McLaren News

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 – May 23, 2024

How To Buy: McLaren's All-New 2024 Season Teamwear Collec...

Look the part with the newest styles from the McLaren F1 Team. Born directly from the racetrack back in 1965, McLaren first hit the Formula 1 scene after founder, Bruce McLaren set off to develop his own racecar for the first season of the new 3-liter engine regulation. Today, McLaren has not only evolved into one of the most successful teams in F1 but also a leader in supercar and hypercar manufacturing. With all its fame and stardom both on and off the race grid, the McLaren F1 Team has created a community full of passionate fans that continue to show support by sporting the brand's famous Papaya Orange team wear throughout the global season. In preparation to take on one of the most anticipated seasons in Formula 1 history, McLaren F1 is proud to introduce its all-new 2024 Formula 1 Teamwear Collection. The apparel and accessories lineup aims to style fans just like Lando Norris, Oscar Piastri, and the rest of the support team in the paddock. Using the legendary Papaya Orange shade as the base layer for each piece, the collection includes team jackets, hoodies, t-shirts, polos, and hats for everyone in the family. From driver-specific NewEra hats for sunny track days to longlined jackets for chilling test laps, the 2024 Teamwear Collection is sure to have you looking the part as McLaren F1 sprints to the finish line for another victorious season. Shop all the newest styles from McLaren F1 and the McLaren Store by clicking the link below for more information. Shop The 2024 McLaren Teamwear Collection Official Teamwear Set Up T-Shirt Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now Official Teamwear Polo Shirt Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now Official Teamwear Longline Padded Jacket Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now Official Teamwear Lightweight Rain Jacket Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now Official Teamwear Soft Shell Jacket Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now Mens Official Teamwear Quarter Zip Top Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now Womens Official Teamwear Quarter Zip Top Formula 1 McLaren Store Shop Now McLaren Oscar Piastri Replica 9Fifty® Cap - New Era McLaren Store Shop Now Mclaren Lando Norris Official Teamwear 9Fifty® Cap - New Era McLaren Store Shop Now McLaren Official Teamwear 9Forty® Cap - New Era McLaren Store Shop Now

Johnny Rutherford 50th anniversary Indy 500 win with McLaren

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 22, 2024

McLaren Creates A Special 750S For Johnny Rutherford's 19...

McLaren honors a triumphant moment in its racing history. May sets Indianapolis abuzz with excitement every year, with the Indianapolis 500 race coming each year with intense competition and performance excellence. A tradition in the motorsport world for decades, the Indianapolis 500 has forged legacies, and one of those is of Johnny Rutherford, who won the race in 1974, 50 years ago. It was with McLaren that he achieved that incredible victory, and being his first Indianapolis 500 victory, it was not only a milestone moment in his career but in racing history. The 1974 race was won from the 25th starting position, where Rutherford drove an average of 158 mph behind the wheel of a McLaren M16C/D with an iconic McLaren Orange livery and an F1-style cockpit. 50 years later, ahead of this year’s Indianapolis 500 race, McLaren is honoring the incredible victory that happened half a century ago with a special one-off McLaren 750S that features a livery that echoes the original race-winning car. Alongside it, two other McLaren road cars sported the Rutherford-inspired livery, and all three are drumming up excitement for this year’s Indianapolis 500 race, driving around the city by Arrow Mclaren IndyCar team members. This new special McLaren 750S features McLaren’s latest supercar with high-tech performance innovation, celebrating a milestone moment in motorsport history that took place 50 years ago, celebrating Johnny Rutherford’s diving ability and McLaren’s rich motorsport pedigree. View All McLarens For Sale Image Source: McLaren

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 21, 2024

McLaren Honors Ayrton Senna With The New One-Off Senna Se...

McLaren honors a late racing legend. Ayrton Senna is one of the most revered names in motorsport. The late racing superstar won three Formula 1 World Championships during his illustrious, albeit tragically short career. His three championship titles were earned with the McLaren F1 team, including six victories at the legendary, renowned, and historic Monaco Grand Prix. Ahead of this year’s Monaco Grand Prix, McLaren has revealed special one-off liveries honoring Ayrton Senna, his home country of Brazil, and his incredible racing achievements with McLaren. Both Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s McLaren MCL38 race cars will sport one-off Senna Sempre liveries at the Monaco Grand Prix this year, bearing the bold colors of Brazil. Also, McLaren has created a one-of-one version of its own Ultimate Series Senna hypercar, which is named after Ayrton Senna, with a special Senna Sempre livery. The McLaren Senna Sempre is a transformation of an existing pre-production McLaren Senna used for the Senna’s launch campaign and retained in McLaren’s heritage collection. The stunning bespoke paintwork depicts Senna’s face, beautifully vibrant color gradients, and incredible hand-painted details. Ayrton Senna’s impact on the motorsport world, Formula 1, and the history of the Monaco Grand Prix are undeniable and unforgettable, thanks to his incredible success and talent as a racing driver. Honoring that legacy over 30 years later at the Monaco Grand Prix, McLaren is celebrating its achievements with Ayrton Senna in the form of the new Senna Sempre and the one-off liveries its F1 cars will wear at the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix. View All McLaren Sennas For Sale Image Source: McLaren

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 20, 2024

Watch Novitec's Modified McLaren 750S Spit Flames

Novitec elevates supercar excellence. McLaren is known for its innovative, lightweight, powerful supercars with racing pedigree and on-track excellence, and the new 750S is one of the latest examples of its supercar specialty. Lighter and faster than the 720S that it succeeds, the new McLaren 750S is the manufacturer’s flagship offering in its supercar lineup. However, Novitec is a firm that specializes in elevating supercars even further. Various customizations alter the appearance, aerodynamics, and performance of supercars from all over the world, and the McLaren 750S is one of the newest to receive that treatment. With a suit of modifications from Novitec, the firm was able to increase the 750S’s horsepower to 840 hp. One of the most prominent modifications Novitec gave the McLaren 750S was the exhaust system. In a new YouTube video on Novitec Group’s channel, the McLaren 750s’s custom exhaust system is shown off with incredible sights and sounds, revving and accelerating throughout the engine’s wide RPM range and showing off spitting flames in the dark coming from the exhaust. With Novitec’s modifications, the McLaren 750S’s incredible performance and wow factor are taken to the next level, and you can watch it all in Novitec’s new video. View All McLarens For Sale

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 16, 2024

McLaren Launches A New Supercar-Inspired E-Bike Collection

Experience McLaren's iconic design and performance in the world's most powerful street-legal electric bikes. Renowned for pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation, McLaren Automotive introduces a groundbreaking addition to its lineup: the McLaren e-bike range. Inspired by the U.K. automaker's legendary supercars, these electric bikes redefine extreme performance on two wheels. Engineered by the same masterminds behind McLaren's iconic supercars and hypercars, the e-bikes feature hand-laid carbon-fiber frames and cutting-edge EV technology. With four new models – Extreme 600, Extreme 250, Sport 600, and Sport 250 – riders can expect exceptional performance whether tackling city streets or mountain trails. The flagship McLaren 600 models set new standards for street-legal electric mountain bikes, with Race mode delivering up to 852W of peak power. Engineered for a maximum power-to-weight ratio, just like McLaren's 765LT Spider and electrified Artura, these e-bikes embody the same high-performance DNA. Each e-bike features five power settings – Off, Eco, Trail, Sport, and Race – allowing riders to tailor their power output to the terrain. Inspired by McLaren's driver displays, an innovative digital display provides real-time telemetry data for maximum engagement and usability. The availability of McLaren e-bikes is limited, so customers are encouraged to secure their own piece of automotive history by visiting www.mclarenbikes.com. Shop all McLaren Automotive and F1 gear from the McLaren Store by clicking the link below. Shop The McLaren Store Source: McLaren

By Tyler Rampersaud – May 13, 2024

McLaren Beverly Hills Shows Off 1-of-16 Lanzante P1 GTR-18

This masterpiece has even more exclusivity than the already-amazing McLaren P1. The McLaren P1 is one fo the greatest automotive creation in modern history, as a revolutionary third of the hybrid hypercar “Holy Trinity,” which was integral to creating the high-performance automotive world that we know today. However, the McLaren P1 GTR took it a step further, honing its performance for the purpose of dominating the track, and the ultra-exclusive creation remains today an incredible hypercar machine. Known for its design expertise inspired by racing history and specialty in the McLaren P1, Lanzante Limited took the McLaren P1 GTR a step further, with the P1 GTR-18, inspired by the McLaren F1 GTR with its long tail, a staple in McLaren’s racing history. Only 16 examples of the stunning and ultra-exclusive P1 GTR-18 exist, and McLaren Beverly Hills showed one off on Instagram before it went to its new home with a client. With its racing-focused design, the P1 GTR-18 features a low, wide stance, with dramatic aerodynamic features like a fixed spoiler, airways throughout, and more, and adding to its intimidating look is its sleek black paintwork with sliver 5-spoke wheels, as well as an interior that pairs black upholstery with red accents. With just 16 examples like it in existence, this close look at the McLaren P1 GTR-18 is a stunning sight to see. View All Vehicles For Sale From McLaren Beverly Hills View this post on Instagram A post shared by McLaren Beverly Hills (@mclarenbeverlyhills)

By Jordan Aquistapace – May 13, 2024

Lando Norris Returns To McLaren Headquarters With The 202...

Showing up in style, Lando secures the winning trophy in the front seat of a McLaren Artura Spider! Making his debut as the youngest-ever British F1 driver at 19 years old back in 2019 at the Australian Grand Prix, the spotlight has always been on Lando Norris and his frontman position on the McLaren F1 Team. While Lando has always used his top-tier driving skills and competitive nature to place himself on the podium alongside drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen, the now 24-year-old had yet to finish in the number one spot, until now. The 2024 Miami Grand Prix proved to be the perfect occasion for Lando Norris and McLaren F1 to clinch his very first win in Formula 1, even breaking the record as the most-watched Formula 1 race in U.S. television history with an average of 3.1 million viewers. And while celebrations on South Beach painted a perfect ending to the grueling week of racing, the most memorable moment was Lando Norris returning to the McLaren Headquarters with the Miami GP trophy. McLaren Automotive documented the victory lap on its YouTube channel, welcoming the F1 star's arrival in the electrified McLaren Artura Spider with a huge crowd of employees, team members, and fans. In a few words, Lando shared the influx of feelings and emotions he was experiencing while leading and completing the race in the top spot. As much as he is happy with one, he expresses his eagerness to win by saying, "Two sounds even better!" The amped-up crowd sees Lando Norris off as he drives the Artura Spider into the McLaren Museum to hand-deliver the 2024 Miami GP trophy to the F1 team's extensive trophy case. As we congratulate Lando Norris on his first Formula 1 victory, we can't wait to see him replicate it throughout the season. Shop all McLaren F1 Team x Lando Norris fan gear by clicking the link below. Shop All McLaren F1 Team x Lando Norris Fan Gear Source: McLaren

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By Jordan Aquistapace – May 09, 2024

Triple F Collection Completes The Ultimate McLaren Series...

With a supercar and hypercar collection that's worthy of going head-to-head against any other on the planet, Triple F Collection continues to stockpile exclusive examples at its car compound in Ohio. And while the family-run collection features automotive icons from brands like Bugatti, Rimac, Ferrari, and Lamborghini, it's clear that McLaren holds a special place in the hearts of the Freckas. Triple F Collection is excited to celebrate a monumental milestone in its most recent YouTube video as the guys complete the ultimate McLaren series by welcoming a $2M McLaren Elva to the garage fleet. The Elva first made waves in the industry when it debuted as McLaren's lightest road car in 2019, showcasing an open-cabin design that came available with or without a windshield. Already owning McLaren marvels like the Solus GT, P1, Saber, Senna, 765LT, and MP4-12C, the $2M Elva stands out as the final piece to the McLaren puzzle. Finished in a color-shifting Pacific Color Stream paint, courtesy of McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the Elva made its trip to Ohio where the guys would finally get an up-close look and first drive. Jason and Jordan's first drive in the Elva showcases just how user-friendly it is, highlighting features like a hood block plate that helps divert wind out of the driver's and passenger's faces. The Elva is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 delivering 804 horsepower and 590 foot-pounds of torque. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission sends all that power to the rear wheels, resulting in a dash of 62 mph in under three seconds. Today, the Elva remains one of the rarest and wildest cars McLaren has ever produced. Only 399 examples rolled off the production line with a base price of nearly $1.7 Million. Now that the McLaren Elva has happily joined the Triple F Collection's fleet, definitely expect more open-top supercar content from the guys. Check out all the McLaren Elva examples currently for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All McLaren Elvas For Sale " width="680"> Source: Triple F Collection

By Tyler Rampersaud – April 11, 2024

O'Gara Coach x Lanzante Show Off McLaren P1 HDK Spec

This stunning spec shows off coachbuilding excellence. The McLaren P1, along with the other two members of the 2010s “Holy Trinity” ushered in a new era of hypercars and made for a turning point in automotive history, proving the full potential of hybrid power and the future of performance. However, a decade after it was first introduced, the McLaren P1 has been given a new look through the coachbuilder Lanzante. The result is the McLaren P1 HDK, with “HDK” standing for “High Downforce Kit.”The HDK version of the McLaren P1 is inspired by the McLaren F1’s available High Downforce Kit, and it not only adds a historical homage and a unique look to the legendary hybrid hypercar, but also better prepares it for on-track excellence. This McLaren P1 HDK is the result of a collaboration between Lanzante and O’Gara Coach, and it features a unique two-tone spec, which was chosen by Paris Mullins, and it’s been shown off in a new Instagram post by Lanzante and O’Gara Coach. The exterior highlights the kit with a two-tone spec, combining satin-finish Supernova Silver paintwork with other parts being finished in exposed carbon fiber. Inside, the interior features another interesting spec, with Hermes Orange leather against black Alcantara. With this spec and its coachbuilt kit, this McLaren P1 HDK shows that a decade-old hypercar still can impress with coachbuilding excellence. View All McLaren P1s For Sale View this post on Instagram A post shared by McLaren Beverly Hills (@mclarenbeverlyhills) Source: O'Gara Coach & Lanzante via Instagram

By Jordan Aquistapace – April 07, 2024

How To Buy: The New Reiss x McLaren Formula 1 Team Collec...

Discover how Reiss is revving up the style of McLaren F1 Team with an exclusive partnership. Aside from dominating both the race circuit and production line, McLaren has continued to create a lifestyle built around its lineup of high-performance supercars and hypercars. In pursuit of redefining the fashion runway with automotive-inspired apparel collections, McLaren's diverse portfolio features partnerships from industry leaders like RHUDE, K-Swiss, APL, and many more. Reiss and the McLaren Formula 1 Team are steering into a fashionable future together, embarking on a journey that blends high-speed racing with high-end fashion. The partnership announces Reiss as the official travel kit partner for the McLaren team, ensuring the team's global travels are as stylish as they are fast. At the heart of this collaboration are two iconic British brands, each renowned for their dedication to innovation, quality, and design. As the McLaren team travels around the world, they'll sport Reiss' core collection, which showcases modern, versatile outfits perfect for the racing season. From the sleek Blackhall jumper to the practical William gilet for men, the collection is the perfect example of timeless style and functionality. It's about pushing the boundaries of what's possible, whether on the race track or in fashion design. As McLaren continues to dominate the racing world, Reiss will be right there with them, making every journey is as stylish as it is successful. Shop all the new styles from the Reiss x McLaren Formula 1 Team Collection by clicking the link below. Shop The Reiss x McLaren Collection Source: Reiss

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