McLaren MP4-12C supercar

by Chris Hughes

This is McLaren’s latest road going supercar and its callled the MP4-12C

The Mclaren MP4-12C uses a carbon fiber monocell which McLaren claim is “stiffer than aluminum and offers a rigidity that, when combined with an innovative suspension system, means that the 12C doesn’t need a mechanicalanti-rollbar. This provides exceptional improvements in ride comfort, roll control and grip on the roads, without compromising performance during extreme driving”.

Every part of the cars exterior has been designed to improve aerodynamics. McLaren have used dedicated wind tunnels to optimize downforce for improved traction, cornering and better fuel efficiency.

McLaren’s new supercar comes with a Bespoke 3.8 litre V8 twin turbocharged engine which produces around 600bhp. Mclaren claim that the MP4-12C can reach speeds of over 200mph (322km/h) and go 0-60 (0-100km/h) in about 3 seconds.

Power is transmitted to the wheels through a 7-speed Seamless Shift dual-clutch gearbox equipped with “Pre-Cog”, which allows the driver to pre-select the next gear by half-pulling the paddle shifter behind the steering wheel, which allows the transmission to execute faster gear changes.

The car uses Formula 1-sourced technologies such as “brake steer”, where the inside rear wheel is braked during fast cornering to reduce understeer and also to increase breaking McLaren have fitted the MP4-12C with a spoiler that also acts as an air brake during high speeds.

The exhaust pipes have been positioned high to reduce piping for a lighter car and also improve downforce.

The 2 seater interior has been designed around the driver. Normally in a supercar drivers comfort is compromised for performance but with the MP4-12C that is not the case. Most of the interior was inspired from McLarens Formula 1 research and experience.

McLaren will be producing just 1000 MP4-12C’s and they will be available in 2011. Rumors are that McLaren are planning to launch a roadster version of the MP4-12C too.