McLaren W1

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The McLaren W1 (codenamed P18) is a sports car produced by British automobile manufacturer McLaren Automotive. It was unveiled on October 6, 2024^[2][3] and is scheduled for production in 2025. The W1 serves as the successor to the McLaren P1.

The W1 is a hybrid sports car that combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor. The car has a dry weight of 1,399 kg (3,084 lb) and produces a maximum power output of 1,275 PS (1,258 hp), resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 911 PS/tonne. The W1 is equipped with a 62-liter fuel tank and software designed to optimize fuel efficiency.

McLaren claims the W1 is the fastest-accelerating road-legal McLaren, achieving 100 km/h (62 mph) in 2.7 seconds, 200 km/h (120 mph) in 5.8 seconds, and 300 km/h (190 mph) in 12.7 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 350 km/h (220 mph). Production is limited to 399 units, with each car priced at US$2.1 million.^[4]

The W1^[5] is powered by a hybrid powertrain that incorporates a 4.0-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8 engine, designated MHP-8, and an E-module that comprises a radial flux E-motor and MCU (Motor Control Unit) to enhance throttle response and performance with combined outputs of 1,275 PS^[6] and 1,340 Nm.^[7] The W1 can go from 0–200 kilometers per hour (0–124 mph) in 5.8 seconds.^[8]

The W1's cooling system is primarily designed to maintain optimal performance under track conditions. It incorporates:

• Three separate water glycol circuits that operate at different temperatures:
  • A high-temperature circuit with four radiators for engine cooling.
  • A low-temperature circuit for charge cooling.
  • A dedicated hybrid cooling circuit for the E-module, battery, charger, and DC/DC converter.

• A total of 10 heat exchangers^[8] to manage various cooling needs, including HVAC and oil cooling.

The W1 features an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT)^[8] designed to handle high torque levels. A hydraulic E-differential directs power to the rear wheels, enhancing performance. The W1 features an electric module and battery.

The W1's E-module contributes up to 347 PS (342 hp) and is mounted beside the transmission. It features:

• A 1.384 kWh battery designed for rapid power delivery.
• Active Aero stemming from multiple downforce controls using the spoiler and front bumper.
• Second-generation dielectric immersion cooling for effective thermal management.
• Onboard charging capability, allowing the battery to be replenished to 80% in 22 minutes.

The W1 is designed with a focus on ground-effect aerodynamics, featuring:

• An underbody designed to maximize airflow and downforce, stemming from McLaren’s Formula 1 Team
• Active aerodynamic elements, including a front splitter and rear wing, which adjust to enhance downforce performance.
• The total downforce is limited to 1,000 kg (2,200 lb),^[7] supported by internal wind tunnel testing.

The floor and footwell are positioned higher than in the P1, enhancing airflow beneath the car. McLaren has made the active front and rear wing systems more complex and efficient. The front wing directs air towards the rear to improve balance and cooling, with a section generating up to 350kg of downforce at the front. At the rear, electric motors control the wing's movement, allowing it to raise, lower, and rotate, serving both as a downforce provider and as an air brake and drag-reduction mechanism.^[9]