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

Lotus News

Lotus news from duPont REGISTRY News, updated as each story breaks, covering the Emira, the electric Eletre and Emeya, and the Evija hypercar. Our reporting takes in reveals, first drives, design recognition and the company news that shapes the marque's direction. Lotus has changed a great deal in a short period, and we follow each decision as it is announced. This is sports car news with the market attached to it. Many of the Lotus models covered here are listed for sale on duPont REGISTRY, so a review and a real asking price appear together. For Lotus news today, and the performance car news around it, start below.

By Andrew Nabors – April 22, 2020

Lotus Celebrates 35th Anniversary of Senna's First Win

It is hard to believe that a rookie Brazilian racer would take 1st place on a rain-soaked track. But such was the case on April 21st of 1985. Although he is best known for being a part of Team McLaren, Ayrton Senna began his Formula 1 career behind the wheel of a Lotus 97T. His mechanic Chris Dinnage relates the details of that day at Estoril on a podcast. Available on Apple, Spotify, and ShoutEngine, Chis said: His concentration levels were unparalleled – I’ve never met anyone like him. Top 50 Best Sports Cars Of All Time Clive Chapman is the son of Lotus founder Colin Chapman, and he says: "For Team Lotus, Ayrton joining was a vital piece in the jigsaw, as the team faced the challenge of F1 without my father. Ayrton’s technical abilities, driving skills, hard work and motivational powers all proved to be more vital ingredients to the Team Lotus mix, which led to success almost immediately.”

By Edward Jones – April 15, 2020

Lotus Evija Configurator Launched For Customers

The new Lotus Evija is prepping to be an astonishing hypercar that will change how you think about the automaker. It packs 2000 horsepower thanks to its four electric and it looks deserving of the power. Now, customers can customize the look of their Evija, even more, thanks to the new configurator that has launched. And yes, this configurator is for customers only. Each customer will use a touch-screen to configure their car, which allows them to see their Evija in a whole new way. Thanks to the gaming software the program utilizes, the car can be placed in real-world environments and viewed through a '360 degree fly-through.' Check out the video preview of the configurator for yourself down below. See All Lotus for Sale

By Andrew Nabors – April 10, 2020

Caterham Unveils 2021 Super Seven 1600

There is no doubt that Colin Chapman was an automotive genius. As the founder and chief engineer of Lotus, he also designed the suspensions for the DeLorean DMC-12 and the C4 Corvette. Although Lotus has moved on to building the Evija electric hypercar, one brand still builds the best Lotus of all time. That is why we are happy to announce that Caterham has unveiled the 2021 Super Seven 1600. Instead of modern styling, this car looks like it rolled out of the Lotus shops in 1972. Two polished K&N air cleaners offer a classic carbureted soundtrack and the dash is adorned with Smiths gauges. Buyers have a multitude of color and leather options, and 135 horsepower at their command. Given the car's incredibly light weight, it rockets to 60 mph in 5 seconds with a top speed of 122 mph. Tiny British roadsters will never go out of style, so if you haven't experience one you are truly missing out. Click the button below for all the details and stay with us for all your Caterham news. Learn More

By Andrew Nabors – March 17, 2020

Lotus Evija Visits Prestige Imports Miami

Our friend Brett David has transformed his father's small corner lot into an exotic car empire. Even if he doesn't carry the exact car you are looking for, his team has the resources to find it. As such, the new 2021 Lotus Evija paid a visit to Prestige Imports Miami. Colin Chapman would be proud to see this carbon fiber masterpiece. All 130 planned examples are priced just above $2 Million dollars. For that, you will reach 186 mph in 8.6 seconds. While the fastest Tesla models make due with 130 kWh batteries, the Evija will do more with less. A 70 kWh battery is compact and fitted as low as possible. The carbon fiber monocoque is only 284 lbs, so the driver will feel the full brunt of 1,972 horsepower and 1,254 lb-ft of torque. This marks a new era for Lotus and Prestige Imports, so stay with us as this story develops. Browse Prestige Imports Inventory

By Andrew Nabors – February 20, 2020

Lotus Evija Prototypes Begin Production

Shocking. That is how the automotive world considers an electric hypercar from Lotus. A new factory dedicated to its assembly is nearly finished. Located next to their test track in Hethel, the hallowed grounds have been host to Ayrton Senna, Emerson Fittipaldi, Jim Clark, and other famous racers. That is just one reason why we are excited that the Lotus Evija Prototypes have begun production. Lotus Evija Makes American Debut in Monterey For a quick refresher, the first electric English hypercar will arrive with 2,000 horsepower, reaching 62 mph in under 3 seconds. Their goal is to reach 186 mph in under 9 seconds and a top speed of over 200 mph. An estimated range of 250 miles of normal driving will raise the bar for battery-powered sports cars. Only 130 are planned for production, so click the button below to find our dealer near you. Browse All Lotus For Sale " width="680">

By Andrew Nabors – January 29, 2020

Lotus Unveils 2020 Evora GT410

"Simplify, then add lightness". Colin Chapman founded Lotus to build the lightest cars on the market, and they are a blast to drive. If you want a street-legal race car, the Evora Sport offers almost no creature comforts. But if need a little luxury and convenience, Lotus has unveiled the 2020 Evora GT410. It will arrive with more cabin insulation, ergonomic door panels, and air conditioning as standard equipment. Apple CarPlay and DAB radio are also onboard. The engine is a supercharged masterpiece built by Toyota and Edelbrock, offering 400 horsepower and 301 lb-ft of torque. Since the car is under 3,000 lbs, it is the best bargain in the world of small sports cars. Click the button below to find our dealer near you and stay with us for all your Lotus news. Browse All Lotus For Sale Related: 2020 Lotus Evora GT is Lighter, Faster & More Powerful

By Edward Jones – November 22, 2019

See the Lotus Evija in Action for the First Time

Lotus has just released a new video showing the Evija, giving us the first chance to see it in action. The car being used in the video is Lotus' engineering prototype #2. The Lotus Evija will now be undergoing dynamic testing at various circuits across Europe, including Hethel UK, Lotus' home. These tests and some static tests will allow Lotus to push the Evija towards the expectations they created when the hypercar was debuted. "Physical prototype testing at speed is a landmark moment for the Evija and hugely exciting for everyone involved," says Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes, Lotus Cars. "Our aim is to make sure it’s a true Lotus in every sense, with exceptional performance that’s going to set new standards in the hypercar sector." SEE ALL LOTUS FOR SALE

By Andrew Nabors – October 31, 2019

Lotus Unveils Carbon Fiber Bicycle

Cycling is a very competitive sport, so next year's Summer Olympics will see fast-paced action on the board track. The Great Britain Cycling Team needed something new to ride, so Lotus has unveiled a new carbon fiber bicycle. Working in cooperation with Hope Technology, this featherweight flyer incorporates the latest in composites with a minimalist design. The aerodynamic forks might be skirting the edge of the Olympic rulebook Nevertheless, Lotus is motivated by the words of their founder Colin Chapman: " Rules are for the obedience of fools and interpretations of smart men!" If you want to see what his company has been up to, click the button to find our Lotus dealer near you, and stay with us for all your Lotus news. Browse All Lotus For Sale " width="680">

By Edward Jones – August 20, 2019

Lotus Evija Makes American Debut in Monterey

The new Lotus Evija has made its American debut during the Monterey Car Week at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering. I'll stop right here to inform you that it's pronounced 'eh-vai-yuh." There ya go. Back to the Evija itself. This electric hypercar is set to be the world's most powerful series-production car. Power comes from a 2,000kW lithium-ion battery. Power from this battery gets sent to four different motors that power their own wheels. Total output? 1973 horsepower and 1254 lb-ft of torque. That kind of power can launch the Evija from o to 62 mph in under three seconds and it'll hit a top speed of over 200 mph, but that's all expected with that kind of power. see all lotus cars for sale

By Andrew Nabors – August 07, 2019

Lotus Evija World Tour Starts at Monterey

One day in the distant future, the only place to find gas-powered cars will be at the world's most prestigious car shows. As for now, electric hypercars are in high demand, so the Lotus Evija world tour will start at Monterey. England's first all-electric Hypercar offers 2000 metric horsepower, or 1,973 using the traditional SAE protocols. Their first American order was received within hours of the reveal, so Monterey is a logical starting point. Lauded as the world's most powerful series-production road car, it is powered by a 2,000 kWh battery and four electric motors. With a combined torque of 1,254 lb-ft, it could be one of the fastest cars on the market. They claim 62 mph arrives in under 3 seconds along with a top speed over 200 mph. It will be shown on the evening of Friday the 16th at Quail Lodge. From there, it will be placed on the 18th Fairway at Pebble Beach for the Concours on Sunday. Then it is down to Galpin Lotus in L.A. Further dates of the tour will be released soon, so stay with us for all your Lotus updates. Browse Lotus For Sale " width="680"> Related: Lotus Evija: The World's Most Powerful Series Production Road Car 2020 Lotus Evora GT is Lighter, Faster & More Powerful

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