On the most recent episode of BBC’s Top Gear, Jeremy Clarkson claimed that the McLaren P1 is a game-changing hypercar, and that it’s “a new chapter in the history of motoring.” It’s a limited production plug-in hybrid, with the entire production of 375 units selling out by November 2013. For those who were fortunate enough to buy directly from McLaren, the vehicle would have set you back a cool $1.15-million USD. Continue reading for the Top Gear segment.
The P1 features a 3.8-litre twin-turbocharged V8 petrol engine similar to the engine found in the MP4-12C, but tuned to deliver 727 bhp and 719 Nm (531 lb ft) at 7500 rpm. Combined with an in-house developed electric motor, which produces 176 bhp and 260 Nm (192 lb ft), the P1 will have a total power and torque output of 916 PS (903 bhp) and 978 Nm (722 lb ft) respectively. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
