In a strategic move aimed at redefining its brand identity, McLaren Automotive is set to merge with British luxury automotive start-up Forseven Holdings, a deal orchestrated under the new ownership of Abu Dhabi’s CYVN Holdings. This landmark merger signals a major shift for McLaren—from an exclusive focus on high-performance, mid-engined supercars to a broader portfolio of luxury vehicles, including the brand’s first potential SUV.
A statement from the British-based car maker said: “As a clear demonstration of the Group’s intent to move at pace, McLaren Automotive’s portfolio will be expanded into new product categories, details of which will be announced later this year.”
While Forseven Holdings is a relative newcomer to the automotive landscape, it brings with it a team of experienced industry professionals and a bold vision to “permanently transform the luxury automotive industry.” The merger blends Forseven’s electric vehicle innovation with McLaren’s legacy of design and performance, creating opportunities for a more diverse vehicle lineup that can reach new global audiences.
Leadership of the newly formed entity will be entrusted to Nick Collins, a former Jaguar Land Rover executive. Collins said: “With the support and ambitions of our shareholder, we have a unique opportunity to sustainably grow McLaren into a world-beating company. The combination of what McLaren has achieved, and what Forseven has built in a short time is incredibly complementary. Together, we believe McLaren can be more, can do more and can offer more.”
The strategic pivot follows broader automotive industry trends, with rivals like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Aston Martin achieving strong growth by expanding into the luxury SUV segment. McLaren CEO Michael Leiters has previously supported broadening the model range, provided it remains true to the brand’s core DNA.
The merger also paves the way for technological partnerships, especially with Nio, the Chinese EV brand also backed by CYVN Holdings. McLaren will gain access to state-of-the-art EV technologies, while also leveraging its relationship with Gordon Murray Technologies, acquired by CYVN in 2023, to enhance engineering and lightweighting capabilities.
Although McLaren has faced financial headwinds, the merger with Forseven is a bold effort to reposition the brand at the forefront of the evolving luxury landscape. The move underscores a commitment to innovation and adaptability, ensuring that McLaren remains at the forefront of luxury automotive excellence.
Jassem Al Zaabi, who will become Chairman of McLaren Group Holdings, said: “I’m personally committed to making this vision a reality. It isn’t just about investing, it is about shaping the future of McLaren as a brand, as a business and its place on the global automotive map. We want to – and we will – push boundaries and deliver groundbreaking innovations that drive real progress in the sector. This is the start of an exciting new era for McLaren as a car brand and an automotive business.”
As the auto industry continues to shift toward electrification and luxury lifestyle integration, McLaren’s reinvention and merger with Forseven signals a transformative step into the future—while maintaining its performance-driven heritage.
