Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Cars
  3. Products

Geneva 2013: McLaren P1 makes us all dream of going green

Marcus Amick
By
McLaren P1
Image used with permission by copyright holder

You had to know that with all the rave over hybrid supercars, it was only a matter of time before McLaren rolled one out.

The McLaren P1, unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, packs 903 horsepower and 633 pound-feet of torque from the combination of a 3.8-liter, twin-turbocharged V8 engine and an electric motor. 

Recommended Videos

Yep, that’s a mind blowing 903 horsepower, which makes you wonder if this whole hybrid movement in the world of supercars is more about showing off a company’s technology rather than fuel efficiency.

Either way, we’ll take it.

The carbon fiber P1 sports a racing yellow exterior set off by hash-marked slate gray, a true mark of the McLaren P1’s capabilities on the racetrack.  Emissions is under 200 grams (seven pounds) per kilometer compared to 300 grams (about 10 pounds) per kilometer for a super car without a hybrid power source, notes McLaren.

McLaren P1 (rear)
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The car can move on electric power alone for up to 6.2 miles, and the liquid-cooled, 324-cell battery can be charged either by the electric motor on deceleration or via a wall plug stored in the luggage compartment.  The P1 also features a special recharging function that’s been dubbed “pit-lane charging,” which recharges the battery in 10 minutes using a dashboard “Charge” button, forcing the V-8 engine into generator mode.

The P1 can do 0-180 mph (0-300 kph) in under 17 seconds. The McLaren P1 will power from rest to 200 kph in less than seven seconds, and on to 300 kph in less than 17 seconds – a full five seconds quicker than the McLaren F1.

See, there is some methodology to the madness.

The car also features an adjustable suspension mode and an active aerodynamics feature that can control the rear wing to maximize the levels of down force. 

The P1 sells for $1.3 million, with only 375 being made.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Marcus Amick
Marcus Amick
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Marcus Amick has been writing about the world of cars for more than ten years and has covered everything from new automobiles…
Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?
Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Read more
The 6 best remote car starters in 2024
Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Read more
The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024
The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.

Read more