McLaren officially revealed the X-1 concept at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
McLaren officially revealed the X-1 concept at Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.
McLaren Special Operations (MSO), created the unique model for an “anonymous car enthusiast”. It is based on the MP4-12C.
Paul MacKenzie, MSO Program Director, stated that “one of our clients, who had a McLaren F1, a Mercedes Benz SLR McLaren, and now a 12C car, wanted a special car.” Ron Dennis, our Executive Chairman, was the first to have this conversation almost three years before the 12C was launched. The client desired a machine with all the capabilities of the 12C, but in a body that was unique to his personality and needs.
Mackenzie and Frank Stephenson, Design Director, meet for three hours with the client to discuss their ideas for the model. He suggested that the model should draw inspiration from classic cars, such as a 1961 Facel Vega and a 1953 Chrysler D’Elegance Ghia and a 1959 Buick Electra.
After hosting a competition, McLaren’s designers were matched against other outsiders. The client approved production and selected a McLaren’s Hong Yeo design.
The resultant model has futuristic styling and retro-inspired touches. Highlights include carbon fibre body panels, unique headlights and taillights as well as custom wheels and aluminum trim.
The interior is unchanged from the MP4-12C but now features Harissa Red Nappa leather upholstery and nickel-coated aluminiu switchgear.
McLaren did not release specific performance specifications, but McLaren stated that the car weighs around 1400 kg (3086lbs) and shares the same major mechanical components as the 12C. This includes the twin-turbo 625 PS (616 hp) engine.