McLaren's car is driving out of the virtual world.
McLaren has made race cars for the Gran Turismo video game series since 2013. While its typical for supercars in the real world to go digital, it's kind of unique when a virtual car is turned to reality.
Solus GT is taking this unique approach as McLaren decided to turn the virtual race car into reality. The company is making 25 single-seat, V-10 - powered track Solus GT cars.
Solus GT Style and Design
McLaren promises an incredible speed, as the 5.2-liter naturally-aspirated V10 brings more than 829 horsepower. This is combined with 479 lb-ft of torque, which is enough for a maximum speed of above 200 miles per hour, as per Slash Gear.
In addition, McLaren wanted the Solus to have a sprint of 60 mph in under 2.5 seconds, as per Car and Driver website.
According to McLaren, they are staying true to the appearance of the Gran Turismo car that the gamers enjoyed. The real Solus GT will be over 15 feet long and less than 4 feet high.
To determine how to coax airflow through the split, segmented bodywork, the company decided to follow the race-inspired fluid dynamics modeling.
Slash Gear noted that the wheels of Solus GT have individual aerodynamic pods that are mounted on suspension arms.
Meanwhile, the front splitter feeds ground-effect tunnels, which lead throughout the huge rear diffuser.
To feed the V10 engine, there's an air intake placed at the top. McLaren also places an outsized fixed rear wing. This would deliver the more than 2,017-pound dry weight of the Solus GT itself. Although, this is yet to be finalized.
Solus GT has a lot of carbon fiber combined with 3D-printed titanium.
The lengthy cockpit canopy is probably the most amazing element of the car's design. Instead of dihedral doors typical of McLaren's other cars, the Solus GT's roof slides forward.
The automaker uses titanium for the roll hoop and halo cockpit protection structure. According to McLaren, because of the 3D printing, it is possible to tailor those titanium components based on the owner's preference.
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Solus GT is for Race Tracks Only
According to McLaren, the interior of Solus GT can be changed based on individual preference. However, expect to have a 6-point safety harness, adjustable pedal box and air conditioning.
The driver would find most of the car's controls on the carbon fiber steering wheel. But expect overhead switches where you can locate the engine ignition and a plumbed-in emergency fire extinguisher.
The lucky buyer will enjoy a customized seat which is part of the "racing driver experience." McLaren said that it comes with an FIA-homologated race suit, helmet, and HANS device tailored to each driver.
We can't expect to see the Solus GT on public roads, as the car will be for race tracks only.
According to McLaren, all 25 units have been sold but the lucky buyers will have to wait until 2023 for the first car to be delivered.
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