McLaren Speedtail Blows Past F1 with 250 MPH Top Speed

The Speedtail model is built around a bespoke McLaren Monocage carbon fiber structure and benefits from lightweight engineering throughout, including an all-carbon fiber body, aluminum active suspension and carbon ceramic brakes. The powertrain is a pioneering petrol-electric hybrid developing a combined 1,035bhp to support the extraordinary performance.

A speed of 250mph is achieved in a unique Velocity mode, which has been developed specifically for the Speedtail. Velocity mode optimizes the hybrid powertrain for high-speed running while also tailoring the angle of the active rear ailerons. Additionally, the digital rear-view cameras can be retracted to further improve drag. Furthermore, the Velocity Active Chassis Control can lower the Speedtail by 1.4in, leaving the highest point of the vehicle just 3.7ft from the road surface.

The hybrid powertrain enables a relentless increase in vehicle speed regardless of engine rpm and the low weight of the Speedtail – only 3,153lbs  dry – hastens this ability. The straight-line acceleration of the Speedtail sets a new benchmark for a McLaren, with 0-186mph achieved in just 12.8 seconds; McLaren Automotive’s previous Ultimate Series hybrid, the McLaren P1™, could reach this speed in 16.5 seconds. A bespoke P-ZERO™ tire designed for the Speedtail’s extreme speed has been developed with McLaren technology partner, Pirelli.

Being at the wheel of a Speedtail promises to be a truly sensational experience and unlike that enjoyed in any other car. The driver is positioned centrally in the luxurious cockpit, with seating for two additional passengers set slightly rearwards. There is luggage space within both the nose and tail of the vehicle and a bespoke luggage set is available to every owner, the carbon fiber, leather and metalwork on the cases being matched to the interior specification of their Speedtail.

Speedtail depositors were invited to view a design model of the car at a recent private preview event held in London. Resplendent in Speedtail Silver, a Nano-metallic, ‘molten-effect’ paint developed by McLaren specifically for this car, the model displays both aniline leather – a leather dyed with soluble dyes to retain the hide’s natural surface – and a new lightweight leather. The cockpit provides enticing glimpses of the astonishing level of personalization opportunities available; with each Speedtail being tailored to the owner’s individual tastes by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the division of McLaren Automotive responsible for bespoke customer commissions, it is virtually certain that no two examples will be identical.