British sports car manufacturer McLaren has unveiled a new hybrid supercar. The Artura combines a new lightweight design with a high-performance hybrid drive.
McLaren Artura
McLaren
The McLaren Artura is the first model based on the sports car manufacturer’s new “Carbon Lightweight Architecture” (MCLA). It is manufactured at the McLaren Composites Technology Centre (MCTC) in Sheffield (United Kingdom). The lightweight body is made of superformed aluminum and carbon fiber and includes a customized battery compartment. The entire rear cladding was designed and superformed as a single component. The curb weight of the supercar is 1498 kg.
The High-performance Hybrid (HPH) drive provides a system output of 500 kW (680 PS) and a maximum of 720 Nm of torque. The new 3.0-l V6 gasoline engine produces 430 kW (585 PS) and 585 Nm of torque. The two turbochargers of the M630 engine with 120° V-angle are located in the “hot V.” The electric motor sits in the transmission bell housing and contributes 70 kW (95 PS) and up to 225 Nm of torque.
McLaren Artura limited to 330 km/h
An eight-speed dual-clutch transmission transfers power to the rear axle and McLaren’s first electronic differential. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 3.0 s, and the top speed has been limited to 330 km/h. The 7.4-kWh battery consists of five lithium-ion modules and is said to be able to power the super sports car fully electrically for a maximum of 30 km.
In addition to the all-electric mode, the Artura offers Comfort, Sport and Track settings. A new rear suspension concept is said to provide greater stability and driving dynamics with the revised electrohydraulic steering and Proactive Damping Control. Carbon ceramic brakes are responsible for deceleration.
Network architecture for OTA updates
The interior with the new Clubsport seats is tailored entirely to the driver. In the cockpit, for example, all important controls are to be accessible with the hands on the steering wheel. A stealth mode reduces distractions by displaying only relevant data in the digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system is equipped with an 8'' HD touchscreen. A domain-based electrical network architecture reduces wiring by up to 25 % and facilitates access to driver assistance systems such as intelligent adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automatic high beam assist and traffic sign recognition. It also enables the Artura to handle Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.