McLaren W1: The Ultimate Hybrid Supercar
The McLaren W1, successor to the F1 and P1™, redefines supercar performance. Combining lightweight engineering, advanced aerodynamics, and a 1275PS hybrid powertrain, it delivers unparalleled speed and handling for both road and track. Featuring innovative ground-effect aerodynamics, active wings, and a Race mode lowering system, the W1 achieves 1,000kg of downforce. Unveiled on October 6, 2024, marking 50 years since McLaren’s first Formula 1 World Championship, the W1 epitomizes McLaren’s racing heritage and engineering excellence.
Epic performance from V8 High-Performance Hybrid powertrain with pure RWD
The McLaren W1 features a next-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, the MPH-8, producing 928PS and 900Nm of torque, with a 9,200 RPM redline. The engine uses lightweight aluminum, advanced valve actuation, and twin-scroll turbochargers for enhanced performance and sound. Paired with a 347PS E-module, the hybrid powertrain delivers a combined output of 1275PS and 1340Nm of torque. The E-module, weighing just 20kg, spins at 24,000rpm and is powered by a 1.384kWh battery that offers electric-only driving for up to 2km and can be charged to 80% in 22 minutes.
The W1 features an all-new 8-speed DCT transmission with a high torque capacity, transmitting power to the rear wheels via a hydraulic E-differential. This results in a rear-wheel-drive setup with precise control, ensuring exceptional performance. With a lightweight 1,399kg body and optimized powertrain, the W1 accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 2.7 seconds and 0-300 km/h in under 12.7 seconds, achieving a best-in-class power-to-weight ratio of 911PS/tonne. Hybrid components are 40kg lighter than the McLaren P1, offering nearly double the electric power, and reducing engine ancillaries for optimal efficiency and performance.
Born from Formula 1-inspired ground-effect aerodynamics
W1 showcases groundbreaking aerodynamics, blending high downforce and low drag with advanced ground-effect innovations. Its Aerocell monocoque, shaped for optimal airflow, integrates seating, adjustable pedal boxes, and raised footwells, while unique Anhedral doors enhance radiator cooling and save weight. Derived from Formula 1, the design includes inclined powertrain placement and cutting-edge aerodynamic elements like active front and rear wings.
In Race mode, the W1 lowers its ride height (37mm front, 17mm rear), deploying active wings and a revolutionary Active Long Tail rear wing, generating up to 1,000kg of downforce. The Long Tail wing, powered by E-motors, adjusts dynamically for drag, lift, and downforce management. The front wing, also E-motor-actuated, optimizes underbody airflow via a T-tray and keel.
Aerodynamic innovations extend to suspension design, with raised wishbones ensuring clean airflow to the rear diffuser. Active components and meticulous engineering deliver a dual character—exhilarating on both road and track—with a seamless transformation between modes.
Dynamic genius without compromise, driven by McLaren DNA
The W1 embodies lightweight engineering with a dry weight of just 1,399kg, thanks to bespoke carbon fiber structures. Its Race Active Chassis Control III suspension offers versatility, from smooth road comfort to optimal track performance. Comfort mode ensures a refined ride, while Sport enhances agility, and Race mode prioritizes downforce and track stability through active heave elements.
Ground-effect aerodynamics integrate with the advanced suspension, enabling rear-wheel torque delivery without the added weight of all-wheel-drive. The system features titanium torsion bars, a Z-bar with active droplinks, and 3D-printed components for reduced weight.
Braking is enhanced by a high-performance hydraulic system with 6-piston front and 4-piston rear calipers, paired with unique 390mm ceramic-layered discs for improved durability and friction. Aerodynamic cooling ducts inspired by Formula 1 manage heat and enhance downforce. An integrated electronic parking brake on the rear calipers saves weight and boosts stiffness, ensuring W1 delivers exceptional stopping power and precision.
The fastest lapping and fastest accelerating road-legal McLaren ever
McLaren W1 surpasses even the lightweight Senna, achieving a 3-second faster lap at McLaren’s Nardo circuit and becoming the fastest accelerating road-legal McLaren. This blend of high downforce and low drag is unmatched.
Race mode offers two suspension settings: Race for bumpy tracks and Race+ for smooth surfaces, optimizing the ground-effect platform. Drivers can choose between ‘GP’ mode for sustained performance or ‘Sprint’ for maximum power over a lap. Steering wheel buttons enable instant E-module power with ‘Boost’ and on-demand Drag Reduction System (DRS) with the Aero button.
The W1’s performance is supported by bespoke Pirelli tyres, including the P ZERO™ Trofeo RS for track use, P ZERO™ R for road-focused driving, and P ZERO™ Winter 2 for cold weather, ensuring optimal grip across conditions.
The perfect supercar driving environment
The McLaren W1 delivers an unmatched supercar experience with its unique design and ergonomic focus. The McLaren Anhedral Doors open upwards, revealing an innovative and spacious cabin with exceptional visibility. The cockpit features integrated carbon fiber Aerocell seats, adjustable pedals, and a compact steering wheel with optional shift lights and ergonomic Boost and Aero buttons inspired by Formula 1.
Driver-focused controls include chassis and powertrain mode rockers on the instrument binnacle, which moves with the steering column, and an overhead console for start/stop, gear selection, and Race mode. A digital rear-view display provides context with a view of the Active Long Tail wing for easier positioning.
The high-resolution 8″ McLaren Infotainment System (MIS II) includes Apple CarPlay, USB-C connectivity, and storage access via USB-A. Interior storage is practical, with a sliding cupholder, a small-item compartment, and a luggage shelf behind the seats offering up to 117 liters of space for two bags or helmets.
Visually arresting engineering
McLaren’s W1 embodies the brand’s Performance by Design philosophy, blending Epic, Athletic, Functional, Focused, and Intelligent design principles. Its sculpted carbon fiber form contrasts a smooth upper surface with an aggressive, aerodynamically optimized underbody.
The front features layered lower bodywork for airflow conditioning, intakes around the lights and wheel arches, and a single nostril bonnet with an integrated aerodynamic blade housing the EVSE charging port. Exposed carbon fiber structures and suspension elements reinforce its performance focus.
The Formula 1-inspired side design includes a convex door, airflow outlets, and intakes feeding the radiators, diffuser, and brake ducts. Aerodynamic side mirrors minimize disruption to rear efficiency. At the rear, haunched bodywork integrates a detailed engine cover, shark fin antenna, and the twin-element Active Long Tail wing, complemented by a twin center-exit exhaust and multi-fenced rear diffuser.
From above, the W1’s sleek hammerhead nose and teardrop cabin contrast with its intricate lower bodywork, maximizing aerodynamic efficiency and ground effect.
Exceptionally individual and uniquely desirable
McLaren Special Operations (MSO) offers virtually unlimited personalization for W1 owners, enabling the creation of unique supercars. Interior options include McLaren InnoKnit, a lightweight, flexible material that eliminates wasteful cutting and sewing. It can be customized with colors, textures, and patterns, seamlessly integrating into surfaces, speaker grilles, and ambient lighting elements.
Exterior personalization options draw inspiration from aerodynamic styling and Formula 1 livery, allowing customers to design their W1 using advanced visualization tools like virtual and augmented reality.
Ultimate warranty provision with servicing and maintenance to match
The McLaren W1 includes a standard warranty (4-year/unlimited mileage for the vehicle; 6-year/75,000km for the HV battery) and a 4-year inclusive service plan. Its hybrid powertrain follows a 12-month maintenance cycle, similar to McLaren’s series production supercars.
All 399 units have already been allocated.
