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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 Edward Jones – December 29, 2020

Check Out Tony Parker's New Superyacht "Infinity Nine"

Tony Parker has tasked AvA Yachts with constructing his new yacht called "Infinity Nine." This new vessel is 35m superyacht being built in Antalya Free Zone, Turkey. It's also the second Kando110 Series hull AvA Yachts has created. With four decks, five double guest cabins and a massive Owner's Master Suite Cabin, Infinity Nine is set to be an incredible creation from AvA Yacht's. Parker recently visited the shipyard to see how construction is coming along. After seeing the images of the visit and construction, we can easily say that everything is coming along perfectly. The interior is currently being installed, as is the coating of the hull. You can check out the images from Parker's visit in the gallery down below. Source: AvA Yachts

By Edward Jones – December 14, 2020

San Lorenzo Reveals Asymmetric SL120 Yacht

If you head down to your local marina, you'll notice that just about every single boat has a symmetrical design with the port side matching the starboard side. Breaking away from this design is San Lorenzo's new SL120 which features an asymmetrical design. On the port side of this 36.92m yacht is a side deck for guests to enjoy. However, the starboard side does not feature a side deck and instead has the dining room expanded. Thanks to this layout, San Lorenzo is able to expand the inside of the SL120 and giving it a much more expansive interior. Another asymmetrical touch is found at the bow where the stairs to reach the sun deck are only found on the starboard side. If you've ever wanted a yacht that stands out among any marine, this may be what you're looking for. For more information, click the button below. Visit SanLorenzoYacht.com Source: SanLorenzoYacht.com

By Edward Jones – December 09, 2020

Triton 3300/6 Submersible Can Seat a Family of Six

There is an astounding amount of ocean that has yet to be discovered but it all resides in the depths. In order to take the plunge, you need a submersible that can dive. That's where Triton Submarines comes in. Their extensive lineup has subs for a wide variety of underwater excursions, but it's just grown larger with the addition of the 3300/6. This new sub can hold one pilot and up to five passengers, allowing it to hold a large family during ocean depth adventures. Triton says that the 3300/6 can dive up to 3,300 feet, which is a remarkable feat. What's more, this sub can be configured for four passengers, giving each passenger even more room when seated. Encasing the passengers is a massive acrylic pressure hull, which is actually the world's largest of its kind. For more information, be sure to visit TritonSubs.com.

By Edward Jones – December 07, 2020

Formula Boats Reveals the All-New 500 Super Sport Crossov...

Presented by Formula Boats - Formula continues to push boundaries with the release of their newest flagship: the 500 Super Sport Crossover. Formula has spent years on this new model's design and execution and the result is an incredible fusion of art, performance, amenities and layout. At 53' 4" in length overall, there are a surprising amount of features that make the new 500 Super Sport Crossover the ultimate open-bow outboard vessel. With over 40 linear feet of cockpit space flowing uninterrupted on one continuous level, the 500 expands the SmartZone™ concept. By fully optimizing the space with a signature side console helm, Formula has created separate areas that foster a wide variety of activities and boating preferences. This includes the helm, hardtop salon, bow, open aft lounges and swim platform. No matter your preference, virtually everything is satisfied in the 500 SSC Cockpit. The 500 SSC is a true evolution and culmination of the Formula SmartZone™ concept. At the side console helm, the captain will have all functions at their immediate command. Most importantly, this is where the captain will control either the quintuple Mercury 400 Verado Outboard motors, or the optional quint Mercury Racing 400R’s or 450R’s. The sturdy composite dash features dual Raymarine Axiom XL 24 widescreen color chartplotters with standard 48” Raymarine open-array radar and FLIR M332 thermal camera, Mercury® DTS with SmartCraft VesselViewTM and intuitive waterproof switches logically arrayed in Liquid Black panels with bold, metallic accents. What's more, they will be able to take advantage of the triple-command seating arrangement that is both supportive and incredibly comfortable. The salon itself is fully enclosed with a fiberglass hardtop that features a full-width motorized glass sunroof and a fixed moonroof aft. When closed, the mid-salon 18,000 BTU air conditioner added to the helm's 30,000 BTU unit keeps all guests cool on even the hottest of days. On top of the literally cool space, the salon also offers an Ultraleather L-shaped raised salon nook with a fold-out dining table and two tip-out barstools. There's even a power-lift 65-inch television with a Bose soundbar that raises from the starboard side galley counter. In this enclosed area is where guests can also find the beautifully equipped kitchen with a high-capacity dual-drawer stainless Vitrifigo pullout fridge, two-burner range and convection microwave. When venturing aft, there's a U-shaped lounge with a stationary table and a starboard-side L-shaped lounge with a 54-gallon cooler below. A standard SureShade can be extended from the coupe top at the touch of a button of protection from the sun is needed. Heading just a bit more aft will bring guests to the 71-square-foot swim platform and rear-facing portside lounge. Anyone who has been on a boat knows how lovely a space like this would be after a dive into the water. The transition between swimming to relaxing on the boat has never been easier. Down below aboard the 500 Super Sport Crossover is a spacious cabin with woodgrain-finish flooring and 6'7" of headroom. Opening windows, a tinted skylight, 16,000 BTU air conditioner and electronic privacy smart glass allow guests to fully control the natural light and airflow of this area. A fully appointed lower kitchen, dining lounge, enclosed head and well-appointed aft stateroom with a full sofa lounge offer the upscale accommodations of a closed bow cruiser. Formula's new 500 Super Sport Crossover is truly a magnificent vessel that boasts the most. When it comes to checking off boxes, this boat does it all. From a diverse deck to the well-appointed cabin, there are so many possibilities for entertainment. With the 500 Super Sport Crossover, each day on the water will be different but always enjoyable. For more information, be sure to visit FormulaBoats.com. Visit FormulaBoats.com

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2020

Columbus Yachts Sells the Project 'Lady' 50m Yacht

Columbus Yachts has just announced the sale of Project 'Lady', their new 50m yacht. The brand notes that this yacht "represents a new era for Columbus’s full-custom line and confirms the brand’s commitment to creating projects tailored to the customers." With an aluminum hull and superstructure, Lady will be both alluring and innovative. "This is an innovative, dynamic, cutting-edge project that fully reflects the essential principles of the Columbus brand," Declares Giuseppe Palumbo, CEO of Palumbo Superyachts. "A process driven by the collaboration with a Customer highly sensitive to environment and elegance that will make this project a new reference point on the market." Expect to see the delivery of Columbus Yacht's Lady in 2022. " width="680">

By Edward Jones – December 03, 2020

Gulf Craft Launches the World's Largest Composite Yacht

Gulf Craft has just launched their Majesty 175 which is quite the milestone for the shipyard. The event happened at the Shipyard in the United Arab Emirates where the yacht's owner was on hand to witness. In total, the Majesty 175 project has been underway for four years and now we finally get to see her in the water. What's most exciting about the launch of this yacht is the fact that it's made from composite materials like carbon fiber and vinylester. Because of Majesty 175's length and the use of the materials, she is the world's largest composite yacht. But it's not just that accolade that made them choose these materials. With these lightweight materials, she's able to cruise through low draft areas and only draw in 2.25 meters of water. To learn more about Majesty 175, be sure to click here.

By Edward Jones – November 30, 2020

Officina Armare Reveals BadGal 43m Superyacht

Officina Armare has just unveiled BadGal, a 43m superyacht that boasts sleek lines, amenities galore and enough power to go around. With a sharp design, this new superyacht has an appearance that is unbelievably attractive. The massive black windows on either side create a stunning visual, while the body line all point towards the bow to give off the appearance of motion even at a standstill. When BadGal is moving, it can most definitely move fast. Powered by double MTU 12V 4000CM93L engines, she can hit a top speed of 29+ knots. For those moments when BadGal isn't on the move, the interior can be enjoyed to its fullest extent and there's a lot to enjoy. With spacious rooms, fine materials and more amenities than you can shake a stick at, including a jacuzzi, guests will never be board when aboard BadGal. For more information, visit OfficinaAmare.com.

By Edward Jones – November 20, 2020

Ocean Independence Reveals New 110m Project Century X Meg...

Ocean independence has just added a new yacht project to their sales fleet and it's a truly magnificent vessel. Named the 'Century X', this 110m megayacht is filled with amenities, facilities and luxury. In total, the Century X has accommodations for up to 14 guests thanks to the seven lavish and spacious staterooms. As far as amenities and features go, the Century X will have everything needed for an entertaining adventure. From bow to stern, there are four freshwater pools available to swim in, as well as a massive beach club area with waterfalls and various lounges. It's that the beach club area that tenders can access the docking stations, as well. Onboard, Century X also has a massive garage where tenders and water toys can be stores. A price has not been given, but Ocean Independence notes that this project will have a build time of 48 months. Image Source: Ocean Independence/Facebook, OceanIndependence.com

By Edward Jones – November 04, 2020

Hydro Tec's 65m Vanguard Yacht Concept Revealed With Bril...

In honor of Hydro Tec's 25th anniversary, they have released the new 65m Vanguard yacht concept. The firm notes that this concept " fully represents the spirit of the studio, always pushing for innovation , both in the field of technology and in that of design, with an adventurous and pioneering spirit, but firmly anchored to a solid technical base, deeply integrated into the great Italian shipbuilding tradition." The name Vanguard actually comes from a British tradition where a warship always has the name. What's more, the word "vanguard" means either the first part of a naval force or the forefront of an action or movement. With this yacht, Hydro Tec not only wants to lead the pack but also bring in new ideas and movements to the yachting world. Hydro Tec's design for the Vanguard is quite intriguing. With a displacement platform, they were able to create a bridge that seems "below deck" but above the full load waterline. This allows the vessel to have mobile terraces for the guest cabins above the waterline. With this layout, the lowerdeck becomes a completely accessible deck from the bathing platform at the stern to the bulkhead. Also found towards the stern is a large swimming pool that's completely covered but can be opened up towards the stern. The Vanguard is a very unique boat, so we're excited to see more of what's to come of it. Source: HydroTec.it

By Edward Jones – November 03, 2020

Echo Yachts and MMYD Announces Customizable SP30 Catamaran

Echo Yachts, an Australian custom superyacht builder, has just announced a new customizable 31m catamaran motoryacht that will be added to their lineup. To be more specific, it will be within their 'Design Collection.' The design of the yacht came to be after a collaboration between Echo Yachts and Misha Merzliakov Yacht Design (MMYD). Within this new vessel are loads of amenities and features, including two jet skis and a 6.4m tender, both of which fit perfectly onboard. Inside are either four or five large guest cabins, depending on the customer's order sheet, as well as a large Master Cabin. Thanks to the 13.3 beam on the main and upper deck areas, this new yacht will offer plenty of flexibility in terms of interior options. Underneath is enough room for twin-engine rooms although specific engine specifications have not been noted. Source: EchoMarineGroup.com

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