Nissan

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

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By Tyler Rampersaud – October 25, 2023

Is This New Nissan Concept The GT-R's Electric Successor?

Lightning may be striking the Godzilla legacy soon. Nissan just raised the bar for electric vehicles by unveiling its new Hyper Force concept at the Japan Mobility Show, and possibly hinted at the elusive and highly speculated R36 GT-R of the future. This high-performance, all-electric supercar is the series finale in Nissan’s innovative lineup of “hyper” concept vehicles, heralding a future that goes beyond mere mobility. With its groundbreaking technology and design, the Hyper Force epitomizes Nissan's vision for next-generation all-electric high-performance supercars. Nissan President and CEO Makoto Uchida elaborated that these concept cars aren't just for show; they signify the automaker's commitment to creating a cleaner, safer, and more inclusive world. At the new Nissan Hyper Force Concept's heart is an all-electric powertrain featuring an all-solid-state battery capable of producing an astounding 1,000 kW (1,341 horsepower) of output. It comes with an advanced form of Nissan’s e-4ORCE all-wheel control technology for precise acceleration and powerful downforce, promising drivers not just speed but exceptional handling. The Hyper Force’s design also exemplifies the future, while also hinting at a possible future as the celebrated R35 Nissan GT-R's successor. Its exterior is a blend of sleek curves and bold geometry, achieving a high aerodynamic performance developed in collaboration with the NISMO racing team, complete with front badging that looks particularly similar to that of the Nissan GT-R. With its two-tiered aerodynamic structure and lightweight forged carbon wheels, this car is built for speed and agility, whether on a race track or a winding road. It’s not just about speed and performance; the vehicle also comes with unique driving modes - “R” for racing and “GT” for grand touring, which is also, of course, a reference to Nissan's legendary GT-R lineage of high-performance machines. Depending on the mode, the user interface changes its color and display to provide real-time, invaluable metrics like tire grip, air pressure, and brake rotor temperature. This tech innovation is the result of a collaboration with Polyphony Digital Inc., the brains behind the Gran Turismo video game series. While most concept cars compromise on comfort for the sake of performance, the Hyper Force doesn’t. The driver and front passenger seats are made of lightweight, highly rigid carbon fiber for comfortable long-distance driving. And let’s not overlook the safety features. Advanced autonomous drive technologies with hyper LIDAR and sensors ensure a high level of safety both on public roads and circuits. Adding another layer to its appeal, the Hyper Force offers an augmented reality and virtual reality driving experience. The driver can enter a gamified experience, complete with modes for racing against the clock or other online racers, taking the concept of connected mobility to a whole new level. Nissan’s Hyper Force concept car is a bold step forward in the realm of electric performance vehicles, offering a blend of speed, tech innovation, and eco-friendliness. As Nissan celebrates its 90th anniversary, this all-electric, high-performance concept car looks set to electrify the automotive world, reinforcing Nissan’s standing as a global leader in automotive innovation. View All Nissan GT-Rs For Sale Image Source: Nissan

By Tyler Rampersaud – February 02, 2023

Nissan Reveals The New Max-Out Electric Roadster Concept

This new electric Nissan shows that “electric” and “exciting” aren’t antonyms. With a portfolio that includes some of the most exciting and celebrated Japanese performance icons to ever grace the automotive industry, Nissan surely knows how to make a car that is fun to drive and easy to enjoy. Whether it’s one of the many legendary GT-Rs or the iconic Z, Nissan is one of the most important contributors to putting Japanese performance on the worldwide map. Nissan’s future vision for sporty models is an exciting one, and with the reveal of its new Max-Out concept, that vision is an ambitious one. MUST READ: Nissan GT-R Price, Specs, Photos, Review The radically-styled Max-Out concept is a two-seat roadster that combines retro-inspired and avant-garde visions of the future, and keeping in theme, Nissan says that the electric concept will focus on allowing its driver to “ one with the car.” In addition, the concept features an enhanced feeling of motion through its lights and visuals, as well as seating that dynamically morphs to allow for different cargo situations. With a past full of some of the world’s greatest performance cars, the Nissan Max-Out concept will hopefully be a taste of a future of the same. View All Nissans For Sale Source: Nissan

By Jordan Aquistapace – December 02, 2021

Nissan Debuts The New Ariya Single-Seater Concept

Nissan gets an electric kick with its all new track-inspired EV concept. As technology for automotive design and manufacturing continues to grow, collectors and enthusiasts look forward to the concept vehicle releases from industry-leading brands. Concept vehicles aim to highlight the future path of the automotive brand, whether it’s continuing to dominate its traditional sector or moving into a new area of competition. Nissan is proud to debut the newest chassis as part of its concept collection, the all-electric Ariya Single-Seater Concept. The Nissan Ariya Single-Seater Concept explores what a future electrified performance style for Nissan could look like. MUST-READ: BMW Reveals XM Concept At Art Basel Miami Beach The exterior features an elongated carbon fiber body with contouring lines that add to the aerodynamics, while the front of the vehicle includes the Nissan ‘V’ motion design. The powertrain delivering horsepower to the Ariya Single-Seater Concept is a dual motor set-up that is managed by a revolutionary all-wheel-drive system from Nissan. Nissan's participation in the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship also played a key role in inspiring the Nissan Ariya Single Seater Concept. Check back into duPont Registry Daily for more information on the all-new Nissan Ariya Single-Seater Concept. View all current Nissan models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below. View All Nissan For Sale Source: Nissan

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By Andrew Nabors – September 16, 2020

Nissan Z-Proto Unveiled With Twin Turbos & Manual Transmi...

Over the past 50 years, Datsun and their parent company Nissan have sold over 1.35 Million Z-Cars. That is why they looked to the past to build the future. Taking inspiration from the 240Z, the Nissan Z-Proto was unveiled with twin turbos and a manual transmission. Horsepower and torque numbers have yet to be announced, as this isn't the production version. " width="680"> Their twin-turbo V6 has been powering the GT-R for over a decade, but never offered with a manual transmission. This six-speed RWD muscle car is one of 10 new Nissans planned for the next 20 months. Although an automatic transmission is being considered, the press release repeats their commitment to build a car worthy of its name. We are excited about the 12.3" display and 285/35/19 rear tires. As long as weight is kept under control this will be an incredible machine. It will be hard to beat the fun and versatility of the 370Z, so click the button below to find yours and stay with us for all your Nissan news. Browse Nissan For Sale

By Edward Jones – February 10, 2016

SUVS or Snowmobiles? Nissan's Winter Warrior Concepts

Here in Florida, it's a brisk 50 degrees, which is considered cold to most Floridians. In other parts of the country, citizens are surrounded by blankets of white snow, making most daily routines difficult. But, if they had Nissan's latest Winter Warrior concepts, the snow wouldn't pose a problem. In fact, I'd travel across snow fields in these just for fun.The models they've modified are the new Murano, Pathfinder and Rogue. Their bodies look largely untouched, but their wheels? Oh boy, they don't even have wheels. Instead, Nissan has fitted them with DOMINATOR® Tracks, from American Track Truck, Inc. These tracks measure in at 48-inches long, 30-inches high and 14-inches wide. You've never seen a Nissan like this before."With their solid Nissan underpinnings and exceptional ground clearance, these Winter Warriors are serious, extreme weather machines, not toys." - Christian Meunier, senior vice president, Nissan Sales & Marketing and Operations, Nissan North America, Inc.Joining the massive tracks are a group of accessories that make these concepts even more capable in blizzard-like conditions. These include cargo area protectors, floor mats, roof rails and rear bumper protectors. However, the best added accessory might just be the 9x9-foot hatch tents for those looking to get in some frigid camping.Will you be able to pick these SUV concepts off of a Nissan dealer's showroom floor? Nope. But there are plenty of companies out there that make off-road tracks that you can attach to many vehicles.Exotic Cars and SUVs For Sale

By Caitlin Duffy – October 05, 2015

Nissan Vision Gran Turismo Concept to Appear at Tokyo Mot...

Nissan first introduced their Vision Gran Turismo concept for the Gran Turismo video game series in the summer of 2014, but for fall 2015, we're going to see an updated real-world version of this digital beast. Nissan Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo, a concept supercar developed in conjunction with Polyphony Digital Inc., the creators of the racing video game Gran Turismo for PlayStation, is certain to further increase Nissan's sizable presence in the game and beyond.A press release from the Japanese manufacturer issued today announced the three major staples of their booth at the upcoming Tokyo Motor Show, scheduled for Oct. 30 through Nov. 8. A total of 20 vehicles will be on display, but there's little doubt that the Vision GT will capture the most attention.First introduced in June 2014, the Vision Gran Turismo Concept is a 2+2 virtual supercar with four-wheel drive, and the version to appear at the Tokyo show will feature Fire Knight red as its body color. There's a lot of emphasis put on the possibility of this design making its way into production models down the line, and it's not surprising; having the ability to be completely creative in designing this concept certainly allowed Nissan's team to come up with some fresh ideas for existing models.A video shared to YouTube June 26, 2014 by Nissan Newsroom, which you can watch above, gave a full look into the design processes behind this crazy concept. An international team came together and utilized the top technologies available to them to craft this machine, with an appearance based "half in emotion and half in aerodynamics."Other concepts to appear at the Nissan booth include the Gripz concept, an hybrid sports crossover, and the Teatro for Dayz. The Teatro for Dayz has been catching quite a bit of attention thanks to its millennial-focused design; it's certainly not a car for those concerned with driving performance, and, instead, focuses heavily on passenger experience. From concept to interior and exterior design, Teatro for Dayz is simple: a clean canvas. When the car is in drive mode, meters, controls and maps appear on a pure white instrument panel. When parked, Teatro for Dayz transforms into an entirely new device. The entire interior, starting with the instrument panel, becomes a live display for a generation wired for connectivity.Its smooth white surfaces are completely customizable, from seats to exterior designs, and even the dashboard, all based on user settings from a synced phone. It's a glimpse at what Nissan thinks the next generation of development will focus on - interactive environments that get you from "a" to "b" safely.Check out the photos of these concepts below, and stay with us for more news as the Tokyo Motor Show draws closer.Nissans For SaleGallery (Source: Nissan, YouTube) See More Nissan News

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