A Non-Hybrid McLaren P1 Was Actually Very Close To Happening

McLaren presented the P1 hybrid hypercar concept at the 2012 Paris Auto Show. The model went into production in 2013, and 375 units and two years later, it was discontinued.

Aimed against the likes of the Ferrari LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder, the McLaren P1 wowed enthusiasts and continues to do so thanks to a marvelous design and impressive engineering.

Combining an electric motor with McLaren’s twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8, the Ultimate Series model has a total output of 916 PS (903 HP / 674 kW) and 900 Nm (664 lb-ft) of torque. Officially, it takes 2.8 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph), or 0.4 seconds faster than the iconic F1, and has an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).

Also Watch: Nico Rosberg And Mika Häkkinen Hoon A McLaren P1 In Monaco

The entire hybrid system added approximately 140 kg (309 lbs) to its curb weight of 1,547kg (3,411lbs). The electric motor provided an extra 179 PS (176 hp / 131kW) and the battery increased its total driving range to 480 km (300 miles), as estimated by the EPA.

However, as odd as it may seem, McLaren actually thought about launching a non-hybrid version of the P1. The project was on the table, according Autocar, and the company’s executives had a brainstorming session to decide if it made any sense.

Eventually, the non-hybrid P1 was eventually shelved in favor of the hypercar that we all know, which continues to shape the brand’s modern lineup and serves as a benchmark for Woking’s future supercars.