Despite the reverence for its predecessor, the Speedtail is unreservedly a car of the 21st century. Nowhere is
this revelation more evident than its hybrid powertrain. The 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine is an
evolution of the McLaren P1's engine and features a revised piston design along with enhanced cylinder head
cooling, enabling it to produce over 750 horsepower. The Speedtail’s electric motor and battery, meanwhile,
are both units developed by McLaren’s Formula E technology group. The motor smooths out power delivery at
low engine speeds, providing an additional 312 horsepower; the dielectric cooled and insulated 1.647 kWh
battery was, at its debut, the most power-dense unit ever fitted to a production vehicle. Total system output is
a formidable 1,035 horsepower, propelling the Speedtail to a reported top speed of 250 mph.
The Speedtail’s sleek, elongated carbon fiber bodywork is underpinned by an adjustable, multi-link
suspension composed of aluminum alloy. This system works in tandem with the Speedtail’s cutting-edge
active aerodynamics (which include remarkable deformable carbon fiber ailerons), distinctive static wheel
covers, bespoke Pirelli tires, and carbon ceramic brakes to keep the 16.8-foot-long vehicle glued to the
ground. The design’s incredibly low drag coefficient maximizes the Speedtail’s fuel efficiency, especially when
paired with its regenerative braking system.
As with the F1, the central driving position of the Speedtail offers an uncompromised driving experience unlike
anything else on the road. From the central seat, the driver has an unobstructed view of their surroundings;
with both A-pillars out of their line of sight, they can more accurately place the car on the roadway. A defining
feature of the F1, this central driving experience is uniquely implemented by McLaren and feels entirely
natural. In addition to offering optimal visibility, the central driver’s seat allows for two additional passengers to
enjoy the exhilarating ride of the Speedtail.
Further, the Speedtail replaces side mirrors with hideaway cameras, which retract back into their respective
panels during activation of the Speedtail’s exclusive “Active Velocity” mode—which lowers the car several
inches and changes the aerovane configuration, thus streamlining the silhouette for extreme stability at high
speeds. The mode was on full display on 19 December 2019 with a McLaren Speedtail prototype reaching
250 miles per hour over 30 times during testing at the Johnny Bohmer Proving Grounds—part of the NASA’s
Space Shuttle Landing Facility in Orlando, Florida.
All told, the Speedtail is the fastest, most aerodynamic, and most technologically advanced McLaren ever
made, pushing the frontier of what is possible in a road car. On public roads, its futuristic design and length of
16.8 feet give it a presence like nothing else. More than its exclusivity or any styling similarities, it is this that
makes it a true successor to the legendary F1.
Speedtail Number 36
The Speedtail being offered by RM Sotheby’s is the 36th example produced; it is a uniquely presented
specimen which presents with over $170,000 (137,711 GPB) of bespoke and optional equipment, as
confirmed by the McLaren Automotive Order Confirmation document. Ordered on 20 July 2020, it was
delivered new to McLaren of Philadelphia in the fall of 2020.
This chassis’ dramatic exterior is clad in a bespoke shade of MSO Heritage Atlantic Blue, further enriched by
a set of Bespoke Exterior Painted Pin stripes which are color-matched to the lightweight alloy wheels and
cost £39,711 (~$53,600 USD). The front wheel covers have been specified in Gloss Visual Carbon fiber, while
the engine cover and brake calipers have been paired with black paint. The Speedtail’s exhaust system,
which is integrated into the rear diffuser and nearly hidden, wears the aptly named “Stealth Titanium” finish.
A comprehensive suite of Zircon trim and Satin Visual Carbon Fiber flourishes add a uniform appeal to both
exterior and interior. Inside, the Speedtail’s next-gen dashboard and distinctive three-seat cockpit are trimmed
in stunning vintage tan Aniline leather finished with bespoke contrast stitching. The Satin Visual Carbon Fiber
steering wheel is appointed in matching upholstery; it fronts a suite of five digital displays and the two
elements are interceded by a steering hub clothed in Alcantara and a pair of billet titanium paddle shifters.
It is safe to say that the revolutionary Speedtail’s saga is only getting started; like its predecessor the F1, the
Speedtail is predicted to capture the public’s attention for decades to come. With each of the 106 examples
being purchased by pre-selected customers before the model’s announcement, the availability of this
Speedtail, number 36, offers an exciting opportunity to partake in the most advanced roadgoing vehicle that
McLaren has built to date. The Speedtail is an engineering triumph combining the best of McLaren’s past with
extraordinary technology of the present. Its moment in the spotlight has just begun.
Now offered showing just 30 miles at the time of cataloging, this 2020 McLaren Speedtail is accompanied by
its Order Confirmation document, a fitted suitcase front trunk, as well as serialized, lightweight gold-colored
titanium tool set. Lot 175 is estimated at $3,500,000-4,500,000. The auction will be held on 22 January at
Scottsdale’s Otto Car Club as a hybrid live-streamed auction, with limited in-person attendance.
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