McLaren’s forthcoming electric hypercar, set to succeed the P1, prioritizes a lightweight build over excessive power.
McLaren’s upcoming electric hypercar shift focuses on lightweight construction and performance.
CEO Michael Leiters highlights the goal to balance power-to-weight ratio, avoiding extreme horsepower.
McLaren’s strategy counters hypercar trends, emphasizing handling and sustainable performance over raw power.
McLaren is set to unveil an electric hypercar succeeding the P1 model. Contrary to the trend, McLaren is putting weight reduction at the forefront, departing from the usual hypercar focus on raw power. CEO Michael Leiters explained that the forthcoming electric hypercar won’t chase unnecessary high horsepower figures. Instead, McLaren is keen on mitigating the weight burden posed by batteries. Leiters emphasized, “We don’t want to make a car that is 2,000 kg (4,409 lbs) and 2,000 hp.” He added that McLaren’s brand identity doesn’t align with that approach.
McLaren P1 | Photo: McLaren
The goal is to create an emission-free hypercar with a weight similar to the 750S model, which weighs in at just 1,277 kg (2,815 lbs) before fluids. McLaren aims for comparable power, performance, and handling to equivalent internal combustion engine (ICE) models. However, keep in mind the electric hypercar’s release is projected to be around the end of the decade.
McLaren Artura | Photo: McLaren
Looking at competing electric hypercars, the Rimac Nevera boasts 1,914 hp and weighs 2,150 kg (4,740 lbs). The Pininfarina Battista packs 1,900 hp and weighs 2,063 kg (4,548 lbs), while the Lotus Evija features 2,011 hp and a lighter 1,680 kg (3,703 lbs). While Porsche’s Mission X details are limited, the concept is touted to have a 1:1 power-to-weight ratio.
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McLaren is in no hurry to introduce an all-electric P1 replacement, as customer demand for EV hypercars remains limited. Leiters acknowledged the popularity of the ICE-powered 750S, indicating enduring demand for traditional supercars. However, he acknowledged growing interest in pure electric performance cars. During the transition, plug-in hybrid models based on a new V8 engine will bridge the gap before a full EV lineup arrives.
