McLaren P1 GTR design concept revealed

Purchasing a P1 GTR won’t simply be a case of handing over some cash and getting a set of keys in return. The cars, which are intended purely for track use, are going to be run and maintained by McLaren’s Special Operations department. Perhaps just as importantly, owners will receive aftersales care too via a bespoke driver training programme.

Numerous aerodynamic appendages mean the GTR is unlikely to be mistaken for a regular P1. At the front there’s a much larger splitter and modified inlets, while additional blades behind the wheel arches help to channel air along the flanks.

Undoubtedly the most dramatic changes are at the rear, though. Instead of the usual retractable wing the GTR version features a fixed twin-element item. Sitting atop a pair of prominent carbon fibre struts, it even incorporates a drag reduction system to aid acceleration. Extra downforce comes courtesy of a substantial carbon fibre diffuser.

To fully exploit the bodywork upgrades the P1’s hybrid powertrain has also been tweaked. As a result, combined output from the 3.8 litre V8 twin-turbo engine and electric motor is up from 903 bhp (673 kW / 916 PS) to 986 bhp (735 kW / 1,000 PS). Furthermore, the GTR gains a ‘push-to-pass’ energy recovery device.

Completing the enhancements are a fixed ride height suspension set-up, some 19” lightweight alloy wheels shod with Pirelli slick tyres and a specially-created inconel and titanium alloy exhaust.

With development of the P1 GTR continuing, McLaren has said that deliveries should begin in around a year’s time.

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