Latest F1 Machine Technology Reimagined for the 12C

This weekend, at the "Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance," a world-renowned automotive event held in California, USA, McLaren Automotive will unveil a new concept model. Studio shots were released in advance yesterday ahead of its debut.

The orange body, featuring the national colors of New Zealand, the home country of founder Bruce McLaren and racing driver Denny Hulme who were active in the 1960s-70s, is a tribute to them. This racing car-like appearance is not just for show, of course.

The "McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing Concept," built by "McLaren GT," a newly established racing vehicle division of the McLaren Group,"MP4-12C GT3"serves as the base vehicle, and development is underway as the ultimate circuit-only machine.



The interior features Recaro seats with a 6-point harness, a roll cage, and a steering wheel in the cockpit with the same function system as the F1 machine "MP4-24." Of course, the minimum necessary equipment for circuit driving, such as the air conditioning system, is provided, but the specifications are extremely spartan. The minimalist interior, free of any excess, is naturally reflected in the vehicle's weight, with extensive use of carbon materials for the roof, doors, and bumpers leading to significant weight reduction.Road model "MP4-12C"resulting in a 1,200kg weight, a reduction of 234kg compared to the road model.

Furthermore, by equipping carbon aerodynamic parts such as a lip spoiler, rear wing, and rear diffuser, designed using advanced technologies honed in F1 machine development, downforce is increased by 30% compared to the road model MP4-12C. The capabilities of an F1 manufacturer are evident in numerous numerical details.

The powertrain is the same V8 3.8-liter twin-turbo engine as the road model MP4-12C, but by optimizing the fuel control system, it delivers the most powerful 630ps in the 12C lineup (2013 road model+5ps compared to the 2013 road model). The suspension, designed to handle this immense power, combines Pirelli slick tires with an Akebono brake system, further enhancing circuit driving performance.

As mentioned earlier, this "McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing Concept" was developed as the ultimate circuit-only machine. As such, it does not currently comply with any motorsport regulations and cannot participate in races. However, perhaps McLaren is contemplating the launch of its own one-make race, observing the success of Ferrari's"458 Challenge"and Lamborghini's"Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo"on the circuit.