2026 McLaren P1 successor set to shun EV power
Long-awaited McLaren hypercar to use V8-based plug-in hybrid, not pure battery-electric powertrainMcLaren is secretly developing an all-new hypercar replacement for the awesome McLaren P1 that will feature an advanced ultra-lightweight plug-in hybrid V8 powertrain when it arrives in 2026.
Originally, it was thought McLaren would roll out a wild battery-electric Rimac rival, but now, according to two dealers who attended the supercar-maker’s recent global retailer conference, the next Ultimate-series McLaren will feature an advanced new hybrid unit.
“McLaren doesn’t feel EV technology is there,” a dealer told newswire Automotive News “It’s an answer, but it’s not THE answer.”
Claimed to weigh an incredible 70 per cent less than the powertrain used in the McLaren Artura supercar, the new PHEV V8 hypercar takes the shape of a wild two-seat coupe.
Based around a bespoke carbon-fibre monocoque, which cuts kilos further by integrating the seatbacks into the tub, the new P1 replacement is tipped to be heavily inspired by the brand’s Formula 1 involvement.
It’s said to feature better rigidity and improved safety over its current road cars, but the star of the show will be its wild cutting-edge aerodynamics that incorporate knowhow lifted from the F1 racer.
3D printed parts, including suspension components, will help slash weight and speed up the development process.
Instead of setting new records for acceleration, the new hypercar is likely to focus on mid-range and high-end performance, with a top speed of more than 400km/h possible.
Insiders suggest the car-maker’s trademark dihedral doors will feature as part of the McLaren hypercar’s dramatic design.
As well as the P1 replacement, the dealers also reported that a second luxury offering is also on its way.
It will feature four seats and four doors, but the insiders didn’t reveal the body style.
That said, an SUV is hotly tipped, following Ferrari’s Michael Leiters taking over the reins as CEO at the Woking-based car-maker.
Leiters was the architect behind the Porsche Cayenne and the man who twisted Maranello’s arm to make the sell-out Ferrari Purosangue SUV.
With the new McLaren hypercar locked in for a 2026 arrival, the bigger four-seater is due in 2028.
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Related: McLaren SUV takes shape
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