McLaren is investing in the creation of a new hybrid V8 power unit for its future vehicles. The English automaker announced today that it has signed a long-term supply partnership with Ricardo, which will produce the power unit.
McLaren has worked with Ricardo since 2011, and their new agreement will see the engine manufacturer supply hybrid V6 and V8 power units that will power “existing and future high-performance hybrid supercars.”
“Our new high-performance, hybrid V8 powertrain will form an integral part of McLaren’s next generation product line-up delivering best-in-class performance and thrilling driver engagement,” said Michael Leiters, McLaren’s CEO. “This new agreement with Ricardo is, therefore, an important part of our ‘Future of Performance’ strategy and builds on the enduring relationship between the two British companies.”
More: McLaren Planning New, Lighter Hybrid System For Upcoming F1-Inspired Hypercar
Previous reports suggested that McLaren is working on a new F1-inspired hypercar that it plans to launch in 2026. The two-seater will be a part of its “Ultimate Series” vehicles, and will also feature a newly developed carbon fiber monocoque with integrated seat backs, 3D printed suspension parts, and cutting edge aerodynamics.
The heart of the car will be the hybrid power unit, which will reportedly weigh 70 percent less than McLaren’s current setup. It will also deliver power directly to the transmission, to provide drivers with an intense driving experience.
“We are extremely pleased to have concluded this new engine supply agreement with McLaren Automotive for their next generation high-performance V8 powertrain, which extends the long-term relationship between both companies into the next decade,” said Graham Ritchie, CEO of Ricardo. “Like McLaren, Ricardo has a proven track record of engineering excellence, delivering high performance technology and the highest standards of product quality supported by the upstream supply chain.”
Ricardo has provided McLaren with more than 34,000 power units since 2011. In fact, the company’s headquarters is just 50 miles away from McLaren’s. However, it is more than 100 years old and has in recent years developed transmissions for Formula E and the Rodin FZERO.
