McLaren Automotive to produce a track-only limited edition P1 GTR.
The McLaren P1™ is a tasty bit of kit (despite the superfluous trademark symbol) but there has been three main problems with this hyper-hybrid that cannot be ignored. The first is that it is a bit pricey for the likes of us but that has been negated by the second point, the complete production run has sold out. The third point is the most important however. Even if you could afford one and were lucky enough to get your name on the select list in time you probably find it a bit, you know, soft and slow and stuff. Cough…
McLaren Automotive has come to the rescue by releasing a sketch of a P1™. But don’t be fooled into thinking that this is a regular run-of-the-mill, common or garden sketch of a P1™. This, my friends, is a sketch of the ultimate track-focused McLaren P1™. A sketch of the most powerful McLaren to date. And, twenty years on from victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans by the now legendary McLaren F1 GTR, the most powerful McLaren to date will be named the McLaren P1™ GTR in homage to its race-winning ancestor. Although, we don’t think they can trademark ‘GTR’. Maybe.
The press release is full of pricey promise making us wish we had a few more pennies in the bank –
“With no need to comply with road legislation, the McLaren P1™ GTR will be designed and developed as the best drivers’ car in the world on track. This will see even greater levels of performance, grip, aerodynamics and downforce than the road car. It will also feature technologies and a powertrain more extreme with an intended power output of 1,000PS (986 bhp), race-proven slick tyres, a widened track and more aggressive and distinctive styling designed to offer optimised performance around a lap.
The decision to produce a track-only variant is in response to demand to McLaren P1™ owners. The McLaren P1™ GTR programme will be priced at £1.98m, and will include a tailored programme created for each customer to build driver capability. It will include exclusive consultations with the McLaren driver fitness team and Design Director Frank Stephenson, privileged access to one of the McLaren racing simulators, and participation in a minimum of six dedicated international drive events to be held at some of the world’s most iconic Formula 1™ circuits. Exact production numbers are still to be determined, but will be strictly limited.”
Seriously McLaren. You aren’t even giving us enough time to save. Damn it!™
