McLaren has just unveiled its latest hypercar marvel, the W1, which promises to redefine road performance with its groundbreaking engineering and Formula 1-inspired technology. Priced at a staggering INR 21 crore, the W1 is the spiritual successor to the iconic P1 and is packed with innovations that make it one of the most advanced hypercars ever built.
At the heart of the W1 lies a hybrid powerhouse—a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine coupled with an "E-module" electric motor. This combination generates an astounding 1,258 brake horsepower (bhp), with 915 bhp coming from the engine itself and an additional 342 bhp provided by the electric motor. With a dry weight of just 1,399 kilograms, the W1 boasts a remarkable power-to-weight ratio of 899 bhp per metric ton, delivering unrivalled speed and agility on the road.
Here is the video:
The W1 has the highest power output ever from any McLaren with epic power delivery from the all-new 4.0-litre V8, high performance hybrid. The W1 is a car that only McLaren could create.
— McLaren Automotive (@McLarenAuto) October 6, 2024
Discover more: https://t.co/lTP457rjy0#McLaren #McLarenAutomotive #McLarenW1 #W1… pic.twitter.com/iL5QPBsQ9D
The W1’s aerodynamic prowess is equally impressive, featuring McLaren’s most advanced aero platform to date. Central to this is its innovative Aerocell monocoque chassis, constructed from lightweight pre-preg carbon fibre for optimal rigidity and strength. The W1 also utilizes ground effect aerodynamics, a concept pioneered in Formula 1 and recently reintroduced to the sport. This technology creates low pressure under the car, allowing it to stick to the road at high speeds.
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Active long tail and classy interior!
A standout feature of the W1 is its Active Long Tail rear wing, which extends up to 300 millimetres in Race mode, generating a massive 650 kilograms of downforce at the rear. Combined with its complex front wing system, this provides exceptional handling and stability at high speeds. According to McLaren's head of performance, Marcus Waite, the interaction between the rear wing and diffuser is key to the W1’s ground effect capabilities, ensuring maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
McLaren W1 active long tail video:
Here is the McLaren W1’s new Active Long Tail in action.
— Tim Pitt (@timpitt100) October 6, 2024
In Race mode, it extends rearwards by 300mm, effectively lengthening the rear diffuser to boost downforce (up to 1,000kg at 174mph).
Chief aerodynamicist Robin Algoo calls it the W1’s “secret weapon”. pic.twitter.com/K7GcL465IN
In addition to its performance on the track, the W1 is designed for road use, featuring a two-mode system—Road and Race. In Race mode, the car lowers its ride height, stiffens the suspension, and activates its full aero capabilities, transforming it into a machine capable of cornering at astonishing speeds. The car also features gull-wing doors that enhance cooling while providing a futuristic aesthetic.
Some pictures of McLaren W1:
The F1 defined the hypercar. The P1 introduced hybridization. Now, the 1,241-hp McLaren W1 rewrites the template yet again.
— Motor1 (@Motor1com) October 6, 2024
The details: https://t.co/tFIhXNp8rF pic.twitter.com/2BeAIu4ZmO
A 1258bhp V8 hybrid powertrain, record-breaking performance and a £2 million pricetag: this is the new McLaren W1, the successor to the hallowed P1 🔥 https://t.co/PThMUOUSkQ pic.twitter.com/fYG4y1TJ4W
— Autocar (@autocar) October 6, 2024
With a top speed of 217 mph and a 0-62 mph acceleration time of just 2.7 seconds, the W1 is faster than McLaren's previous models, including the Speedtail and Senna. Its advanced suspension system, F1-style brakes, and bespoke Pirelli tyres ensure it can handle all that power with precision and control.
Inside, the W1 offers a racing-inspired experience with fixed seats, a raised footwell, and a minimalist steering wheel equipped with buttons for boost and aero adjustments. The interior is engineered for maximum driver engagement, providing a direct connection to the car’s immense capabilities.