McLaren is ready to unveil the most powerful version of the 12C yet. The 12C Can-Am Edition will make its public debut his week at Pebble Beach, but McLaren was so excited they released the pictures and info on this track-only car a little early.
A unique engine calibration and optimized cooling system allows the 3.8-liter twin turbo V8 to put out 630 hp — 13 hp more than the current MP4 12C and the most power this engine has ever produced. Also, taking out many of the creature comforts makes the Can-Am about 440 lbs lighter than the road car.
There is also a optimized aerodynamic package that includes a carbon fiber front splitter, carbon fiber dive planes, and a carbon fiber rear wing. The result is a 30 percent gain in downforce. Akebono developed the braking system.
Inside, the 12C Can-Am seats already come with full six-point harnesses as well as a full race-specification rollcage. The steering wheel is carried over from the 12C GT3, with the shape and grip derived from that of Lewis Hamilton’s MP4-24 Formula 1 car. One of the more curious pieces is an integrated air conditioning system. Racing is all about getting rid of frivolous weight, but it seems to be something racers are looking for these days.
McLaren calls the 12C Can-Am Edition, “purely a concept at this stage,” but we know better. A car company whose reputation is built around racing is not going to keep this one out of customer’s hands for too long.
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