6:00 am, September 9, 2009
Click on the images at the bottom for a picture gallery
RON DENNIS has said the launch of the stunning McLaren MP4-12C supercar has ‘realised a dream’.
The new car – officially unveiled today at 6am – showcases a host of incredible technology taken direct from Formula 1… and Dennis couldn’t be more excited about the project.
The car – already dubbed the 12C – is the first in a range of vehicles from McLaren Automotive, the side of the business Dennis heads up since he stepped back from F1.
The 12C, likely to cost around £170,000, features a 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo charged engine which produces an incredible 600bhp and 600Nm of torque and comes with a seven speed paddle shift SSG gearbox.
No performance figures have yet been released but it’s likely to beat rivals from Ferrari and Lamborghini. The dash to 60mph is likely to be under four seconds and don’t be surprised at a top speed in excess of 200mph
‘It is a long-held dream of mine to launch high performance sportscars that set new standards in the industry,’ explains Dennis.
‘We began designing and building cars for aficionados of thoroughbred sportscars almost 20 years ago. I am confident that now is the right time for McLaren Automotive to become a full line high performance sportscar manufacturer.’
PERFECT TIMING
Dennis predicts we’ll be well out of recession by 2011 which is perfect timing for the launch of the MP4-12C.
‘Worldwide demand for high performance cars is strong, in large part because of great cars from great competitors,’ says Dennis. ‘With McLaren joining that list, it will grow stronger still.
‘What drives people at McLaren is passion – if you cut them, they bleed McLaren. And there is no doubt in my mind that the 12C fully reflects that focus, drive and determination in its performance, style and ownership potential.’
Dennis acknowledges there’s some tough competition in the sector the MP4-12C will be fighting for sales in. Ferrari has already shown its hand with the gorgeous Italia 458 and Lamborghini has wowed us with its LP560-4.
‘We respect and admire our competitors in the high performance sportscar market, just as we do in the world of Formula 1, but I also believe that fierce competition drives technology and innovation and produces ever better products,’ says Dennis.
‘With the McLaren MP4-12C we are determined to deliver the best car in its sector by almost any measure.’
Car Dealer Magazine was one of few publications to be given early access to the details of the car and a full report on the new machine can be found in the latest issue – out this week. In the meantime enjoy our picture gallery of the new car…
By James Baggott
