McLaren W1
The McLaren W1 is the ground-breaking successor to two of the world's greatest supercars - the McLaren F1 and McLaren P1TM. The next chapter in the McLaren '1' car lineage, it represents the ultimate expression of McLaren's core performance principles.
Created to deliver class-defining performance, W1 delivers sensational power, cutting-edge aerodynamics and the latest lightweight chassis technologies. The result is a supercar that delivers the highest levels of dynamic excellence and the purest driver connection.
Inspired by decades of racing innovation and a World Championship mindset, W1 benefits from McLaren's unrivalled expertise in lightweight engineering and aerodynamic performance. Led by an engineering philosophy that has delivered 23 McLaren Formula 1 World Championships across driver and constructor categories, the W1 is the most focused and capable supercar McLaren has ever built.
The W1 features a revolutionary high-downforce, low-drag, ground-effect aerodynamics design that allows a unique transformation from Road mode to Race mode for track driving. When selected, Race mode lowers the ride height (by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear) while a heave system stiffens the suspension. At the same time, front splitter and active rear wing are deployed, with the McLaren Active Long Tail extending rearwards by up to 300mm. In this configuration, up to 1000kg of downforce is available at 280 km/h.
Power comes from the MHP-8 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, which is coupled to a power-dense E-module to deliver 1275PS. Combined with a dry lightest of just 1399kg, it delivers levels of performance previously only attainable by track-only supercars and race cars.
Sensational performance. V8 High-Performance Hybrid power. Pure RWD.
McLaren W1 features a bespoke High-Performance Hybrid powertrain that comprises the MHP-8 V8 combustion engine, E-module (integrating a radial flux electric motor and motor control unit), and an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission with E-reverse. Drive is to the rear wheels only, through an E-differential.
The 928PS V8 and 347PS E-module combine to produce 1275PS, giving W1 the highest-ever power output of any McLaren. Engineered for immediate power delivery and breathtaking performance, the powertrain also provides a maximum torque output of 1,340Nm. It offers the highest-ever specific power output in a McLaren at 233PS per litre.
Combined with a vehicle weight of 1399kg, the W1 has a power-to-weight ratio of 911PS/tonne - the highest-ever for any road-legal McLaren. As a result, it is also the fastest-accelerating model, with 0-100km/h taking just 2.7 seconds, 0-200km/h (124mph) 5.8 seconds and 0-300km/h (186mph) in under 12.7 seconds.
McLaren's MHP-8 flat plane crank 90-degree V8 engine was designed from the outset to be part of an electrified powertrain. The twin-turbocharged 3,988cc unit has a lightweight block, plus cylinder heads and pistons formed from aluminium, housed in plasma spray coated cylinder bores to allow engine speeds of up to 9200rpm.
A 350bar Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) system and port fuel injection extend the performance scope of the MHP-8 engine while also meeting strict emissions regulations. In addition, the twin-scroll turbochargers have been optimised to deliver higher peak power and torque, while offering improved responses from as low as 2500rpm.
The exhaust features tubular manifolds that have been carefully tuned for sound as well as performance, with long, equal-length runners that ensure occupants enjoy an emotive, and completely authentic soundtrack as the engine speed approaches its 9,200rpm limit.
The motorsport-derived E-module works in combination with the combustion engine and is mounted to the side of the transmission. Delivering up to 347PS, it comprises a radial flux E-motor and integrated Motor Control Unit - an engineering approach similar to McLaren's IndyCar racers. Featuring a compact, power dense design the whole unit weighs just 20kg. The sealed unit improves serviceability with a dry interface outside of the transmission unit.
The E-motor element is capable of spinning up to 24,000rpm and has a specific output of 23PS/kg, which is comparable to recent Formula 1 E-motor technology. The E-module is powered by a 1.384kWh battery. Together with the management unit and power distribution unit, it is enclosed on a structural carbon fibre floor within a cavity in the carbon fibre monocoque and mounted as low as possible to optimise W1's centre of gravity.
The motorsport-derived battery cells have been developed to ensure the E-motor delivers maximum power quickly and consistently. Even with this focus on outright power, the battery allows W1 to be driven in zero-emissions, electric-only mode for up to 2km (1.6 miles). Regardless of use, the battery always retains a minimum state-of-charge charge to crank the engine on vehicle start-up, provide power for the reversing function and a reserve capacity for when the car remains parked for extended periods.
The total weight of the W1's hybrid components are 40kg lighter compared to the McLaren P1TM despite delivering almost double the electric power. The system contributes to further weight-savings by replacing traditional engine ancillaries, such as the alternator, starter motor and additional pipework required for a conventional HVAC system.
Formula 1-inspired ground-effect aerodynamics
McLaren has always been at the forefront of aerodynamic innovation. Company founder, Bruce McLaren always looked for new ways to manage airflow, balancing lift and drag in a way that would deliver a competitive advantage. As a result, he was one of the pioneers of ground effect aerodynamics.
The team's 1967 championship-winning McLaren M6A Can-Am racer employed this technique, around a decade before the technology was used in Formula 1. The McLaren F1 then proved how ground effect could be employed on a road car - a philosophy McLaren has been refining ever since.
As a result, W1's striking design is defined by aerodynamic requirements, with a focus on ground effect innovations that deliver the ultimate balance between high downforce and low drag.
The aerodynamic platform of W1 is the result of 350 hours of wind tunnel sessions that analysed 5000 data points. The concept begins with the Aerocell monocoque, which is shaped to facilitate full ground effect aerodynamics. Featuring integrated seating and raised footwells, the Aerocell gave McLaren's aerodynamicists greater freedom to create the most efficient ground effect profile. This attention to detail extends to the powertrain, which is angled by three degrees to create space to feed air to the high-downforce rear diffuser.
The Aerocell also incorporates fixings for McLaren's first-ever Anhedral doors. Hinged only at the roof, this design was chosen as it gave uninterrupted airflow along the side of the car. The size and operation of the ticket windows were also chosen to allow aero-sculpting of the lower door panels, free from the constraints of accommodating the lowered glass. The McLaren Anhedral Door design optimises airflow from the front wheel arches into the high temperature radiators. This allows for more efficient cooling, which in turn allows the use of smaller and lighter radiators.
To make the most of the advantages of ground effect aerodynamics, the W1 features McLaren Race mode, a track only feature. When deployed, this engages active aerodynamic technologies to enable a radical 'road-to-track' character transformation.
When engaged, McLaren Race mode first activates the heave suspension technology to lower the ride height by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear. In addition, the active front splitter and rear wing is deployed, which combine with the underfloor aero to generate up to 350kg of downforce at the front and 650kg at the rear, for a total downforce figure of up to 1000kg.
The active front and rear wings and roof-mounted air flow diverter are among the most advanced aerodynamic features ever fitted to a road-legal McLaren. The revolutionary McLaren Active Long Tail rear wing is integral to the aerodynamic performance of the car. Actuated by four E-motors it is dynamic and moves up to 300mm rearwards acting both as an air brake as well as DRS functionality it also acts as an extension of the diffuser and is key to the generation of downforce. It also offers DRS (drag reduction system) and airbrake functionality to help optimise aerodynamic balance.
The active front splitter is actuated by two E-motors and swings through an arcand lowers to create a fully sealed area with the outboard splitter elements. It also feeds air under the car to a Formula 1-style T-tray and keel. Working in harmony with the rest of the design, the front and rear wings allow fast and precise management of airflow.
For road driving, the Active Long Tail wing sits over the rear bodywork, while the front wing is set higher at low speeds to avoid damage from speed bumps or other obstacles. W1's vehicle lift system further reduces this risk.
The design of the front suspension also contributes to aerodynamic efficiency, with the lower wishbones of the pushrod and inboard damper system raised significantly to keep the channel of air flowing cleanly towards the rear of the car. Conditioning airflow at the rear of the car is less of a priority since the diffuser manages this function, allowing an outboard location for the springs and dampers.
Dynamic genius without compromise, driven by McLaren DNA
McLaren's philosophy of Lightweight Engineering and the use of bespoke carbon fibre structures deliver a dry lightest weight of just 1399kg for W1.
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 a pure driver connection.
The Comfort handling setting gives a smooth ride quality with increased body control at medium and high speeds, while Sport provides a more engaging, connected setup with focus on tauter body control and increased agility at all speeds. When Race mode is selected, a stable aerodynamic platform is prioritised with the front splitter and active long tail working in tandem with an active heave suspension element deployed for superior track dynamics and consistent downforce.
W1's suspension system has been designed to work seamlessly with the front and rear active aero and ground affect aerodynamics. Moreover, it has been developed to cope with the high traction and cornering loads, without the extra complexity and weight of an all-wheel-drive system. The ability to manage such a high level of torque on rear axle allows McLaren to preserve the best-in-class feedback and feel of its Hydraulic Performance Steering system.
Continuing the Formula 1 influence, the front suspension setup includes titanium torsion bars and an active heave element crosslink, while the rear has a Z-bar with active droplinks to control heave. Further innovations include the use of 3D printing technology for the front uprights and wishbones, which offer a lower mass without any reduction in strength.
The W1 uses the latest evolution of McLaren's renowned high-performance hydraulic braking system, enhanced to meet the differing demands of road and track driving while delivering ultimate stopping power, response and feel. They bring W1 to a standstill from 100km/h in 29 metres and from 200km/h in just 100 metres.
The brakes feature a front six-piston and the rear four-piston calipers, both using a forged monobloc design. The 390mm discs in the track-honed system are unique to W1, featuring an additional ceramic layer compared to previous carbon ceramic discs. This provides greater durability while allowing for a more aggressive brake pad and higher friction levels for even greater braking efficiency.
Brake performance is further optimised by using Formula 1-style cooling ducts, which have been designed to increase both downforce and radiator cooling by managing the airflow around the wheels. In addition, the brake lines have been routed to minimise airflow disruption under the car.
The electronic parking brake is integrated with the rear calipers, saving weight while simultaneously improving stiffness and responsiveness delivering more engagement and feel for the driver.
The fastest-lapping and fastest-accelerating road-legal McLaren ever
McLaren W1 is the fastest road legal McLaren to have lapped the brand's reference circuit at Nardo, Italy, lapping three seconds faster than the track-focused McLaren Senna. This record-breaking time was achieved using the specially developed Race mode.
Inspired by the work of generations of Formula 1 Race Engineers, McLaren's Race mode gives a choice of two handling modes; Race and Race+, with the latter offering the firmest set-up. This allows drivers to fine-tune the vehicle to meet the demands of specific circuits. Race can be used on undulating, bumpy tracks where consistent aerodynamic downforce is needed, while Race+ allows access to the W1's ultimate aerodynamic grip on smooth surfaces where the ground effect platform can be optimised.
Drivers also have access to specific Powertrain options in Race mode. The 'GP' setting delivers effortless consistency over a longer track session, while 'Sprint' provides maximum performance and E-module deployment over a single lap. Two buttons on the steering wheel, positioned within easy reach of the driver's thumbs, give the driver further options. 'Boost' instantly deploys the E-module's full power (the same principle as employed in Formula 1) for overtaking on track or additional speed out of corners. This can be combined with the 'Aero' button for an on-demand Drag Reduction System (DRS) from the McLaren Active Long Tail.
Three bespoke tyre options are available from McLaren's technical partner, Pirelli. Standard fitment is the Pirelli P ZEROTM Trofeo RS road legal track tyre, which features a compound specially developed to maintain the highest performance and consistent grip over a track session. Pirelli P ZEROTM R and Pirelli P ZEROTM Winter 2 tyres, are also available, offering everyday road-focused characteristics and outstanding cold weather performance respectively. All options feature the same 265/35 R19 sizing for the front wheels and 335/30 R20 for the rear
Inside, W1 offers unmatched ergonomics and best-in-class visibility. Glazed sections in the C-pillars, and optionally in the upper doors ensure natural light easily enters the cabin, while forward vision is exceptional thanks to McLaren's narrowest-ever A-pillars. The attention to detail is highlighted by the sun visors, which are made from carbon fibre and measure just 3mm thick.
Uniquely, the seating is integrated with the McLaren Aerocell carbon fibre monocoque, directly connecting both occupants to the chassis. Both seats are fully upholstered for optimal support and comfort, while the reclined seating position is inspired by McLaren's F1 cars and offers a high level of thigh support.
The aluminium floor-mounted pedals, steering wheel and primary controls can be moved and adjusted independently, making it simple to find the perfect driving position. The steering wheel is an all new design and is smaller and flatter than previous McLaren designs. Integrated, motorsport shift lights set into the top of the rim are optionally available.
Drivers can access the various chassis and powertrain modes via rocker controls on the instrument binnacle, which moves with the steering column, so the switchgear remains within easy reach. The driver display has been engineered to ensure the full screen is visible to the driver despite the smaller steering wheel.
Controls for the start/stop, gear selection, Race mode and electric window are mounted in an intuitive overhead switch panel. The W1 also features a digital rear-view display designed to resemble a conventional rear-view mirror, for driver familiarity. The camera position and angle has been carefully determined to discreetly display a small section of the Active Long Tail wing, allowing the driver to easily place the vehicle in its surroundings when parking.
Further information and adjustments can be found on the high resolution 8" touch screen McLaren Infotainment System (MIS II), which is located between the driver and passenger. Featuring Apple CarPlay with USB C connectivity, the system offers a USB A facility for device charging and access to media storage devices.
Between the seats is a storage area with a sliding cupholder, while a second area for small items is located behind the armrest. A stowage shelf for luggage behind the seats is accessible by folding the headrests. Providing 118 litres of storage space, it has been designed to accommodate two weekend bags and a crash helmet.
The heavily sculpted form - with almost every panel shaped in carbon fibre - is immediately recognisable as a McLaren supercar. With its smooth, flowing upper surfaces contrasting with the extreme and uncompromising ground effect underbody, W1's design serves as a bold visual reminder of its dual-purpose character.
The front of W1 showcases its aerodynamic purpose. The lower bodywork's layered design conditions the flow of air along the aerodynamically sculpted surfaces as it heads towards the rear of the car. The upper nose section features intakes around the lights and upper wheelarches, with a large single nostril in the centre of the bonnet. It also features an aerodynamic blade that lifts to reveal the brake and washer fluid reservoirs. Visible carbon fibre aerodynamic structures and exposed suspension components highlight the W1's performance potential.
The influence of Formula 1 sidepod design is evident in the W1's profile, with a wide cut-out for the convex-shaped doors creating space for air to exit the front wheel arch via two cutouts - through which the front suspension arms can be seen - and two large intakes ahead of the rear section. The most prominent of these feeds the high temperature radiators and provides an undercut in which the second intake is located - ahead of the rear wheel. It features a further channel that directs air to the rear diffuser and brake ducts.
Even the door mirrors have been aerodynamically honed. Placed as far outboard as possible on a support blade, they are shaped to direct their aero wake away from the rear of the car, to avoid disrupting the efficiency of the radiators or Active Long Tail wing.
Mounted at the back of the roof ahead of the intricate engine cover is a flow diverter, which also houses the radio and GPS antennae. This aerodynamic aid directs clean air towards the twin-element Active Long Tail wing, which sits above the large twin centre-exit exhaust. Completing the muscular rear section is the prominent rear diffuser.
Viewed from above, W1's pronounced hammerhead-shaped nose and teardrop cabin flow into the McLaren Active Long Tail wing. This smooth aesthetic offers a bold contrast to the strikingly complex lower bodywork, which is intricately detailed to optimise its ground effect properties.
Exceptionally individual and uniquely desirable
Virtually unlimited bespoke personalisation is available through McLaren Special Operations, giving owners the freedom to create a W1 that's as unique as they are. A range of luxury and innovative interior materials is available, including the world-first use of McLaren InnoKnit, a unique knitted textile tailored to seamlessly integrate interior surfaces and components, including the ambient cabin lighting and speaker covers for the bespoke Bowers & Wilkins audio system. The unique textile removes the need for wasteful cutting or sewing requirements meaning 100% of the material is used, reducing waste.
Clients can use their imagination to tailor a truly bespoke W1, using light and dark body surfaces inspired by its aerodynamic design there is limitless personalisation with McLaren Special Operations (MSO). Advanced visualisation tools, including virtual and augmented reality assist the personalisation process.
Ultimate warranty provision with servicing and maintenance to match
Every W1 comes as standard with a comprehensive warranty [4-year/unlimited mileage vehicle; 6-year/75,000km HV battery] and a 4-year inclusive service plan.
The powertrain has been developed to offer a similar 12-month maintenance schedule to McLaren's V6 hybrid powertrain used in the Artura. This is in line with McLaren series production supercars, and in contrast to many other track-focused cars which typically have reduced service intervals, based on running hours rather than distance.
McLaren W1 is the ground-breaking successor to two of the world's greatest supercars. The third addition to the brand's legendary '1' lineage, it represents the very peak of supercar engineering.
The McLaren F1 is the original McLaren '1' car. Beautiful and exhilarating to drive, it is a record-setting masterpiece. A pioneer in the use of lightweight carbon fibre it remains the fastest naturally aspirated road car ever built. With only 106 road and GTR specification racing cars produced. it is one of the most exclusive and desirable machines in the world.
The McLaren P1TM is the second '1' car. Intelligent, adaptive and astoundingly quick, it featured the world's most powerful hybrid powertrain and represented the ultimate expression of McLaren's aerodynamic expertise. Sculpted by the wind and engineered to create a uniquely responsive and stimulating road car, the P1™ was a natural successor to the legendary F1. A mere 375 examples were produced.
