Want proof that it's all going on in Woking? In the midst of the build up for its Speedtail launch, McLaren's Special Operations Division is also working on another model that could take influence from the 1,150hp Vision GT concept. McLaren confirmed the existence of the project, codenamed BC-03, to PistonHeads, stating: "BC-03 is a bespoke customer commission being created by McLaren Special Operations," but it withheld any details "because the specifics of the project are confidential between MSO and its client". Boo.
Nevertheless, it's thought that BC-03 (short for Bespoke Commission 03) will take the form of a track-focused, carbon fibre-bodied hypercar, one that's expected to be lighter and more focused than the hyper-GT Speedtail, as well as more potent than the Senna. If we consider that this is a one-off likely priced considerably higher than those models, such advantages seem less absurd.
Such a car would also fit the bill of a Vision GT-inspired model, and would likely be powered by a hybrid system combining the 720S's 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 and front-axle electric motors. The Vision GT uses two pod motors for this, with each powering their own wheel. This setup, you'll note, is a vast contrast to the 'through-the-gearbox' electric drive implemented in the only other hybrid McLaren, the P1.
If this all turns out to be accurate, BC-03's hybrid setup would point to a predicted change of philosophy for future hybrid McLarens - of which there'll be many. As part of the Woking car maker's Track25 plan, all McLaren Sport Series and Super Series models will use hybrid power by 2025, with many capable of pure-electric running, allowing them to be driven in zero-emission zones.
1 / 2