McLaren W1 Launched, 1200+ HP Road-Legal Supercar Redefines Performance

SAUDI ARABIA : McLaren has unveiled its newest supercar, the McLaren W1, which is set to take the legacy of the iconic McLaren F1 and P1 to new heights. The W1 is packed with an incredible 1,257 horsepower and is designed for both road and track. This design makes it the fastest-lapping and fastest-accelerating road-legal McLaren ever.

Let us see everything this supercar has to offer.

Powertrain & Performance

The McLaren W1 is an all-new MHP-8 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 1,257 hp and 1,340 Nm of torque. This power is sent to the rear wheels via an E-differential, allowing the W1 to hit 0-100 kph in 2.7 seconds, 0-200 kph in 5.8 seconds, and 0-300 kph in under 12.7 seconds.

McLaren’s decision to keep the W1 rear-wheel drive, despite its enormous power output, ensures a purer driving experience. The hybrid components have also been lightened by 40 kg compared to the McLaren P1.

Aerodynamics

The W1's aerodynamic platform is McLaren’s most advanced yet, developed through 350 hours of wind tunnel testing. The car features the Aerocell monocoque, designed for full ground-effect aerodynamics, adjustable pedals, steering, and integrated seating for optimal driving performance. 

In Race mode, the W1 generates up to 1,000 kg of downforce at high speeds. The Active Long Tail wing optimizes downforce, while the front wing adjusts at low speeds to avoid damage from obstacles like speed bumps.

Lightweight Engineering

Weighing in at just 1,399 kg, the McLaren W1 benefits from McLaren’s Lightweight Engineering philosophy. The vehicle is equipped with McLaren Race Active Chassis Control III, allowing the suspension to adapt from road use to race-level performance. Its braking system, enhanced by aerodynamic ducts for cooling, can stop the W1 from 100 kph in just 29 meters.

Cabin Comfort & Features

 

• Adjustable pedals and steering wheel for custom driving.
• Minimalist design with only two buttons on the steering wheel: Boost and McLaren Aero Deployment.
• 8-inch touchscreen McLaren Infotainment System with Apple CarPlay and USB-C connectivity (USB-A for charging).
• Driver display engineered to remain visible despite compact steering wheel design.

Safety Features

• Advanced braking system with aerodynamic cooling features.
• High-performance Pirelli P ZERO Trofeo RS road-legal track tires.
• Formula 1-style aerodynamic ducts for enhanced cooling and downforce.
• Lightweight design for better handling and control.

Availability & Pricing

The McLaren W1 will be a rare sight, with only 399 units produced, all of which have already been sold. Each car comes with a price tag of $2.1 million (approx. AED 7.7 million), and it’s expected that a few units will make their way to the UAE.