BMW and McLaren once collaborated, in a way, on the legendary F1.
The rekindling of this relationship may help McLaren launch its first EV.
BMW will benefit from McLaren’s extensive experience in vehicle dynamics and more.
Some matches are truly heaven-made. One such pairing involves BMW and McLaren. Just over 30 years ago, they collaborated on the legendary F1 and they’re about to go at it again. As with the last time, BMW will supply a powertrain, of sorts, while McLaren shares some of its technical know-how.
A “memorandum of understanding” has been signed between the two partners which should lead to some exceptional results. For McLaren, BMW’s advanced experience in electric powertrains could serve as the basis for a (or more) future all-electric supercar or hypercar from the British automaker.
Freshly-restored McLaren F1 #063 | Photo: McLaren
In exchange, McLaren will share its “strengths like high-end carbon fiber applications, lightweight design, and outstanding vehicle dynamics,” according to Jalopnik.
McLaren’s delved into electrification in the past with the superb P1 and has recently entered the Extreme E racing Series open only to EVs. They’ve not yet made any formal announcements when it comes to a production EV though that may soon change thanks to this arrangement.
Beyond all-electric powertrains, McLaren might be shopping for a new V8 engine. Based on the story, McLaren’s product portfolio is not expected to dramatically change.
Whatever comes from this understanding, it will no doubt be great.
Freshly-restored McLaren F1 #063 | Photo: McLaren
