The last time we reported on
the BP23
- the codename used by McLaren when it wants to talk about the next model in its Ultimate Series - the car was little more than a designer's doodle. Now, with development in full swing, the Woking-based firm has treated us to an official set of pictures showing a project mule being driven by Chris Goodwin, McLaren's chief test driver.
Based on a 720S, the vehicle has apparently been created primarily to test various 'ergonomic solutions' for the car's central driving seat layout, as well as a number of innovative features including the possible use of a digital rear-view mirror. McLaren has already confirmed that the BP23 will have a hybrid powertrain, with electric motors again complimenting the twin-turbocharged V8.
While the car is pitched as a grand tourer, the manufacturer has also stated that it will be the fastest McLaren ever - without specifying which measure it is talking about, except to say that it won't be about lap times. Overcoming the F1's 240mph top speed or the P1's 2.8sec 0-62mph time will require significantly more power to go with the BP23's bespoke aero, though. So expect the BP23 to outdo the P1's combined output of 916hp.
Just 106 examples will be built, priced at around £2m before MSO options. All sadly are spoken for - but if it's put you in the mood, there's a fine selection of the model's forerunner available on the classifieds.
