Peter Lyon
October 7, 2024
The covers have finally come off McLaren’s all-new hypercar, the W1. Following in the footsteps of the F1 and P1, the W1 employs the ‘MHP-8’— a brand-new, internally developed V8 engine, pumping our 928-hp. At 233 horsepower per litre, this V8 is McLaren’s highest power-per-liter engine and generates 0-100 km/h in under 3 seconds.
In addition, the V8 is paired with a 347 horsepower electric motor that allows the tool powertrain to produce a mammoth 1275 horsepower and 1340 Nm of torque overall. With the release of the W1, McLaren’s heir apparent to the renowned P1 and F1, the company has entered a new phase of performance for its ‘1’ lineage.
The McLaren W1 boasts a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 911 horsepower per tonne, yet weighing only 1,399 kg. This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 200 km/h in 5.8 seconds and achieve 300 km/h in under 12.7 seconds. An electronic limiter sets the top speed at 350 km/h.
The aerodynamic efficiency of the W1’s external design is prioritised, with inspiration from Formula 1. In order to produce downforce and improve grip, it channels airflow beneath the car via ground effect. The rear spoiler extends 300mm in race mode, providing over 1000 kg of downforce.
McLaren claims that the W1 is the fastest-accelerating and fastest-lapping road-legal McLaren ever made thanks to its motor and aerodynamics. On McLaren’s reference track, it is three seconds faster than a McLaren Senna and faster than a Speedtail to 300 km/h in a straight line.
There will only be 399 units produced globally, and each will start at £2.0 million (about RM11.2 million) before MSO personalisation options. The 399 units are already reserved, demonstrating how strong demand has been despite the outrageous price tag.
CARLIST THOUGHTS
This W1 is truly a monster on the road, or track. The figure that really impressed was the 0-200 in 5.8 seconds. That is true power—hybrid power. And even with a price of £2.0 million, you can’t get one as they’re all gone. Spoken for. With the debut of the McLaren W1, Porsche Mission X and the Ferrari LaFerrari successor (the F250) reportedly in the pipeline, might we be on the verge of a new gaggle of hypercars?
