Combined with another on the crankshaft, it will reach 11,000 rpm to power two electric motors on the front wheels. Sir Lewis Hamilton is in charge of the driving dynamics and suspension so get ready for a street-legal race winner. Rumors of a $2.5 million price tag make it one of the Top 25 Most Expensive Cars For Sale.

By Andrew Nabors – January 12, 2021

Sony Vision-S Begins Testing In Austria

Earlier today Sony unveiled their new Airpeak drone, and it was used to film the Sony Vision-S testing in Austria. Last year, we saw the Vision-S concept car debut at the Consumer Electronics Show. Thanks to the combined efforts from every part of the company, the first prototype seeks to offer a safer and smarter luxury sedan. Anything bearing the Sony logo is held to a standard that can't be matched by competitors, so stay with us as the car evolves. P.S. Cadillac also dropped a new concept car at CES! " width="680"> Image (C) Sony Corporation

By Andrew Nabors – December 03, 2020

2021 Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne Hits The Road

Electric luxury is a bold new battleground for boutique manufacturers. If you want a silent supercar with a Spanish flair, the 2021 Hispano Suiza Carmen Boulogne has hit the road. Joining the existing production of 14 Carmens, the 5 examples of the Boulogne offer 1,114 metric horsepower to reach 180 mph. The latest in high-voltage batteries allow it to reach 62 mph in 2.6 seconds with a curb weight of 3,549 lbs. Four permanent-magnet electric motors power the rear wheels in 2 pairs. Software allows 1,180 lb-ft of torque to be available from 0-6,500 rpm. A body of visible carbon fiber hides an 80 kWh battery pack. It can be charged to 80% in 30 minutes by DC to offer a range of 248 miles. As technology advances, you will be offered upgrades to keep the car at the cutting edge. Stay with us for the latest in luxury hypercars.

By Andrew Nabors – September 08, 2020

GM & Nikola Join Forces To Build Electric Trucks

Almost a year ago we were literally shocked by a new manufacturer. Anheuser-Busch delivered beer with zero pollution. Nikola Corporation received an order for 800 fuel-cell trucks along with cash to begin work on their electric pickup. With Tesla in their crosshairs, investors and the public have been wondering who would step up to help them. That answer came today as GM & Nikola have joined forces to build electric trucks. This investment of 11% is valued at $2 Billion of Nikola's common stock thanks to the sharing of innovation and production between the two companies. The press release says Nikola will use GM's new Ultium battery technology while their Badger pickup truck is engineered and built for them by GM. This allows GM to be the exclusive fuel cell supplier for Nikola's Class 7/8 trucks outside of Europe. Nikola has been building production Semi Trucks at a snail's pace so far, so this is truly exciting. The Badger will be offered in EV or Fuel Cell models, so click the button below to learn more and stay with us for all your EV news. Learn More " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – May 04, 2020

2020 SSC Tuatara Screams Across the Desert

The race for 300 mph is getting hotter each day, and the team at SSC looks ready to fight. The Tuatara has finally found an engine that can utilize its slippery drag coefficient of 0.279. Tom Nelson routinely builds 2,500 horsepower beasts for racers around the world. In order to give it a unique sound and extreme RPM, it has a flat-plane crank to reach 8,800. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time Because this isn't a drag racing machine, power was dialed back to 1,750 (on E85). Still making 1,350 horsepower on 91 octane, it is the most American supercar to-date. Backed by a 7-speed sequential transmission, the Tuatara is finally ready for 300. Tell us what you think in the comments below. " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – April 21, 2020

Bollinger Prototype Caught Testing in Snow

America's latest electric SUV is poised to revolutionize 4WD performance, and it will come in two flavors. The B1 is a full-size SUV with styling influences from the classic Defender. The B2 will utilize the same chassis and powertrain with a pickup body. Deliveries will begin next year, so engineers are putting the final touches on the software. Thanks to cold weather so late into the year, the headed for Michigan's Upper Peninsula, where a Bollinger prototype was caught testing in the snow. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time With motors at each end, power can be distributed equally or to the axles that have the most grip. Continental's winter proving grounds would be fun with fresh powder, so we're a little jealous. The team will be the next feature on Jay Leno's Garage, so stay with us for all your Bollinger updates. " width="680">

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