McLaren reveal conceptual future F1 auto

Instead of an internal combustion engine, the MP4-X features an all-electric powertrain that harnesses its experience from supplying systems in Formula E. This is demonstrated in the closed cockpit, a design that is probably influenced by the deaths of racing drivers Jules Bianchi and Ayrton Senna. Inside that cockpit, drivers would enjoy an augmented reality display system, sort of like that used by F-35 Lightning II fighter pilots.

McLaren is showing off the race auto of the future with its new MP4-X and it makes some pretty insane claims about it. McLaren will also complement this with an independent head-up display that can transmit race position and flag status.

The MP4-X is certainly not the first futuristic concept about how a futuristic F1 auto could be: Red Bull’s X1 that was originally conceived for Gran Turismo 5, Ferrari’s F1concept and even a couple of studies for a McLaren devised by independent designers have got there first.

In the future, F1 cars could be made out of “negative stiffness” materials that can recover their originals shape after impact. Perhaps McLaren’s MP4-X is the way forward.

Unlike current Formula 1 cars, the MP4-X features fully-enclosed wheels and an integrated canopy. The vehicle includes solar panels, ground-effect aerodynamics and a full-electric hybrid motor powered by on-circuit induction loops.

Modelling the future is something we do every day at McLaren.

He added: “Formula 1 is the ultimate gladiatorial sport, and the future we envisage will be a high tech, high performance showcase that excites fans like no other sport”.

The tires on the MP4-X have also been improved thanks to sensors that allow engineers to live-monitor crucial data that would help them prevent a blow out.

They wanted to show off their ability to marry speed, excitement and performance with driver safety and hybrid power technologies, and it seems as though they accomplished this task.