McLaren’s all-new hybrid supercar, scheduled to debut in the first half of next year, will reportedly feature a plug-in hybrid system, mated to a twin-turbocharged V6 unit. The total system output is said to be north of 600 HP. While its full specs remain a mystery, Autocar says the supercar will offer “medium-range” pure electric running, meaning just under 32 km. We can also expect a substantial increase in torque over the 570S, courtesy of the electric motors.
The downside of a plug-in hybrid system is
an increase in kerb weight due to the battery and powertrain complexity.
However, McLaren boss Mike Flewitt previously told the British outlet that
while his company was aiming for the hybrid to boast the same weight as the
outgoing car, the end-result will have them within just 30-40 kg from their target. This means tipping the scales at around 1,500 kg, which isn’t bad at all, considering how the Acura NSX for example weighs
a bit over 1,700 kg.
In order to keep the weight down, McLaren
will utilize a new Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA), in place of the old
Monocell carbon fiber tub that was unveiled alongside the old MP4-12C –
although it was updated back in 2015. Flewitt says that the new lightweight
chassis is “every bit as revolutionary” as the MonoCell (when it was first
introduced) and that it has “greater structural integrity and higher levels of
quality.”
As for the hybrid supercar’s appearance,
according to recent patent leaks, we’re dealing with an evolutionary design,
featuring recessed headlights and triangular air intakes. We could also see a
pair of prominent side scoops, a distinctive engine cover and a massive
ventilated rear fascia flanked by sleek taillights and a dual-exhaust setup in
the middle.
