Ron Dennis has revealed in an interview that the new McLaren – codename P11 – will be known as the McLaren MP4-12C.
Update 9/9/09: McLaren has now released full details and pictures of the McLaren MP4-12C
Update 10/0/09: Ron Dennis talks about the MP4-12c and McLaren Automotive’s future plans.
We reported recently that McLaren plans to unveil detail of the McLaren P11 – the Ferrari 458 Italia competitor – on 9th September. Well, it looks like Ron Dennis has jumped the gun a bit and divulged that the car we’ve know by its codename – McLaren P11 – since we first learned of its existence will be known as the McLaren MP4-12C. Catchy little moniker.
But of course it’s about McLaren history, and more than a passing nod to its F1 heritage. The McLaren F1 cars are all dubbed MP4, but I think we’d prefer to have seen something like McLaren F2. Still, a rose by any other name…
What Ron also let slip was that the MP4-12C will be powered by twin-turbo V8 engine mated to a seven speed ‘box and likely to deliver 600bhp+. The suspension will offer the optimum setup at all times – from boulevard bowling to track storming – through a sophisticated automatically adjusting system.
The MP4-12C will feature proper supercar standard fare like gullwing doors, but is intended to be a technological tour de force, with wi-fi for internet access and a futuristic feel to the cabin.
Details are being kept under wraps until Wednesday, but we’ll get more detail then. It also seems likely that we may get a little more information on the Babay McLaren – the 911 Competitor – and perhaps even the new McLaren F1, even though that’s not due for another five years.
We’ll be on then case on Wednesday.
Source: Times Online
Brad Budarick says
The code name is what McLaren call their F1 machines.
Currently the MP4-24 is their latest F1 car.
Ron Dennis’ F2 team Project 4 merged with McLaren in the early 80s since then the code name for the F1 cars has used the following rules.
McLaren/ Project 4 – sequential car number 1- 24
Joel says
I agree. What sort of name is MP4-12C for a McLaren. It sounds like something a garden shed car maker would come up with. It would have been better to call it the McLaren Ron or the McLaren Woking! But even if it is the MP4-12C is looks to be one hell of a McLaren. Much better effort than the SLR.
Ian says
You’re right, mate. McLaren Walking (Ron speaking). We’re looking and laughing. Happy World.