McLaren Autoмotiʋe has exploited the virtual gaming world to create an outstanding model in Gran Turismo Sport. We are, of course, referring to the McLaren Solus GT, the car featured in the hit video game. But sometime next year, that digital concept will be seen on some roads around the world. That’s right, the world-famous sports car manufacturer is building actual McLaren Solus GT cars. According to the automaker, this project represents the stunning realization of a 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 concept car from the screen of a virtual race. It represents an extreme expression of track driving engagement realized in a digital world that will deliver real-world excitement for lucky drivers.
Getting your hands on one is impossible. The Solus GT is a special commission for just 25 customers and all cars are used. The single-seat, closed-cockpit race car was recently unveiled during Monterey Car Week in California.
Designed for the real world based on McLaren’s complete experience and expertise at the highest levels of sports car, supercar and hypercar development, the Solus GT weighs under 1,000kg with performance Aerodynamic efficiency including downforce exceeds 1,200kg.
Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 engine, the Solus GT will produce around 840PS of power and 650Nm of torque. Combined with a high-speed sequential transmission, it delivers a driving experience that closely resembles the engagement and feel of driving a Formula 1 car.
McLaren Solus GT has a target time of 2.5 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h and reaches a maximum speed of more than 200 km/h. As such, the ehicle has the performance credentials required for an extreme tracker.
In common with McLarens since 1981, the Solus GT is based around an automotive fiber motorcycle. The front and rear chassis structures are also made from carbon fiber, with the engine and transmission forming the remainder of the chassis.
The striking exterior design is clearly faithful to its “virtual inspiration”. Based on professional aerodynamic principles, its design is further refined by additional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) and wind tunnel aerodynamic studies.
Key design features include a sliding hood behind the single, center seat, 18-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in aerodynamic covers, and a large front splitter. A motorsport-inspired intake in the cockpit is integrated into the design of the roll rim, feeding cold air into the engine, while creating an engaging induction sound. At the rear, the two-element fixed rear wing optimizes downforce for straight-line performance as well as enhanced cornering ability.
Stepping inside, drivers will be greeted with a cockpit-like interior reminiscent of a fighter jet. The steering wheel – a unique design among McLaren production cars – is inspired by Formula 1, with a display and essential controls integrated to fit into tight spaces of a single-seat racing car.
To further enhance the excitement for those who order the Solus GT, McLaren is offering a full ‘dry racing experience’. This includes drying seats molded to the individual shape of the dryer; an FIA homologated racing suit, owner-specific helmet and HANS design and ear pads with radio function. A full driver training program will also help customers exploit the full potential of their new track supercar.
McLaren will deliver the first batch of Solus GT cars to customers in 2023.
