Most complex automatic calibre at Richard Mille, the RM 65-01 Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph McLaren W1 is a horological manifestation of the desire shared by Richard Mille and McLaren not merely to break records – but to break new ground.#McLarenW1 pic.twitter.com/DwBaiEJOG6
— McLaren Automotive (@McLarenAuto) October 7, 2024
McLaren has unveiled its latest creation, the W1, a hybrid supercar touted as the fastest road-legal vehicle in the company’s history. With its sleek teardrop-shaped cabin and cutting-edge technology, the W1 paves the way for the future of high-performance vehicles. The W1 features a combination of an electric motor and a V8 combustion engine, delivering a staggering 1,275 horsepower.
The new 500-piece limited RM 65-01 McLaren Automatic Split-Seconds Chronograph W1 is inspired by McLaren’s newest, most powerful, fastest and most radical road car to date.#McLarenW1 pic.twitter.com/gC00NVEg8q
— McLaren Automotive (@McLarenAuto) October 7, 2024
This impressive power enables the car to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds and reach 300 km/h in under 12.7 seconds. The supercar’s lightweight frame, composed of carbon fiber structures, contributes to its dry weight of 1,399 kg. One of the standout features of the W1 is its active aerodynamic parts, which include movable flaps and spoilers.
These components, a product of McLaren’s Formula 1 technology, are designed to enhance the vehicle’s stability and speed.
It’s that time again…. @McLarenAuto launches its new W1 Hypercar… https://t.co/0tRQDVWitF via @completecar
— Neil Briscoe (@neilmbriscoe) October 6, 2024
Additionally, 3D-printed suspension components, such as the uprights and wishbones, further reduce the car’s weight, with some parts made of titanium for added strength and responsiveness. The W1 also debuts McLaren’s innovative ‘Anhedral’ doors, which lift upwards similar to gull-wing doors.
Inside, the supercar offers ample space for both driver and passenger, which is unusual for many sports cars. The interior features narrow A-pillars for better visibility, optional glass panels in the upper doors, and reclined carbon fiber seats with extra thigh support for comfort during high-speed driving. The steering wheel of the W1 is smaller and flatter than previous McLaren designs and includes shift lights to signal gear changes at high speeds.
W1’s hybrid supercar innovations unveiled
Inspired by Formula 1 technology, the steering wheel features only two buttons: Boost for extra power and Aero Deployment for managing aerodynamics. The driver’s display moves with the steering wheel, ensuring a clear view of driving information.
Above the driver, overhead controls include the start/stop button, gear selection, and a Race mode switch. The W1 also incorporates a digital rear-view mirror with a camera for enhanced visibility while reversing or parking. Practical features like a sliding cupholder, a small storage area behind the armrest, and a luggage shelf provide up to 117 liters of storage space.
Externally, the W1’s front sports an active plane wing and layered bodywork to improve airflow and stability. A single nostril-shaped air vent on the hood allows hot air to escape from the front radiators, while air intakes near the lights and wheel arches cool the brakes and engine. The sides of the car have large cut-outs to optimize airflow and showcase the front suspension arms.
The rear of the W1 features heavily haunched bodywork, a detailed engine cover, and a flow diverter that houses the shark fin audio and navigation antennas. Viewed from above, the car’s hammerhead-shaped nose and teardrop-shaped cabin taper off to the rear wing, where the Anhedral doors are located. McLaren’s W1 is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and performance, blending advanced engineering with state-of-the-art materials and design.
As the fastest road-legal hybrid supercar produced by McLaren, the W1 sets a new standard in the world of automotive excellence.
