McLaren P1 GTR interior revealed

McLaren has revealed the cabin of the P1 GTR. It is the track-focused, limited-edition version of the P1 hypercar.

Using the slightly more road-oriented McLaren P1 as a base, the cockpit has been stripped out, with a greater focus on driver engagement and weight saving, albeit without compromising comfort or safety.

A new steering wheel based on the item used in the MP4-23, McLaren's 2008 Formula 1 car, is exclusive to the P1 GTR, which was first revealed at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance in August this year. Key controls are located to the centre of the wheel, allowing the driver to fully adjust the set-up and characteristics of the car without having to take their hands from the wheel. The buttons for the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and Instant Power Assist System (IPAS) are retained on the steering wheel. McLaren says it has configured the controls so they can be comfortably operated when the driver is wearing a full race suit, helmet and gloves.

The cabin is equipped with lightweight carbonfibre seats similar to those used in DTM touring cars and full six-point motorsport harnesses. These will be set up for each P1 GTR owner, and mounted directly to the chassis, reducing weight by having no additional mounting brackets. The seats are compatible with a Head and Neck Safety (HANS) device. Unlike some stripped-out track cars, the air-con system is retained in the P1 GTR to maintain comfort during track driving.

The carbonfibre MonoCage chassis is carried over from the road car, and weighs 90kg including the upper and lower structures, roof snorkel, engine air intake cavity, battery and power electronics housing.

The development programme for the car has focused on testing the capabilities of the upgraded powertrain, optimising the balance and handling characteristics on the car's Pirelli slick tyres, and working through aerodynamic developments including the fixed-height rear wing.

Company officials reported, "All tests were completed with results meeting or, in many cases exceeding, the stringent targets set. The McLaren P1 GTR development continues its rapid progress, with further mileage scheduled over the winter throughout Europe". McLaren has now switched the focus of its testing with the P1 GTR to extremely hot conditions, taking its latest development prototype to the Bahrain International Circuit.

The car will only be offered to the existing 375 P1 owners in international markets.