Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[VIDEO: Leno gets a ride in the new McLaren MP4-12C]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/video-leno-actually-drives-the-new-mclaren-mp4-12c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/video-leno-actually-drives-the-new-mclaren-mp4-12c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/21/video-leno-actually-drives-the-new-mclaren-mp4-12c/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Jay Leno getting a ride in the McLaren MP4-12C prototype - Click above to view the video after the jump

A month ago, Jay Leno got a glimpse behind the scenes at McLaren, where the late-night talk show host and car nut got a tour of the facility and had a chance to sit in an early version of the company's newest roadcar in the studio. While Jay was on the other side of the pond he even stopped in at Top Gear to do a lap in the Lacetti. Well, apparently he ran a couple of laps in another car while he was at the Top Gear Test Track too. One camo-covered McLaren MP4-12C prototype.

After the jump you can view a video of Leno ride along in the new McLaren supercar, wax poetic about the 12C's power, its handling and its totally bespoke construction. Jay even wrote up an article for The Times recalling his experience. Read here and watch here.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C

mp4_12c_011_2mp4_12c_010_2mp4_12c_012_2mp4_12c_014_2mp4_12c_015_2

[Source: Times Online]

Continue reading VIDEO: Leno gets a ride in the new McLaren MP4-12C

VIDEO: Leno gets a ride in the new McLaren MP4-12C originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>baby McLarenBabyMclarenjay lenoJayLenolenomclarenMcLaren MP4-12CMclarenMp4-12cMP4-12Ctop gearTopGearMon, 21 Dec 2009 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[McLaren's Whitmarsh reportedly elected to replace Montezemolo as FOTA chairman]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/15/mclarens-whitmarsh-reportedly-elected-to-replace-montezemolo-as/#commentsFiled under: ,



There's only so many chairs one man can sit in at once. But Luca di Montezemolo has made an art out of pushing the limits. In addition to serving as chairman of both Ferrari and the Fiat group, the hereditary nobleman was, until recently at least, also chairing the Italian Confindustria employers' federation and the FIEG editorial organization. But something's got to give, and at the end of this year he's stepping down from his role as the founding chairman of the Formula One Teams Association.

In his place, according to the latest reports, will serve one Martin Whitmarsh, recently promoted to team principal of the McLaren team after Ron Dennis went off to concentrate on the emerging road car division. Meanwhile, Red Bull chief Christian Horner was reportedly elected to chair the Sporting Working Group while Ross Brawn stays on as head of the Technical Working Group within FOTA. The meeting of the team principals took place in Monaco on the heels of the F1 Business Forum and the Formula 1 Commission meeting.

[Source: Autosport | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

McLaren's Whitmarsh reportedly elected to replace Montezemolo as FOTA chairman originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>christian hornerChristianHornerf1formula 1formula oneformula one teams associationFormula1FormulaOneFormulaOneTeamsAssociationfotamartin whitmarshMartinWhitmarshmclarenross brawnRossBrawnwhitmarshTue, 15 Dec 2009 08:32:00 EST<![CDATA[TAG Heuer re-issues the Silverstone Chronograph, renews McLaren sponsorship]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/tag-heuer-re-issues-the-silverstone-chronograph-renews-mclaren/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/tag-heuer-re-issues-the-silverstone-chronograph-renews-mclaren/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/11/tag-heuer-re-issues-the-silverstone-chronograph-renews-mclaren/#commentsFiled under: ,


TAG Heuer Silverstone Chonograph - Click above to view high-res image gallery

Between the Carrera and the Monaco, TAG Heuer has plenty to offer anyone in the market for a classic driver's watch. But if you're having some trouble deciding between the two, the Swiss watchmaker has announced the re-release of the classic Silverstone Chronograph.

Originally introduced back in 1974, the Silverstone is inspired by the British circuit by the same name, with a rounded-square case inspired by the track's curves. It featured the first automatic chronograph movement, and earned a following all its own.

The re-release will be available with a brown or blue face with coordinating perforated alligator leather strap, and bears the classic Heuer logo before TAG took over. Only 1,500 examples of the re-issue will be released, with a price tag of approximately $6,500 apiece.

At the same time, TAG Heuer has announced a renewal of its partnership with the McLaren team that launched twenty-five years ago, marking it one of the longest-standing sponsorships in the sport's history. Follow the jump for press releases on both developments.


Gallery: TAG Heuer Silverstone Chronograph


[Source: TAG Heuer]

Continue reading TAG Heuer re-issues the Silverstone Chronograph, renews McLaren sponsorship

TAG Heuer re-issues the Silverstone Chronograph, renews McLaren sponsorship originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>heuerheuer silverstoneHeuerSilverstonemclarenmclaren tag heuerMclarenTagHeuertagtag heuertag heuer mclarentag heuer silverstonetag heuer silverstone chronographTagHeuerTagHeuerMclarenTagHeuerSilverstoneTagHeuerSilverstoneChronographFri, 11 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/mercedes-and-mclaren-bid-farewell-to-slr-each-other/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/mercedes-and-mclaren-bid-farewell-to-slr-each-other/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/12/03/mercedes-and-mclaren-bid-farewell-to-slr-each-other/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren range - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the end of one's life approaches, individuals are prone to reflect and wonder how they'll be remembered. A car, on the other hand, can't think for itself, so we'll have to take up the task in its stead.

A joint effort between Mercedes-Benz and its erstwhile Formula One racing partner McLaren, the SLR spawned five variants: the original coupe and roadster, the 722 coupe and roadster and the Stirling Moss edition... not to mention a racing version or two. Over the course of its five-year production run, more than 2,000 examples were built, making the SLR one of the most prolific supercars in automotive history. As the final examples of the Stirling Moss roll out of the McLaren factory in Woking, its parents are going their separate ways: Mercedes has sold its stake back to McLaren, acquired its own F1 team, and each has produced its own successor: the SLS AMG and the MP4-12C.

So with its production run drawing to a close, we can't help but wonder how will history remember the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. As the purest embodiment of the Gran Turismo? A fitting tribute to the original 300 SLR that dominated racing in the Fifties? The flawed result of a conflict of interests? Or perhaps as the roadgoing product of one of the most intriguing partnerships in automotive history? Read through the history lesson in the press release after the jump and peruse the gallery of high-resolution images below and you'll get Daimler's perspective. We invite you to share yours in the comments section below.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren retrospective


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other

Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren slrMclarenSlrmercedesmercedes slrmercedes slr mclarenmercedes-benzmercedes-benz slrmercedes-benz slr mclarenMercedes-benzSlrMercedes-benzSlrMclarenMercedesSlrMercedesSlrMclarenslrslr mclarenSlrMclarenThu, 03 Dec 2009 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/20/breaking-schumacher-likely-to-return-to-f1-racing-with-mercedes/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Say it ain't so, Schu! The Daily Telegraph is reporting that seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher is close to signing on with the newly formed Mercedes Formula 1 team. Mercedes is the new name of the former Brawn GP team, the current Constructors Champion. After a stellar rookie season that saw this former Honda team clinch not just the Constructors Championship, but also the Drivers Championship for Jenson Button, they had a bit of a dropoff as Button bolted for rival McLaren.

That left a seat to fill at Mercedes and if BBC Sport's Eddie Jordan is to be believed, none other than Michael Schumacher is about to sign a one-year contract to return to racing in that very car. The deal, which would net Schumacher the same salary that Button turned down at Brawn GP in favour of McLaren, would finally see the German teaming up with Mercedes, who were in the past unsuccessful in their bids to lure him away from Ferrari.

Ferrari almost lured the retired champ back this season when Felipe Massa went down following the infamous spring incident in Hungary. The Champ's sore neck put a stop to that comeback, but apparently it got Schumi's juices flowing again. Signing with Mercedes would create something of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg in the other car. If the deal goes through, MS will be reunited with Brawn GP-namesake and current Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, the man who guided Michael to all seven of his World titles.

Still just a rumor for the moment, the deal is said to give Schumacher the same salary Button turned down when he defected to McLaren. The Schumacher deal is just the latest volley in the silly season melee that has seen Kimi Raikkonen vacate his seat in order to make room for Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, which lost adviser Michael Schumacher as well. Whatever the future holds, it is only going to get more interesting. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph via Planet F1, BBC Sport | Image Source: Getty]

BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsF1Ferrariformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnemclarenmercedesmercedes-benzmichael schumacherMichaelSchumacherMSschumacherFri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes Grand Prix searches for drivers while dispelling board's concerns]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mercedes-grand-prix-searches-for-drivers-while-dispelling-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mercedes-grand-prix-searches-for-drivers-while-dispelling-board/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/mercedes-grand-prix-searches-for-drivers-while-dispelling-board/#commentsFiled under: , ,


The new Mercedes GP car rendered - Click above to view in high-resolution

With two manufacturers leaving the series, four new teams joining the grid and a giant game of musical chairs amongst the drivers ensuing, the off-season between the 2009 and 2010 Formula One World Championships is packing in as much action as the racing itself. But few developments have garnered as much attention as the coup orchestrated by Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, withdrawing from McLaren after fifteen years as its active partner in favor of a more conventional engine supplier role, while buying over 75% of the Brawn GP outfit to enter the sport as a full manufacturer team under the Mercedes Grand Prix banner.

The acquisition has drawn public criticism from Erich Klemm, employee representative on the Daimler board and chairman of its Corporate Works Council, who decried the move as an unnecessary cost when money is tight and other automakers are withdrawing from the series. Chairman Dieter Zetsche responded that the acquisition of the Brawn team will give the company more exposure for less cash: The deal reportedly cost the German automaker some $336 million, but its operating costs are expected to drop to about $74 million annually by 2011, analyzed as far less than what Mercedes was contributing annually to the McLaren budget.

Zetsche might have more trouble, however, explaining to the board how their star driver slipped through their fingers and defected to the team they just ditched. McLaren just announced the recruitment of Jenson Button to team up with Lewis Hamilton for a twin-champ "super team," and Rubens Barrichello is off to Williams next season, leaving the new Mercedes GP team looking for new drivers. Considering they're the reigning champions suddenly flush with cash, they shouldn't have much trouble, though.

Zetsche and Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug are reportedly keen to capitalize with an all-German line-up, fueling speculation that Michael Schumacher could rejoin Mercedes (whose junior driving program gave him his start) and Brawn (who orchestrated all seven of his world championships). Nico Rosberg is thought to already have signed on to switch places with Barrichello, while Nick Heidfeld has been linked with a switch from the departing BMW to its arch-rival Mercedes. Toyota's Timo Glock was also reportedly in the running, but the young German driver signed with newcomer Manor GP instead. Haug has indicated an announcement will come within the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned.

[Source: F1 Live]

Mercedes Grand Prix searches for drivers while dispelling board's concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>barrichellobuttonbutton mclarenButtonMclarendaimlerDieter ZetscheDieterZetscheerich klemmErichKlemmglockhamiltonhaugheidfeldheikki kovalainenHeikkiKovalainenjenson buttonJensonButtonlewis hamiltonLewisHamiltonmclarenmercedesmercedes gpmercedes grand prixmercedes-benzMercedesGpMercedesGrandPrixnick heidfeldNickHeidfeldnorbert haugNorbertHaugrubens barrichelloRubensBarrichellotimo glockTimoGlockzetscheWed, 18 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST<![CDATA[BREAKING: Jenson Button joins Hamilton for twin-champ McLaren "super team"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/breaking-jenson-button-joins-hamilton-for-twin-champ-mclaren-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/breaking-jenson-button-joins-hamilton-for-twin-champ-mclaren-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/18/breaking-jenson-button-joins-hamilton-for-twin-champ-mclaren-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's not every day that you see two World Champions teamed up together - especially not the two most recent. In fact, that bit has never happened before in Formula One history, but that's exactly what we'll see next year as McLaren has announced the teaming of Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton as its drivers for next season and beyond.

Button's move to McLaren has been long rumored, fueled recently by a visit by the World Champion together with his managers to the team's headquarters in Woking. Negotiations had been ongoing with the Brawn team with which he won his championship this year and which he'll now be departing, but even with Mercedes' injection of cash, the small team apparently couldn't afford the rate which the newly crowned champ was commanding on the open market.

The announcement will undoubtedly be greeted enthusiastically by British racing fans, placing two British drivers behind the wheel of an entirely British team - and the first pairing of two British World Champions since 1968 when Graham Hill and Jim Clark drove for Lotus. Less so for the newly-christened Mercedes Grand Prix team, which is losing both the drivers that brought Brawn GP the championship.

The move also leaves Heikki Kovalainen without a ride and further confirms fellow Finn Kimi Raikkonen's lucrative sabbatical. But now that Button's future is settled and McLaren has confirmed its drivers, the rest of the grid should fall into place shortly, so stay tuned. Details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: McLaren | Image: Paul Gilham/Getty]

Continue reading BREAKING: Jenson Button joins Hamilton for twin-champ McLaren "super team"

BREAKING: Jenson Button joins Hamilton for twin-champ McLaren "super team" originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingBreakingNewsbuttonbutton hamiltonbutton mclarenButtonHamiltonButtonMclarenf1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnehamilton buttonHamiltonButtonheikki kovalainenHeikkiKovalainenjenson buttonjenson button mclarenJensonButtonJensonButtonMclarenmclarenmclaren-mercedesvodafone mclaren mercedesVodafoneMclarenMercedesWed, 18 Nov 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/video-mclaren-releases-first-webisode-of-mp4-12c-development/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Inside McLaren: developing the MP4-12C - Click above to view the video after the jump

McLaren Automotive has just dropped a new video, the first in a series, that promises to show the story behind the company's upcoming MP4-12C supercar. This first episode gives us a peek at the car's development background, introduces us to some of the key players in the process, and even gives us a look at some of the key venues in the gestation of the new Lamborghini and Ferrari fighter from Woking.

This first short film, which you can find after the jump, is entitled: Inside McLaren: developing the MP4-12C. Pretty straightforward then, as is the dialogue. Technical Director Dick Glover takes us on a brief tour of McLaren's facilities - Racing, Electronics and Automotive, which he describes as the heart of the operation. He even points out the F1 simulator, where drivers and engineers have worked on race setups for the past 12 years. The MP4-12C team gets to play in there, too.

Next up is Chief Test Driver Chris Goodwin. He talks about the tracks and roads used in the development process, tracks like the Nürburgring Nordschleife and the Top Gear track at Dunsfold, which happens to be close to the McLaren facilities. Chris also gives us an idea of the extreme temperatures the 12C has been tested in, from the Arctic to Bahrain. Episode 1 wraps up with an introduction to some of the key engineers on the team, including Simon Andrew, Rob Tyers and Steve Hayes.

All of this is punctuated with glimpses of the 12C in action, which is why we're really all here in the first place. As cool as the McLaren facility is, the car is the star. Follow the jump for the video and full press release from McLaren.

[Source: McLaren]

Continue reading VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development

VIDEO: McLaren releases first webisode of MP4-12C development originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenMcLaren MP4-12CMcLaren p11MclarenMp4-12cMclarenP11MP4-12CvideoFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mo' Money, Fewer Problems: Can Raikkonen earn more by <i>not</i> racing?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/mo-money-fewer-problems-can-raikkonen-earn-more-by-i-not-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/mo-money-fewer-problems-can-raikkonen-earn-more-by-i-not-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/09/mo-money-fewer-problems-can-raikkonen-earn-more-by-i-not-i/#commentsFiled under: ,



If you scoffed at the notion that unionized auto workers were being paid not to work, you're going to love this one: According to reports emerging from Europe, Kimi Raikkonen could stand to make more money next year if he doesn't race than if he does.

The bizarre circumstance comes down to the terms of his departure from Scuderia Ferrari. Kimi was reportedly offered a whopping 17 million euros in order to make room for an incoming Fernando Alonso, but that's only if he doesn't find a suitable seat with another team. If he does, Ferrari will only be required to pay the 2007 world champion 5 million 10 million euros (corrected). Seeing an opportunity to get a world champion on the cheap, McLaren is reportedly offering Raikkonen only 5 million euros to drive for them, knowing that Ferrari - and migrating sponsor Santander - will cough up the rest.

That means Kimi would make 15 million euros if he drove again for McLaren next year - which is tipped to be the one and only team he's considering - but 17 million if he sat the year out. Of course negotiations are ongoing, but all things being equal, the Finn could be looking at one very lucrative year off.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport via F1-Live | Image: Vladimir Rys/Bongarts/Getty]

Mo' Money, Fewer Problems: Can Raikkonen earn more by not racing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 09 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ferrarikimi raikkonenKimiRaikkonenmclarenraikkonenraikkonen ferrariraikkonen mclarenRaikkonenFerrariRaikkonenMclarenscuderia ferrariScuderiaFerrariMon, 09 Nov 2009 09:30:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: McLaren MP4-12C U.S. launch delayed, not coming to LA Auto Show *UPDATE*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/report-mclaren-mp4-12c-u-s-launch-delayed-not-coming-to-la-au/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/report-mclaren-mp4-12c-u-s-launch-delayed-not-coming-to-la-au/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/30/report-mclaren-mp4-12c-u-s-launch-delayed-not-coming-to-la-au/#commentsFiled under: , ,

McLaren MPC-12C - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to InsideLine, McLaren is having issues setting up distribution in the U.S., resulting in a delay of the MP4-12C's Stateside launch and its plans to show its newest supercar at the LA Auto Show this December.

Late last month, McLaren appointed Anthony Joseph, former regional manager for Porsche, Ferrari and Maserati, to setup the automaker's dealer network in the U.S., but over the course of the last few weeks McLaren has apparently hit a few roadblocks and it's expected that the creation of retail outlets will be delayed until sometime next year. With the economy in its current state, that may be a blessing in disguise, but that does little to stave off our desire to see the MP4-12C on the show stand.

UPDATE: McLaren responded to Inside Line that the MP4-12C has not been delayed and the decision to not debut the car at the LA Auto Show was made because it was considered too early based on the car's 2011 launch date.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C

mp4_12c_011_2mp4_12c_010_2mp4_12c_012_2mp4_12c_014_2mp4_12c_015_2


[Source: InsideLine]

REPORT: McLaren MP4-12C U.S. launch delayed, not coming to LA Auto Show *UPDATE* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren mp4 12cMcLaren MP4-12CMclarenMp4-12cMclarenMp412cmpc-12cFri, 30 Oct 2009 16:27:00 EST<![CDATA[The Big Mac: British design student pens McLaren F1 successor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/the-big-mac-british-design-student-pens-mclaren-f1-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/the-big-mac-british-design-student-pens-mclaren-f1-successor/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/15/the-big-mac-british-design-student-pens-mclaren-f1-successor/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


McLaren LM5 design study by Matt Williams - Click above for image gallery

Since hiring Frank Stephenson as its styling chief last year, the nascent McLaren Automotive hasn't been lacking for design talent. But the general consensus over his first design at Woking seems to be that the MP4-12C is missing a touch of originality to set it apart from other supercars. Enter one Matt Williams, a recent graduate of the transportation design program at England's Coventry University who thinks he can do a better job with the study you see here.

Positioned above the MP4-12C in McLaren's product porfolio, the LM5 concept is envisioned as a successor to the venerable McLaren F1. That means three seats across, with a central driving position. That means power provided by BMW's M division; a retuned version of company's soon-to-be-retired 5.0-liter V10 in this case. And of course, that means epic performance. Unfortunately, it's just a concept car, extant only in the clay and CAD. So for now, we'll just have to sit and wait to see what Stephenson and his colleagues at McLaren cook up next, admiring the images in the gallery below in the meantime.


Gallery: McLaren LM5 design study by Matt Williams


[Source: Diseno-art.com]

The Big Mac: British design student pens McLaren F1 successor originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>concept carConceptCarCoventryCoventryUniversitydesign studyDesignStudyfrank stephensonFrankStephensonlm5maclarenmatt williamsMattWilliamsmclarenmclaren f1mclaren lm5mclaren mp4mclaren mp4-12cMclarenF1MclarenLm5MclarenMp4MclarenMp4-12cThu, 15 Oct 2009 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[End of Year Shuffle: 14 Formula One teams swap drivers for 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/end-of-year-shuffle-14-formula-one-teams-swap-drivers-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/end-of-year-shuffle-14-formula-one-teams-swap-drivers-for-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/08/end-of-year-shuffle-14-formula-one-teams-swap-drivers-for-2010/#commentsFiled under: ,


If you thought the series of driver changes in the middle of this ongoing Formula One season was something, it's nothing compared to the grand game of musical chairs expected to ensue as the season draws to a close. With BMW closing up shop, several new teams joining the grid and at least a couple of former world champions switching teams for next year's championship, we're shaping up for the biggest jumble the F1 circus has seen in years. Follow the jump to see how it's unfolding so far.

[Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

Continue reading End of Year Shuffle: 14 Formula One teams swap drivers for 2010

End of Year Shuffle: 14 Formula One teams swap drivers for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 fia formula one world champion2010 formula one2010FiaFormulaOneWorldChampion2010FormulaOneadian sutilAdianSutilalguersuarialonsobarrichellobrawlBrawn GPBrawnGpbuemibuttoncamposcampos metaCamposMetaf1f1 driversF1Driversfelipe massaFelipeMassafernando alonsoFernandoAlonsoFerrarifisichellaformula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOneGiancarlo FisichellaGiancarloFisichellaglockgrosjeanheidfeldJaime AlguersuariJaimeAlguersuarijarno trulliJarnoTrullijenson buttonJensonButtonkazuki nakajimaKazukiNakajimakimi raikkonenKimiRaikkonenkubicaliuzziLotuslotus f1LotusF1manormark webberMarkWebbermassamclarennakajimanick heidfeldNickHeidfeldnico rosbergNicoRosbergraikkonenred bullred bull racingRedBullRedBullRacingrobert kubicaRobertKubicaromain grosjeanRomainGrosjeanrosbergrubens barrichelloRubensBarrichelloscuderia toro rossoScuderiaToroRossosebastian vettelSebastianVettelsebastien buemiSebastienBuemisutiltimo glockTimoGlocktonio liuzziTonioLiuzzitoro rossoToroRossotoyotatoyota f1ToyotaF1trullius f1UsF1vettelvitantonio liuzziVitantonioLiuzziwebberwilliamsThu, 08 Oct 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Along Came a Spyder: McLaren MP4-12C production plans include retractable hardtop?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/along-came-a-spyder-mclaren-mp4-12c-production-plans-include-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/along-came-a-spyder-mclaren-mp4-12c-production-plans-include-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/07/along-came-a-spyder-mclaren-mp4-12c-production-plans-include-re/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


McLaren MP4-12C - Click above for high-res image gallery

Reports emerging from the UK are giving us a hint at what to expect in the near future from McLaren Automotive in its bid to make an assault on the exotic supercar market. The reports stem from plans filed by the F1 team's nascent road car division and its new manufacturing facility next to the current McLaren Technology Center in Woking, England.

According to Autocar, part of the layout for the new facility has been dedicated to "RHT Sub Assembly", indicating that McLaren could be preparing to produce a retractable hardtop version of the new MP4-12C. While the notion of fitting a lightweight supercar with a heavy folding roof mechanism may seem antithetical to its ethos, Ferrari made huge advances with the roof on the California, and McLaren will be looking to show up its chief rival. Insiders suggest the McLaren's folding roof could be made of either aluminum alloy or possibly carbon fiber.

The overall timeline for production, however, suggests that McLaren may have to begin producing the MP4 where the outgoing SLR has been assembled in its current facility. McLaren has ambitious plans for a new factory adjacent to its existing headquarters, but with delivery of the first new supercars scheduled for November, the new underground facility isn't likely to be ready in time.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C

mp4_12c_011_2mp4_12c_010_2mp4_12c_012_2mp4_12c_014_2mp4_12c_015_2

[Source: Autocar]

Along Came a Spyder: McLaren MP4-12C production plans include retractable hardtop? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Oct 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren mp4 12cMcLaren MP4-12Cmclaren mp4-12c roadstermclaren mp4-12c spidermclaren mp4-12c spydermclaren roadstermclaren spidermclaren spyderMclarenAutomotiveMclarenMp4-12cMclarenMp4-12cRoadsterMclarenMp4-12cSpiderMclarenMp4-12cSpyderMclarenMp412cMclarenRoadsterMclarenSpiderMclarenSpyderwokingWed, 07 Oct 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: McLaren F1 considering acquisition of BMW F1 engine ops]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/report-mclaren-f1-considering-acquisition-of-bmw-f1-engine-ops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/report-mclaren-f1-considering-acquisition-of-bmw-f1-engine-ops/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/report-mclaren-f1-considering-acquisition-of-bmw-f1-engine-ops/#commentsFiled under: , ,



McLaren's Formula One cars have been powered by Mercedes-Benz engines since 1995, but that could soon come to an end. The relationship between Daimler and McLaren has become increasingly strained over the past two years, following the Spygate scandal and the automaker's decision to have AMG build the SLS.

With BMW withdrawing from Formula One at the close of this season, the hot rumor in the paddock at the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend is that McLaren chairman Ron Dennis is considering scooping up rival BMW F1's engine-building operations. Mercedes supplies engines to the this year's likely champions, the Brawn team, and a split with McLaren would allow MB to concentrate its efforts there.

McLaren's Middle Eastern investors reportedly support the move, which would allow the team to join Ferrari, Renault (if the French team remains in F1) and Toyota in building its own chassis and engine. Apparently, BMW's deal to sell the Sauber F1 team doesn't include the engine operation in Munich, leaving McLaren free to make its move.

[Source: F1-Live]

REPORT: McLaren F1 considering acquisition of BMW F1 engine ops originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMW F1BmwF1f1formula 1Formula1mclarenmclaren F1MclarenF1mercedesmercedes-benzSat, 03 Oct 2009 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[MP4-12C - Coming to America: McLaren Automotive sets up North American distribution]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mp4-12c-coming-to-america-mclaren-automotive-sets-up-north-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mp4-12c-coming-to-america-mclaren-automotive-sets-up-north-am/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mp4-12c-coming-to-america-mclaren-automotive-sets-up-north-am/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


McLaren MP4-12C - Click above for an image gallery

How many low-production exotic supercars have we had to gaze at longingly from across the ocean? The prohibitively high cost of homologation for the U.S. market has kept more than a few niche automakers away. Even the mighty McLaren F1 had to be brought in through loopholes, with considerable delays, costs and modifications. But the new McLaren MP4-12C won't follow the same path, as the racing outfit's nascent road car division has revealed its strategy for worldwide distribution, and North America is figuring large in its plans.

The company has just announced the appointment of regional managers for both North America and Europe as well as the Middle East and Africa, taking its worldwide distribution by the horns. McLaren North America will be based in the New York area and will be headed by one Anthony Joseph, a former regional manager for Porsche, Ferrari and Maserati, whose first task will be the establishment of ten dealer franchises in the United States and Canada. Of course, McLaren first needs to begin production of the MP4-12C, its initial new offering, with sales projected to begin in the spring of 2011. Details in the press release after the jump.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C

mp4_12c_011_2mp4_12c_010_2mp4_12c_012_2mp4_12c_014_2mp4_12c_015_2

[Source: McLaren]

Continue reading MP4-12C - Coming to America: McLaren Automotive sets up North American distribution

MP4-12C - Coming to America: McLaren Automotive sets up North American distribution originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren automotive north americamclaren mp4-12cMclarenAutomotiveMclarenAutomotiveNorthAmericaMclarenMp4-12cmp4-12cWed, 30 Sep 2009 09:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Raikkonen could be back at McLaren in 2010]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/rumormill-raikkonen-could-be-back-at-mclaren-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/rumormill-raikkonen-could-be-back-at-mclaren-in-2010/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/21/rumormill-raikkonen-could-be-back-at-mclaren-in-2010/#commentsFiled under:



According to British newspaper the Mirror, Kimi Raikkonen could be driving for McLaren next year. The Iceman drove for Ron Dennis' outfit from 2002 to 2006 and scored plenty of victories but couldn't get the World Championship. Then he left for Ferrari in 2007 where he promptly won the World Championship the first year.

This season rumors have persisted that Fernando Alonso is moving to Ferrari next year. Seemingly in support of that, the only thing Kimi Raikkonen and Ferrari team head Stefano Domenicali would say about next year is that Raikkonen has contracted for next year -- neither would say that the driver would actually be there.

The hitch in this latest story is that Kimi will only vacate the seat if he is paid his full salary, something like $49 million. If one adds Massa's salary and the salary one could expect to Alonso to make to that, 2010 would make for a stupendously expensive driver's budget. With Alonso cleared of any sanctions in Renault's crash-gate, it looks like Ferrari has some decisions to make -- forty-nine million of them...

[Source: F1 Live | Image Source: Paul Gilham/Getty]

Rumormill: Raikkonen could be back at McLaren in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f1falsefernando alonsoFernandoAlonsoferrariferrari f1FerrariF1formula 1formula oneFormula1FormulaOnekimi raikkonenKimiRaikkonenmclarenmclaren f1mclaren-mercedesMclarenF1motorsportsrenaultrenault f1RenaultF1Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:59:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ron Dennis on the new McLaren MP4-12C]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/video-ron-dennis-on-the-new-mclaren-mp4-12c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/video-ron-dennis-on-the-new-mclaren-mp4-12c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/video-ron-dennis-on-the-new-mclaren-mp4-12c/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Ron Dennis on the McLaren MP4-12C - Click above to watch video after the jump

It's not hard to see who McLaren has in its sights with the new MP4-12C. The supercar was launched only shortly after - and is positioned only slightly higher - than Ferrari's brand-new 458 Italia. And while other automakers have delved into F1, only two current F1 teams have delved into building road-going supercars.

Though it's one thing to surmise such things, it's quite another to hear it explicitly coming from the mouth of the company's chairman. While the outfit might not bear his name, it might as well, because Ron Dennis is, for all intents and purposes, a modern day Enzo Ferrari. Follow the jump to see what he has to say about the new company with twenty years' experience and their first new product.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C

mp4_12c_011_2mp4_12c_010_2mp4_12c_012_2mp4_12c_014_2mp4_12c_015_2

[Source: McLaren]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ron Dennis on the new McLaren MP4-12C

VIDEO: Ron Dennis on the new McLaren MP4-12C originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren mp4-12cMclarenAutomotiveMclarenMp4-12cmp4-12cron dennisRonDennisvideovideo mclaren mp4-12cvideo ron dennisVideoMclarenMp4-12cVideoRonDennisThu, 10 Sep 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Jay Leno (almost) takes a closer look at the McLaren MP4-12C]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/video-jay-leno-almost-takes-a-closer-look-at-the-mclaren-mp4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/video-jay-leno-almost-takes-a-closer-look-at-the-mclaren-mp4/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/video-jay-leno-almost-takes-a-closer-look-at-the-mclaren-mp4/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Jay Leno lifting the McLaren MP4-12Cs carbon fiber tub - Click the image to view the video after the jump

In this video, our favorite zillionaire car freak -- Jay Leno -- goes to the ultra-modern McLaren factory in Woking, England to look at the brand new MP4-12C. Only they don't show it to him. Well sure, they show him the ridiculously lightweight carbon fiber central tub. They show him three-dimensional CAD renderings. And finally they show him... the P11. But not the final MP4-12C.

Why not? Dunno, but we're guessing this was filmed before all the final revisions to the MP4-12C were made. What we do know is that Leno sits in the prototype P11 and gives us a pretty jet-lagged, lethargic guided tour of the interior. Though he does perk up near the end, when he begins talking about getting one for his already +5 envious collection. Have a watch, after the jump.

Continue reading VIDEO: Jay Leno (almost) takes a closer look at the McLaren MP4-12C

VIDEO: Jay Leno (almost) takes a closer look at the McLaren MP4-12C originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Jay LenoJayLenoMcLarenMcLaren MP4-12CMcLaren P11MclarenMp4-12cMclarenP11MP4-12CP11Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: McLaren MP4-12C is ready for its close up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/pics-aplenty-mclaren-mp4-12c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/pics-aplenty-mclaren-mp4-12c/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/pics-aplenty-mclaren-mp4-12c/#commentsFiled under: , ,

McLaren MP4-12C - Click above for high-res image gallery

For those who've been anxiously awaiting the replacement of the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren, last night was a very big night indeed. Not only did the new Mercedes SLS AMG leak out, but McLaren itself released full details of its new MP4-12C. We ran the info as soon as we could gather it along with an initial batch of images, and now we're back with more for your viewing and desktop-plastering pleasure.

The design of McLaren's new supercar - its first independent road-car project since the legendary McLaren F1 - comes from the hand of one Frank Stephenson, the multi-national, American-educated designer responsible for the reborn Mini, BMW X5, Fiat 500 and countless Maseratis and Ferraris. His design of the MP4-12C is dominated by McLaren's tick logo, which figures large in the air vents all around the car as well as the LED lights. The shape is otherwise clean and streamlined, aided by the use of adaptive aerodynamics. The interior is accessed via signature McLaren forward-upward hinged doors, and though lamentably without the 1+2 configuration made famous by its precursor, envelops the driver and passenger in thin, molded bucket seats. The dashboard is dominated by a 7-inch multimedia display, and the Pre-Cog gear system is operated via paddles mounted on a rocker, allowing up and downshifts to be affected from either side, just like in McLaren's championship-winning grand prix cars. Check it all out in the high-resolution image gallery below, and stay tuned for video footage to follow shortly.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C

mp4_12c_011_2mp4_12c_010_2mp4_12c_012_2mp4_12c_014_2mp4_12c_015_2

[Source: McLaren]

Pics Aplenty: McLaren MP4-12C is ready for its close up originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mclarenmclaren automotivemclaren mp4 12cmclaren mp4-12cMclarenAutomotiveMclarenMp4-12cMclarenMp412cMISCmp4 12cmp4-12cMp412cWed, 09 Sep 2009 11:28:00 EST<![CDATA[McLaren MP4-12C: First batch of details and images surface]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/mclaren-mp4-12c-first-batch-of-details-and-images-surface/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/mclaren-mp4-12c-first-batch-of-details-and-images-surface/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/mclaren-mp4-12c-first-batch-of-details-and-images-surface/#commentsFiled under: ,

McLaren MP4-12C - Click above for an image gallery

Today's a big day for McLaren. After ambitiously launching its own separate automotive division to follow in the footsteps of arch-rival Ferrari, the British race engineering firm has finally released its long-anticipated new supercar. Called the MP4-12C, it's been developed entirely in-house, and features the latest advances in automotive technology derived from the Formula 1 circuit.

Ooh, where to start? The MP4-12C is built around an extremely light and rigid carbon fiber tub. But rather than the heavier multi-piece tubs used by its competitors and predecessors, the MP4's is made from a single piece, weighing a spritely 176 pounds). The body panels are all carbon fiber and composites, making the new McLaren more expensive to build than its competitors and resulting in an expected £160,000 ($265k) price tag - higher than either the new Ferrari 458 Italia or the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, but lighter in weight, too.

Behind the tub sits a twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine producing around 600 horsepower and 433 lb-ft of torque, offering what McLaren claims is the highest horsepower to CO2 ratio of any internal combustion engine on the market - gasoline, diesel or even hybrid. Contrary to earlier speculation that suggested Mercedes could continue furnishing its erstwhile partner with at least the engine blocks while producing its own SLS supercar and furnishing Pagani as well, McLaren says the unit was developed entirely in house. The bespoke mill features a flat-plane crank, dry sump and can rev up to 8,500 rpm, though 80% of the torque is said to be available from as low as 2,000 rpm. That ought to be good for a 0-60 time in the low threes and a 200+ mph top end.

While you might have expected carbon ceramic brakes to keep all that power and speed in check, McLaren says its conventional discs actually weigh less. They're aided by a Brake Steer system that brakes the inside rear wheel to combat understeer. But the real trick system is in the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, where Pre-Cog lets the driver load up the next gear by half-squeezing the paddle and then engaging with gunshot speed.

With the new MP4-12C, McLaren's betting the economy will bounce back soon. It's planning on building 1000 units in 2011, a quarter of which will go each to the domestic UK market and over here to the United States. The C designation also suggests that they're planning a roadster version to join the coupe. But for now, we'll just enjoy this first batch of images in the gallery below and peruse the lengthy press release after the jump.


Gallery: McLaren MP4-12C first shots

mclarenp112mclarenp113mclarenp114mclarenp115mclarenp116

[Source: McLaren via CAR Magazine]

Continue reading McLaren MP4-12C: First batch of details and images surface

McLaren MP4-12C: First batch of details and images surface originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 20:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingmclarenmclaren automotivemclaren mp4 12cmclaren mp4-12cmclaren p11MclarenAutomotiveMclarenMp4-12cMclarenMp412cMclarenP11mp4mp4 12cmp4-12cMp412cp11supercarTue, 08 Sep 2009 20:39:00 EST