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McLaren repeatedly stated that an SUV is unlikely to happen. Rumours persist that McLaren, which is based in Woking, will eventually succumb to the temptation to add rear doors and a pair stilts. Autocar claims that this will happen in the second half of the decade. The model in question will not have a combustion engine. The British magazine confirms that the Mac will only be available as an electric vehicle (EV).
Although details are not available at this time, it is likely that McLaren’s first SUV will be low to the ground. It will have all-wheel drive thanks to dual electric motors. According to the report, solid-state batteries and a tri-motor derivative might also be available. This tech would allow engineers to control the EV’s weight. Side note: The new Lotus Eletre weighs in at approximately 2,000 kg (4,400 lbs), which is quite low for an electric SUV.
Autocar has cited company insiders who claim there is a “passion for the idea” for an SUV. However, it could be expensive. Buyers will need to spend nearly PS350,000. This is approximately $421,000 or EUR401,000. Current exchange rates mean that this amount would be about USD401,500. According to a trademark filing, the most practical McLaren could be called “Aeron” if it is anything to go by. It is a Hebrew word that means “mountain strength”, and it would make sense to use for an SUV.
McLaren has already unveiled an electric SUV. This is the bespoke racecar for the Extreme E Series. Emma Gilmour will be driving the car as the first McLaren Racing woman driver. Tanner Foust is her partner in this duo, which weighs in at 1,780 kg (3,924 lbs).
The electric off-roader is powered by two motors that produce a total of 543 horsepower (400 megawatts). This translates into a sprint time of 4.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph (100 km/h). Although you can’t see it in these photos, the vehicle measures 2.3 meters (90.5 inches) in width.
It is obvious that McLaren will not be making an SUV for public roads if it does indeed make one.