McLaren gave us a glimpse into what the England based F1 racing team plans to introduce in the future with the MP4-X concept racecar. With the new MP4-X, McLaren has harnessed the most cutting-edge, avant-garde technological solutions that exist in the world to create a racecar that could exist in the distant future. In fact, McLaren says that the technology that’s been applied to MP4-X is all real, even if it’s still in its earliest stages of conception.
The looks visually striking, but it is beneath the skin where the changes are most apparent. McLaren says that the MP4-X is designed to harness alternative power sources; the chassis changes shape to adapt to different aerodynamic demands; and it can communicate in the event of a failure or a problem. While the Formula 1 is divided in two camps, protective structures versus open-cockpit racing, McLaren goes ahead and displays a canopy on the MP4-X concept.
One of the features is the Targeted Ads. The conventional stickers would be replaced by a complex digital billboard. Brands and positioning now reflect viewers’ individual preferences and browsing habits, rather than simply adopting a ‘one size fits all’ approach. Just like the webpages you view, the adverts are chosen specifically for you – meaning that the car will look different to everyone.
In terms of performance, the MP4-X utilises advanced energy recovery and charging. The car could receive additional recharging by using inductive coupling built into the track which would lead to more sustainable racing while being the catalyst for a shift-change in vehicle powertrain architecture that would benefit everyday car drivers.
John Allert, Group Brand Director, McLaren Technology Group says that with the futuristic McLaren MP4-X concept racecar, the race team wanted to peer into the future and imagine the art of the possible. McLaren has combined a number of F1’s key ingredients – speed, excitement and performance, with the sport’s emerging narratives – such as enclosed cockpits to enhance driver safety, and hybrid power technologies.
Meet the McLaren MP4-X concept racecar in the promotional video here:
