The time for weird
mules is over as McLaren has started testing the next-generation Sports Series
with its production body. Although hidden beneath heavy camouflage, fake panels
and padding, the bodywork’s sleek proportions and feline-like stance are
immediately noticeable. A closer look reveals details such as the LED DRLs
doubling as turn signals and the shape of the taillights.
What we also learn by checking out these
photos carefully is that this prototype sports a hybrid drivetrain, as
certified by the round yellow sticker on the windshield and the more obvious
sticker in front of the rear wheel that reads “Hybrid prototype”.
We know that McLaren is planning a plug-in
hybrid supercar for later this year and this might be it. This would be the
brand’s second hybrid after the P1 hypercar. According to a report from
Autocar, the PHEV will be part of the next-generation Sports Series lineup and
could be unveiled as early as this summer.
Deliveries are believed to commence before
the end of the year, making the plug-in hybrid supercar a 2021 model. We do
have some doubts about that given that McLaren has just started testing the
production body and it’s so heavily camouflaged at the moment. A more realistic
estimated debut date would probably be 2021.
There are no official details available
about the second-generation Sports Series but word on the street is it will
pack a twin-turbo V6 plug-in hybrid powertrain that would enable an EV driving
range of about 32 km. Hopefully, McLaren will offer more details
about the new Sports Series model soon. They’ve certainly got our attention.
