The new McLaren W1 is the ground-breaking successor to two of the greatest supercars ever – the McLaren F1 and McLaren P1TM – and elevates the McLaren ‘1’ car lineage to new heights in every aspect of performance. With the Ultimate expression of a real supercar, the new W1 has been created according to the McLaren ethos of class-leading performance, informed by the core principles that underpin every McLaren supercar. Epic power applied through cutting-edge aerodynamics and lightweight chassis technologies. Highest levels of dynamic excellence and the purest driver connection; the perfect driver environment, for all driving situations; and awe-inspiring visual and aural drama.
The spine-tingling driver enjoyment ensured by the W1’s revolutionary new high-downforce. Low-drag, ground-effect aerodynamics design is further enhanced by the unique transformation process from Road mode to Race mode for track driving. W1’s ride height lowers (by 1.46in at the front and 0.7in at the rear) and a heave system stiffens the suspension. Front and rear active wings are deployed, with the McLaren Active Long Tail extending rearwards by up to 11.8in. To assist in generating the 2,205lbs of downforce available in W1.
The all-new MHP-8 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine that debuts in W1 is coupled with a power-dense E-module to deliver scintillating speed. The epic power of this all-new 1,258bhp High-Performance Hybrid powertrain and lightweight engineering has resulted in levels of performance previously only attainable by race cars.
Epic performance from V8 High-Performance Hybrid powertrain with pure RWD
At the heart of W1 is an all-new High-Performance Hybrid powertrain, comprising McLaren’s all-new MHP-8 V8 combustion engine, an all-new E-module (integrating a radial flux electric motor and motor control unit), and an 8-speed transmission with E-reverse. Power and torque are to the rear wheels only, through an E-differential.
The 916bhp of the new V8 and 342bhp of the E-module combine to produce 1,258bhp, giving W1 the highest-ever power output of any McLaren and putting it above all core competitors. Engineered for epic power delivery and breathtaking performance, the powertrain combines with a vehicle weight of 3,084lbs to deliver an astonishing power-to-weight ratio of 899bhp/tonne for W1 – the highest-ever for any road-legal McLaren and more importantly, best-in-class.
This huge amount of power, together with total torque of 988lb ft and instant throttle response from the E-module, gives W1 astonishing acceleration figures: 0-60mph takes 2.7 seconds, 0– 124mph is possible in just 5.8 seconds and 186mph can be achieved in under 12.7 seconds.
McLaren’s all-new MHP-8 flat plane crank 90-degree V8 engine is central to the delivery of the W1’s epic power. Designed from the outset to be at the center of the very best electrified powertrains, the twin-turbocharged 3,988cc unit has a lightweight block, cylinder heads and pistons in aluminum and showcases McLaren’s expertise in engineering combustion engines that set new standards – for example, plasma spray coated cylinder bores are employed to allow engine speeds of up to 9,200rpm.
Born from Formula 1-inspired ground-effect aerodynamics
The aerodynamic platform of W1 is the most advanced ever in a McLaren road car, the result of 350 hours of wind tunnel sessions with 5,000 points tested. The concept begins with the Aerocell monocoque, which is shaped to facilitate full ground effect aerodynamics. Featuring integrated seating – which saves almost 2.8in in wheelbase requirement – and raised footwells with an adjustable pedal box and steering to ensure the optimum driving position, the Aerocell is unique to W1, which also features the highest number of aerodynamic and active surface areas of any McLaren.
The Aerocell also incorporates fixings for McLaren’s first-ever Anhedral doors. The decision to adopt this door concept was dictated by aerodynamic requirements demanding a door design that is hinged only from the roof. In conjunction with the reduced-size side window drop glass, the McLaren Anhedral Door allows optimization of airflow from the front wheel arches into the high temperature radiators, providing extra cooling space that allows the size of the radiators required to cool the powertrain to be reduced, optimizing packaging and saving weight. The fact that the door shape is reminiscent of the bodyside of the McLaren MCL38 Formula 1 car is also a neat visual signature.
Dynamic genius without compromise, driven by McLaren DNA
McLaren’s philosophy of Lightweight Engineering and the use of bespoke carbon fibre structures deliver a vehicle lightest dry weight of just 3,084lbs for W1, which is key to the requirement for outstanding performance, everywhere – whether on road or on track.
The all-new McLaren Race Active Chassis Control III suspension with McLaren Race mode ensures huge breadth of capability, from road-legal compliance to fastest lap performance and pure driver connection.
The Comfort handling setting gives the occupants a smooth ride quality with increased body control at medium and high speeds, while Sport provides a more engaging, connected setup with focus on body control and agility at all speeds. When Race mode is selected a stable aerodynamic platform is prioritized, with an active heave element deployed for superior track dynamics and consistent downforce.
Braking on W1 is a further advance on McLaren’s renowned high-performance hydraulic system, enhanced to meet the differing demands of flawless road and track response and feel while delivering Ultimate stopping power. W1 will come to a standstill from 62mph in 95ft and from 124mph in just 328ft.
The perfect supercar driving environment
The excitement of driving W1 begins with the McLaren Anhedral Doors opening upwards to reveal recesses in the roof and the front lower opening that help to provide access to the innovative and comfortable cabin. Also the doors feature a sculpted concave section on the inside to maximize occupant space.
Seating is uniquely integrated into the McLaren Aerocell carbon fibre monocoque, directly connecting the driver – and passenger – to the chassis. Both seats are fully upholstered for optimal support and comfort and provide a driving position that is more reclined than usual, with a high level of thigh support.
The pedals, steering wheel and primary controls move to fully embrace driver within the cockpit environment, with a perfect driving position easily found by adjusting the floor-mounted aluminum pedals, which have a unique adjustment action. The unique-for-W1- wheel is smaller and flatter than previous McLaren steering wheel designs. Integral shift lights that prompt the driver to select the next gear as the 9,200rpm redline approaches are optionally available.
Further information and adjustments can be found on the high resolution 8” touch screen McLaren Infotainment System (MIS II) located between the driver and passenger. This has Apple CarPlay with USB C connectivity, with USB A also provided for device charging and storage access.
Exceptionally individual and uniquely desirable
Virtually unlimited bespoke personalization is available through McLaren Special Operations, giving owners freedom to create their very own unique supercar. A range of luxury and innovative interior materials are available, including the world-first use of McLaren InnoKnit, an infinitely flexible and super-lightweight material tailored to seamlessly integrate interior surfaces and components. This material is knitted to fit, removing any wasteful cutting or sewing requirements.
InnoKnit can be tailored to many and multiple colors, textures and shapes with precision patterns and has also been integrated into audio and visual elements, with the use of graphic elements to diffuse and project ambient cabin lighting. The material can also be incorporated into the speaker grilles of the W1’s high-specification Bowers & Wilkins bespoke audio system.
The W1’s exterior details, including the use light and dark body surfaces partly inspired by its aerodynamic styling but also current Formula 1 livery design, also creates limitless opportunities for customers to personalize their own car with McLaren Special Operations (MSO) using visualization tools including virtual reality and augmented reality to create their own unique W1.
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