Unveiling the W1: McLaren's most powerful hypercar yet
F1, P1, and now W1. Over 30 years after the debut of McLaren’s first hypercar, the team from Woking has unveiled the most powerful and technically advanced machine in its history. The W1 astonishes with its power, performance, and aerodynamics.
It is noticeably more powerful than the P1 and weighs only about 5 kilograms more. It looks impressive too, although every shape and detail has been engineered for aerodynamics. The W1 is another evolutionary phase of a story that began with the F1 in the '90s and continued with the P1. Creating an even better car was certainly not an easy task. However, it seems they have succeeded.
More capacity and power
Under the bonnet of the W1 is a new four-litre V8 engine with twin turbochargers. It alone generates over 920 horsepower, but that’s not all. It is paired with a hybrid system called the "E-Module," which, thanks to a 1.4 kWh battery, allows you to travel 2.5 kilometres on electric power alone. A much more significant aspect is the additional power — the W1 system generates a total of 1275 horsepower and 986 lb-ft of maximum torque.
All of this is delivered to the rear wheels via an 8-speed transmission without a reverse gear. Reversing is handled by an electric motor. This setup not only reduces mass but also the size of the gearbox. It’s worth mentioning that the W1 weighs just under 1,400 kilograms — practically the same as the P1. The extreme power-to-weight ratio translates to excellent performance.
The sprint to 100 km/h takes just 2.6 seconds, and the top speed is 350 km/h. The acceleration times from 0-200 km/h (5.8 seconds) and 0-300 km/h (12.7 seconds) are also impressive.
The most aerodynamic McLaren in history
The W1’s body is based on a carbon monocoque, known as the "Aerocell," which stands out in terms of weight and strength. The structure is clad in equally lightweight, aerodynamic panels and active elements that allow "the vehicle's shape to change" depending on the situation and selected driving mode.
In Race mode, the maximum downforce is as much as 998 kilograms. Not only does an active suspension engage, lowering by 38 millimetres, but a substantial rear wing inspired by the racing F12 GTR also comes into play. The wing assists in the braking process, which is primarily handled by ceramic discs with six-piston calipers. To come to a stop from 100 km/h, the W1 needs just under 29 metres.
It's still a normal car
Extremely fast, surprisingly light, and dedicated to aerodynamics, the W1 is still civilised. The interior is hard to call Spartan in terms of both finish and equipment. The cabin includes an audio system, multimedia, air conditioning, and storage compartments.
Unfortunately, McLaren's versatility will not come cheap. The projected price is £1.7 million. Only 399 units will be made, most of which are likely already sold.
