Paris Motor Show 2012: McLaren, an absolute revolution

McLaren Automotive makes history again. What they have managed to build is simply spectacular, both in terms of styling and mechanics, everything is perfect. Over these last two days we have talked at length about all the Paris novelties, but we wanted to save this great brand for last, and I think the wait has been worth it.

Ron Dennis and his team have decided to present their two latest creations in the French capital: the MP4-12C Spider and the new king of the roads, the P1. The successor to the F1 shown in Paris is considered a design study, but more than 95 percent of the exterior appearance will be carried over to the production model.

We still lack many details, such as its performance, the propulsion system or its interior, but what really matters is already here. The British carmaker claims that at not excessively high speeds it generates 600kg! of aerodynamic downforce, the highest level among current road cars and five times that of the MP4-12C. It has a drag coefficient of 0.34 and uses a carbon fibre structure that is integrated into the cabin.

We could be talking about a race car with no restrictions or regulations. The culprit behind such figures is an active aerodynamic system. The rear wing can pivot 29º and vary its position between 120mm and 300mm depending on the driving conditions. It consists of two articulated arms.

But the P1 does not only feature this hidden gem; it also has two flaps under the chassis capable of modifying the ground effect. These change position along the underside of the McLaren to increase or decrease the airflow, allowing its pressure and speed to be controlled.

This technology is based on Formula 1, but unlike it, the 21st-century supercar performs all of its operations automatically by computer rather than manually.

We should also mention the discreet appearance of the MP4-12C Spider. I say discreet because next to its big brother this little convertible looks like a trivial car. We have been able to see its interior, and I must say it is simply Ron Dennis. Everything in its place, as it should be.

Images | Highmotor