Set against a background of uncertainty over the future of British automotive manufacturing, news of McLaren's £50m investment in a Yorkshire carbon construction facility remains an encouraging development. When fully operational next year, the McLaren Composites Technology Centre is expected to employ around 200 people; moreover, by producing the carbon MonoCell and MonoCages in Yorkshire - rather than abroad, as is currently the case - the amount of British built parts in McLarens will increase to 58 per cent.
All very worthy, but still insufficient to motivate a swathe of journalists up the M1. Thoughtfully, McLaren also brought along a Senna as part of its MCTC inauguration ceremony and, as you can see below, put on a something of a show. What better treat at this time of the morning than a doughnut? Or ten...
For many of course it was the first time to see the car in action and have a poke around it. While it's not for us to arbitrate on good design, the Senna is far easier to appreciate when you see it up close. It's more compact and cohesive than those original shots suggested, with some lovely details - see the glass door inserts - interspersed with that phenomenal aero. The interior takes McLaren's minimalist chic to another level, too. It really is an incredible object, and that's coming from someone who thought very differently just a few days ago.
There's a lot more to follow and plenty to discuss in the coming weeks on the Senna, which we'll be sure to bring you; for now, enjoy some management approved factory floor frolics!
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