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De la fantasía a la realidad: se revela el McLaren Solus GT como expresión extrema del compromiso de conducción en pista

  • Primera realización mundial, solo en pista, del concepto McLaren que debutó en el mundo de los juegos virtuales.
  • Limitado a solo 25 autos de clientes, todos vendidos antes de la revelación pública
  • Diseñado para la realidad utilizando tecnologías de la presencia de McLaren en los niveles más altos de automovilismo y desarrollo de superdeportivos e hiperdeportivos.
  • Llamativo diseño central de cabina cerrada de un solo asiento con capota deslizante estilo avión a reacción
  • Chasis monocasco único con tren motriz derivado del automovilismo como elemento estructural
  • Motor V10 de 5.2 litros de aspiración natural y caja de cambios secuencial de siete velocidades a medida
  • Pesa menos de 1000 kg y tiene más de 1200 kg de carga aerodinámica
  • El motor V10 acelera a más de 10 000 rpm y produce más de 840 CV y ​​650 Nm
  • Aceleración de 0 a 10 a 0 km/h en un tiempo objetivo de 2,5 segundos y una velocidad máxima de más de 200 mph
  • Una ‘experiencia de piloto de carreras’ completa disponible, que incluye un asiento de conducción moldeado a la forma individual del cuerpo, un traje de carrera homologado por la FIA, casco y dispositivo HANS (Head And Neck Support) a medida para cada propietario, y un programa de entrenamiento de desarrollo del conductor.
  • Los primeros coches se entregarán a los clientes en 2023

McLaren Automotive presenta hoy el McLaren Solus GT, la asombrosa realización de un prototipo de automóvil desde las pantallas de las carreras virtuales hasta una expresión extrema del compromiso de conducción en pista que entusiasmará en el mundo real.

Una comisión especial para solo 25 clientes, con todos los autos ya vendidos, el auto de pista de cabina cerrada de un solo asiento fue presentado durante la Semana del Auto de Monterey en California por Michael Leiters, director ejecutivo de McLaren Automotive.

Diseñado para hacer realidad aprovechando toda la gama de la experiencia y los conocimientos de McLaren en los niveles más altos de desarrollo de automovilismo y superdeportivos e hiperdeportivos, el Solus GT da vida al concepto futurista de McLaren que apareció en el videojuego Gran Turismo SPORT.

Con menos de 1000 kg de peso y un rendimiento aerodinámico que incluye una carga aerodinámica superior a los 1200 kg, el Solus GT, que funciona con un motor V10 de 5,2 litros de aspiración natural, es capaz de lograr los tiempos de vuelta más rápidos de cualquier McLaren fuera de los monoplazas. carreras de asientos y ofrece una experiencia de conducción cercana al compromiso y la sensación de conducir un automóvil de Fórmula 1.

“El McLaren Solus GT es la realización de un concepto de vehículo radical de McLaren creado originalmente para el mundo de las carreras virtuales. Diseñado sin restricciones de las normas de carretera o de carrera, pero con todo el espectro de la experiencia de McLaren para hacerlo realidad, personifica nuestro espíritu pionero”.
Michael Leiters, director ejecutivo, McLaren Automotive

El llamativo diseño exterior, que es notablemente fiel a su inspiración virtual, se basa en principios aerodinámicos probados y en el espíritu de diseño de “todo por una razón” de McLaren, perfeccionado por CFD (Dinámica de fluidos computacional) adicional e investigación aerodinámica en túnel de viento.

La lista de características externas distintivas es larga, y la capota deslizante sobre el asiento central único es una de las más llamativas. Las ruedas están envueltas en cápsulas aerodinámicas y ubicadas por brazos de suspensión. Un gran divisor frontal alimenta el aire en los túneles de efecto suelo antes de que salga del automóvil a través de un difusor completo. Una toma de aire inspirada en los deportes de motor sobre la cabina integrada en el diseño de la cubierta del aro antivuelco alimenta aire frío al motor, al mismo tiempo que proporciona un sonido de inducción cautivador. El diseño de los autos de carrera también inspiró los pontones que albergan los radiadores del Solus GT.

Un alerón trasero fijo de dos elementos es clave para una cifra de carga aerodinámica que supera el peso total del automóvil. La relación entre la carga aerodinámica y la resistencia aerodinámica también está optimizada, lo que ayuda al rendimiento en línea recta y mejora las habilidades en las curvas.

La experiencia del Solus GT comienza incluso antes de que arranque el motor, cuando el conductor abre el distintivo toldo de la cabina que se desliza hacia adelante a través de un arco poco profundo para permitir el acceso. Esto no se parece en nada a la puerta de un automóvil convencional, ni siquiera a las puertas diédricas características de otros automóviles McLaren, sino más bien a subirse a un avión de combate a reacción.

Los medios para subirse al auto se suman al sentido de la ocasión que brinda el asiento individual que domina un interior enfocado únicamente en el conductor y el desempeño. La posición del asiento es fija: los propietarios del 25 Solus GT experimentan su propio “ajuste del asiento” al estilo de los deportes de motor, con la caja de pedales ajustable como en un auto de carrera, aunque con la comodidad de un sistema remoto operado desde la posición del asiento.

El volante, cuyo diseño es único entre los autos de producción de McLaren, se inspira en la Fórmula 1, con una pantalla de tablero y controles esenciales integrados para adaptarse a los estrechos límites de un auto de pista de un solo asiento. Más allá del volante hay una vista a través de la ‘burbuja’ de vidrio, con protección de cabina integrada estilo halo, montada en la cual hay una pantalla retrovisora ​​alimentada por una cámara de gran angular colocada dentro del arco antivuelco. La línea de visión de 180 grados perfectamente simétrica proporcionada por la posición de conducción central se ve reforzada por las vainas de las ruedas de estilo espectacular para ayudar al conductor a colocar el automóvil en una pista.

Para aumentar aún más la emoción de los clientes de Solus GT, McLaren ofrece una “experiencia de piloto de carreras” completa. Esto incluye un asiento de conducción moldeado a la forma individual del cuerpo del conductor; un traje de carrera homologado por la FIA, un casco y un dispositivo HANS a la medida de cada propietario, y orejeras habilitadas para radio. También estará disponible un programa completo de capacitación para el desarrollo del conductor para ayudar a los clientes a aprovechar al máximo el potencial de su nuevo hipercoche de pista.

El Solus GT está propulsado por un exclusivo V10 de 5.2 litros, construido con componentes mecanizados de bajo volumen, que acelera a más de 10,000 rpm y ofrece un rendimiento extremo y una participación emocionante del conductor. La capacidad de respuesta del motor se ve reforzada por el uso de aceleradores accionados por cilindros para cada cilindro, un sistema solo apto para aplicaciones en pista, y está completamente accionado por engranajes, sin cadenas ni correas para el árbol de levas o los sistemas auxiliares.

Además de tener una potencia y un par superiores a 840 CV y ​​650 Nm, respectivamente, el motor también fue elegido por sus cualidades estructurales; Por primera vez en un automóvil de producción McLaren, el motor es una parte integral del chasis. Práctica convencional en la construcción de autos de carreras, este enfoque de diseño optimiza la reducción de peso al eliminar la necesidad de estructuras de chasis adicionales o bastidores auxiliares detrás del monocasco de fibra de carbono.

La caja de cambios secuencial de siete velocidades derivada de las carreras, que cuenta con una fundición y una carcasa a medida, esta última fabricada en aluminio con paneles de magnesio, está montada en la parte trasera del motor con la suspensión trasera fijada a la carcasa de la caja de cambios. Internamente, los engranajes de corte recto acoplados a través de un embrague de fibra de carbono multidisco son ideales para los cambios agresivos que se exigen en una aplicación de pista. El sistema está totalmente automatizado y controlado por software, lo que elimina la necesidad de que el conductor accione el embrague, lo que ayuda a la salida en boxes.

Al igual que todos los McLaren desde 1981, el Solus GT se basa en un monocasco de fibra de carbono, en este caso uno creado utilizando métodos de producción especializados de bajo volumen que incluyen un proceso ‘preimpregnado’ de carbono para una mayor resistencia estructural y una alta uniformidad de acabado al material. Las estructuras del chasis delantero y trasero también están hechas de fibra de carbono, con el motor y la caja de cambios formando el resto del chasis.

La fibra de carbono no es el único material de alto valor en el Solus GT. Además de las tecnologías utilizadas en los niveles superiores del automovilismo, se han utilizado componentes de titanio impresos en 3D para la estructura de protección de la cabina del halo y el aro antivuelco. Esta es la primera vez que se adopta el enfoque para elementos estructurales en un automóvil de producción de McLaren, lo que permite un diseño personalizado y reduce el peso.

El sistema de suspensión incorpora brazos transversales dobles con amortiguación de barra de torsión interna, operada a través de varillas de empuje en la parte delantera y varillas de tracción en la parte trasera. Ambos ejes están unidos por barras estabilizadoras, con opciones de ajuste disponibles para el conductor. Fabricados en acero para una mayor durabilidad, los eslabones de la suspensión delantera están revestidos de cubiertas aerodinámicas de fibra de carbono similares a las de la Fórmula 1.

Dentro de las distintivas tapas de las ruedas se encuentran las ruedas de aluminio forjado de 18 pulgadas con tuercas de bloqueo centrales, calzadas con neumáticos con especificación de prototipo de Le Mans disponibles en compuestos lisos y húmedos. El frenado lo proporcionan pinzas monobloque de aluminio mecanizado de 6 pistones y discos y pastillas de freno de carbono. El conductor puede ajustar la diferencia entre los frenos delantero y trasero en la cabina.

Las métricas de rendimiento tradicionales no son tan relevantes para un coche de pista, pero con un tiempo objetivo de 2,5 segundos para una aceleración de 0 a 100 km/h y una velocidad máxima de más de 200 mph, en combinación con el peso ligero del coche y sus fuertes capacidades aerodinámicas, el McLaren Solus GT tiene las credenciales de rendimiento necesarias para una máquina de pista extrema.

Al incorporar todos los elementos que han hecho de McLaren una fuerza automotriz líder en el mundo, el Solus GT también es un escaparate de la artesanía disponible para los clientes de McLaren de McLaren Special Operations (MSO). Con un proyecto como este, el servicio MSO va más allá del automóvil en sí mismo a un nivel de compromiso con el cliente de lujo y accesibilidad exclusivo de McLaren. Un proceso personalizado garantiza que cada Solus GT sea único y se ofrecen actualizaciones periódicas del programa de desarrollo, incluido el acceso a sesiones de conducción de prototipos que pueden influir en las características de conducción del automóvil antes de la producción.

Los eventos de pista de Solus GT están planificados y todos los autos se entregarán con un estuche de vuelo para permitir que los propietarios respalden sus propias actividades en la pista. Esto incluye un conjunto completo de herramientas, gatos para vehículos, soportes, equipos de radio y un precalentador de refrigerante.

El McLaren Solus GT se encuentra actualmente en la etapa de prueba en pista de su proceso de desarrollo. El primero de los 25 automóviles de clientes, todos vendidos, se entregará en 2023.

El McLaren Solus GT al detalle
Un concepto para el mundo virtual se hace realidad

  • Originalmente un concepto virtual impulsado por millones en el videojuego Gran Turismo SPORT; ahora una realidad como el asombroso McLaren Solus GT
  • Llamativa cabina de un solo asiento central y fuerte enfoque en los principios aerodinámicos en todo
  • Muestra las características de diseño exclusivas de McLaren, que incluyen el frente en forma de ‘cabeza de martillo’, la cabina en forma de lágrima y la carrocería ‘retractilada’

Las raíces del McLaren Solus GT se encuentran en un impresionante concepto que apareció en el videojuego Gran Turismo SPORT.

Desde los bocetos de diseño originales hasta el triunfo de los juegos virtuales y ahora la asombrosa máquina que solo unos pocos clientes disfrutarán en la pista, este es un automóvil que personifica la filosofía de diseño “todo por una razón” y la búsqueda incesante de la excelencia en ingeniería dentro de cada McLaren. . Desde el principio, el concepto se basó en principios aerodinámicos comprobados, con un paquete de autos de carreras de prototipos deportivos como base.

La carrocería es en gran medida una escultura técnica, retractilada sobre el paquete de ingeniería de alto rendimiento y los dos túneles de efecto suelo de longitud completa. Estos contienen tomas de aire distintivas en la parte delantera y un conducto NACA, una entrada de aire de baja resistencia, que también actúa como un escalón, acelerando el flujo de aire hacia los radiadores.

Desde el frente, el distintivo morro en forma de “cabeza de martillo” de McLaren ayuda a separar el flujo de aire de los efectos de suelo debajo de la carrocería y el difusor de cuerpo entero. La visibilidad desde la pantalla envolvente del dosel de la cabina en forma de lágrima es excepcional, con una vista despejada de 180 grados de una pista. Los compartimentos de las ruedas en cada esquina no solo son una característica de diseño dominante, sino que también permiten una reducción general del peso y ‘trabajar’ individualmente el flujo de aire con una forma distintiva de lágrima que termina en un borde trasero espectacular en forma de cuchilla para calmar el aire turbulento. después de cada neumático y mitigar la acumulación de presión dentro del hueco de la rueda.

La parte trasera del automóvil cuenta con una almeja completa que brinda fácil acceso al compartimento del motor, con bordes de carrocería de fuga súper bajos que emplean los mismos principios que el Speedtail para minimizar la presión base en la parte trasera del automóvil, reduciendo la resistencia.

Ingeniería de un diseño virtual en la realidad extrema

  • Motor V10 de aspiración natural elegido para optimizar el rendimiento, el compromiso del conductor y el empaque
  • Rendimiento aerodinámico integrado en las superficies de la carrocería para preservar la forma general utilizando CFD (Dinámica de fluidos computacional) e investigación en túnel de viento
  • El trabajo estructural altamente optimizado incluye geometría monocasco

El resumen de ingeniería original para el McLaren Solus GT era convertir un prestigioso concepto de juego virtual en un hiperauto McLaren extremadamente poderoso y altamente exclusivo. Este iba a ser un automóvil solo para pista, con experiencia en ingeniería de deportes de motor y un tren motriz V10 que se unían para brindar el compromiso supremo del conductor exigido para una experiencia sin compromisos.

El motor derivado de las carreras se eligió por razones de empaque y rendimiento; un coche de pista reducido con un peso mínimo y una carrocería retractilada significaba que tener el motor como parte del chasis era una elección natural. Esta técnica de construcción rara vez se ve en los autos de producción por razones de NVH (ruido, vibración, aspereza), pero en un auto enfocado en la pista brinda muchos beneficios, entre ellos, comentarios adicionales y un compromiso estimulante para el conductor.

Una vez que se establecieron los parámetros del programa, el equipo de ingeniería enfrentó el desafío de integrar el rendimiento aerodinámico del mundo real en las superficies de diseño originales. Esto se resolvió con un extenso trabajo de dinámica de fluidos computacional (CFD) y túnel de viento para probar las propiedades aerodinámicas, de enfriamiento y de eficiencia del concepto.

Diseño y construcción de chasis inspirados en las carreras

  • La estructura monocasco a medida emplea tecnologías de chasis de Fórmula 1, con estructuras de carbono delanteras y traseras
  • El proceso ‘pre-impregnado’ de carbono de bajo volumen proporciona resistencia, rigidez y calidad de acabado
  • El motor y la caja de cambios son miembros del chasis sometidos a esfuerzos; la estructura de choque de carbono está incorporada en la caja de cambios
  • Técnicas de impresión 3D utilizadas para componentes estructurales: protección de halo de titanio y barra antivuelco

Como todos los McLaren construidos en los últimos 40 años, el Solus GT presenta un monocasco de fibra de carbono en su corazón. Sin embargo, la cabina de un solo asiento y los procesos de ingeniería basados ​​en la producción exigieron un enfoque personalizado que abarcara las diferentes disciplinas de la competencia y la construcción de autos de calle, y el diseño resultante se inspira más en los deportes de motor que en otros productos de McLaren Automotive, con el monocasco utilizando la Fórmula 1 y los autos deportivos. Tecnologías de chasis de carreras. Las estructuras de impacto delanteras y traseras están hechas de fibra de carbono (tradicionalmente, las estructuras del chasis de McLaren Automotive cuentan con estructuras de aluminio fijadas al habitáculo) y, dado que el motor y la caja de cambios son miembros del chasis sometidos a tensión, no se requiere un bastidor auxiliar trasero.

La construcción del chasis emplea métodos especializados de producción de bajo volumen, incluido un proceso de “preimpregnación” de carbono mediante el cual la fibra de carbono se impregna previamente con un sistema de resina que simplifica el proceso de curado. El material está listo para colocarse en el molde antes de que se aplique el tratamiento térmico y de presión, lo que permite la mayor resistencia estructural que exige un automóvil de solo orugas. El proceso también permite una alta uniformidad de acabado del material que mejora el atractivo visual.

El chasis del Solus GT también cuenta con componentes de titanio impresos en 3D, incluida la estructura de protección de la cabina Halo y el aro antivuelco. Si bien McLaren Automotive la utilizó anteriormente, especialmente para el sistema de escape del Elva, este es el primer uso de la tecnología para componentes estructurales en un automóvil de producción McLaren y demuestra el enfoque absoluto aplicado para encontrar las mejores soluciones para el Solus GT.

Carrocería y aerodinámica refinadas y optimizadas

  • La carrocería de fibra de carbono incorpora superficies aerodinámicas que incluyen divisor delantero, vainas de ruedas individuales, piso estructural con túneles de efecto suelo y alerón trasero fijo de dos elementos y alta carga aerodinámica.
  • Enorme carga aerodinámica generada, con 1200 kg, más que el peso del automóvil, con una penalización por arrastre minimizada para la velocidad en línea recta.
  • Cubiertas aerodinámicas de suspensión de fibra de carbono inspiradas en la Fórmula 1, tomas de aire y radiadores montados en los pontones

A pesar de la libertad que disfrutó el equipo de desarrollo para explorar los límites de las posibilidades del Solus GT como auto de pista, el diseño exterior del concepto de realidad virtual impuso restricciones sobre lo que se podía hacer si el auto real conservaba el “factor sorpresa”. del coche que apareció en Gran Turismo SPORT.

Como corresponde a un automóvil de pista ultraligero, la carrocería del Solus GT está hecha de fibra de carbono; las formas complejas y las líneas en picada logradas sin las penalizaciones de peso que se derivarían del uso de paneles metálicos convencionales. La forma de estos se ha perfeccionado finamente, irónicamente en realidad virtual, para garantizar la estabilidad y maximizar la eficiencia aerodinámica tanto para la velocidad en línea recta como para la carga aerodinámica.

Un gran divisor frontal alimenta aire a los túneles de efecto suelo en el piso estructural completo, que ha sido diseñado para aceptar altas cargas aerodinámicas. El aire sale del coche a través de un difusor completo. Las ruedas delanteras están fuera de la carrocería principal, con los brazos transversales de la suspensión expuestos al flujo de aire y envueltos en fibra de carbono de forma aerodinámica que dirige el aire hacia los radiadores montados en los pontones. La ubicación de los pontones de los radiadores de alta temperatura está directamente inspirada en los deportes de motor, lo que brinda una solución de enfriamiento directo para los fluidos del motor y reduce el área de la superficie frontal.

Una entrada de aire inspirada en los deportes de motor por encima de la cabina, que está integrada en el diseño de la cubierta del aro antivuelco, toma aire frío y acondicionado por encima del automóvil al mismo tiempo que crea un sonido de inducción del motor agradablemente cautivador.

El alerón trasero fijo de dos elementos es una de las características visuales más distintivas del Solus GT. Diseñado para maximizar la carga aerodinámica sobre la parte trasera del automóvil, funciona junto con la combinación del efecto suelo de alta carga aerodinámica y la baja sensibilidad de cabeceo del sistema de suspensión derivado del automovilismo, para anular la necesidad de alerones delanteros o traseros activos y así ayudar a mantener el peso. abajo.

En general, la carga aerodinámica del paquete supera el peso total del automóvil, pero la relación entre la fuerza aerodinámica y el arrastre también está optimizada, lo que ayuda al rendimiento en línea recta y mejora la velocidad en las curvas.

Interior exclusivo de un solo asiento central

  • El conductor ingresa al automóvil a través de un toldo deslizante que incorpora un dispositivo de protección de cabina halo estilo Fórmula 1
  • Cabina monoplaza con asiento fijo y pedales ajustables
  • Controles principales del conductor y pantalla de instrumentos TFT montados en el volante con estructura de fibra de carbono
  • Cámara trasera de gran angular ubicada sobre el aro antivuelco, vinculada a la pantalla de vista del conductor

La experiencia de conducción del Solus GT McLaren comienza incluso antes de que se encienda el motor V10: simplemente entrar a la cabina es un evento en sí mismo. En lugar de las puertas diédricas exclusivas de McLaren, se abre una cubierta deslizante, más parecida a la de un avión de combate, con una palanca mecánica. La capota accionada por resorte se mueve a través de un arco poco profundo, levantándose de la cabina y deslizándose hacia adelante para permitir un fácil acceso al asiento del conductor.

Las recientes innovaciones tecnológicas de seguridad de los niveles más altos de los deportes de motor están integradas en el diseño, con el dosel reforzado por una estructura estilo halo para proteger al conductor. Una escotilla de escape también está integrada en el dosel para permitir una salida segura de la cabina en caso de que se obstruya el mecanismo deslizante.

El interior está diseñado específicamente para un rendimiento extremo en la pista; un propietario puede especificar su automóvil con un entorno totalmente personalizado, pero seguirá centrado en la experiencia de conducción. El asiento moldeado está equipado con un arnés de 6 puntos y está fijo en su posición; en cambio, la caja de pedales es ajustable como en un auto de carreras, pero con la comodidad de poder operarse desde una posición sentada.

Para garantizar que el asiento individual se adapte perfectamente al cliente, MSO ha adoptado un proceso tomado del automovilismo que es otro ejemplo más de la gama completa de la experiencia de McLaren disponible para el Solus GT. Se utiliza un sistema a base de resina fenólica con tecnología avanzada de microesferas para crear un molde a partir del cual se crea el asiento, asegurando a su vez que el conductor permanezca cómodo en el automóvil durante las sesiones de conducción en pista más intensas.

Casi todos los controles se concentran en el volante, que está fabricado con fibra de carbono. Inspirándose directamente en los deportes de motor, todas las funciones esenciales se alcanzan fácilmente con ambas manos en el volante. Un sistema de aire HVAC completo también mantiene al conductor completamente alerta durante toda la experiencia de conducción.

Por encima de la cabeza del conductor hay interruptores para el encendido del vehículo y el extintor de incendios de emergencia completamente instalado. Esta área también alberga la pantalla retrovisora, transmitida en tiempo real desde una cámara ubicada en el aro antivuelco detrás de la cabeza del conductor. La cámara de gran angular proporciona una vista trasera completa de la pista para permitir que el tráfico pase en una vuelta de desaceleración o ayudar a maniobrar en el pit-lane.

Tren motriz con un pedigrí probado en automovilismo

  • Motor V10 de 5,2 litros de aspiración natural derivado de los deportes de motor que acelera a más de 10.000 rpm
  • Motor específico de McLaren, con cigüeñal, cilindrada, sistema de admisión y escape de aire, todo hecho a la medida de Solus GT
  • Árbol de levas accionado por engranajes y sistemas auxiliares, sin cadenas ni correas en el motor
  • Los aceleradores de barril para cilindros individuales agudizan la respuesta del acelerador

El motor V10 de 5.2 litros especificado para impulsar el McLaren Solus GT está incorporado en la estructura del chasis del vehículo. La capacidad del motor es exclusiva del Solus GT, al igual que el sistema de admisión y escape de aire. El sistema de inducción dirige el aire hacia los aceleradores de barril que son individuales para cada cilindro, una tecnología que no es adecuada para el uso en carretera pero que ofrece claras ventajas en el rendimiento del motor, incluida una mejor respuesta del acelerador.

El motor también incorpora componentes mecanizados de bajo volumen optimizados para el rendimiento y está totalmente accionado por engranajes; no hay cadenas ni cinturones para los sistemas auxiliares. La potencia es superior a los 840 CV, con todo el beneficio del efecto ram proporcionado por la alta entrada de aire y el motor acelerando más allá de las 10.000 rpm. El par máximo supera los 650 Nm.

El rendimiento resultante es un tiempo de aceleración objetivo de 2,5 segundos desde parado hasta los 100 km/h y una velocidad máxima de más de 200 mph, a pesar de que el Solus GT genera una carga aerodinámica que supera su peso.

Caja de cambios de competición

  • Caja de cambios secuencial de siete velocidades
  • Incorpora carcasa de aluminio y fundición a medida con paneles de magnesio; la suspensión trasera se ubica en la caja de cambios
  • Utiliza engranajes de corte recto derivados de los deportes de motor
  • Embrague de fibra de carbono con control de software automatizado para combinar una estrategia de cambio agresiva y una operación fácil de usar

El Solus GT tiene una caja de cambios secuencial de siete velocidades, con partes internas probadas en carreras ubicadas dentro de una carcasa y fundición a medida, diseñada como un punto de montaje para la suspensión trasera. La carcasa está hecha de aluminio, con paneles de magnesio que optimizan el peso.

Diseñado originalmente para aplicaciones de autos deportivos LMP, las partes internas de la caja de cambios incluyen engranajes de corte recto, una tecnología que generalmente no se incorpora en los autos de producción por razones de refinamiento de NVH, pero que se reconoce que proporciona una mayor eficiencia que los engranajes de corte helicoidal en un auto de pista de alto rendimiento.

La caja de cambios está accionada por un embrague de fibra de carbono, diseñado para complementar la estrategia agresiva de cambio de marchas exigida en una aplicación de pista. Sin embargo, también está completamente automatizado y controlado por software, lo que elimina la necesidad de un control de embrague operado por pedal o palanca, para ayudar al conductor cuando se aleja del pit-lane.

Diseño de suspensión centrado en la pista

  • El diseño de la suspensión inspirado en la Fórmula 1 incorpora brazos transversales dobles y barras de torsión activadas por la varilla de empuje delantera y la varilla de tracción trasera
  • Amortiguadores de cuatro vías ajustables manualmente
  • Incorpora barras estabilizadoras, resortes de altura de manejo y un sistema de resorte y amortiguador de elevación.

El McLaren Solus GT fue diseñado desde el principio como un automóvil de pista y su suspensión sigue los principios de la ingeniería de automovilismo, comenzando con las ruedas ubicadas a través de dobles brazos oscilantes. Con las ruedas delanteras montadas en el exterior del cuerpo principal, la amortiguación delantera está en el interior con barras de empuje que operan las barras de torsión y los amortiguadores de las esquinas. En la parte trasera, las barras están unidas a barras de tracción y la suspensión trasera está montada en la carcasa de la caja de cambios.

Los brazos oscilantes y las varillas están fabricados de acero para una mayor durabilidad, pero los enlaces de la suspensión delantera están revestidos con cubiertas de fibra de carbono para una mayor eficiencia aerodinámica. El sistema también incorpora resortes de altura de manejo y un sistema de resorte y amortiguador de elevación. Esto se emplea para proporcionar rigidez a la velocidad al limitar el movimiento vertical, el efecto de esto es crear un perfil aerodinámicamente más estable, lo que hace que el comportamiento dinámico del automóvil a la velocidad sea más predecible y, por lo tanto, aumenta la confianza del conductor en pistas de alta velocidad.

Dentro de las distintivas tapas de las ruedas se encuentran las ruedas de aluminio forjado de 18 pulgadas con tuercas de bloqueo centrales, calzadas con neumáticos con especificación de prototipo de Le Mans disponibles en compuestos lisos y húmedos. El frenado se realiza mediante pinzas monobloque de aluminio mecanizado de 6 pistones con discos y pastillas de freno de carbono. El conductor puede ajustar la diferencia entre los frenos delantero y trasero en la cabina.

Cada eje está conectado por barras estabilizadoras, que están conectadas a través de enlaces de caída. Ambas barras son ajustables.

El recorrido completo y personalizado del cliente de MSO

  • El recorrido completo del cliente incluye la participación en el desarrollo del producto
  • Producto totalmente personalizado: cada automóvil es único
  • Experiencia de piloto de carreras completa disponible, que incluye ropa de piloto a medida y asiento a medida

Solus GT muestra el nivel de artesanía disponible para los clientes de McLaren a través de McLaren Special Operations.

Desde el comienzo del proceso de desarrollo, se realizaron presentaciones individuales a los clientes que deseaban asegurarse uno de los 25 autos disponibles. Anteriormente, esto solo ocurría para los compradores del McLaren Sabre, un automóvil homologado solo para el mercado de EE. UU., mientras que Solus GT es un producto solo para pistas, la base de clientes es global.

Los 25 depositantes de Solus GT también han estado involucrados en los detalles más finos del desarrollo del automóvil desde el mundo virtual al mundo real, con un nuevo software desarrollado por MSO en el centro de la realización de la visión de cada cliente. Este enfoque personalizado e individual refleja una accesibilidad íntima a McLaren que va más allá incluso de los niveles habituales de experiencia y compromiso de lujo.

Además, un video dinámico que presenta un prototipo de Solus GT funcionando en la pista estará disponible para descargar 15 minutos después de que se emita este comunicado. 

Acerca de McLaren Automotive:
McLaren Automotive es un creador de superdeportivos de lujo y alto rendimiento.

Cada vehículo se ensambla a mano en el Centro de producción de McLaren (MPC) en Woking, Surrey, Inglaterra.

Lanzada en 2010, la compañía es ahora la parte más grande del Grupo McLaren.

La cartera de productos de la compañía de modelos GT, supercar, Motorsport y Ultimate se vende al por menor a través de más de 100 minoristas en más de 40 mercados de todo el mundo.

McLaren es un pionero que empuja continuamente los límites. En 1981, introdujo un chasis de fibra de carbono ligero y resistente en la Fórmula 1 con el McLaren MP4/1.

Luego, en 1993, diseñó y construyó el automóvil de carretera McLaren F1; desde entonces, la compañía no ha construido un automóvil sin un chasis de fibra de carbono. Como parte de Ultimate Series, McLaren fue el primero en ofrecer un hipercoche híbrido, el McLaren P1™. En 2016, anunció un nuevo hiper-GT híbrido y confirmó en 2018 que el próximo automóvil Ultimate sería el Speedtail.

En 2019, McLaren lanzó el 600LT Spider, el nuevo GT y el McLaren Senna GTR solo para pista. También presentó el 620R y McLaren Elva antes de lanzar el 765LT al año siguiente.

Más recientemente, la compañía presentó su nuevo superdeportivo híbrido de alto rendimiento, el McLaren Artura.

El Artura es el primer McLaren en beneficiarse de la arquitectura ligera de carbono de McLaren (MCLA). El MCLA está diseñado, desarrollado y fabricado en el Centro de Tecnología de Compuestos de McLaren en la región de Sheffield, Inglaterra, utilizando procesos pioneros en el mundo y encabezará el futuro electrificado de la marca.

McLaren Automotive también elige asociarse con empresas y organizaciones líderes en el mundo con ideas afines que superan los límites en sus respectivos campos. Estos incluyen AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International y Tumi.

Acerca de McLaren Group:
McLaren Group es un líder mundial en automoción de lujo y deportes de motor de élite con un enfoque en sus negocios de superdeportivos automotrices y carreras.

Fundado en 1963 por el corredor, ingeniero y empresario Bruce McLaren, el grupo está formado por McLaren Automotive, que fabrica a mano superdeportivos ligeros; y una participación mayoritaria en McLaren Racing, que compite en el Campeonato Mundial de Fórmula 1 y en INDYCAR en EE. UU.

El Grupo tiene su sede mundial en el icónico McLaren Technology Center en Woking, Surrey, Inglaterra.

Con una reputación de innovación y excelencia tecnológica, McLaren es una de las empresas independientes más grandes del Reino Unido.

From fantasy to reality – McLaren Solus GT revealed as extreme expression of track driving engagement

  • World-first, track-only realisation of McLaren concept that debuted in the virtual gaming world
  • Limited to just 25 customer cars – all sold before public reveal
  • Engineered to reality using technologies from McLaren’s presence across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development
  • Striking central, single-seat, closed-cockpit design with jet aircraft-style sliding canopy
  • Unique monocoque chassis with motorsport-derived powertrain a structural element
  • Naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine and bespoke seven-speed, sequential shift gearbox
  • Weighs less than 1,000kg and has more than 1,200kg of downforce
  • V10 engine revs to more than 10,000rpm and produces in excess of 840PS and 650Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-10a0km/h in a target time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph
  • A full ‘racing driver experience’ available, including a driving seat moulded to individual body shape, an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS (Head And Neck Support) device bespoke to each owner, and driver-development coaching programme
  • First cars will be delivered to customers in 2023

McLaren Automotive today reveals the McLaren Solus GT, the stunning realisation of a concept car from the screens of virtual racing into an extreme expression of track driving engagement that will exhilarate in the real world.

A special commission for just 25 customers – with all cars already sold – the single-seat, closed-cockpit track car was unveiled during Monterey Car Week in California by Michael Leiters, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer.

Engineered to reality by drawing on the full range of McLaren’s experience and expertise across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development, the Solus GT brings to life the futuristic McLaren concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

At less than 1,000kg in weight and with aerodynamic performance including downforce in excess of 1,200kg, the Solus GT – which is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine – is capable of the fastest lap times of any McLaren outside of single-seater racing and delivers a driving experience close to the engagement and sensation of driving a Formula 1 car.

“The McLaren Solus GT is the realisation of a radical McLaren concept vehicle originally created for the world of virtual racing. Engineered free of any restrictions from road or race regulations, but with the full spectrum of McLaren’s expertise to bring it to reality, it epitomises our pioneering spirit.”
Michael Leiters, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The striking exterior design, which is remarkably faithful to its virtual inspiration, is based on proven aerodynamic principles and McLaren’s ‘everything for a reason’ design ethos, honed by additional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel aerodynamic research.

The list of distinctive external features is lengthy, with the sliding canopy above the single, central seat being one of the most striking. The wheels are shrouded in aerodynamic pods and located by suspension arms. A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels before it exits the car via a full diffuser. A motorsport-inspired intake above the cockpit integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover feeds cold air into the engine, while also providing an engaging induction sound. Race car design also inspired the sidepods which house the Solus GT’s radiators.

A twin-element, fixed rear wing is key to a downforce figure that exceeds the overall weight of the car. The downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance as well as enhancing cornering abilities.

The Solus GT experience begins even before the engine is started, with the driver opening the distinctive cockpit canopy that slides forward through a shallow arc to allow access. This is nothing like a conventional car door, or even the signature dihedral doors of other McLaren cars, rather more like stepping into a jet fighter plane.

The means of getting into the car adds to the sense of occasion provided by the single seat that dominates an interior focused solely on the driver and performance. The seat position is fixed – the 25 Solus GT owners experience their own motorsport-style ‘seat fitting’ – with the pedal box adjustable as in a race car, although with the convenience of a remote system operated from the seating position.

The steering wheel – the design of which is unique among McLaren production cars – takes its inspiration from Formula 1, with dash display and essential controls integrated to suit the tight confines of a single-seater track car. Beyond the steering wheel is a view through the glass ‘bubble’, with integrated halo-style cockpit protection – mounted to which is a rear-view display fed by a wide-angle camera placed within the roll hoop. The perfectly symmetrical 180-degree line of sight provided by the central driving position is further aided by the dramatically styled wheel pods in helping the driver to position the car on a track.

To further enhance the exhilaration for Solus GT customers, McLaren is offering a full ‘racing driver experience’. This includes a driving seat moulded to the driver’s individual body shape; an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device bespoke to each owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts. A full driver-development coaching programme will also be available to help customers fully exploit the potential of their new track hypercar.

The Solus GT is powered by a unique 5.2-litre V10, constructed using low-volume, machined components, that revs to more than 10,000rpm and delivers extreme performance and thrilling driver engagement. The engine’s responsiveness is enhanced by the use of barrel-driven throttles for each cylinder – a system only suitable for track application – and is entirely gear-driven, with no chains or belts for camshaft or ancillary systems.

In addition to having power and torque outputs in excess respectively of 840PS and 650Nm, the engine was also chosen for its structural qualities; for the first time in a McLaren production car, the engine is an integral part of the chassis. Conventional practice in race car construction, this design approach optimises weight reduction by negating the need for additional chassis structures or subframes behind the carbon fibre monocoque.

The race-derived seven-speed sequential gearbox, which features a bespoke casting and casing – the latter manufactured from aluminium with magnesium panels – is mounted to the back of the engine with the rear suspension fixed to the gearbox casing. Internally, straight-cut gears engaged via a multi-plate carbon fibre clutch are ideally suited to the aggressive shifts demanded in a track application. The system is fully automated and software controlled, removing the need for the driver to operate the clutch, aiding pit-lane pull-away.

In common with every McLaren since 1981, the Solus GT is based around a carbon-fibre monocoque, in this case one created using specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process for higher structural strength and a high uniformity of finish to the material. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbon fibre, with the engine and gearbox forming the rest of the chassis.

Carbon fibre is not the only high-value material in the Solus GT. Further embracing technologies used in the top tiers of motorsport, 3D-printed titanium components have been used for the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. This is the first time the approach has been adopted for structural elements in a McLaren production car, allowing a tailored design as well reducing weight.

The suspension system incorporates double wishbones with inboard torsion bar damping, operated via pushrods at the front and pullrods at the rear. Both axles are linked by anti-roll bars, with tuning options available to the driver. Fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, the front suspension links are encased in aerodynamic carbon fibre shrouds similar to the approach in Formula 1.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers and carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted in the cockpit by the driver.

Traditional performance metrics are not as relevant for a track car, but with a target time of 2.5 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration and a maximum speed of more than 200mph – in combination with the car’s light weight and strong aerodynamic abilities – the McLaren Solus GT has the performance credentials needed for an extreme track machine.

In incorporating every element that has made McLaren a world-beating automotive force, the Solus GT is also a showcase for the craftmanship available to McLaren customers from McLaren Special Operations (MSO). With a project such as this, the MSO service goes beyond the car itself to a level of luxury customer engagement and accessibility unique to McLaren. A bespoking process ensures every Solus GT is unique and regular updates on the development programme, including access to prototype drive sessions that can influence the driving characteristics of the car ahead of production, are offered.

Solus GT track events are planned, and all cars will be delivered with a flight case to allow owners to support their own track activities. This includes a comprehensive set of tools, vehicle jacks, stands, radio sets and a coolant pre-heater.

The McLaren Solus GT is currently at the track-testing stage of its development process. The first of 25 customer cars – all of which are sold – will be delivered in 2023.

The McLaren Solus GT in detail
A concept for the virtual world becomes reality

  • Originally a virtual concept driven by millions in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game; now a reality as the astonishing McLaren Solus GT
  • Striking single, centre-seat cockpit and strong focus on aerodynamic principles throughout
  • Showcases McLaren signature design features, including ‘hammerhead’ front, teardrop-shaped cabin and ‘shrink-wrapped’ bodywork

The roots of the McLaren Solus GT are in a stunning concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

From the original design sketches through to the virtual gaming triumph and now the astonishing machine that an exclusive few customers will enjoy on track, this is a car that epitomises the ‘everything for a reason’ design philosophy and relentless pursuit of engineering excellence within every McLaren. From the outset, the concept was based on proven aerodynamic principles, with a sports-prototype racecar package as its foundation.

The bodywork is very much a technical sculpture, shrink-wrapped over the high-performance engineering package and the two full-length ground effect tunnels. These contain distinctive air intakes at the front and a NACA duct – a low-drag air inlet – which also acts as a step, accelerating the airflow into the radiators.

From the front, the distinctive McLaren ‘hammerhead’ nose helps to separate airflow from the underbody ground effects and the full-length diffuser. The visibility from the wraparound canopy screen of the teardrop cockpit is outstanding, with an uncluttered, 180-degree view of a track. The wheel pods in each corner are not only a dominating design feature, they also allow overall weight-reduction and individually ‘work’ the airflow with a distinctive tear-drop shape that ends in a dramatic blade-like rear edge to calm the turbulent air in the wake of each tyre and mitigate pressure build-up within the wheel well.

The rear of the car features a full clam that provides easy access to the engine bay, with super-low trailing bodywork edges that employ the same principles as the Speedtail in order to minimise base pressure across the back of the car, reducing drag.

Engineering a virtual design into extreme reality

  • Naturally-aspirated V10 engine chosen to optimise performance, driver engagement and packaging
  • Aerodynamic performance integrated into bodywork surfaces to preserve overall shape using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel research
  • Heavily optimised structural work includes monocoque geometry

The original engineering brief for the McLaren Solus GT was to turn a prestigious virtual gaming concept into an extremely powerful and highly exclusive McLaren hypercar. This was to be a track-only car, with motorsport engineering expertise and a V10 powertrain coming together to deliver the supreme driver engagement demanded for a no-compromises experience.

The racing-derived engine was chosen for reasons of packaging as well as performance; a pared-down track car with minimal weight and shrink-wrapped bodywork meant having the engine as part of the chassis was a natural choice. This construction technique is rarely seen in production cars for NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) reasons, but in a focused track car it gives many benefits, not least added feedback and exhilarating engagement for the driver.

Once the programme parameters were set, the engineering team faced the challenge of integrating real-world aerodynamic performance into the original design surfaces. This was resolved with extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind-tunnel work to prove the aerodynamic, cooling and efficiency properties of the concept.

Racing-inspired chassis design and construction

  • Bespoke monocoque structure employs Formula 1 chassis technologies, with front and rear carbon structures
  • Low-volume, carbon ‘pre-preg’ process provides strength, rigidity and quality of finish
  • Engine and gearbox are stressed chassis members; carbon crash structure is incorporated into gearbox
  • 3D printing techniques used for structural components – titanium halo protection and rollover bar

Like every McLaren built in the last 40 years, the Solus GT features a carbon-fibre monocoque at its heart. However, the single-seat cockpit and production-based engineering processes demanded a bespoke approach embracing the differing disciplines of competition and road car construction and the resulting design takes greater inspiration from motorsport than other McLaren Automotive products, with the monocoque using Formula 1 and sportscar racing chassis technologies. The front and rear impact structures are made from carbon fibre – traditionally McLaren Automotive chassis structures feature aluminium structures fixed to the passenger cell – and with the engine and gearbox both stressed chassis members, there is no requirement for a rear subframe.

The construction of the chassis employs specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process whereby the carbon fibre is pre-impregnated with a resin system that simplifies the curing process. The material is ready to lay into the mould before heat and pressure treatment is applied, allowing the higher structural strength demanded by a track-only car. The process also allows a high uniformity of finish to the material that enhances visual appeal.

The chassis of the Solus GT also features 3D-printed titanium components, including the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. While previously used by McLaren Automotive– notably for the exhaust system of the Elva – this is the first use of the technology for structural components in a McLaren production car and demonstrates the absolute focus applied to finding the best solutions for the Solus GT.

Refined and optimised bodywork and aerodynamics

  • Carbon fibre bodywork incorporates aerodynamic surfaces including front splitter, individual wheel pods, structural floor with ground-effect tunnels and fixed, twin-element, high-downforce rear wing
  • Huge downforce generated – at 1,200kg, greater than the weight of the car – with drag penalty minimised for straight-line speed
  • Formula 1-inspired, carbon fibre suspension aero shrouds, air intakes and sidepod-mounted radiators

Despite the freedom the development team enjoyed in exploring the boundaries of possibilities for the Solus GT as a track car, the exterior design of the virtual reality concept did impose restrictions on what could be done if the real car was to retain the ‘wow factor’ of the car that featured in Gran Turismo SPORT.

As befits an ultra-lightweight track-only car, the bodywork of Solus GT is made from carbon fibre; the complex shapes and swooping lines achieved without the weight penalties that would come from the use of conventional metal panels. The form of these has been finely honed – ironically in virtual reality – to ensure stability and maximise aerodynamic efficiency for both straight line-speed and downforce.

A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels in the full structural floor, which has been designed to accept high aerodynamic loads. The air exits the car via a full diffuser. The front wheels are outboard of the main bodywork, with the suspension wishbones exposed to the airflow and shrouded in aerodynamically-shaped carbon fibre that directs air towards the sidepod-mounted radiators. The sidepod-siting of the high-temperature radiators is directly inspired by motorsport, providing a direct cooling solution for engine fluids and reducing frontal surface area.

A motorsport-inspired air intake above the cockpit, which is integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover, takes in cold and flow-conditioned air above the car while also creating a pleasingly engaging engine induction sound.

The twin-element, fixed rear wing is one of the more distinctive visual features of Solus GT. Designed to maximise downforce over the rear of the car, it works alongside the combination of high-downforce ground effect and low pitch sensitivity from the motorsport-derived suspension system, to negate the need for active front or rear wings and so help to keep weight down.

Overall, the aerodynamic package downforce exceeds the total weight of the car, but the downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance and enhancing cornering speeds.

Unique, single central seat interior

  • Driver enters car via sliding canopy incorporating Formula 1-style halo cockpit protection device
  • Single-seat cockpit with fixed seat and adjustable pedals
  • Main driver controls and TFT instrument display mounted on carbon-fibre-structured steering wheel
  • Rear wide-angle camera located above roll-hoop, linked to driver view screen

The Solus GT McLaren driving experience begins even before the V10 engine is started – simply stepping into the cockpit is an event in itself. Instead of signature McLaren dihedral doors, a sliding canopy – more akin to that of a fighter jet – is opened using a mechanical lever. The spring-loaded canopy moves through a shallow arc, lifting clear of the cockpit and sliding forwards to allow easy access to the driving seat.

Recent technological safety innovations from the top tiers of motorsport are integrated in the design, with the canopy reinforced by a halo-style structure to protect the driver. An escape hatch is also built into the canopy to allow safe departure from the cockpit should the sliding mechanism be obstructed.

The interior is purpose-built for extreme track performance; an owner can specify their car with an entirely bespoke environment, but it will remain focused on the driving experience. The moulded seat is fitted with a 6-point harness and is fixed in position; instead, the pedal box is adjustable as in a race car, but with the convenience of being able to be operated from a sitting position.

To ensure the single seat is a perfect fit for the customer, MSO has adopted a process taken from motorsport which is yet another example of the full range of McLaren expertise being available for the Solus GT. A phenolic resin-based system with advanced micro-bead technology is used to create a mould from which the seat is created, ensuring in turn that the driver remains comfortable in the car throughout the most intense track driving sessions.

Almost all controls are concentrated on the steering wheel, which is constructed from carbon fibre. Inspired directly by motorsport, all essential functions are easily reached with both hands on the wheel. A full HVAC air system also keeps the driver fully alert throughout the driving experience.

Above the driver’s head are switches for vehicle ignition and the fully plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher. This area also houses the rear-view display, streamed in real-time from a camera located on the roll hoop behind the driver’s head. The wide-angle camera provides a comprehensive rear view of the track to allow traffic to pass on a slowing-down lap or aid pit-lane manoeuvring.

Powertrain with a proven motorsport pedigree

  • Motorsport-derived, naturally-aspirated 5.2 litre V10 engine that revs to over 10,000rpm
  • McLaren-specific engine, with crank, cylinder capacity, air intake and exhaust system all bespoke to Solus GT
  • Gear-driven camshaft and ancillary systems, with no chains or belts in the engine
  • Barrel throttles for individual cylinders sharpen throttle response

The 5.2-litre V10 engine specified to power the McLaren Solus GT is incorporated into the vehicle chassis structure. The engine capacity is unique to the Solus GT, as are the air intake and exhaust system. The induction system directs air towards barrel throttles that are individual to each cylinder – a technology that is not suitable for road use but offers clear advantages in engine performance, including improved throttle response.

The engine also incorporates low-volume machined components optimised for performance and is entirely gear-driven; there are no chains or belts for ancillary systems. Output is greater than 840PS, with the full benefit of the ram effect provided by the high air intake and the engine revving past 10,000rpm. Maximum torque is in excess of 650Nm.

The resulting performance is a target acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from standstill to 100km/h and a maximum speed in excess of 200mph, despite the Solus GT generating downforce that exceeds its weight.

Competition gearbox

  • Seven-speed sequential gearbox
  • Incorporates bespoke casting and aluminium casing with magnesium panels; rear suspension locates to gearbox
  • Uses motorsport-derived straight-cut gears
  • Carbon fibre clutch with automated software control for combination of both aggressive shift strategy and user-friendly operation

The Solus GT has a seven-speed sequential gearbox, with race-proven internals located within a bespoke casting and casing, designed as a mounting point for the rear suspension. The casing is made from aluminium, with magnesium panels optimising weight.

Originally designed for LMP sportscar applications, the gearbox internals include straight-cut gears, a technology not usually incorporated in production cars for reasons of NVH refinement but acknowledged as providing greater efficiency than helical-cut gears in a high-performance track car.

The gearbox is engaged by a carbon fibre clutch, designed to complement aggressive gearshift strategy demanded in a track application. It is though also fully automated and controlled by software – removing the need for a pedal or lever-operated clutch control – to aid the driver when pulling away from the pit-lane.

Track-focused suspension design

  • Formula 1-inspired suspension design incorporates double wishbones and front pushrod and rear pullrod activated torsion bars
  • Manually adjustable four-way dampers
  • Incorporates anti-roll bars, ride-height springs and a heave spring and damper system

The McLaren Solus GT was designed from the outset as a track-only car and its suspension follows the principles of motorsport engineering, starting with the wheels located via double wishbones. With the front wheels mounted outboard of the main body, the front damping is inboard with pushrods operating torsion bars and corner dampers. At the rear, the bars are linked to pullrods, and the rear suspension is mounted to the gearbox casing.

The wishbones and rods are fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, but the front suspension links are encased in carbon fibre shrouds for aerodynamic efficiency. The system also incorporates ride height springs and a heave spring and damper system. This is employed to provide stiffness at speed by limiting vertical movement, the effect of this is to create a more aerodynamically stable profile, making the car’s dynamic behaviour at speed more predictable and therefore increasing driver confidence on high-speed tracks.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers with carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted by the driver in the cockpit.

Each axle is linked by anti-roll bars, which are connected via drop links. Both bars are adjustable.

The complete – and bespoke – MSO customer journey

  • Complete customer journey includes involvement in product development
  • Fully bespoke product – each car is unique
  • Full racing driver experience available, including bespoke driver-wear and tailored seat

Solus GT showcases the level of craftmanship available to McLaren customers through McLaren Special Operations.

From the beginning of the development process, individual presentations were given to customers wishing to secure one of the 25 cars available. This has previously taken place only for purchasers of the McLaren Sabre, a car homologated for the US market only, whereas with Solus GT being a track-only product, the customer base is global.

The 25 Solus GT depositors have also been involved throughout in the finer details of the car’s development from the virtual world to the real world, with new, MSO-developed software at the core of realising the vision of each customer. This bespoke, individual approach reflects an intimate accessibility to McLaren that goes beyond even the usual levels of luxury experience and engagement.

Additionally, a dynamic video that features a prototype Solus GT running on track will be available to download 15 minutes after this release is issued. 

About McLaren Automotive:
McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars.

Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 100 retailers in over 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993 it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT and confirmed in 2018 that the next Ultimate car would be the Speedtail.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International and Tumi.

About McLaren Group:
The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

From fantasy to reality – McLaren Solus GT revealed as extreme expression of track driving engagement

  • World-first, track-only realisation of McLaren concept that debuted in the virtual gaming world
  • Limited to just 25 customer cars – all sold before public reveal
  • Engineered to reality using technologies from McLaren’s presence across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development
  • Striking central, single-seat, closed-cockpit design with jet aircraft-style sliding canopy
  • Unique monocoque chassis with motorsport-derived powertrain a structural element
  • Naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine and bespoke seven-speed, sequential shift gearbox
  • Weighs less than 1,000kg and has more than 1,200kg of downforce
  • V10 engine revs to more than 10,000rpm and produces in excess of 840PS and 650Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-10a0km/h in a target time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph
  • A full ‘racing driver experience’ available, including a driving seat moulded to individual body shape, an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS (Head And Neck Support) device bespoke to each owner, and driver-development coaching programme
  • First cars will be delivered to customers in 2023

McLaren Automotive today reveals the McLaren Solus GT, the stunning realisation of a concept car from the screens of virtual racing into an extreme expression of track driving engagement that will exhilarate in the real world.

A special commission for just 25 customers – with all cars already sold – the single-seat, closed-cockpit track car was unveiled during Monterey Car Week in California by Michael Leiters, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer.

Engineered to reality by drawing on the full range of McLaren’s experience and expertise across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development, the Solus GT brings to life the futuristic McLaren concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

At less than 1,000kg in weight and with aerodynamic performance including downforce in excess of 1,200kg, the Solus GT – which is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine – is capable of the fastest lap times of any McLaren outside of single-seater racing and delivers a driving experience close to the engagement and sensation of driving a Formula 1 car.

“The McLaren Solus GT is the realisation of a radical McLaren concept vehicle originally created for the world of virtual racing. Engineered free of any restrictions from road or race regulations, but with the full spectrum of McLaren’s expertise to bring it to reality, it epitomises our pioneering spirit.”
Michael Leiters, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The striking exterior design, which is remarkably faithful to its virtual inspiration, is based on proven aerodynamic principles and McLaren’s ‘everything for a reason’ design ethos, honed by additional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel aerodynamic research.

The list of distinctive external features is lengthy, with the sliding canopy above the single, central seat being one of the most striking. The wheels are shrouded in aerodynamic pods and located by suspension arms. A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels before it exits the car via a full diffuser. A motorsport-inspired intake above the cockpit integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover feeds cold air into the engine, while also providing an engaging induction sound. Race car design also inspired the sidepods which house the Solus GT’s radiators.

A twin-element, fixed rear wing is key to a downforce figure that exceeds the overall weight of the car. The downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance as well as enhancing cornering abilities.

The Solus GT experience begins even before the engine is started, with the driver opening the distinctive cockpit canopy that slides forward through a shallow arc to allow access. This is nothing like a conventional car door, or even the signature dihedral doors of other McLaren cars, rather more like stepping into a jet fighter plane.

The means of getting into the car adds to the sense of occasion provided by the single seat that dominates an interior focused solely on the driver and performance. The seat position is fixed – the 25 Solus GT owners experience their own motorsport-style ‘seat fitting’ – with the pedal box adjustable as in a race car, although with the convenience of a remote system operated from the seating position.

The steering wheel – the design of which is unique among McLaren production cars – takes its inspiration from Formula 1, with dash display and essential controls integrated to suit the tight confines of a single-seater track car. Beyond the steering wheel is a view through the glass ‘bubble’, with integrated halo-style cockpit protection – mounted to which is a rear-view display fed by a wide-angle camera placed within the roll hoop. The perfectly symmetrical 180-degree line of sight provided by the central driving position is further aided by the dramatically styled wheel pods in helping the driver to position the car on a track.

To further enhance the exhilaration for Solus GT customers, McLaren is offering a full ‘racing driver experience’. This includes a driving seat moulded to the driver’s individual body shape; an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device bespoke to each owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts. A full driver-development coaching programme will also be available to help customers fully exploit the potential of their new track hypercar.

The Solus GT is powered by a unique 5.2-litre V10, constructed using low-volume, machined components, that revs to more than 10,000rpm and delivers extreme performance and thrilling driver engagement. The engine’s responsiveness is enhanced by the use of barrel-driven throttles for each cylinder – a system only suitable for track application – and is entirely gear-driven, with no chains or belts for camshaft or ancillary systems.

In addition to having power and torque outputs in excess respectively of 840PS and 650Nm, the engine was also chosen for its structural qualities; for the first time in a McLaren production car, the engine is an integral part of the chassis. Conventional practice in race car construction, this design approach optimises weight reduction by negating the need for additional chassis structures or subframes behind the carbon fibre monocoque.

The race-derived seven-speed sequential gearbox, which features a bespoke casting and casing – the latter manufactured from aluminium with magnesium panels – is mounted to the back of the engine with the rear suspension fixed to the gearbox casing. Internally, straight-cut gears engaged via a multi-plate carbon fibre clutch are ideally suited to the aggressive shifts demanded in a track application. The system is fully automated and software controlled, removing the need for the driver to operate the clutch, aiding pit-lane pull-away.

In common with every McLaren since 1981, the Solus GT is based around a carbon-fibre monocoque, in this case one created using specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process for higher structural strength and a high uniformity of finish to the material. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbon fibre, with the engine and gearbox forming the rest of the chassis.

Carbon fibre is not the only high-value material in the Solus GT. Further embracing technologies used in the top tiers of motorsport, 3D-printed titanium components have been used for the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. This is the first time the approach has been adopted for structural elements in a McLaren production car, allowing a tailored design as well reducing weight.

The suspension system incorporates double wishbones with inboard torsion bar damping, operated via pushrods at the front and pullrods at the rear. Both axles are linked by anti-roll bars, with tuning options available to the driver. Fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, the front suspension links are encased in aerodynamic carbon fibre shrouds similar to the approach in Formula 1.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers and carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted in the cockpit by the driver.

Traditional performance metrics are not as relevant for a track car, but with a target time of 2.5 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration and a maximum speed of more than 200mph – in combination with the car’s light weight and strong aerodynamic abilities – the McLaren Solus GT has the performance credentials needed for an extreme track machine.

In incorporating every element that has made McLaren a world-beating automotive force, the Solus GT is also a showcase for the craftmanship available to McLaren customers from McLaren Special Operations (MSO). With a project such as this, the MSO service goes beyond the car itself to a level of luxury customer engagement and accessibility unique to McLaren. A bespoking process ensures every Solus GT is unique and regular updates on the development programme, including access to prototype drive sessions that can influence the driving characteristics of the car ahead of production, are offered.

Solus GT track events are planned, and all cars will be delivered with a flight case to allow owners to support their own track activities. This includes a comprehensive set of tools, vehicle jacks, stands, radio sets and a coolant pre-heater.

The McLaren Solus GT is currently at the track-testing stage of its development process. The first of 25 customer cars – all of which are sold – will be delivered in 2023.

The McLaren Solus GT in detail
A concept for the virtual world becomes reality

  • Originally a virtual concept driven by millions in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game; now a reality as the astonishing McLaren Solus GT
  • Striking single, centre-seat cockpit and strong focus on aerodynamic principles throughout
  • Showcases McLaren signature design features, including ‘hammerhead’ front, teardrop-shaped cabin and ‘shrink-wrapped’ bodywork

The roots of the McLaren Solus GT are in a stunning concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

From the original design sketches through to the virtual gaming triumph and now the astonishing machine that an exclusive few customers will enjoy on track, this is a car that epitomises the ‘everything for a reason’ design philosophy and relentless pursuit of engineering excellence within every McLaren. From the outset, the concept was based on proven aerodynamic principles, with a sports-prototype racecar package as its foundation.

The bodywork is very much a technical sculpture, shrink-wrapped over the high-performance engineering package and the two full-length ground effect tunnels. These contain distinctive air intakes at the front and a NACA duct – a low-drag air inlet – which also acts as a step, accelerating the airflow into the radiators.

From the front, the distinctive McLaren ‘hammerhead’ nose helps to separate airflow from the underbody ground effects and the full-length diffuser. The visibility from the wraparound canopy screen of the teardrop cockpit is outstanding, with an uncluttered, 180-degree view of a track. The wheel pods in each corner are not only a dominating design feature, they also allow overall weight-reduction and individually ‘work’ the airflow with a distinctive tear-drop shape that ends in a dramatic blade-like rear edge to calm the turbulent air in the wake of each tyre and mitigate pressure build-up within the wheel well.

The rear of the car features a full clam that provides easy access to the engine bay, with super-low trailing bodywork edges that employ the same principles as the Speedtail in order to minimise base pressure across the back of the car, reducing drag.

Engineering a virtual design into extreme reality

  • Naturally-aspirated V10 engine chosen to optimise performance, driver engagement and packaging
  • Aerodynamic performance integrated into bodywork surfaces to preserve overall shape using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel research
  • Heavily optimised structural work includes monocoque geometry

The original engineering brief for the McLaren Solus GT was to turn a prestigious virtual gaming concept into an extremely powerful and highly exclusive McLaren hypercar. This was to be a track-only car, with motorsport engineering expertise and a V10 powertrain coming together to deliver the supreme driver engagement demanded for a no-compromises experience.

The racing-derived engine was chosen for reasons of packaging as well as performance; a pared-down track car with minimal weight and shrink-wrapped bodywork meant having the engine as part of the chassis was a natural choice. This construction technique is rarely seen in production cars for NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) reasons, but in a focused track car it gives many benefits, not least added feedback and exhilarating engagement for the driver.

Once the programme parameters were set, the engineering team faced the challenge of integrating real-world aerodynamic performance into the original design surfaces. This was resolved with extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind-tunnel work to prove the aerodynamic, cooling and efficiency properties of the concept.

Racing-inspired chassis design and construction

  • Bespoke monocoque structure employs Formula 1 chassis technologies, with front and rear carbon structures
  • Low-volume, carbon ‘pre-preg’ process provides strength, rigidity and quality of finish
  • Engine and gearbox are stressed chassis members; carbon crash structure is incorporated into gearbox
  • 3D printing techniques used for structural components – titanium halo protection and rollover bar

Like every McLaren built in the last 40 years, the Solus GT features a carbon-fibre monocoque at its heart. However, the single-seat cockpit and production-based engineering processes demanded a bespoke approach embracing the differing disciplines of competition and road car construction and the resulting design takes greater inspiration from motorsport than other McLaren Automotive products, with the monocoque using Formula 1 and sportscar racing chassis technologies. The front and rear impact structures are made from carbon fibre – traditionally McLaren Automotive chassis structures feature aluminium structures fixed to the passenger cell – and with the engine and gearbox both stressed chassis members, there is no requirement for a rear subframe.

The construction of the chassis employs specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process whereby the carbon fibre is pre-impregnated with a resin system that simplifies the curing process. The material is ready to lay into the mould before heat and pressure treatment is applied, allowing the higher structural strength demanded by a track-only car. The process also allows a high uniformity of finish to the material that enhances visual appeal.

The chassis of the Solus GT also features 3D-printed titanium components, including the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. While previously used by McLaren Automotive– notably for the exhaust system of the Elva – this is the first use of the technology for structural components in a McLaren production car and demonstrates the absolute focus applied to finding the best solutions for the Solus GT.

Refined and optimised bodywork and aerodynamics

  • Carbon fibre bodywork incorporates aerodynamic surfaces including front splitter, individual wheel pods, structural floor with ground-effect tunnels and fixed, twin-element, high-downforce rear wing
  • Huge downforce generated – at 1,200kg, greater than the weight of the car – with drag penalty minimised for straight-line speed
  • Formula 1-inspired, carbon fibre suspension aero shrouds, air intakes and sidepod-mounted radiators

Despite the freedom the development team enjoyed in exploring the boundaries of possibilities for the Solus GT as a track car, the exterior design of the virtual reality concept did impose restrictions on what could be done if the real car was to retain the ‘wow factor’ of the car that featured in Gran Turismo SPORT.

As befits an ultra-lightweight track-only car, the bodywork of Solus GT is made from carbon fibre; the complex shapes and swooping lines achieved without the weight penalties that would come from the use of conventional metal panels. The form of these has been finely honed – ironically in virtual reality – to ensure stability and maximise aerodynamic efficiency for both straight line-speed and downforce.

A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels in the full structural floor, which has been designed to accept high aerodynamic loads. The air exits the car via a full diffuser. The front wheels are outboard of the main bodywork, with the suspension wishbones exposed to the airflow and shrouded in aerodynamically-shaped carbon fibre that directs air towards the sidepod-mounted radiators. The sidepod-siting of the high-temperature radiators is directly inspired by motorsport, providing a direct cooling solution for engine fluids and reducing frontal surface area.

A motorsport-inspired air intake above the cockpit, which is integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover, takes in cold and flow-conditioned air above the car while also creating a pleasingly engaging engine induction sound.

The twin-element, fixed rear wing is one of the more distinctive visual features of Solus GT. Designed to maximise downforce over the rear of the car, it works alongside the combination of high-downforce ground effect and low pitch sensitivity from the motorsport-derived suspension system, to negate the need for active front or rear wings and so help to keep weight down.

Overall, the aerodynamic package downforce exceeds the total weight of the car, but the downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance and enhancing cornering speeds.

Unique, single central seat interior

  • Driver enters car via sliding canopy incorporating Formula 1-style halo cockpit protection device
  • Single-seat cockpit with fixed seat and adjustable pedals
  • Main driver controls and TFT instrument display mounted on carbon-fibre-structured steering wheel
  • Rear wide-angle camera located above roll-hoop, linked to driver view screen

The Solus GT McLaren driving experience begins even before the V10 engine is started – simply stepping into the cockpit is an event in itself. Instead of signature McLaren dihedral doors, a sliding canopy – more akin to that of a fighter jet – is opened using a mechanical lever. The spring-loaded canopy moves through a shallow arc, lifting clear of the cockpit and sliding forwards to allow easy access to the driving seat.

Recent technological safety innovations from the top tiers of motorsport are integrated in the design, with the canopy reinforced by a halo-style structure to protect the driver. An escape hatch is also built into the canopy to allow safe departure from the cockpit should the sliding mechanism be obstructed.

The interior is purpose-built for extreme track performance; an owner can specify their car with an entirely bespoke environment, but it will remain focused on the driving experience. The moulded seat is fitted with a 6-point harness and is fixed in position; instead, the pedal box is adjustable as in a race car, but with the convenience of being able to be operated from a sitting position.

To ensure the single seat is a perfect fit for the customer, MSO has adopted a process taken from motorsport which is yet another example of the full range of McLaren expertise being available for the Solus GT. A phenolic resin-based system with advanced micro-bead technology is used to create a mould from which the seat is created, ensuring in turn that the driver remains comfortable in the car throughout the most intense track driving sessions.

Almost all controls are concentrated on the steering wheel, which is constructed from carbon fibre. Inspired directly by motorsport, all essential functions are easily reached with both hands on the wheel. A full HVAC air system also keeps the driver fully alert throughout the driving experience.

Above the driver’s head are switches for vehicle ignition and the fully plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher. This area also houses the rear-view display, streamed in real-time from a camera located on the roll hoop behind the driver’s head. The wide-angle camera provides a comprehensive rear view of the track to allow traffic to pass on a slowing-down lap or aid pit-lane manoeuvring.

Powertrain with a proven motorsport pedigree

  • Motorsport-derived, naturally-aspirated 5.2 litre V10 engine that revs to over 10,000rpm
  • McLaren-specific engine, with crank, cylinder capacity, air intake and exhaust system all bespoke to Solus GT
  • Gear-driven camshaft and ancillary systems, with no chains or belts in the engine
  • Barrel throttles for individual cylinders sharpen throttle response

The 5.2-litre V10 engine specified to power the McLaren Solus GT is incorporated into the vehicle chassis structure. The engine capacity is unique to the Solus GT, as are the air intake and exhaust system. The induction system directs air towards barrel throttles that are individual to each cylinder – a technology that is not suitable for road use but offers clear advantages in engine performance, including improved throttle response.

The engine also incorporates low-volume machined components optimised for performance and is entirely gear-driven; there are no chains or belts for ancillary systems. Output is greater than 840PS, with the full benefit of the ram effect provided by the high air intake and the engine revving past 10,000rpm. Maximum torque is in excess of 650Nm.

The resulting performance is a target acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from standstill to 100km/h and a maximum speed in excess of 200mph, despite the Solus GT generating downforce that exceeds its weight.

Competition gearbox

  • Seven-speed sequential gearbox
  • Incorporates bespoke casting and aluminium casing with magnesium panels; rear suspension locates to gearbox
  • Uses motorsport-derived straight-cut gears
  • Carbon fibre clutch with automated software control for combination of both aggressive shift strategy and user-friendly operation

The Solus GT has a seven-speed sequential gearbox, with race-proven internals located within a bespoke casting and casing, designed as a mounting point for the rear suspension. The casing is made from aluminium, with magnesium panels optimising weight.

Originally designed for LMP sportscar applications, the gearbox internals include straight-cut gears, a technology not usually incorporated in production cars for reasons of NVH refinement but acknowledged as providing greater efficiency than helical-cut gears in a high-performance track car.

The gearbox is engaged by a carbon fibre clutch, designed to complement aggressive gearshift strategy demanded in a track application. It is though also fully automated and controlled by software – removing the need for a pedal or lever-operated clutch control – to aid the driver when pulling away from the pit-lane.

Track-focused suspension design

  • Formula 1-inspired suspension design incorporates double wishbones and front pushrod and rear pullrod activated torsion bars
  • Manually adjustable four-way dampers
  • Incorporates anti-roll bars, ride-height springs and a heave spring and damper system

The McLaren Solus GT was designed from the outset as a track-only car and its suspension follows the principles of motorsport engineering, starting with the wheels located via double wishbones. With the front wheels mounted outboard of the main body, the front damping is inboard with pushrods operating torsion bars and corner dampers. At the rear, the bars are linked to pullrods, and the rear suspension is mounted to the gearbox casing.

The wishbones and rods are fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, but the front suspension links are encased in carbon fibre shrouds for aerodynamic efficiency. The system also incorporates ride height springs and a heave spring and damper system. This is employed to provide stiffness at speed by limiting vertical movement, the effect of this is to create a more aerodynamically stable profile, making the car’s dynamic behaviour at speed more predictable and therefore increasing driver confidence on high-speed tracks.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers with carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted by the driver in the cockpit.

Each axle is linked by anti-roll bars, which are connected via drop links. Both bars are adjustable.

The complete – and bespoke – MSO customer journey

  • Complete customer journey includes involvement in product development
  • Fully bespoke product – each car is unique
  • Full racing driver experience available, including bespoke driver-wear and tailored seat

Solus GT showcases the level of craftmanship available to McLaren customers through McLaren Special Operations.

From the beginning of the development process, individual presentations were given to customers wishing to secure one of the 25 cars available. This has previously taken place only for purchasers of the McLaren Sabre, a car homologated for the US market only, whereas with Solus GT being a track-only product, the customer base is global.

The 25 Solus GT depositors have also been involved throughout in the finer details of the car’s development from the virtual world to the real world, with new, MSO-developed software at the core of realising the vision of each customer. This bespoke, individual approach reflects an intimate accessibility to McLaren that goes beyond even the usual levels of luxury experience and engagement.

Additionally, a dynamic video that features a prototype Solus GT running on track will be available to download 15 minutes after this release is issued. 

About McLaren Automotive:
McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars.

Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 100 retailers in over 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993 it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT and confirmed in 2018 that the next Ultimate car would be the Speedtail.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International and Tumi.

About McLaren Group:
The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

From fantasy to reality – McLaren Solus GT revealed as extreme expression of track driving engagement

  • World-first, track-only realisation of McLaren concept that debuted in the virtual gaming world
  • Limited to just 25 customer cars – all sold before public reveal
  • Engineered to reality using technologies from McLaren’s presence across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development
  • Striking central, single-seat, closed-cockpit design with jet aircraft-style sliding canopy
  • Unique monocoque chassis with motorsport-derived powertrain a structural element
  • Naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine and bespoke seven-speed, sequential shift gearbox
  • Weighs less than 1,000kg and has more than 1,200kg of downforce
  • V10 engine revs to more than 10,000rpm and produces in excess of 840PS and 650Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-10a0km/h in a target time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph
  • A full ‘racing driver experience’ available, including a driving seat moulded to individual body shape, an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS (Head And Neck Support) device bespoke to each owner, and driver-development coaching programme
  • First cars will be delivered to customers in 2023

McLaren Automotive today reveals the McLaren Solus GT, the stunning realisation of a concept car from the screens of virtual racing into an extreme expression of track driving engagement that will exhilarate in the real world.

A special commission for just 25 customers – with all cars already sold – the single-seat, closed-cockpit track car was unveiled during Monterey Car Week in California by Michael Leiters, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer.

Engineered to reality by drawing on the full range of McLaren’s experience and expertise across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development, the Solus GT brings to life the futuristic McLaren concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

At less than 1,000kg in weight and with aerodynamic performance including downforce in excess of 1,200kg, the Solus GT – which is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine – is capable of the fastest lap times of any McLaren outside of single-seater racing and delivers a driving experience close to the engagement and sensation of driving a Formula 1 car.

“The McLaren Solus GT is the realisation of a radical McLaren concept vehicle originally created for the world of virtual racing. Engineered free of any restrictions from road or race regulations, but with the full spectrum of McLaren’s expertise to bring it to reality, it epitomises our pioneering spirit.”
Michael Leiters, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The striking exterior design, which is remarkably faithful to its virtual inspiration, is based on proven aerodynamic principles and McLaren’s ‘everything for a reason’ design ethos, honed by additional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel aerodynamic research.

The list of distinctive external features is lengthy, with the sliding canopy above the single, central seat being one of the most striking. The wheels are shrouded in aerodynamic pods and located by suspension arms. A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels before it exits the car via a full diffuser. A motorsport-inspired intake above the cockpit integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover feeds cold air into the engine, while also providing an engaging induction sound. Race car design also inspired the sidepods which house the Solus GT’s radiators.

A twin-element, fixed rear wing is key to a downforce figure that exceeds the overall weight of the car. The downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance as well as enhancing cornering abilities.

The Solus GT experience begins even before the engine is started, with the driver opening the distinctive cockpit canopy that slides forward through a shallow arc to allow access. This is nothing like a conventional car door, or even the signature dihedral doors of other McLaren cars, rather more like stepping into a jet fighter plane.

The means of getting into the car adds to the sense of occasion provided by the single seat that dominates an interior focused solely on the driver and performance. The seat position is fixed – the 25 Solus GT owners experience their own motorsport-style ‘seat fitting’ – with the pedal box adjustable as in a race car, although with the convenience of a remote system operated from the seating position.

The steering wheel – the design of which is unique among McLaren production cars – takes its inspiration from Formula 1, with dash display and essential controls integrated to suit the tight confines of a single-seater track car. Beyond the steering wheel is a view through the glass ‘bubble’, with integrated halo-style cockpit protection – mounted to which is a rear-view display fed by a wide-angle camera placed within the roll hoop. The perfectly symmetrical 180-degree line of sight provided by the central driving position is further aided by the dramatically styled wheel pods in helping the driver to position the car on a track.

To further enhance the exhilaration for Solus GT customers, McLaren is offering a full ‘racing driver experience’. This includes a driving seat moulded to the driver’s individual body shape; an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device bespoke to each owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts. A full driver-development coaching programme will also be available to help customers fully exploit the potential of their new track hypercar.

The Solus GT is powered by a unique 5.2-litre V10, constructed using low-volume, machined components, that revs to more than 10,000rpm and delivers extreme performance and thrilling driver engagement. The engine’s responsiveness is enhanced by the use of barrel-driven throttles for each cylinder – a system only suitable for track application – and is entirely gear-driven, with no chains or belts for camshaft or ancillary systems.

In addition to having power and torque outputs in excess respectively of 840PS and 650Nm, the engine was also chosen for its structural qualities; for the first time in a McLaren production car, the engine is an integral part of the chassis. Conventional practice in race car construction, this design approach optimises weight reduction by negating the need for additional chassis structures or subframes behind the carbon fibre monocoque.

The race-derived seven-speed sequential gearbox, which features a bespoke casting and casing – the latter manufactured from aluminium with magnesium panels – is mounted to the back of the engine with the rear suspension fixed to the gearbox casing. Internally, straight-cut gears engaged via a multi-plate carbon fibre clutch are ideally suited to the aggressive shifts demanded in a track application. The system is fully automated and software controlled, removing the need for the driver to operate the clutch, aiding pit-lane pull-away.

In common with every McLaren since 1981, the Solus GT is based around a carbon-fibre monocoque, in this case one created using specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process for higher structural strength and a high uniformity of finish to the material. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbon fibre, with the engine and gearbox forming the rest of the chassis.

Carbon fibre is not the only high-value material in the Solus GT. Further embracing technologies used in the top tiers of motorsport, 3D-printed titanium components have been used for the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. This is the first time the approach has been adopted for structural elements in a McLaren production car, allowing a tailored design as well reducing weight.

The suspension system incorporates double wishbones with inboard torsion bar damping, operated via pushrods at the front and pullrods at the rear. Both axles are linked by anti-roll bars, with tuning options available to the driver. Fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, the front suspension links are encased in aerodynamic carbon fibre shrouds similar to the approach in Formula 1.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers and carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted in the cockpit by the driver.

Traditional performance metrics are not as relevant for a track car, but with a target time of 2.5 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration and a maximum speed of more than 200mph – in combination with the car’s light weight and strong aerodynamic abilities – the McLaren Solus GT has the performance credentials needed for an extreme track machine.

In incorporating every element that has made McLaren a world-beating automotive force, the Solus GT is also a showcase for the craftmanship available to McLaren customers from McLaren Special Operations (MSO). With a project such as this, the MSO service goes beyond the car itself to a level of luxury customer engagement and accessibility unique to McLaren. A bespoking process ensures every Solus GT is unique and regular updates on the development programme, including access to prototype drive sessions that can influence the driving characteristics of the car ahead of production, are offered.

Solus GT track events are planned, and all cars will be delivered with a flight case to allow owners to support their own track activities. This includes a comprehensive set of tools, vehicle jacks, stands, radio sets and a coolant pre-heater.

The McLaren Solus GT is currently at the track-testing stage of its development process. The first of 25 customer cars – all of which are sold – will be delivered in 2023.

The McLaren Solus GT in detail
A concept for the virtual world becomes reality

  • Originally a virtual concept driven by millions in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game; now a reality as the astonishing McLaren Solus GT
  • Striking single, centre-seat cockpit and strong focus on aerodynamic principles throughout
  • Showcases McLaren signature design features, including ‘hammerhead’ front, teardrop-shaped cabin and ‘shrink-wrapped’ bodywork

The roots of the McLaren Solus GT are in a stunning concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

From the original design sketches through to the virtual gaming triumph and now the astonishing machine that an exclusive few customers will enjoy on track, this is a car that epitomises the ‘everything for a reason’ design philosophy and relentless pursuit of engineering excellence within every McLaren. From the outset, the concept was based on proven aerodynamic principles, with a sports-prototype racecar package as its foundation.

The bodywork is very much a technical sculpture, shrink-wrapped over the high-performance engineering package and the two full-length ground effect tunnels. These contain distinctive air intakes at the front and a NACA duct – a low-drag air inlet – which also acts as a step, accelerating the airflow into the radiators.

From the front, the distinctive McLaren ‘hammerhead’ nose helps to separate airflow from the underbody ground effects and the full-length diffuser. The visibility from the wraparound canopy screen of the teardrop cockpit is outstanding, with an uncluttered, 180-degree view of a track. The wheel pods in each corner are not only a dominating design feature, they also allow overall weight-reduction and individually ‘work’ the airflow with a distinctive tear-drop shape that ends in a dramatic blade-like rear edge to calm the turbulent air in the wake of each tyre and mitigate pressure build-up within the wheel well.

The rear of the car features a full clam that provides easy access to the engine bay, with super-low trailing bodywork edges that employ the same principles as the Speedtail in order to minimise base pressure across the back of the car, reducing drag.

Engineering a virtual design into extreme reality

  • Naturally-aspirated V10 engine chosen to optimise performance, driver engagement and packaging
  • Aerodynamic performance integrated into bodywork surfaces to preserve overall shape using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel research
  • Heavily optimised structural work includes monocoque geometry

The original engineering brief for the McLaren Solus GT was to turn a prestigious virtual gaming concept into an extremely powerful and highly exclusive McLaren hypercar. This was to be a track-only car, with motorsport engineering expertise and a V10 powertrain coming together to deliver the supreme driver engagement demanded for a no-compromises experience.

The racing-derived engine was chosen for reasons of packaging as well as performance; a pared-down track car with minimal weight and shrink-wrapped bodywork meant having the engine as part of the chassis was a natural choice. This construction technique is rarely seen in production cars for NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) reasons, but in a focused track car it gives many benefits, not least added feedback and exhilarating engagement for the driver.

Once the programme parameters were set, the engineering team faced the challenge of integrating real-world aerodynamic performance into the original design surfaces. This was resolved with extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind-tunnel work to prove the aerodynamic, cooling and efficiency properties of the concept.

Racing-inspired chassis design and construction

  • Bespoke monocoque structure employs Formula 1 chassis technologies, with front and rear carbon structures
  • Low-volume, carbon ‘pre-preg’ process provides strength, rigidity and quality of finish
  • Engine and gearbox are stressed chassis members; carbon crash structure is incorporated into gearbox
  • 3D printing techniques used for structural components – titanium halo protection and rollover bar

Like every McLaren built in the last 40 years, the Solus GT features a carbon-fibre monocoque at its heart. However, the single-seat cockpit and production-based engineering processes demanded a bespoke approach embracing the differing disciplines of competition and road car construction and the resulting design takes greater inspiration from motorsport than other McLaren Automotive products, with the monocoque using Formula 1 and sportscar racing chassis technologies. The front and rear impact structures are made from carbon fibre – traditionally McLaren Automotive chassis structures feature aluminium structures fixed to the passenger cell – and with the engine and gearbox both stressed chassis members, there is no requirement for a rear subframe.

The construction of the chassis employs specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process whereby the carbon fibre is pre-impregnated with a resin system that simplifies the curing process. The material is ready to lay into the mould before heat and pressure treatment is applied, allowing the higher structural strength demanded by a track-only car. The process also allows a high uniformity of finish to the material that enhances visual appeal.

The chassis of the Solus GT also features 3D-printed titanium components, including the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. While previously used by McLaren Automotive– notably for the exhaust system of the Elva – this is the first use of the technology for structural components in a McLaren production car and demonstrates the absolute focus applied to finding the best solutions for the Solus GT.

Refined and optimised bodywork and aerodynamics

  • Carbon fibre bodywork incorporates aerodynamic surfaces including front splitter, individual wheel pods, structural floor with ground-effect tunnels and fixed, twin-element, high-downforce rear wing
  • Huge downforce generated – at 1,200kg, greater than the weight of the car – with drag penalty minimised for straight-line speed
  • Formula 1-inspired, carbon fibre suspension aero shrouds, air intakes and sidepod-mounted radiators

Despite the freedom the development team enjoyed in exploring the boundaries of possibilities for the Solus GT as a track car, the exterior design of the virtual reality concept did impose restrictions on what could be done if the real car was to retain the ‘wow factor’ of the car that featured in Gran Turismo SPORT.

As befits an ultra-lightweight track-only car, the bodywork of Solus GT is made from carbon fibre; the complex shapes and swooping lines achieved without the weight penalties that would come from the use of conventional metal panels. The form of these has been finely honed – ironically in virtual reality – to ensure stability and maximise aerodynamic efficiency for both straight line-speed and downforce.

A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels in the full structural floor, which has been designed to accept high aerodynamic loads. The air exits the car via a full diffuser. The front wheels are outboard of the main bodywork, with the suspension wishbones exposed to the airflow and shrouded in aerodynamically-shaped carbon fibre that directs air towards the sidepod-mounted radiators. The sidepod-siting of the high-temperature radiators is directly inspired by motorsport, providing a direct cooling solution for engine fluids and reducing frontal surface area.

A motorsport-inspired air intake above the cockpit, which is integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover, takes in cold and flow-conditioned air above the car while also creating a pleasingly engaging engine induction sound.

The twin-element, fixed rear wing is one of the more distinctive visual features of Solus GT. Designed to maximise downforce over the rear of the car, it works alongside the combination of high-downforce ground effect and low pitch sensitivity from the motorsport-derived suspension system, to negate the need for active front or rear wings and so help to keep weight down.

Overall, the aerodynamic package downforce exceeds the total weight of the car, but the downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance and enhancing cornering speeds.

Unique, single central seat interior

  • Driver enters car via sliding canopy incorporating Formula 1-style halo cockpit protection device
  • Single-seat cockpit with fixed seat and adjustable pedals
  • Main driver controls and TFT instrument display mounted on carbon-fibre-structured steering wheel
  • Rear wide-angle camera located above roll-hoop, linked to driver view screen

The Solus GT McLaren driving experience begins even before the V10 engine is started – simply stepping into the cockpit is an event in itself. Instead of signature McLaren dihedral doors, a sliding canopy – more akin to that of a fighter jet – is opened using a mechanical lever. The spring-loaded canopy moves through a shallow arc, lifting clear of the cockpit and sliding forwards to allow easy access to the driving seat.

Recent technological safety innovations from the top tiers of motorsport are integrated in the design, with the canopy reinforced by a halo-style structure to protect the driver. An escape hatch is also built into the canopy to allow safe departure from the cockpit should the sliding mechanism be obstructed.

The interior is purpose-built for extreme track performance; an owner can specify their car with an entirely bespoke environment, but it will remain focused on the driving experience. The moulded seat is fitted with a 6-point harness and is fixed in position; instead, the pedal box is adjustable as in a race car, but with the convenience of being able to be operated from a sitting position.

To ensure the single seat is a perfect fit for the customer, MSO has adopted a process taken from motorsport which is yet another example of the full range of McLaren expertise being available for the Solus GT. A phenolic resin-based system with advanced micro-bead technology is used to create a mould from which the seat is created, ensuring in turn that the driver remains comfortable in the car throughout the most intense track driving sessions.

Almost all controls are concentrated on the steering wheel, which is constructed from carbon fibre. Inspired directly by motorsport, all essential functions are easily reached with both hands on the wheel. A full HVAC air system also keeps the driver fully alert throughout the driving experience.

Above the driver’s head are switches for vehicle ignition and the fully plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher. This area also houses the rear-view display, streamed in real-time from a camera located on the roll hoop behind the driver’s head. The wide-angle camera provides a comprehensive rear view of the track to allow traffic to pass on a slowing-down lap or aid pit-lane manoeuvring.

Powertrain with a proven motorsport pedigree

  • Motorsport-derived, naturally-aspirated 5.2 litre V10 engine that revs to over 10,000rpm
  • McLaren-specific engine, with crank, cylinder capacity, air intake and exhaust system all bespoke to Solus GT
  • Gear-driven camshaft and ancillary systems, with no chains or belts in the engine
  • Barrel throttles for individual cylinders sharpen throttle response

The 5.2-litre V10 engine specified to power the McLaren Solus GT is incorporated into the vehicle chassis structure. The engine capacity is unique to the Solus GT, as are the air intake and exhaust system. The induction system directs air towards barrel throttles that are individual to each cylinder – a technology that is not suitable for road use but offers clear advantages in engine performance, including improved throttle response.

The engine also incorporates low-volume machined components optimised for performance and is entirely gear-driven; there are no chains or belts for ancillary systems. Output is greater than 840PS, with the full benefit of the ram effect provided by the high air intake and the engine revving past 10,000rpm. Maximum torque is in excess of 650Nm.

The resulting performance is a target acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from standstill to 100km/h and a maximum speed in excess of 200mph, despite the Solus GT generating downforce that exceeds its weight.

Competition gearbox

  • Seven-speed sequential gearbox
  • Incorporates bespoke casting and aluminium casing with magnesium panels; rear suspension locates to gearbox
  • Uses motorsport-derived straight-cut gears
  • Carbon fibre clutch with automated software control for combination of both aggressive shift strategy and user-friendly operation

The Solus GT has a seven-speed sequential gearbox, with race-proven internals located within a bespoke casting and casing, designed as a mounting point for the rear suspension. The casing is made from aluminium, with magnesium panels optimising weight.

Originally designed for LMP sportscar applications, the gearbox internals include straight-cut gears, a technology not usually incorporated in production cars for reasons of NVH refinement but acknowledged as providing greater efficiency than helical-cut gears in a high-performance track car.

The gearbox is engaged by a carbon fibre clutch, designed to complement aggressive gearshift strategy demanded in a track application. It is though also fully automated and controlled by software – removing the need for a pedal or lever-operated clutch control – to aid the driver when pulling away from the pit-lane.

Track-focused suspension design

  • Formula 1-inspired suspension design incorporates double wishbones and front pushrod and rear pullrod activated torsion bars
  • Manually adjustable four-way dampers
  • Incorporates anti-roll bars, ride-height springs and a heave spring and damper system

The McLaren Solus GT was designed from the outset as a track-only car and its suspension follows the principles of motorsport engineering, starting with the wheels located via double wishbones. With the front wheels mounted outboard of the main body, the front damping is inboard with pushrods operating torsion bars and corner dampers. At the rear, the bars are linked to pullrods, and the rear suspension is mounted to the gearbox casing.

The wishbones and rods are fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, but the front suspension links are encased in carbon fibre shrouds for aerodynamic efficiency. The system also incorporates ride height springs and a heave spring and damper system. This is employed to provide stiffness at speed by limiting vertical movement, the effect of this is to create a more aerodynamically stable profile, making the car’s dynamic behaviour at speed more predictable and therefore increasing driver confidence on high-speed tracks.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers with carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted by the driver in the cockpit.

Each axle is linked by anti-roll bars, which are connected via drop links. Both bars are adjustable.

The complete – and bespoke – MSO customer journey

  • Complete customer journey includes involvement in product development
  • Fully bespoke product – each car is unique
  • Full racing driver experience available, including bespoke driver-wear and tailored seat

Solus GT showcases the level of craftmanship available to McLaren customers through McLaren Special Operations.

From the beginning of the development process, individual presentations were given to customers wishing to secure one of the 25 cars available. This has previously taken place only for purchasers of the McLaren Sabre, a car homologated for the US market only, whereas with Solus GT being a track-only product, the customer base is global.

The 25 Solus GT depositors have also been involved throughout in the finer details of the car’s development from the virtual world to the real world, with new, MSO-developed software at the core of realising the vision of each customer. This bespoke, individual approach reflects an intimate accessibility to McLaren that goes beyond even the usual levels of luxury experience and engagement.

Additionally, a dynamic video that features a prototype Solus GT running on track will be available to download 15 minutes after this release is issued. 

About McLaren Automotive:
McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars.

Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 100 retailers in over 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993 it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT and confirmed in 2018 that the next Ultimate car would be the Speedtail.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International and Tumi.

About McLaren Group:
The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

From fantasy to reality – McLaren Solus GT revealed as extreme expression of track driving engagement

  • World-first, track-only realisation of McLaren concept that debuted in the virtual gaming world
  • Limited to just 25 customer cars – all sold before public reveal
  • Engineered to reality using technologies from McLaren’s presence across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development
  • Striking central, single-seat, closed-cockpit design with jet aircraft-style sliding canopy
  • Unique monocoque chassis with motorsport-derived powertrain a structural element
  • Naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine and bespoke seven-speed, sequential shift gearbox
  • Weighs less than 1,000kg and has more than 1,200kg of downforce
  • V10 engine revs to more than 10,000rpm and produces in excess of 840PS and 650Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-10a0km/h in a target time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph
  • A full ‘racing driver experience’ available, including a driving seat moulded to individual body shape, an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS (Head And Neck Support) device bespoke to each owner, and driver-development coaching programme
  • First cars will be delivered to customers in 2023

McLaren Automotive today reveals the McLaren Solus GT, the stunning realisation of a concept car from the screens of virtual racing into an extreme expression of track driving engagement that will exhilarate in the real world.

A special commission for just 25 customers – with all cars already sold – the single-seat, closed-cockpit track car was unveiled during Monterey Car Week in California by Michael Leiters, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer.

Engineered to reality by drawing on the full range of McLaren’s experience and expertise across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development, the Solus GT brings to life the futuristic McLaren concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

At less than 1,000kg in weight and with aerodynamic performance including downforce in excess of 1,200kg, the Solus GT – which is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine – is capable of the fastest lap times of any McLaren outside of single-seater racing and delivers a driving experience close to the engagement and sensation of driving a Formula 1 car.

“The McLaren Solus GT is the realisation of a radical McLaren concept vehicle originally created for the world of virtual racing. Engineered free of any restrictions from road or race regulations, but with the full spectrum of McLaren’s expertise to bring it to reality, it epitomises our pioneering spirit.”
Michael Leiters, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The striking exterior design, which is remarkably faithful to its virtual inspiration, is based on proven aerodynamic principles and McLaren’s ‘everything for a reason’ design ethos, honed by additional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel aerodynamic research.

The list of distinctive external features is lengthy, with the sliding canopy above the single, central seat being one of the most striking. The wheels are shrouded in aerodynamic pods and located by suspension arms. A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels before it exits the car via a full diffuser. A motorsport-inspired intake above the cockpit integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover feeds cold air into the engine, while also providing an engaging induction sound. Race car design also inspired the sidepods which house the Solus GT’s radiators.

A twin-element, fixed rear wing is key to a downforce figure that exceeds the overall weight of the car. The downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance as well as enhancing cornering abilities.

The Solus GT experience begins even before the engine is started, with the driver opening the distinctive cockpit canopy that slides forward through a shallow arc to allow access. This is nothing like a conventional car door, or even the signature dihedral doors of other McLaren cars, rather more like stepping into a jet fighter plane.

The means of getting into the car adds to the sense of occasion provided by the single seat that dominates an interior focused solely on the driver and performance. The seat position is fixed – the 25 Solus GT owners experience their own motorsport-style ‘seat fitting’ – with the pedal box adjustable as in a race car, although with the convenience of a remote system operated from the seating position.

The steering wheel – the design of which is unique among McLaren production cars – takes its inspiration from Formula 1, with dash display and essential controls integrated to suit the tight confines of a single-seater track car. Beyond the steering wheel is a view through the glass ‘bubble’, with integrated halo-style cockpit protection – mounted to which is a rear-view display fed by a wide-angle camera placed within the roll hoop. The perfectly symmetrical 180-degree line of sight provided by the central driving position is further aided by the dramatically styled wheel pods in helping the driver to position the car on a track.

To further enhance the exhilaration for Solus GT customers, McLaren is offering a full ‘racing driver experience’. This includes a driving seat moulded to the driver’s individual body shape; an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device bespoke to each owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts. A full driver-development coaching programme will also be available to help customers fully exploit the potential of their new track hypercar.

The Solus GT is powered by a unique 5.2-litre V10, constructed using low-volume, machined components, that revs to more than 10,000rpm and delivers extreme performance and thrilling driver engagement. The engine’s responsiveness is enhanced by the use of barrel-driven throttles for each cylinder – a system only suitable for track application – and is entirely gear-driven, with no chains or belts for camshaft or ancillary systems.

In addition to having power and torque outputs in excess respectively of 840PS and 650Nm, the engine was also chosen for its structural qualities; for the first time in a McLaren production car, the engine is an integral part of the chassis. Conventional practice in race car construction, this design approach optimises weight reduction by negating the need for additional chassis structures or subframes behind the carbon fibre monocoque.

The race-derived seven-speed sequential gearbox, which features a bespoke casting and casing – the latter manufactured from aluminium with magnesium panels – is mounted to the back of the engine with the rear suspension fixed to the gearbox casing. Internally, straight-cut gears engaged via a multi-plate carbon fibre clutch are ideally suited to the aggressive shifts demanded in a track application. The system is fully automated and software controlled, removing the need for the driver to operate the clutch, aiding pit-lane pull-away.

In common with every McLaren since 1981, the Solus GT is based around a carbon-fibre monocoque, in this case one created using specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process for higher structural strength and a high uniformity of finish to the material. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbon fibre, with the engine and gearbox forming the rest of the chassis.

Carbon fibre is not the only high-value material in the Solus GT. Further embracing technologies used in the top tiers of motorsport, 3D-printed titanium components have been used for the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. This is the first time the approach has been adopted for structural elements in a McLaren production car, allowing a tailored design as well reducing weight.

The suspension system incorporates double wishbones with inboard torsion bar damping, operated via pushrods at the front and pullrods at the rear. Both axles are linked by anti-roll bars, with tuning options available to the driver. Fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, the front suspension links are encased in aerodynamic carbon fibre shrouds similar to the approach in Formula 1.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers and carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted in the cockpit by the driver.

Traditional performance metrics are not as relevant for a track car, but with a target time of 2.5 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration and a maximum speed of more than 200mph – in combination with the car’s light weight and strong aerodynamic abilities – the McLaren Solus GT has the performance credentials needed for an extreme track machine.

In incorporating every element that has made McLaren a world-beating automotive force, the Solus GT is also a showcase for the craftmanship available to McLaren customers from McLaren Special Operations (MSO). With a project such as this, the MSO service goes beyond the car itself to a level of luxury customer engagement and accessibility unique to McLaren. A bespoking process ensures every Solus GT is unique and regular updates on the development programme, including access to prototype drive sessions that can influence the driving characteristics of the car ahead of production, are offered.

Solus GT track events are planned, and all cars will be delivered with a flight case to allow owners to support their own track activities. This includes a comprehensive set of tools, vehicle jacks, stands, radio sets and a coolant pre-heater.

The McLaren Solus GT is currently at the track-testing stage of its development process. The first of 25 customer cars – all of which are sold – will be delivered in 2023.

The McLaren Solus GT in detail
A concept for the virtual world becomes reality

  • Originally a virtual concept driven by millions in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game; now a reality as the astonishing McLaren Solus GT
  • Striking single, centre-seat cockpit and strong focus on aerodynamic principles throughout
  • Showcases McLaren signature design features, including ‘hammerhead’ front, teardrop-shaped cabin and ‘shrink-wrapped’ bodywork

The roots of the McLaren Solus GT are in a stunning concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

From the original design sketches through to the virtual gaming triumph and now the astonishing machine that an exclusive few customers will enjoy on track, this is a car that epitomises the ‘everything for a reason’ design philosophy and relentless pursuit of engineering excellence within every McLaren. From the outset, the concept was based on proven aerodynamic principles, with a sports-prototype racecar package as its foundation.

The bodywork is very much a technical sculpture, shrink-wrapped over the high-performance engineering package and the two full-length ground effect tunnels. These contain distinctive air intakes at the front and a NACA duct – a low-drag air inlet – which also acts as a step, accelerating the airflow into the radiators.

From the front, the distinctive McLaren ‘hammerhead’ nose helps to separate airflow from the underbody ground effects and the full-length diffuser. The visibility from the wraparound canopy screen of the teardrop cockpit is outstanding, with an uncluttered, 180-degree view of a track. The wheel pods in each corner are not only a dominating design feature, they also allow overall weight-reduction and individually ‘work’ the airflow with a distinctive tear-drop shape that ends in a dramatic blade-like rear edge to calm the turbulent air in the wake of each tyre and mitigate pressure build-up within the wheel well.

The rear of the car features a full clam that provides easy access to the engine bay, with super-low trailing bodywork edges that employ the same principles as the Speedtail in order to minimise base pressure across the back of the car, reducing drag.

Engineering a virtual design into extreme reality

  • Naturally-aspirated V10 engine chosen to optimise performance, driver engagement and packaging
  • Aerodynamic performance integrated into bodywork surfaces to preserve overall shape using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel research
  • Heavily optimised structural work includes monocoque geometry

The original engineering brief for the McLaren Solus GT was to turn a prestigious virtual gaming concept into an extremely powerful and highly exclusive McLaren hypercar. This was to be a track-only car, with motorsport engineering expertise and a V10 powertrain coming together to deliver the supreme driver engagement demanded for a no-compromises experience.

The racing-derived engine was chosen for reasons of packaging as well as performance; a pared-down track car with minimal weight and shrink-wrapped bodywork meant having the engine as part of the chassis was a natural choice. This construction technique is rarely seen in production cars for NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) reasons, but in a focused track car it gives many benefits, not least added feedback and exhilarating engagement for the driver.

Once the programme parameters were set, the engineering team faced the challenge of integrating real-world aerodynamic performance into the original design surfaces. This was resolved with extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind-tunnel work to prove the aerodynamic, cooling and efficiency properties of the concept.

Racing-inspired chassis design and construction

  • Bespoke monocoque structure employs Formula 1 chassis technologies, with front and rear carbon structures
  • Low-volume, carbon ‘pre-preg’ process provides strength, rigidity and quality of finish
  • Engine and gearbox are stressed chassis members; carbon crash structure is incorporated into gearbox
  • 3D printing techniques used for structural components – titanium halo protection and rollover bar

Like every McLaren built in the last 40 years, the Solus GT features a carbon-fibre monocoque at its heart. However, the single-seat cockpit and production-based engineering processes demanded a bespoke approach embracing the differing disciplines of competition and road car construction and the resulting design takes greater inspiration from motorsport than other McLaren Automotive products, with the monocoque using Formula 1 and sportscar racing chassis technologies. The front and rear impact structures are made from carbon fibre – traditionally McLaren Automotive chassis structures feature aluminium structures fixed to the passenger cell – and with the engine and gearbox both stressed chassis members, there is no requirement for a rear subframe.

The construction of the chassis employs specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process whereby the carbon fibre is pre-impregnated with a resin system that simplifies the curing process. The material is ready to lay into the mould before heat and pressure treatment is applied, allowing the higher structural strength demanded by a track-only car. The process also allows a high uniformity of finish to the material that enhances visual appeal.

The chassis of the Solus GT also features 3D-printed titanium components, including the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. While previously used by McLaren Automotive– notably for the exhaust system of the Elva – this is the first use of the technology for structural components in a McLaren production car and demonstrates the absolute focus applied to finding the best solutions for the Solus GT.

Refined and optimised bodywork and aerodynamics

  • Carbon fibre bodywork incorporates aerodynamic surfaces including front splitter, individual wheel pods, structural floor with ground-effect tunnels and fixed, twin-element, high-downforce rear wing
  • Huge downforce generated – at 1,200kg, greater than the weight of the car – with drag penalty minimised for straight-line speed
  • Formula 1-inspired, carbon fibre suspension aero shrouds, air intakes and sidepod-mounted radiators

Despite the freedom the development team enjoyed in exploring the boundaries of possibilities for the Solus GT as a track car, the exterior design of the virtual reality concept did impose restrictions on what could be done if the real car was to retain the ‘wow factor’ of the car that featured in Gran Turismo SPORT.

As befits an ultra-lightweight track-only car, the bodywork of Solus GT is made from carbon fibre; the complex shapes and swooping lines achieved without the weight penalties that would come from the use of conventional metal panels. The form of these has been finely honed – ironically in virtual reality – to ensure stability and maximise aerodynamic efficiency for both straight line-speed and downforce.

A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels in the full structural floor, which has been designed to accept high aerodynamic loads. The air exits the car via a full diffuser. The front wheels are outboard of the main bodywork, with the suspension wishbones exposed to the airflow and shrouded in aerodynamically-shaped carbon fibre that directs air towards the sidepod-mounted radiators. The sidepod-siting of the high-temperature radiators is directly inspired by motorsport, providing a direct cooling solution for engine fluids and reducing frontal surface area.

A motorsport-inspired air intake above the cockpit, which is integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover, takes in cold and flow-conditioned air above the car while also creating a pleasingly engaging engine induction sound.

The twin-element, fixed rear wing is one of the more distinctive visual features of Solus GT. Designed to maximise downforce over the rear of the car, it works alongside the combination of high-downforce ground effect and low pitch sensitivity from the motorsport-derived suspension system, to negate the need for active front or rear wings and so help to keep weight down.

Overall, the aerodynamic package downforce exceeds the total weight of the car, but the downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance and enhancing cornering speeds.

Unique, single central seat interior

  • Driver enters car via sliding canopy incorporating Formula 1-style halo cockpit protection device
  • Single-seat cockpit with fixed seat and adjustable pedals
  • Main driver controls and TFT instrument display mounted on carbon-fibre-structured steering wheel
  • Rear wide-angle camera located above roll-hoop, linked to driver view screen

The Solus GT McLaren driving experience begins even before the V10 engine is started – simply stepping into the cockpit is an event in itself. Instead of signature McLaren dihedral doors, a sliding canopy – more akin to that of a fighter jet – is opened using a mechanical lever. The spring-loaded canopy moves through a shallow arc, lifting clear of the cockpit and sliding forwards to allow easy access to the driving seat.

Recent technological safety innovations from the top tiers of motorsport are integrated in the design, with the canopy reinforced by a halo-style structure to protect the driver. An escape hatch is also built into the canopy to allow safe departure from the cockpit should the sliding mechanism be obstructed.

The interior is purpose-built for extreme track performance; an owner can specify their car with an entirely bespoke environment, but it will remain focused on the driving experience. The moulded seat is fitted with a 6-point harness and is fixed in position; instead, the pedal box is adjustable as in a race car, but with the convenience of being able to be operated from a sitting position.

To ensure the single seat is a perfect fit for the customer, MSO has adopted a process taken from motorsport which is yet another example of the full range of McLaren expertise being available for the Solus GT. A phenolic resin-based system with advanced micro-bead technology is used to create a mould from which the seat is created, ensuring in turn that the driver remains comfortable in the car throughout the most intense track driving sessions.

Almost all controls are concentrated on the steering wheel, which is constructed from carbon fibre. Inspired directly by motorsport, all essential functions are easily reached with both hands on the wheel. A full HVAC air system also keeps the driver fully alert throughout the driving experience.

Above the driver’s head are switches for vehicle ignition and the fully plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher. This area also houses the rear-view display, streamed in real-time from a camera located on the roll hoop behind the driver’s head. The wide-angle camera provides a comprehensive rear view of the track to allow traffic to pass on a slowing-down lap or aid pit-lane manoeuvring.

Powertrain with a proven motorsport pedigree

  • Motorsport-derived, naturally-aspirated 5.2 litre V10 engine that revs to over 10,000rpm
  • McLaren-specific engine, with crank, cylinder capacity, air intake and exhaust system all bespoke to Solus GT
  • Gear-driven camshaft and ancillary systems, with no chains or belts in the engine
  • Barrel throttles for individual cylinders sharpen throttle response

The 5.2-litre V10 engine specified to power the McLaren Solus GT is incorporated into the vehicle chassis structure. The engine capacity is unique to the Solus GT, as are the air intake and exhaust system. The induction system directs air towards barrel throttles that are individual to each cylinder – a technology that is not suitable for road use but offers clear advantages in engine performance, including improved throttle response.

The engine also incorporates low-volume machined components optimised for performance and is entirely gear-driven; there are no chains or belts for ancillary systems. Output is greater than 840PS, with the full benefit of the ram effect provided by the high air intake and the engine revving past 10,000rpm. Maximum torque is in excess of 650Nm.

The resulting performance is a target acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from standstill to 100km/h and a maximum speed in excess of 200mph, despite the Solus GT generating downforce that exceeds its weight.

Competition gearbox

  • Seven-speed sequential gearbox
  • Incorporates bespoke casting and aluminium casing with magnesium panels; rear suspension locates to gearbox
  • Uses motorsport-derived straight-cut gears
  • Carbon fibre clutch with automated software control for combination of both aggressive shift strategy and user-friendly operation

The Solus GT has a seven-speed sequential gearbox, with race-proven internals located within a bespoke casting and casing, designed as a mounting point for the rear suspension. The casing is made from aluminium, with magnesium panels optimising weight.

Originally designed for LMP sportscar applications, the gearbox internals include straight-cut gears, a technology not usually incorporated in production cars for reasons of NVH refinement but acknowledged as providing greater efficiency than helical-cut gears in a high-performance track car.

The gearbox is engaged by a carbon fibre clutch, designed to complement aggressive gearshift strategy demanded in a track application. It is though also fully automated and controlled by software – removing the need for a pedal or lever-operated clutch control – to aid the driver when pulling away from the pit-lane.

Track-focused suspension design

  • Formula 1-inspired suspension design incorporates double wishbones and front pushrod and rear pullrod activated torsion bars
  • Manually adjustable four-way dampers
  • Incorporates anti-roll bars, ride-height springs and a heave spring and damper system

The McLaren Solus GT was designed from the outset as a track-only car and its suspension follows the principles of motorsport engineering, starting with the wheels located via double wishbones. With the front wheels mounted outboard of the main body, the front damping is inboard with pushrods operating torsion bars and corner dampers. At the rear, the bars are linked to pullrods, and the rear suspension is mounted to the gearbox casing.

The wishbones and rods are fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, but the front suspension links are encased in carbon fibre shrouds for aerodynamic efficiency. The system also incorporates ride height springs and a heave spring and damper system. This is employed to provide stiffness at speed by limiting vertical movement, the effect of this is to create a more aerodynamically stable profile, making the car’s dynamic behaviour at speed more predictable and therefore increasing driver confidence on high-speed tracks.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers with carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted by the driver in the cockpit.

Each axle is linked by anti-roll bars, which are connected via drop links. Both bars are adjustable.

The complete – and bespoke – MSO customer journey

  • Complete customer journey includes involvement in product development
  • Fully bespoke product – each car is unique
  • Full racing driver experience available, including bespoke driver-wear and tailored seat

Solus GT showcases the level of craftmanship available to McLaren customers through McLaren Special Operations.

From the beginning of the development process, individual presentations were given to customers wishing to secure one of the 25 cars available. This has previously taken place only for purchasers of the McLaren Sabre, a car homologated for the US market only, whereas with Solus GT being a track-only product, the customer base is global.

The 25 Solus GT depositors have also been involved throughout in the finer details of the car’s development from the virtual world to the real world, with new, MSO-developed software at the core of realising the vision of each customer. This bespoke, individual approach reflects an intimate accessibility to McLaren that goes beyond even the usual levels of luxury experience and engagement.

Additionally, a dynamic video that features a prototype Solus GT running on track will be available to download 15 minutes after this release is issued. 

About McLaren Automotive:
McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars.

Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 100 retailers in over 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993 it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT and confirmed in 2018 that the next Ultimate car would be the Speedtail.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International and Tumi.

About McLaren Group:
The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

From fantasy to reality – McLaren Solus GT revealed as extreme expression of track driving engagement

  • World-first, track-only realisation of McLaren concept that debuted in the virtual gaming world
  • Limited to just 25 customer cars – all sold before public reveal
  • Engineered to reality using technologies from McLaren’s presence across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development
  • Striking central, single-seat, closed-cockpit design with jet aircraft-style sliding canopy
  • Unique monocoque chassis with motorsport-derived powertrain a structural element
  • Naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine and bespoke seven-speed, sequential shift gearbox
  • Weighs less than 1,000kg and has more than 1,200kg of downforce
  • V10 engine revs to more than 10,000rpm and produces in excess of 840PS and 650Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-10a0km/h in a target time of 2.5 seconds and a top speed of more than 200mph
  • A full ‘racing driver experience’ available, including a driving seat moulded to individual body shape, an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS (Head And Neck Support) device bespoke to each owner, and driver-development coaching programme
  • First cars will be delivered to customers in 2023

McLaren Automotive today reveals the McLaren Solus GT, the stunning realisation of a concept car from the screens of virtual racing into an extreme expression of track driving engagement that will exhilarate in the real world.

A special commission for just 25 customers – with all cars already sold – the single-seat, closed-cockpit track car was unveiled during Monterey Car Week in California by Michael Leiters, McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer.

Engineered to reality by drawing on the full range of McLaren’s experience and expertise across the highest levels of motorsport and supercar and hypercar development, the Solus GT brings to life the futuristic McLaren concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

At less than 1,000kg in weight and with aerodynamic performance including downforce in excess of 1,200kg, the Solus GT – which is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine – is capable of the fastest lap times of any McLaren outside of single-seater racing and delivers a driving experience close to the engagement and sensation of driving a Formula 1 car.

“The McLaren Solus GT is the realisation of a radical McLaren concept vehicle originally created for the world of virtual racing. Engineered free of any restrictions from road or race regulations, but with the full spectrum of McLaren’s expertise to bring it to reality, it epitomises our pioneering spirit.”
Michael Leiters, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

The striking exterior design, which is remarkably faithful to its virtual inspiration, is based on proven aerodynamic principles and McLaren’s ‘everything for a reason’ design ethos, honed by additional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel aerodynamic research.

The list of distinctive external features is lengthy, with the sliding canopy above the single, central seat being one of the most striking. The wheels are shrouded in aerodynamic pods and located by suspension arms. A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels before it exits the car via a full diffuser. A motorsport-inspired intake above the cockpit integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover feeds cold air into the engine, while also providing an engaging induction sound. Race car design also inspired the sidepods which house the Solus GT’s radiators.

A twin-element, fixed rear wing is key to a downforce figure that exceeds the overall weight of the car. The downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance as well as enhancing cornering abilities.

The Solus GT experience begins even before the engine is started, with the driver opening the distinctive cockpit canopy that slides forward through a shallow arc to allow access. This is nothing like a conventional car door, or even the signature dihedral doors of other McLaren cars, rather more like stepping into a jet fighter plane.

The means of getting into the car adds to the sense of occasion provided by the single seat that dominates an interior focused solely on the driver and performance. The seat position is fixed – the 25 Solus GT owners experience their own motorsport-style ‘seat fitting’ – with the pedal box adjustable as in a race car, although with the convenience of a remote system operated from the seating position.

The steering wheel – the design of which is unique among McLaren production cars – takes its inspiration from Formula 1, with dash display and essential controls integrated to suit the tight confines of a single-seater track car. Beyond the steering wheel is a view through the glass ‘bubble’, with integrated halo-style cockpit protection – mounted to which is a rear-view display fed by a wide-angle camera placed within the roll hoop. The perfectly symmetrical 180-degree line of sight provided by the central driving position is further aided by the dramatically styled wheel pods in helping the driver to position the car on a track.

To further enhance the exhilaration for Solus GT customers, McLaren is offering a full ‘racing driver experience’. This includes a driving seat moulded to the driver’s individual body shape; an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device bespoke to each owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts. A full driver-development coaching programme will also be available to help customers fully exploit the potential of their new track hypercar.

The Solus GT is powered by a unique 5.2-litre V10, constructed using low-volume, machined components, that revs to more than 10,000rpm and delivers extreme performance and thrilling driver engagement. The engine’s responsiveness is enhanced by the use of barrel-driven throttles for each cylinder – a system only suitable for track application – and is entirely gear-driven, with no chains or belts for camshaft or ancillary systems.

In addition to having power and torque outputs in excess respectively of 840PS and 650Nm, the engine was also chosen for its structural qualities; for the first time in a McLaren production car, the engine is an integral part of the chassis. Conventional practice in race car construction, this design approach optimises weight reduction by negating the need for additional chassis structures or subframes behind the carbon fibre monocoque.

The race-derived seven-speed sequential gearbox, which features a bespoke casting and casing – the latter manufactured from aluminium with magnesium panels – is mounted to the back of the engine with the rear suspension fixed to the gearbox casing. Internally, straight-cut gears engaged via a multi-plate carbon fibre clutch are ideally suited to the aggressive shifts demanded in a track application. The system is fully automated and software controlled, removing the need for the driver to operate the clutch, aiding pit-lane pull-away.

In common with every McLaren since 1981, the Solus GT is based around a carbon-fibre monocoque, in this case one created using specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process for higher structural strength and a high uniformity of finish to the material. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbon fibre, with the engine and gearbox forming the rest of the chassis.

Carbon fibre is not the only high-value material in the Solus GT. Further embracing technologies used in the top tiers of motorsport, 3D-printed titanium components have been used for the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. This is the first time the approach has been adopted for structural elements in a McLaren production car, allowing a tailored design as well reducing weight.

The suspension system incorporates double wishbones with inboard torsion bar damping, operated via pushrods at the front and pullrods at the rear. Both axles are linked by anti-roll bars, with tuning options available to the driver. Fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, the front suspension links are encased in aerodynamic carbon fibre shrouds similar to the approach in Formula 1.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers and carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted in the cockpit by the driver.

Traditional performance metrics are not as relevant for a track car, but with a target time of 2.5 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration and a maximum speed of more than 200mph – in combination with the car’s light weight and strong aerodynamic abilities – the McLaren Solus GT has the performance credentials needed for an extreme track machine.

In incorporating every element that has made McLaren a world-beating automotive force, the Solus GT is also a showcase for the craftmanship available to McLaren customers from McLaren Special Operations (MSO). With a project such as this, the MSO service goes beyond the car itself to a level of luxury customer engagement and accessibility unique to McLaren. A bespoking process ensures every Solus GT is unique and regular updates on the development programme, including access to prototype drive sessions that can influence the driving characteristics of the car ahead of production, are offered.

Solus GT track events are planned, and all cars will be delivered with a flight case to allow owners to support their own track activities. This includes a comprehensive set of tools, vehicle jacks, stands, radio sets and a coolant pre-heater.

The McLaren Solus GT is currently at the track-testing stage of its development process. The first of 25 customer cars – all of which are sold – will be delivered in 2023.

The McLaren Solus GT in detail
A concept for the virtual world becomes reality

  • Originally a virtual concept driven by millions in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game; now a reality as the astonishing McLaren Solus GT
  • Striking single, centre-seat cockpit and strong focus on aerodynamic principles throughout
  • Showcases McLaren signature design features, including ‘hammerhead’ front, teardrop-shaped cabin and ‘shrink-wrapped’ bodywork

The roots of the McLaren Solus GT are in a stunning concept that featured in the Gran Turismo SPORT video game.

From the original design sketches through to the virtual gaming triumph and now the astonishing machine that an exclusive few customers will enjoy on track, this is a car that epitomises the ‘everything for a reason’ design philosophy and relentless pursuit of engineering excellence within every McLaren. From the outset, the concept was based on proven aerodynamic principles, with a sports-prototype racecar package as its foundation.

The bodywork is very much a technical sculpture, shrink-wrapped over the high-performance engineering package and the two full-length ground effect tunnels. These contain distinctive air intakes at the front and a NACA duct – a low-drag air inlet – which also acts as a step, accelerating the airflow into the radiators.

From the front, the distinctive McLaren ‘hammerhead’ nose helps to separate airflow from the underbody ground effects and the full-length diffuser. The visibility from the wraparound canopy screen of the teardrop cockpit is outstanding, with an uncluttered, 180-degree view of a track. The wheel pods in each corner are not only a dominating design feature, they also allow overall weight-reduction and individually ‘work’ the airflow with a distinctive tear-drop shape that ends in a dramatic blade-like rear edge to calm the turbulent air in the wake of each tyre and mitigate pressure build-up within the wheel well.

The rear of the car features a full clam that provides easy access to the engine bay, with super-low trailing bodywork edges that employ the same principles as the Speedtail in order to minimise base pressure across the back of the car, reducing drag.

Engineering a virtual design into extreme reality

  • Naturally-aspirated V10 engine chosen to optimise performance, driver engagement and packaging
  • Aerodynamic performance integrated into bodywork surfaces to preserve overall shape using CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind-tunnel research
  • Heavily optimised structural work includes monocoque geometry

The original engineering brief for the McLaren Solus GT was to turn a prestigious virtual gaming concept into an extremely powerful and highly exclusive McLaren hypercar. This was to be a track-only car, with motorsport engineering expertise and a V10 powertrain coming together to deliver the supreme driver engagement demanded for a no-compromises experience.

The racing-derived engine was chosen for reasons of packaging as well as performance; a pared-down track car with minimal weight and shrink-wrapped bodywork meant having the engine as part of the chassis was a natural choice. This construction technique is rarely seen in production cars for NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) reasons, but in a focused track car it gives many benefits, not least added feedback and exhilarating engagement for the driver.

Once the programme parameters were set, the engineering team faced the challenge of integrating real-world aerodynamic performance into the original design surfaces. This was resolved with extensive Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and wind-tunnel work to prove the aerodynamic, cooling and efficiency properties of the concept.

Racing-inspired chassis design and construction

  • Bespoke monocoque structure employs Formula 1 chassis technologies, with front and rear carbon structures
  • Low-volume, carbon ‘pre-preg’ process provides strength, rigidity and quality of finish
  • Engine and gearbox are stressed chassis members; carbon crash structure is incorporated into gearbox
  • 3D printing techniques used for structural components – titanium halo protection and rollover bar

Like every McLaren built in the last 40 years, the Solus GT features a carbon-fibre monocoque at its heart. However, the single-seat cockpit and production-based engineering processes demanded a bespoke approach embracing the differing disciplines of competition and road car construction and the resulting design takes greater inspiration from motorsport than other McLaren Automotive products, with the monocoque using Formula 1 and sportscar racing chassis technologies. The front and rear impact structures are made from carbon fibre – traditionally McLaren Automotive chassis structures feature aluminium structures fixed to the passenger cell – and with the engine and gearbox both stressed chassis members, there is no requirement for a rear subframe.

The construction of the chassis employs specialist low-volume production methods including a carbon ‘pre-preg’ process whereby the carbon fibre is pre-impregnated with a resin system that simplifies the curing process. The material is ready to lay into the mould before heat and pressure treatment is applied, allowing the higher structural strength demanded by a track-only car. The process also allows a high uniformity of finish to the material that enhances visual appeal.

The chassis of the Solus GT also features 3D-printed titanium components, including the halo cockpit protection structure and roll hoop. While previously used by McLaren Automotive– notably for the exhaust system of the Elva – this is the first use of the technology for structural components in a McLaren production car and demonstrates the absolute focus applied to finding the best solutions for the Solus GT.

Refined and optimised bodywork and aerodynamics

  • Carbon fibre bodywork incorporates aerodynamic surfaces including front splitter, individual wheel pods, structural floor with ground-effect tunnels and fixed, twin-element, high-downforce rear wing
  • Huge downforce generated – at 1,200kg, greater than the weight of the car – with drag penalty minimised for straight-line speed
  • Formula 1-inspired, carbon fibre suspension aero shrouds, air intakes and sidepod-mounted radiators

Despite the freedom the development team enjoyed in exploring the boundaries of possibilities for the Solus GT as a track car, the exterior design of the virtual reality concept did impose restrictions on what could be done if the real car was to retain the ‘wow factor’ of the car that featured in Gran Turismo SPORT.

As befits an ultra-lightweight track-only car, the bodywork of Solus GT is made from carbon fibre; the complex shapes and swooping lines achieved without the weight penalties that would come from the use of conventional metal panels. The form of these has been finely honed – ironically in virtual reality – to ensure stability and maximise aerodynamic efficiency for both straight line-speed and downforce.

A large front splitter feeds air into ground-effect tunnels in the full structural floor, which has been designed to accept high aerodynamic loads. The air exits the car via a full diffuser. The front wheels are outboard of the main bodywork, with the suspension wishbones exposed to the airflow and shrouded in aerodynamically-shaped carbon fibre that directs air towards the sidepod-mounted radiators. The sidepod-siting of the high-temperature radiators is directly inspired by motorsport, providing a direct cooling solution for engine fluids and reducing frontal surface area.

A motorsport-inspired air intake above the cockpit, which is integrated into the design of the roll hoop cover, takes in cold and flow-conditioned air above the car while also creating a pleasingly engaging engine induction sound.

The twin-element, fixed rear wing is one of the more distinctive visual features of Solus GT. Designed to maximise downforce over the rear of the car, it works alongside the combination of high-downforce ground effect and low pitch sensitivity from the motorsport-derived suspension system, to negate the need for active front or rear wings and so help to keep weight down.

Overall, the aerodynamic package downforce exceeds the total weight of the car, but the downforce to drag ratio is also optimised, aiding straight-line performance and enhancing cornering speeds.

Unique, single central seat interior

  • Driver enters car via sliding canopy incorporating Formula 1-style halo cockpit protection device
  • Single-seat cockpit with fixed seat and adjustable pedals
  • Main driver controls and TFT instrument display mounted on carbon-fibre-structured steering wheel
  • Rear wide-angle camera located above roll-hoop, linked to driver view screen

The Solus GT McLaren driving experience begins even before the V10 engine is started – simply stepping into the cockpit is an event in itself. Instead of signature McLaren dihedral doors, a sliding canopy – more akin to that of a fighter jet – is opened using a mechanical lever. The spring-loaded canopy moves through a shallow arc, lifting clear of the cockpit and sliding forwards to allow easy access to the driving seat.

Recent technological safety innovations from the top tiers of motorsport are integrated in the design, with the canopy reinforced by a halo-style structure to protect the driver. An escape hatch is also built into the canopy to allow safe departure from the cockpit should the sliding mechanism be obstructed.

The interior is purpose-built for extreme track performance; an owner can specify their car with an entirely bespoke environment, but it will remain focused on the driving experience. The moulded seat is fitted with a 6-point harness and is fixed in position; instead, the pedal box is adjustable as in a race car, but with the convenience of being able to be operated from a sitting position.

To ensure the single seat is a perfect fit for the customer, MSO has adopted a process taken from motorsport which is yet another example of the full range of McLaren expertise being available for the Solus GT. A phenolic resin-based system with advanced micro-bead technology is used to create a mould from which the seat is created, ensuring in turn that the driver remains comfortable in the car throughout the most intense track driving sessions.

Almost all controls are concentrated on the steering wheel, which is constructed from carbon fibre. Inspired directly by motorsport, all essential functions are easily reached with both hands on the wheel. A full HVAC air system also keeps the driver fully alert throughout the driving experience.

Above the driver’s head are switches for vehicle ignition and the fully plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher. This area also houses the rear-view display, streamed in real-time from a camera located on the roll hoop behind the driver’s head. The wide-angle camera provides a comprehensive rear view of the track to allow traffic to pass on a slowing-down lap or aid pit-lane manoeuvring.

Powertrain with a proven motorsport pedigree

  • Motorsport-derived, naturally-aspirated 5.2 litre V10 engine that revs to over 10,000rpm
  • McLaren-specific engine, with crank, cylinder capacity, air intake and exhaust system all bespoke to Solus GT
  • Gear-driven camshaft and ancillary systems, with no chains or belts in the engine
  • Barrel throttles for individual cylinders sharpen throttle response

The 5.2-litre V10 engine specified to power the McLaren Solus GT is incorporated into the vehicle chassis structure. The engine capacity is unique to the Solus GT, as are the air intake and exhaust system. The induction system directs air towards barrel throttles that are individual to each cylinder – a technology that is not suitable for road use but offers clear advantages in engine performance, including improved throttle response.

The engine also incorporates low-volume machined components optimised for performance and is entirely gear-driven; there are no chains or belts for ancillary systems. Output is greater than 840PS, with the full benefit of the ram effect provided by the high air intake and the engine revving past 10,000rpm. Maximum torque is in excess of 650Nm.

The resulting performance is a target acceleration time of 2.5 seconds from standstill to 100km/h and a maximum speed in excess of 200mph, despite the Solus GT generating downforce that exceeds its weight.

Competition gearbox

  • Seven-speed sequential gearbox
  • Incorporates bespoke casting and aluminium casing with magnesium panels; rear suspension locates to gearbox
  • Uses motorsport-derived straight-cut gears
  • Carbon fibre clutch with automated software control for combination of both aggressive shift strategy and user-friendly operation

The Solus GT has a seven-speed sequential gearbox, with race-proven internals located within a bespoke casting and casing, designed as a mounting point for the rear suspension. The casing is made from aluminium, with magnesium panels optimising weight.

Originally designed for LMP sportscar applications, the gearbox internals include straight-cut gears, a technology not usually incorporated in production cars for reasons of NVH refinement but acknowledged as providing greater efficiency than helical-cut gears in a high-performance track car.

The gearbox is engaged by a carbon fibre clutch, designed to complement aggressive gearshift strategy demanded in a track application. It is though also fully automated and controlled by software – removing the need for a pedal or lever-operated clutch control – to aid the driver when pulling away from the pit-lane.

Track-focused suspension design

  • Formula 1-inspired suspension design incorporates double wishbones and front pushrod and rear pullrod activated torsion bars
  • Manually adjustable four-way dampers
  • Incorporates anti-roll bars, ride-height springs and a heave spring and damper system

The McLaren Solus GT was designed from the outset as a track-only car and its suspension follows the principles of motorsport engineering, starting with the wheels located via double wishbones. With the front wheels mounted outboard of the main body, the front damping is inboard with pushrods operating torsion bars and corner dampers. At the rear, the bars are linked to pullrods, and the rear suspension is mounted to the gearbox casing.

The wishbones and rods are fabricated from steel for enhanced durability, but the front suspension links are encased in carbon fibre shrouds for aerodynamic efficiency. The system also incorporates ride height springs and a heave spring and damper system. This is employed to provide stiffness at speed by limiting vertical movement, the effect of this is to create a more aerodynamically stable profile, making the car’s dynamic behaviour at speed more predictable and therefore increasing driver confidence on high-speed tracks.

Housed within the distinctive wheel pods are 18-inch forged aluminium wheels with centre locking nuts, shod with Le Mans Prototype-specification tyres available in both slick and wet compounds. Braking is provided by 6-piston monobloc machined aluminium calipers with carbon brake discs and pads. Bias between the front and rear brakes can be adjusted by the driver in the cockpit.

Each axle is linked by anti-roll bars, which are connected via drop links. Both bars are adjustable.

The complete – and bespoke – MSO customer journey

  • Complete customer journey includes involvement in product development
  • Fully bespoke product – each car is unique
  • Full racing driver experience available, including bespoke driver-wear and tailored seat

Solus GT showcases the level of craftmanship available to McLaren customers through McLaren Special Operations.

From the beginning of the development process, individual presentations were given to customers wishing to secure one of the 25 cars available. This has previously taken place only for purchasers of the McLaren Sabre, a car homologated for the US market only, whereas with Solus GT being a track-only product, the customer base is global.

The 25 Solus GT depositors have also been involved throughout in the finer details of the car’s development from the virtual world to the real world, with new, MSO-developed software at the core of realising the vision of each customer. This bespoke, individual approach reflects an intimate accessibility to McLaren that goes beyond even the usual levels of luxury experience and engagement.

Additionally, a dynamic video that features a prototype Solus GT running on track will be available to download 15 minutes after this release is issued. 

About McLaren Automotive:
McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars.

Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 100 retailers in over 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993 it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT and confirmed in 2018 that the next Ultimate car would be the Speedtail.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first processes and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded, world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Bowers & Wilkins, Dell Technologies, Gulf, InfiniteWorld, Pirelli, Richard Mille, Plan International and Tumi.

About McLaren Group:
The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and elite motorsports with a focus on its Automotive supercar and Racing businesses.

Founded in 1963 by racer, engineer and entrepreneur Bruce McLaren, the Group is formed of McLaren Automotive, which hand-builds lightweight supercars; and a majority stake in McLaren Racing which competes in the Formula 1 World Championship and INDYCAR in the US.

The Group is globally headquartered at the iconic McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey, England.

With a reputation for innovation and technological excellence, McLaren is one of the UK’s largest independent companies.

McLaren Customer Racing takes track performance to a new level with the 720S GT3X

  • 720S GT3X developed by McLaren Customer Racing for track use only, without restriction of motorsport regulations
  • Based on 720S GT3 race car, but not homologated for racing
  • Hand-built, twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 develops up to 750PS

McLaren Customer Racing has confirmed that an unrestricted version of its 720S GT3 race car, the 720S GT3X, is available to order through the McLaren Motorsport Retailer Network. Designed and developed in-house by the motorsport arm of McLaren Automotive, the GT3X is for track use only but is not homologated for any racing class or championship. Without the need to comply with competition regulations, increased levels of power and performance have allowed McLaren Customer Racing to further exploit the chassis and aerodynamic characteristics of its latest-specification, race-winning 720S GT3 to optimise circuit driving enjoyment.

Pioneering in the field of lightweight and safety in motorsport, McLaren introduced the first all-carbon fibre chassis to Formula 1 in 1981 with the McLaren MP4/1. Since then, carbon fibre has been at the core of every McLaren and the 720S GT3X features the MonoCage II chassis that provides a strong, light and safe environment for its occupants.

Performance comes from a hand-built 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine, optimised to combine features from the 720S road car and the 720S GT3 race car.  Coupled to a six-speed sequential motorsport transmission, a unique version of the M840T engine features a blueprinted cylinder head, strengthened pistons, ‘Diamond Like Carbon’ (DLC) coating and a lightweight performance exhaust system. The track-focused components and systems deliver the same 720PS (710bhp) as the road car, with a further 30PS (30bhp) boost function available to the driver through a steering wheel-mounted ‘push-to-pass’ button.

The lightweight 720S GT3X tips the scales at just 1,210kg (2,668lbs) and displays the extreme weight-saving efforts that have been taken into consideration to remove all non-essential or luxury items where possible, leaving the driver with just what they need to extract the best performance. Each of these measures combine to give the 720S GT3X a power-to-weight ratio of 620PS*-per-tonne.

The development programme has seen a focus on pure engineering, innovative aerodynamics and efficient design, with thousands of track kilometres covered across Europe and the Middle East. Freed from sporting regulations, the 720S GT3X is a performance-optimised version of the already-bespoke GT3 race car, with the bodywork’s flowing lines developed using ‘Computational Fluid Dynamics’ (CFD) and Formula 1 wind tunnel technology. The aerodynamically sculpted shape is hand-finished in metallic MSO Carbon Black paint. A refined pinstripe in heritage McLaren Orange – a nod to the historic race-winning McLaren Formula 1 cars of the 1960s – accentuates the lower edges of the ground-hugging body shape and the outer rim of the gloss black centre-locking wheel rims, while an ‘X’ graphic stretches across the upper canopy.

The stripped-out cabin features extensive use of lightweight carbon fibre and is designed around outright track performance and functionality. A carbon fibre and Kevlar FIA-approved race seat hugs the driver, while the pedal box and steering wheel adjust to ensure the perfect driving position. The ergonomically-designed race steering wheel is fitted with all key functions via intuitive rotary switches and buttons meaning everything is at the driver’s fingertips. Thrill-seeking friends can also experience the speeds and exhilaration of being on a track as the interior of the 720S GT3X has been designed to accommodate a fully safety-compliant race seat on the passenger side of the cabin, complete with six-point race harness. Modifications over the race car include a revised design to the roll-cage to accommodate a passenger without compromising on safety and enhanced crash structures around the occupant safety cell.

In addition to delivering a new type of performance on the track, the 720S GT3X delivers a new level of ownership experience. As part of the purchase and ownership package, McLaren Automotive can provide dedicated technical track support for each owner. This programme is carried out by the customer support engineers from the in-house McLaren Customer Racing division – the team that has designed and developed the model alongside the 720S GT3 global customer race program.

Due to GT3 balance of performance requirements, the 720S GT3 car has to run with a considerably reduced power output than the road-going 720S Spider and Coupe variants. The brief for the GT3X project was to unleash the full potential of the 720S GT3 car using a massively increased power output to fully exploit the aerodynamics and chassis dynamics of the car. Additionally, the car is now able to carry passengers for the first time, thanks to the re-design of a new bespoke roll-cage and passenger seat installation. Brake cooling has also been improved to cope with the additional demands of increased speed and the mass of a passenger.

The 720S GT3X now offers a unique opportunity to experience a fully-fledged GT3 car. The lap time is significantly reduced from the GT3 benchmark through both the huge standard power increase and the additional 30bhp from the push-to-pass button. The end result is a car that offers a truly unique experience.”
Ian Morgan, Director, McLaren Customer Racing

The 720S GT3X is available to order now from the 11 official McLaren Motorsport Retailers worldwide: McLaren Glasgow, McLaren Zurich, McLaren Frankfurt, McLaren Beverly Hills, McLaren Houston, McLaren Newport Beach, McLaren Philadelphia, McLaren San Francisco, McLaren Toronto, McLaren Auckland and McLaren Melbourne. Each retailer can also offer technical and servicing support for the track-only model.

Rob Bell, McLaren Factory Driver, demonstrates the capabilities of the McLaren 720S GT3X on the Portimao Circuit,

______________

McLaren Automotive has enjoyed significant success with its range of pioneering sports and supercars since the start of production in 2011. Alongside its road-focused models, the company has been winning races with motorsport derivatives of key models since 2012. Based on the highly-accomplished 720S road car, the 720S GT3 debuted in 2019 with private race teams competing at the highest level – and proved immediately successful. In fact, in its first race, the 720S GT3 took pole position and went on to score its first ever race win against a field of world-class opposition, proving that McLaren had designed and developed another race-winner.

About McLaren Automotive:

McLaren Automotive is a creator of luxury, high-performance supercars.

Every vehicle is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) in Woking, Surrey, England.

Launched in 2010, the company is now the largest part of the McLaren Group.

The company’s product portfolio of GT, supercar, Motorsport and Ultimate models are retailed through over 85 retailers in 40 markets around the world.

McLaren is a pioneer that continuously pushes the boundaries. In 1981, it introduced lightweight and strong carbon fibre chassis into Formula 1 with the McLaren MP4/1.

Then in 1993  it designed and built the McLaren F1 road car – the company has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis since. As part of the Ultimate Series, McLaren was the first to deliver a hybrid hypercar, the McLaren P1™. In 2016, it announced a new hybrid hyper-GT would be engineering, confirming this next Ultimate Series car as the Speedtail in 2018.

2019 saw McLaren launch the 600LT Spider, the new GT and the track-only McLaren Senna GTR. It also unveiled the 620R and McLaren Elva before launching the 765LT the following year.

Most recently, the company unveiled its all-new high-performance hybrid supercar, the McLaren Artura.

The Artura is the first McLaren to benefit from the McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA). The MCLA is designed, developed and manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre in the Sheffield region of England using world-first process and will spearhead the brand’s electrified future.

McLaren Automotive also chooses to partner with like-minded world-leading companies and organisations who push the boundaries in their respective fields. These include AkzoNobel, Ashurst, Dell Technologies, Gulf, Pirelli,  Richard Mille and Tumi.

McLaren Group:
The McLaren Group is a global leader in luxury automotive and technology and comprises three businesses: Automotive, Racing and Applied.

AIRSPEEDER: World’s first electric flying racing car is unveiled and ready to race

London, England  Thursday 4th February 2021, 09:00 GMT

  • Alauda unveils the world’s first flying electric racing car. It will race in remotely piloted Airspeeder competitions in 2021
  • Completion of Mk3 development engineering program concludes landmark year of progress
  • Remote pilots to fly electronically governed courses at speeds of up to 120 km/h in world’s first electric flying car racing series.
  • Airspeeder to establish high-tech engineering presence in UK

“The unveiling of the world’s first full-sized electric flying racing car is a landmark moment in the dawn of a new mobility revolution. It is competition that drives progress and our racing series is hastening the arrival of technology that will transform clean-air passenger transport, logistics and even advanced air mobility for medical applications. The world’s first electric flying car races will take place this year and will be the most exciting and progressive motorsport on the planet.” 

Matthew Pearson, Founder, Airspeeder and Alauda Aeronautics 

OVERVIEW: 

Airspeeder is delighted to reveal the world’s first fully functioning electric flying racing car. The Airspeeder Mk3, is a full-sized remotely-operated electric vertical take-off and landing vehicle (eVTOL). It will compete in an upcoming remotely-piloted Airspeeder racing series that will stand as a technical test-bed and feeder series to a manned racing series in 2022. The unveiling of the vehicle represents the realisation of more than three years development work to create a sport that will accelerate a new clean-air aerial mobility revolution.

A full grid of Mk3 electric flying race-craft is currently being manufactured at Airspeeder and Alauda’s technical HQ in Adelaide, South Australia. More than 10 identical racing vehicles will be produced and supplied to teams in 2021. The craft is being developed and manufactured by a team drawn from leading names in aerospace, automotive and motorsport technology including; Mclaren, Babcock Aviation, Boeing, Jaguar Land Rover, Rolls-Royce and Brabham.

The Airspeeder Mk3 racing series will be announced in the coming months. These remotely-piloted races will present to the world for the first time close-quarter flying circuit racing at speeds of more than 120km/h.

Airspeeder’s first races will take place in 2021. Final behind-closed-doors pre-season tests will happen in Australia before the start of an international racing calendar. These landmark moments will make history in showing for the first time a full-scale vision of electric flying car racing.

The initial Mk3 races will provide vital information on vehicle dynamics, performance, safety and powertrain technology that will inform the final development of the manned Mk4 Airspeeder vehicle. Racing will play a vital role in hastening the arrival of eVTOL technologies which promise to revolutionise urban passenger mobility, logistics and even remote medical transport. Both the remotely piloted Mk3 programme and manned Airspeeder Mk4 flying cars will provide a safe environment from where key innovations around safety, noise and batteries can be refined and fed into the wider development of an industry predicted by Morgan Stanley to be worth $1.5 trillion by 2050.

THE AIRSPEEDER MK3 | TECHNICAL DETAILS: 

The Airspeeder Mk3 represents a giant technical leap forward in the development of the world’s first racing series for electric flying cars.

This remotely-piloted vehicle is the final iteration of an electric flying racing car before the introduction of manned racing craft, the Airspeeder Mk4, due to debut in 2022.

SAFETY SYSTEMS: 

The craft, which will be operated by an expert remote operator from the ground, features a suite of technologies and engineering elements never before seen on an eVTOL craft. These innovations will be validated in this key unmanned proving phase and include LiDAR and Radar collision avoidance systems that create a ‘virtual forcefield’ around the craft to ensure close but ultimately safe racing. The Mk3 features a carbon fibre frame and fuselage chosen for its strength, stiffness and lightweight properties, which ensures maneuverability, performance and efficiency.  The carbon fibre frame and fuselage adds a vital mechanical layer of safety, which will be further enhanced by a full carbon fibre monocoque body to be introduced on the Mk4 vehicle.

POWERTRAIN: 

The MK3 powertrain represents a significant upgrade on the Mk2 proof of concept vehicle, with power increased by 95% with only a 50% increase in weight. A 96 kW electric powertrain already sees the Mk3 operating with a thrust to weight ratio above two, on a craft that weighs just 100KG unmanned. The Mk3 speeders will fly at speeds in excess of 120 km\h.

MANEUVERABILITY AND STABILITY: 

The Mk3 speeders are laid-out in an ‘octocopter X formation’. This provides significant advantages to pilots in terms of maneuverability and stability. When racing the pilot will be able to make the same sharp hairpin style turns as a Formula 1 car but with the added third dimension of being able to move vertically. The octocopter configuration also adds an important measure of vehicle redundancy and will ensure the craft can safely land and remain in control should a rotor or battery system fail.

RAPID PIT STOPS: 

Airspeeder GPs will include rapid pit stops. To facilitate this, Alauda’s engineers have developed an innovative ‘slide and lock’ system for the rapid removal and replacement of batteries when on the ground, this technology debuts on the Mk3. A strategic layer is added to the sport with this approach as teams will be able to adapt battery strategy depending on the dynamic requirements of that particular section of the race. For example, for courses requiring more maneuverability but less straight line speed, a lighter battery pack can be easily selected to deliver more maneuverability at the cost of raw power or endurance.

A YEAR OF PROGRESS: 

2020 was an extraordinary year of progress for Airpseeder and Alauda. The unveiling of the Mk3 craft represents a landmark moment in the development of both the racing series, Airspeeder, and Alauda, the manufacturer that will create the vehicles that race in it. In the Spring of 2020, the company received significant institutional backing from Saltwater Capital and Jelix Ventures.

This accelerated the growth at the firm’s first technical HQ in Adelaide, Australia with senior engineers joining the firm from leading names in performance automotive, aviation and motorsport.

A strategically important technical partnership was then forged with leading cyber-protection firm, Acronis, a significant backer of F1 and professional football. They join global logistics giant, DHL and leading money management firm, Equals, in backing a vision to hasten the dawn of a mobility revolution through sporting competition.

In London, the commercial home of the sport, the team has grown to facilitate the rapid growth of its global fan-base, setting the scene for the development of a permanent engineering base. Finally, presence has been established on a third continent with the recruitment of a Head of Partnerships in New York City.

2021 | GROWING UK PRESENCE:

Airspeeder is a truly global sport. It’s technical HQ is in Adelaide, Australia and commercial operations are run from London, England. 2021 will see growth in its existing presence in the UK through the creation of a full-time engineering base, a strategic decision made on the basis of Britain’s standing as a technical and engineering powerhouse in motor-racing and advanced aerospace development. As the sport progresses through its development phases the company will look to draw upon this talent and create technical and engineering jobs.

“Britain is a globally recognised centre of excellence in motorsports and aerospace. In creating a racing series that will accelerate a mobility revolution we will need to draw upon these skills. We are building an engineering base in Britain, the existing home of our Commercial HQ. This will lead to the creation of highly skilled jobs and strategically important proximity to the rapidly growing eVTOL industry, a market predicted to be worth $1.5trillion by 2050.” 

Matt Pearson, Founder, Airspeeder

ACCELERATING THE DEVELOPMENT OF A MOBILITY REVOLUTION: 

Airspeeder is built on the philosophy that nothing accelerates technical progress like sporting competition. The next generation sport plays the same role the pioneers of Formula One did nearly a century ago in driving technical development and building public acceptance for a new mobility revolution. The eVTOL sector is primed to transform urban aerial transport, global logistics and even remote medical transport  with a clean-air, zero emissions aerial transport solution.

AIRSPEEDER & ALAUDA: 

Airspeeder is the most exciting sporting entity on the planet. Founded on the belief that technical development is accelerated in the white heat of competition, Airspeeder is defining the future of mobility by hastening the arrival of the technologies that will drive the flying car mobility revolution. This bold vision is realised by elite technical minds from the cutting-edge of the aviation and motorsport worlds.

AIRSPEEDER | ABOUT THE FOUNDER: MATTHEW PEARSON 

Matt Pearson is the founder and visionary behind Alauda and Airspeeder. Together with a team of engineers, designers and commercial minds spanning Australia, New York and London, he is accelerating the development of electric flying vehicles through the white heat of sporting competition.

Beyond his role as a defining voice in the future of mobility, Matt is driving the rapidly expanding Industrial Internet of Things space through his work at Fleet. From their base in South Australia millions of devices are powered via Low Earth Orbit through a growing network of nano satellites.

MORE INFORMATION:

  •     www.airpseeder.com

C-TYPE

On its 70th anniversary, we restart production of our first icon of Le Mans.

THE ORIGINAL FORMULA FOR FAST IS BACK

In 1951, Jaguar C-type became the first of our marque to win the  Breaking every speed and distance record in the process. And on its first attempt.

In 2021, 70 years since its breathtaking beauty and brawn burst onto the world’s racetracks, we restart production on a strictly limited run of the ultimate 1953 disc-brake specification. Not just for the showroom, these new hand-built C-types will allow discerning owners to get behind the wheel for Jaguar Classic Challenge racing, track and closed-road use.

INSPIRED BY XK120 PERFORMANCE

Encouraged by the road racing results of the sleek, 120mph Jaguar XK120 in 1950, chief engineer, William Heynes sanctioned a dedicated competition model in the form of the XK120C. Now known around the world as C-type.

hallowed Le Mans 24-hour r

CRAFTING WINNING CURVES

Designed, developed and tested in just half a year, C-type’s stunning undulating body style was informed by the experiences of its designer and aerodynamicist, Malcolm Sayer.

After serving in the manufacturing division of Bristol Aeroplane Company during the Second World War, Sayer established an Engineering Faculty at Baghdad University in 1948. Here he learnt some of the key design principles that would later assist in creating C-type’s wind-cheating curves.

PIONEERING DISC-BRAKE TECHNOLOGY

Despite instant success at Le Mans with the drum brake-equipped 1951 C-type, a braking system more resistant to fade was clearly required for racing at increased speed and distance. During the winter months of 1951 and 1952, pioneering disc brake development with Dunlop began in earnest.

On 29 June 1952 Stirling Moss drove C-type to victory at Reims, at an average speed of 98.18 mph. This was the first time an international motor race had been won by a car fitted with disc brakes. Enhanced by Dunlop’s critical development of pads thick enough to last the entire 24 hour race, and paired with a revised lighter body, C-type was ready for Le Mans 1953.

24-HOUR SUCCESS

With their fluid aerodynamic bodies, reduced weight and increased power over the standard XK120, the first C-types were ready in the spring of 1951. Success was instant.

Of the three examples entered almost immediately into Le Mans, Peter Walker and Peter Whitehead’s car won the race with an imposing nine-lap lead, while second-car driver Stirling Moss broke the lap record by an impressive six seconds.

THE LEGEND CONTINUES

Seven decades on, each new C-type Continuation will reflect the 1953 Le Mans-winning works team car specification, including a 3.4-litre straight-six engine with triple Weber 40DCO3 carburettors for 220bhp, and disc brakes.

Aligning 3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) with engineering drawings and company records created by the original C-type development team, our specialists at Jaguar Classic are able to craft hand-built continuations with absolute authenticity.

YOUR DREAM JAGUAR C-TYPE

Use our digital configurator to realise your perfect vision of a C-type with a choice of exterior heritage colours, interior trim, steering wheel, Jaguar badging and optional race roundel packs.

La primera edición del curso de vehículos eléctricos de la Escuela RACE de Conducción junto a BMW, cierra con éxito de participación

La creciente demanda de vehículos electrificados motivó a BMW y a la Escuela RACE de Conducción a iniciar un curso permanente, pionero en España, para la formación de conductores en este tipo de modelos y que cuenta con los BMW i3 como protagonistas de la formación

La creciente demanda de vehículos electrificados motivó a BMW y a la Escuela RACE de Conducción a iniciar un curso permanente, pionero en España, para la formación de conductores en este tipo de modelos y que cuenta con los BMW i3 como protagonistas de la formación.

La primera edición del curso de vehículos eléctricos de la Escuela RACE de Conducción junto a BMW, cierra con éxito de participación

La primera edición del curso de vehículos eléctricos de la Escuela RACE de Conducción junto a BMW, cierra con éxito de participación

Los contenidos, con una base teórica centrada en la actitud del conductor, el conocimiento del vehículo, la dinámica, la frenada y el trazado en curvas, se complementaron con unas pruebas prácticas donde los componentes de seguridad (posición de conducción, manos y manejo de volante), ejercicios de coordinación, habilidad y estudio de la frenada, enseñaron a los participantes a optimizar la eficiencia y la seguridad.

Este primer curso, que tuvo lugar en el mes de junio, se cerró con éxito de participación, en donde los alumnos lograron solventar las dudas respecto a esta nueva tecnología y, sobre todo, ampliar sus conocimientos en seguridad y destreza al volante.

Ignacio Fernández, director del Circuito del Jarama-RACE ha recalcado que “la Escuela RACE de Conducción ha basado su actividad en dar a conocer y enseñar a los conductores las técnicas de conducción seguras y adaptadas a todo tipo de situaciones. La conducción de este tipo de vehículos, aunque parezcan similares a los habituales, precisan de unas nociones básicas iniciales que, en un entorno seguro como es el Circuito, logramos inculcar a los automovilistas”.

El BMW i3 se actualizó a finales del año 2018 con una batería el doble de capaz que el primer BMW i3 que llegó al mercado hace seis años. Además de su renovada batería, el BMW i3 es extremadamente eficiente en el proceso de producción y gracias a ello recibió en 2013 el certificado ISO 14040/14044 cumpliendo con los objetivos definidos durante su desarrollo con respecto a los impactos medioambientales generados durante el aprovisionamiento, producción, uso y posterior reciclaje.

El Grupo BMW

Con sus cuatro marcas BMW, MINI, Rolls Royce y BMW Motorrad, el Grupo BMW es el principal fabricante del mundo de automóviles y motocicletas premium y también ofrece servicios financieros y de movilidad premium.  La red de producción del Grupo BMW incluye 31 sedes de producción y ensamblaje en 15 países y la empresa tiene una red de ventas global en más de 140 países.

En 2018, el Grupo BMW vendió más de 2.490.000 vehículos de pasajeros y más de 165.000 motos en todo el mundo. Los beneficios antes de impuestos en el año fiscal 2018 fueron de aproximadamente 9,815 mil millones de euros con ingresos de aproximadamente 97,480 mil millones. A 31 de diciembre de 2018, el Grupo BMW tenía 134.682 empleados.

El éxito del Grupo BMW se ha basado siempre en planificación a largo plazo y acciones responsables. La empresa, por tanto, ha establecido la sostenibilidad ecológica y social en toda la cadena de valor, que incluye una amplia responsabilidad de producto y un firme compromiso de preservar los recursos como una parte integral de su estrategia.

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