McLaren W1 Revealed

Picture of By Rob Harvey
By Rob Harvey

Just a few hours ago, McLaren revealed its brand new supercar, the W1, as the successor to the iconic McLaren F1 and P1.

The W1 combines Formula 1 style aerodynamics, hybrid technology, and lightweight engineering to deliver what McLaren calls the “ultimate supercar experience.”


Powertrain

The W1 has a hybrid powertrain, combining the all-new MHP-8 4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with an electric motor. The result is 1275PS or around 1257 horsepower, which is the highest power output of any McLaren road car ever made. This hybrid system consists of the MHP-8 V8 combustion engine, which, on its own, generates 928PS and revs up to 9,200 rpm. Paired with a 347PS electric motor, the car has a power-to-weight ratio of 911PS per tonne!

The electric motor is part of a compact “E-module” that integrates the motor control unit, contributing to the car’s efficiency and lighter weight. In total, the car weighs just 1,399 kg which makes it exceptionally fast. 0 – 62 mph takes 2.7 seconds and the W1 will continue up to a top speed of 217 mph (electronically capped).


Aerodynamics and Engineering Inspired by Formula 1

A big part of the W1’s impressive performance comes from its Formula 1-inspired aerodynamics. McLaren engineers have spent over 350 hours testing the car in a wind tunnel to make sure it has an optimal balance of low drag and high downforce. This includes the use of McLaren’s Active Long Tail rear wing, which extends by 300mm to generate up to 1,000 kg of downforce in Race mode. The front and rear wings adjust automatically based on driving conditions so the car remains planted at high speeds.

The W1’s ground-effect aerodynamics are also a fantastic feature. When switching to Race mode, the car lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear. This maximises downforce which can lead to even greater track performance. This configuration allows the W1 to lap McLaren’s test track 3 seconds faster than the previous record-holder, the McLaren Senna.

The W1’s handling is enhanced by its new Race Active Chassis Control III suspension. In Race mode, the suspension stiffens, and the active heave system, borrowed from McLaren’s Formula 1 technology, helps the car maintain stability at high speeds.

McLaren’s focus on driver engagement means that the W1 is rear-wheel-drive. This is becoming increasingly rare in modern supercars so it’s clearly been well thought through by the team. This choice, along with McLaren’s hydraulic performance steering, makes sure you have full control over the car’s eye-watering power and torque.


Bespoke Design and Advanced Technology

The W1 features McLaren’s bespoke Aerocell carbon fibre monocoque chassis which has been designed to integrate seating into the structure of the car.

The car’s interior is a mix of luxury and function. It includes materials like McLaren’s new InnoKnit, a lightweight and customisable fabric that changes and enhances both aesthetics and comfort.

Despite the car’s focus on track performance, the cabin includes comforts such as Apple CarPlay and a high-resolution infotainment system. McLaren has also included digital elements into the driver experience, with boost and aero buttons on the steering wheel for real-time control over the car’s power delivery and aerodynamic settings.


Exclusive and Personalised

Only 399 units of the McLaren W1 will be produced, and they’ve already been allocated to customers. Each car will be highly customisable through McLaren Special Operations (MSO), allowing owners to tailor their vehicle’s exterior and interior with pretty much limitless options.

Pricing and Availability

The McLaren W1 is priced at around £2 million in the UK, depending on the level of customisation chosen.

Technical Specification

Engine configurationMHP-8 90° 4.0L (3988cc) twin-turbocharged V8 – hybrid drivetrain with radial flux electric module
Drivetrain layoutLongitudinal, mid-engined, RWD
Power PS (bhp/kW) @ rpm1275 (1258/938):
928 (916/683) from petrol engine,
347 (342/255) from electric module
Torque Nm (lb ft) @ rpm1340 (988) @ 4500-5000rpm:
900 (664) from petrol engine,
440 (324) from electric module
Transmission8-speed DCT with E-reverse
SteeringMcLaren Hydraulic Performance Steering Electro-Hydraulic Power Assisted
ChassisMcLaren Aerocell with high footbox, integrated seating, integrated front subframe, integrated single piece upper structure
SuspensionMcLaren Race Active Chassis Control III with visible inboard active heave suspension, 3D printed and titanium suspension components, rear active drop links and adaptive damping. Front and rear double wishbone
BrakesMcLaren Carbon Ceramic Racing+ (MCCR+) system with Front: 390mm brake discs with 6 piston Forged Monobloc Front Calipers.Rear: 390mm brake discs with 4 piston Forged Monobloc Rear Calipers and Integrated EPB
Wheels (inches)F19 x 9.5J / R20 x 12.0J
TyresPirelli P ZERO™ R Tyres & Pirelli P ZERO™ Trofeo RS TyresF 265/35/R19R 335/30/R20
Length, mm (inches)4635 (182)
Wheelbase, mm (inches)2680 (106)
Height, mm (inches)1182 (47)
Width, with mirrors, mm (inches)2191 (86)
Width, mirrors folded, mm (inches)2074 (82)
Track (to contact patch centre), mm (inches)Front: 1676 (66); Rear 1624 (64)
Lightest dry weight, kg (lbs)1399 (3084)
Power-to-weight (PS/tonne)911
Fuel tank capacity, litres (UK/USA gallons)62 (16/19)
Battery capacity (KWh)1.384
Battery charge time (minutes)22 (via EVSE cable) to 80%
Electric-only range (km/miles)2/1.6
Luggage capacity, litres (wet/DIN)118/87


Performance data

0-97km/h (0-60mph)2.7 seconds
0-100km/h (0-62mph)2.7 seconds
0-200km/h (0-124mph)5.8 seconds
0-300km/h (0-186mph)<12.7 seconds
Maximum speed km/h (mph)350 (217) (electronically limited)
200-0km/h (124mph-0) braking, metres (ft)100 (328)
100-0km/h (62mph-0) braking, metres (ft)29 (95)
Downforce kg (lbs)Limited to 1000 (2205) @280km/h (174mph):Front: 350 (772) maxRear: 650 (1433) max

 
Efficiency

CO2 emissions, g/km WLTP EU (combined)<310


Warranty

Vehicle (years/miles)4 unlimited
HV battery (years/km/miles)6 75,000/45,000
Roadside assistance (years)4
Service plan (years)4



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