GENEVA MOTOR SHOW: McLaren’s slippery new supercar

McLaren is preparing to re-write its own rules on aerodynamics.

The British manufacturer will unveil the second-generation of its Super Series portfolio at the Geneva motor show in March, with a package that is claimed to double the aerodynamic efficiency of the current 650S supercar.

The updates, which will be adopted across every future model of the Super Series range, will also dramatically increase downforce and improve cooling.

Shown here in teaser form is one piece of the second-generation model’s technological arsenal: an active rear wing featuring airbrake functionality.

“(The rear wing) moves upwards and increases in angle to optimise aerodynamic efficiency and also deploys to its most extreme angle as an airbrake in less than half a second, optimising balance when braking from speed,” McLaren says.

The function is just one element of intensive efforts to build on the design and aerodynamic elements of the highly successful first-generation Super Series.

In January, McLaren revealed details of a new monococque structure that will underpin the second-generation Super Series, called 'Monocage II'. Created to be stronger and lighter than the firm’s current structure, McLaren said the centrepiece would ensure the new 650S replacement weighs in at 1283kg (dry) – 18kg less than the old car.

“The second-generation McLaren Super Series will be as aerodynamically impressive as it is visually beautiful,” said McLaren product development boss Mark Vinnels.

“A range of advanced aerodynamic technologies contributes to maximum generated downforce over 50 per cent greater than that of the McLaren 650S and ensures truly outstanding levels of grip and stability.

“We have also markedly improved cooling efficiency, with a 15 per cent gain overall and a particular focus on airflow to the engine’s high temperature radiators through a unique new design of dihedral door.”

The updated dihedral door design features two separate air ducts integrated within the door structure, effectively building on diffuser technology debuted on the P1 hypercar.

“One duct forces air from the top of the door down into the high temperature radiators that cool the engine, while the other draws air out of the front wheel arch to create increased downforce,” McLaren says.

McLaren will provide full specification and pricing of its second-generation Super Series at the reveal in March.