Car racing video games are a good platform where automakers can allow players to experience their extreme car concepts in the virtual world. But McLaren Automotive wants to bring its hypercar available in the Gran Turismo (GT) in metal with the introduction of the real-life Solus GT.
McLaren Solus GT
The McLaren Solus GT is a single-seat, closed-cockpit track car that was unveiled at the Monterey Car Week in California alongside exciting cars such as the Bentley Mulliner Batur and Lamborghini Urus. Read on to see what the British hypercar can bring into the real world.
Exterior
Right off the bat, the McLaren Solus GT exudes a strong track car design normally seen at the racing actions of Le Mans. Aerodynamics are underscored by the bodywork including the two-layer front splitter and the massive rear diffusers which have tunnels that run from the front all the way to the back.
From virtual to real world
The hypercar weighs around 1,000 kg only while being able to generate downforce of around 1,200 kg. This is made possible thanks to extensive aero works such as the twin-element fixed wing at the back. All of which ride on a set of 18-inch forged aluminum wheels with center locking nuts with Le Mans Prototype-spec tires.
Interior
Getting into the one-seater cabin is an experience with the distinctive cockpit canopy that slides forward to provide access. The British automaker said that the design should give a feeling “like stepping into a jet fighter plane.” It is crafted to allow the driver to focus on the hypercar’s performance only.
It is influenced by motorsports
The design of the steering wheel is inspired by the ones in Formula 1, including colored buttons for various functions. Much like the motorsports-inspired steering wheel, the seat position is fixed. As such, the owners of the vehicle will experience seat fitting to suit the driving position that works best for them.
Tech & Safety
To allow drivers to push the Solus GT to the limits, a handful of safety technologies must be introduced. McLaren Automotive said that it is offering a full “racing driver experience,” providing safety equipment such as an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet and HANS device tailored specifically for an owner, and radio-enabled ear inserts.
McLaren will set up a coaching program for owners
The cabin is even integrated with halo-style cockpit protection for improved safety. A full driver-development coaching program will be available to help customers know more about the extreme machine. To note, the real-life Solus GT is limited to 25 customers only, which are all sold out before its debut.
Engine & Powertrain
V10 engines are a dying breed in the industry, especially now that the electric vehicle (EV) era is fast approaching. But McLaren Automotive is giving it a go in the Solus GT which is powered by a 5.2-liter, 10,000-rpm revving naturally-aspirated V10 gasoline engine that makes 830 horsepower and 649 Nm of torque.
A track monster
The power unit might sound a lot like the one produced by the Volkswagen Group for cars such as the Lamborghini Huracan and Audi R8, but McLaren said that it is specially made for the Solus GT. It is connected to a 7-speed sequential shift gearbox that allows faster shifts, limiting power loss during gear changes.
Price
The official price of the McLaren Solus GT was not announced. However, rumors suggest that the hypercar costs around $3.6-million (or around Php 202 million). It is currently at the track-testing stage of its development process, with deliveries expected to begin in 2023 for the 25 Solus GT customers.
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