McLaren celebrates recently launched 720S and 570S Spider with brand experience at 67th Frankfurt IAA International Motor Show

McLaren celebrates recently launched 720S and 570S Spider with brand experience at 67th Frankfurt IAA International Motor Show

McLaren celebrates recently launched 720S and 570S Spider with brand experience at 67th Frankfurt IAA International Motor Show

McLaren Automotive, the British manufacturer of luxury, high-performance sports cars and supercars, will be displaying cars from its Sports Series and Super Series ranges during the 67th IAA (International Motor Show) in Frankfurt, from September 14 to 24.

McLaren will be using the ‘Agora Platz’ outside area of the showground, allowing IAA visitors relaxed access to its vehicles. The newest member of the McLaren Sports Series family, the McLaren 570S Spider, which made its public debut in June at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK, will be displayed next to Hall 11 of the IAA, opposite McLaren’s central location between Halls 3, 4 and 5.

The new two-seat, rear-wheel drive 570S Spider is the third bodystyle in McLaren’s Sports Series portfolio, lining up alongside the 570S Coupé and the 570GT. Combining the dynamic thrills and refinement of the 570S Coupé with the extra exhilaration of open-air motoring, the 570S Spider –which is hand-assembled in Woking, England – brings supercar attributes such as carbon-fibre construction, a mid-engined layout and extreme performance to the luxury sports convertible segment for the first time.

McLaren celebrates recently launched 720S and 570S Spider with brand experience at 67th Frankfurt IAA International Motor Show

“McLaren has enjoyed five years of success in Germany and the IAA is the ideal event to display our range and offer prospective customers to explore the cars and experience the McLaren brand outside of our own facilities,” commented David Gilbert, Managing Director Europe, McLaren Automotive. “With interest in McLaren cars continuing to grow, by the introduction this year of the new, second-generation Super Series and our first Sports Series convertible, the McLaren 570S Spider, we are looking forward to further grow in the German market.”

Test drives of 570S Spider and 570GT will be conducted during the public days, with prospective customers experiencing a short and intensive drive to demonstrate the thrilling performance and exceptional driver involvement that McLaren Sports Series cars offer.

Additionally, a limited-edition McLaren 570GT – one of six created by McLaren Special Operations for the European market – will be shown during the IAA to an exclusive invited audience of McLaren customers behind closed doors. Further details of this vehicle will be revealed at a later date.

courtesy: media.mclarenautomotive.com

McLaren Special Operations presents unique McLaren 720S customer commission at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance

McLaren Special Operations presents unique McLaren 720S customer commission at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

McLaren Special Operations presents unique McLaren 720S customer commission at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance
A truly striking, one-of-kind McLaren 720S makes its public debut this weekend at the illustrious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in Monterey, California. The Bespoke division of McLaren Special Operations crafted the unique McLaren supercar, to the specification of entrepreneur and philanthropist, Michael Fux. McLaren Chief Executive Officer, Mike Flewitt, presented the car to Mr Fux in Monterey, ahead of it being displayed on the ‘Concept Lawn’ on Concours Sunday,

The exterior paint colour immediately identifies the car as being designed to order, a service available to all McLaren customers through McLaren Special Operations. Named ‘Fux Fuchsia’, the colour was created for Mr Fux by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Limited and subsequently redeveloped by MSO; Mr Fux will retain exclusive rights to its use on any other McLaren vehicle.

McLaren Special Operations presents unique McLaren 720S customer commission at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

“Challenging the art of the possible to meet the most demanding customer requirements and then delivering beyond expectations are integral to the service that McLaren Special Operations offers,” commented Jolyon Nash, McLaren Automotive Executive Director, Global Sales and Marketing. “MSO provides McLaren owners with virtually limitless possibilities to tailor a car exactly to their needs and tastes; unique paint colours and finishes, custom leather and stitching and exotic materials are all available within a bespoke commission, while beyond this there are opportunities all the way up to complete vehicles designed to individual specification.”

The distinctive hue also features as a detail on the lightweight wheels, contrasting with the platinum finish of the alloy. Inside the car, door appliqués, a pinstripe on the steering wheel and even the rear-view mirror are all in body colour, providing highlights of fuchsia in a cabin that is otherwise resplendent from headlining to cup holder – and almost everything in between – in MSO Bespoke white leather with white stitching. White Alcantara® floor mats, again with white stitching, complete the theme.

McLaren Special Operations presents unique McLaren 720S customer commission at Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance

In addition to the bespoke elements of the vehicle, the exhaust and window surrounds are in Stealth grey finish and carbon fibre components from the MSO Defined range have also been specified. These can be ordered on any McLaren, of any colour.

Michael Fux is renowned as a collector of highly desirable, rare cars and has previously commissioned a McLaren 12C in McLaren Orange, a 12C Spider in bespoke purple and a McLaren P1™ in bespoke green.

courtesy: media.mclarenautomotive.com

McLaren Automotive takes a new approach to open-top cars

McLaren Automotive takes a new approach to open-top cars

McLaren Automotive takes a new approach to open-top cars

McLaren Automotive has teamed up with The Step2 Company, LLC, a large North American toy manufacturer, to create a unique model tailored to appeal to a small but very important audience.

The revolutionary 570S Step2 Push Sports Car was designed with family in mind, providing practical support for modern living by allowing parents to carry out their daily tasks or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll in the park without needing a conventional stroller. With a handy storage area under the seat that is perfect for stowing snacks and multiple cup holders to house that vital morning coffee and bottles of water, this stylish car lets toddlers rest their weary legs when the excitement of running around has worn off.

With its enthusiastic spirit to develop and create ground-breaking toys, Step2 shares many values with McLaren Automotive: just as McLaren is recognised as pioneering carbon fibre technology – used in all its cars since 1981 – Ohio-based Step2 is recognised as pioneering the ‘push car’ and its expertise and knowledge of the needs of children and parents alike was vital to the project.

The design brief for the 570S Push Sports Car was to create something fun that would captivate the intended audience, displaying engineering and design prowess. Designers from McLaren Automotive and Step2 worked closely together to replicate the essence of the real McLaren 570S; Step2’s Whisper Wheels™ give the car a smooth ride, the flat-based steering wheel offers excellent feedback and electronic sounds provide an exhilarating experience for mini-racers.

The new McLaren 570S Push Sports Car, which is officially licensed by Step2, launches initially in Ventura Orange. It will be available exclusively through Amazon.com US in September before rolling out later this year through leading global retailers and Step2.com. The RRP is $79.99.

courtesy: media.mclarenautomotive.com

McLaren Automotive accelerates to fourth consecutive year of profitability from record sales in 2016; confirms business plan on track with launch of new Super Series and Sports Series models

McLaren Automotive accelerates to fourth consecutive year of profitability from record sales in 2016

McLaren Automotive accelerates to fourth consecutive year of profitability from record sales in 2016

British sportscar and supercar manufacturer, McLaren Automotive, today announces yet another record-breaking year in respect of vehicle sales and financial performance.

Profit before tax of £9.2M from an annual sales revenue of £649.8M in 2016 gave McLaren Automotive a fourth consecutive year of profitability in only six years, since start of sales in 2011. This was an increase in profit before tax of 70% compared to the £5.4M reported in 2015.

Operating profit of £65.8M in 2016 was the company’s highest ever, standing at 10% of turnover and representing a 180% increase over 2015. The strong financial performance in 2016 was underpinned by record sales, with a total of 3,286 cars purchased; this was a 99% increase over 2015 and exceeded the company’s own expectations by almost 10%, with all geographic regions achieving sales growth.

“The positive financial performance in 2016 was underpinned by a 44% increase in sales revenues and is further proof that McLaren Automotive’s growth plans are both achievable and sustainable,” said McLaren Automotive Chief Executive Officer, Mike Flewitt. ”Investment in R&D and future product during the period of £129.1M – 20% of turnover – reaffirms our commitment to the Track22 Business Plan that will produce 15 new models or derivatives by the end of 2022 and the focus going forwards will be on successfully delivering these new products and managing continued profitable growth.”

In its first full year of production, the Sports Series family accounted for 2,031 deliveries, the majority of which came from the recently-introduced McLaren 570GT and 570S models. The Super Series also continued its success story thanks, in large part, to the McLaren 675LT Coupé and Spider models. Having both sold out in a matter of weeks, the limited production, even more driver-focused and higher-performance derivatives of the Super Series started production in mid-2015 but continued through 2016. In total, 1,255 Super Series cars were sold in 2016.

In March 2017 the second-generation McLaren Super Series, the new McLaren 720S, was launched. The new car generated immediate customer interest and some 1,500 orders have been taken to date. A new convertible Sports Series model, the 570S Spider, was announced on 14th June 2017 and makes its world debut this week in the UK at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

“The McLaren Automotive business continues to perform strongly, with 2016 returning a fourth consecutive year of positive financial results,” said McLaren Automotive Chief Financial Officer, Paul Buddin. ”Profit before tax was up by 70% to £9.2M, from our highest-ever operating profit of £65.8M, an increase of 180% over 2015. These results were driven by vehicle sales totalling 3,286 in 2016 – 99% up year-on-year and another record – and significant growth in revenues from McLaren Special Operations (MSO) and McLaren Automotive Aftersales operations.”

Sales increases in all regions

Geographically, in 2016 North America continued to be McLaren Automotive’s single largest market with deliveries of 1,139 cars, a 106% increase over 2015. Europe ended 2016 selling 996 cars in total, an increase of 153%, whilst the rapidly-developing market in China sold 228 cars in total. The Asia Pacific region grew by 90% while the newly combined Middle East, Africa and Central and South America region grew by a notable 69%. In addition, the global footprint of the McLaren retailer network continued apace in 2016, with new dealer facilities opened in Bristol (UK), Boston and Palm Beach (USA), Gold Coast (Australia) and Fukuoka in Japan.

In parallel with the vehicle sales success, McLaren Automotive also saw substantial growth in non-car-related activities. McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the company’s bespoke division, posted an increase in revenue of 147%, while the Aftersales function recorded turnover growth of 37% for the year.

”2016 was an extraordinary year for McLaren Automotive, with a near-doubling of sales and the completion of our 10,000th car,” commented McLaren Automotive Executive Director – Global Sales and Marketing, Jolyon Nash. “While we will never again see another jump in sales volume of this magnitude, the reception to the new 720S and the new 570S Spider has been incredibly positive and initial orders for both are beyond our expectations. Having the new, second-generation Super Series and the first-ever Sports Series convertible in showrooms will give every one of the 80 McLaren retailers worldwide the opportunity to contribute strongly to another record year for the McLaren Automotive business in 2017.”

On-going investment in Research & Development and new products

During 2016, McLaren Automotive invested £129.1M in new projects, across the Sports Series, Super Series and Ultimate Series product families. The Track22 Business Plan sees McLaren investing an industry-leading percentage of turnover (20% in 2016) in R&D activities over the period of the plan. This will take the company towards its objective of producing more than 4,500 vehicles annually by the end of 2022, with at least 50% of these cars featuring hybrid powertrain technology. The Business Plan also includes the development of a fully-electric powertrain for a concept car to evaluate its possible use in a future Ultimate Series. In 2016, the early prototype stages of the development work commenced.

McLaren Automotive is also investing in senior management infrastructure to support its product development plans. Dr Jens Ludmann was announced in May 2017 as the company’s new Chief Operating Officer. Reporting to the CEO, Dr Ludmann will oversee the launch of 13 new models or derivatives during the next five years and focus on further developing internal working processes, relationships and disciplines across Product Development, Purchasing, Supplier Quality Assurance and Manufacturing.

A year of transition for the McLaren Production Centre

The McLaren Production Centre (MPC), the sole location for the hand-assembly of McLaren Automotive sportscars and supercars, underwent signficant operational changes during 2016 calendar year. A second shift was implemented in January to meet demand for Sports Series models, leading to the creation of 250 new jobs within the manufacturing, quality and logistics departments. This strategic development took capacity at the MPC from 10 cars a day to 20, supporting annual production in the region of 5,000 units.

McLaren Composites Technology Centre to bring chassis production in-house

McLaren Automotive announced in February 2017 that it will construct a new Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) that will be responsible for the development and manufacture of the Monocell and Monocage carbon fibre chassis used in future McLaren models. Located in Sheffield, UK, the MCTC project is a partnership between McLaren Automotive, the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and Sheffield City Council. Combined investment of approaching £50M will create the facility and more than 200 jobs. When commissioned and running at full production from 2020, the MCTC is targeted to deliver cost savings of around £10M annually compared to today and the chassis supply will increase average percentage (by value) of a McLaren car sourced in the UK by around 8%, from its current average of around 50% (depending on model).

courtesy: cars.mclaren.press

 

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

  • All the high-performance dynamic attributes and refinement of 570S Coupé with the added exhilaration of open-air driving
  • Third bodystyle in McLaren’s Sports Series product family, alongside Coupé and GT
  • World debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed, UK, June 29 – July 2, 2017
  • Retractable hardtop using technology proven in McLaren 650S and 675LT Spiders
  • Just 46kg weight premium over 570S Coupé and structural rigidity unchanged
  • Roof takes just 15 seconds to open or close, at vehicle speeds of up to 40km/h (25mph)
  • Electrically operated, glazed rear window/wind deflector
  • Unique-in-class combination of carbon fibre construction, mid-engined drivetrain layout and McLaren dihedral doors
  • Extended rear spoiler is 12mm higher than Coupé’s to compensate change in body shape
  • 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine with seven-speed, seamless-shift gearbox produces a class-leading 570PS and 600Nm
  • Acceleration from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 3.2 seconds and 328km/h (204mph) top speed are identical to 570S Coupé. Top speed with roof down is 315km/h (196mph)
  • First 400 Spiders built will be launch edition models, following success of 720S launch edition
  • Available to order now, priced from £164,750 (UK)

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

The new McLaren 570S Spider combines the exceptional dynamism and refinement of the 570S Coupé with the extra exhilaration of open-air motoring. Hand-assembled in Woking, England, the 570S Spider is the most attainable McLaren Spider ever and brings supercar attributes such as carbon-fibre construction, a mid-engined layout and extreme performance for the first time to the luxury sports convertible segment.

The two-seat, rear-wheel drive 570S Spider is the third bodystyle in McLaren’s Sports Series portfolio, lining up alongside the Coupé and the GT. Compared to the Coupé, the 570S Spider adds a neatly integrated, retractable hardtop that when lowered delivers an even more immersive and exhilarating driving experience. The two-piece roof – which is engineered using technology proven in the McLaren 650S and 675LT Spider models – is constructed of lightweight composite panels and creates a purposeful, sleek appearance whether raised or lowered.

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

Most importantly, there are no performance compromises versus the 570S Coupé, with the Spider maintaining the same electrifying pace, dynamic excellence and impressive refinement. The carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis at the heart of all Sports Series cars does not suffer any reduction in strength or stiffness in convertible guise, or require any additional structural actions. This has allowed McLaren engineers to design and develop the 570S Spider without concerns that are potentially a significant issue with steel or aluminium structures.

“The McLaren 570S Spider is the most attainable McLaren Spider to date and adds yet another dimension to the McLaren Sports Series family. This is a convertible without compromise; its mid-engined layout and carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis guarantee the same thrilling dynamic performance and exceptional driver involvement enjoyed in a 570S Coupé, but with the added attraction of a retractable hard-top that delivers the extra exhilaration of roof-down motoring.”
Mike Flewitt, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Automotive

Electrically operated from the driver’s seat using one simple control, the roof folds effortlessly to stow beneath a beautifully crafted tonneau cover that rises automatically to accommodate the lowered panels and returns to its closed position with the assistance of soft-close technology. The roof can be opened or closed in just 15 seconds, at vehicle speeds of up to 40km/h (25mph).

A glazed wind deflector can be electrically raised or lowered at the push of a button, providing further versatility with the roof up or down. The deflector reduces wind-buffeting when the roof is down and if desired can be lowered when the roof is raised to allow additional sound and fresh air into the cabin. Owners wanting to enjoy even more of the distinctive exhaust note of the new Spider can specify an optional sports system that features an ESG to channel exhaust sound towards the cabin, via the area beneath the tonneau cover.

The retractable hardtop is designed to withstand the severest conditions and is significantly more weather- and fade-resistant than fabric, yet with its operating mechanism adds just 46kg to the weight of the Spider; this is the only variance in weight between the new convertible and the 570S Coupé.

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

Supercar performance

The combination of lightweight carbon fibre construction and an incredibly potent 3.8-litre, twin-turbocharged McLaren V8 engine, means that the new 570S Spider is both more powerful and lighter than comparable convertibles, with an impressive power-to-weight ratio of 419PS-per-tonne (lightest dry weight).

Positioned behind the driver, the twin-turbocharged McLaren M838TE engine produces 570PS at 7,500rpm and torque of 600Nm between 5,000rpm and 6,500rpm. In combination with a rapid yet smooth seven-speed seamless-shift gearbox featuring Launch Control technology, the result is a luxury sports convertible with supercar acceleration from standstill to 100km/h (62mph) in 3.2 seconds and to 200km/h (124mph) in just 9.6 seconds.

Top speed is 328km/h (204mph) with the roof in place – identical to the 570S Coupé – and even with the roof lowered, the new Spider can reach 315km/h (196mph). Complementing this extreme performance is a stop-start system that contributes to overall efficiency; the 570S Spider returns official fuel economy of 10.7 litres/100km (26.6mpg) in the NEDC combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 249g/km.

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

Exceptional body control

McLaren’s new Spider employs racecar-style, double-wishbone suspension all-round, with steel springs, twin-valve adaptive dampers and anti-roll bars calibrated to the same exacting specification as the 570S Coupé. Body control is exceptional and the overall drive incredibly pure and rewarding, while retaining impressive comfort. Accessing the Active Dynamics Panel adds another level of personal choice, allowing the driver to choose from Normal, Sport or Track modes, for progressively softer or firmer suspension. This versatility ensures that the Spider is as at ease in everyday use as it is on a race track.

Electro-hydraulically assisted power steering, carbon-ceramic brakes and Pirelli P ZERO™ CORSA tyres are standard, while the latest chassis software both enhances the driving experience and increases safety. Developed originally for Formula 1™, Brake Steer aids cornering and reduces understeer by subtly applying braking force to the inside rear wheel as the driver turns in to a corner. Performance Traction Control calibrated by McLaren provides precise control in extreme situations, while the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) system includes a ‘Dynamic’ mode with reduced intervention and increased ‘driftability’, allowing drivers to enjoy the 570S Spider’s dynamic potential with confidence.

Tailored design

The breath-taking body design is enhanced by a rear spoiler, finished in Dark Palladium grey (a visible carbon fibre finish is available at additional cost via McLaren Special Operations) and 12mm taller than the rear spoiler of the 570S Coupé. The higher spoiler provides additional downforce to offset the aerodynamic changes resulting from the Spider having a different rear upper body design, ensuring exceptional aerodynamic balance overall that is the equal of the Coupé.

Designed around a perfect driving position that puts the driver at the centre of the action, the sophisticated cabin blends exceptional levels of craftsmanship, quality and technology; hand-stitched leather on the seats, door casings, dashboard and centre console sits side-by-side with a 10-inch TFT main instrument cluster and a centrally mounted, 7-inch IRIS touchscreen through which climate control and infotainment functionality are managed.

McLaren 570S Spider: a convertible without compromise

Customers can choose from standard six-way-adjustable or optional eight-way adjustable electric memory seats, with luxurious Nappa leather or performance-oriented Alcantara® trim available at additional cost. Lightweight carbon-fibre-shelled sports seats, the same as those fitted to the McLaren P1™, can also be specified.

Three new exterior colours celebrate the Spider’s introduction, with Curacao Blue, Vega Blue and Sicilian Yellow joining the existing Sports Series palette and giving Spider customers a choice of 20 colours in total. The new hues dramatically showcase the complex forms of the aluminium bodywork and unique-in-class dihedral doors, particularly when combined for added visual impact with an optional Dark Palladium grey contrast finish on the roof, windscreen pillars and rear buttresses.

An all-new, 10-spoke lightweight forged alloy wheel design (19-inch front, 20-inch rear) has been crafted as an option for the new 570S Spider. For further differentiation, a new brake caliper colour, Liquid Black, is also available.

Available to order now from more than 80 McLaren retailers worldwide, each 570S Spider is hand-assembled at the McLaren Production Centre in Woking, England.

The new McLaren 570S Spider will make its public debut on 29th June at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, West Sussex, UK and the first cars are scheduled to be delivered to customers in August.

courtesy: www.cars.mclaren.press