The checkered flag for the development phase of the next supercar from McLaren, the MP4-12C, is just a few steps on the pedal away. McLaren recently released new prototypes that highlight the improvements they have made since 2009.
A video has been circulating over the internet featuring the two versions of these test prototypes of the McLaren MP4-12C. The XP8 and XP10 caught on cam are still in the beta phase.
The development of the car is a step closer to production as a new twin turbo M838T engine is placed under the hood of the prototypes. The designers also upgraded the electrical setup, cooling package, and improved the gear ration of the MP4-12C.
The 3.8L V-8 engine has a monstrous output of 600 horsepower and is paired with a 7-speed gearbox with a dual clutch setup. The weight of the MP4-12C is expected to be below 3,000 pounds. The tag price is expected to kick off at $230,000 when the new McLaren supercar goes on sale by 2011.
Aside from the technological upgrades, the new prototypes were also covered in black vinyl plastic unlike the testing cars last year which were donning a black and white camouflage.
Testing of the McLaren MP4-12C is being done in different corners of the globe. The one that we have on video are the prototypes snaking through the public roads of Spain.
The MP4-12C is expected to meet headon the likes of the Gallardo from Lamborghini and the prancing F430 and 458 Italia from Italian carmaker Ferrari.
The development program is like going through an intensity similar to F1 program. McLaren assigned 25 of its best engineers to travel with the prototypes to avoid any delays and speedup the process. Another team of 12 engineers are locked on developing certain technologies and elements that will be vital to the McLaren supercar.
[photo from autoweek.com]
