McLaren has announced an expansion to its GT programme that will see more of its track-ready models arrive on our shores.
Auckland’s McLaren dealership has been selected as one of only 10 retailers worldwide that will sell the brand’s road and track products alongside each other.
Customers in Auckland will now be able to purchase any factory-built McLaren race car or genuine motorsport part directly from the McLaren dealership.
McLaren Auckland opened in December 2013, becoming McLaren’s 50th retailer worldwide, during the brand’s 50th anniversary year.
McLaren Auckland was one of two retailers selected in the Asia-Pacific region along with McLaren’s Melbourne branch. Both join McLaren’s new global motorsport network, which includes six retailers in North America and two in Europe.
“Being part of the Motorsport dealer network is an exciting addition to our current offerings,” said McLaren Auckland branch manager, Luke Neuberger.
“We’ve already had terrific demand for the race ready 570S GT4 with our first deliveries taking place in Q4, 2017 and continuing into 2018.
“In addition to GT4 homologation trim, this vehicle can be specified with a higher output, which makes it ideal for our Endurance series.”
McLaren currently builds two race-ready models, the 570S GT4 and the 650S GT3 which has campaigned successfully in numerous GT3 categories around the world.
Kiwi Shane van Gisbergen played a hand in claiming two of McLaren’s biggest triumphs in the 650S GT3, winning the Bathurst 12 Hour and Blancpain Endurance Cup in 2016.
McLaren’s GT expansion plans also include the development of a new GT3 race car based on the 720S supercar launch earlier this year.
The new 720S GT3 will go through a year-long development programme in 2018, before making its competitive debut with customer teams in 2019.
The 720S GT3 will feature a race-prepared version of McLaren’s 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 M840T engine with power sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox.
The bodywork of the 720S GT3 will be made from composite and lightweight carbon fibre, with a bespoke aerodynamic package.
The suspension will comprise of adjustable dampers and coil-over springs, front and rear.
McLaren Automotive CEO, Mike Flewitt, said:“The 720S GT3 will provide a stunning race-going addition to our Super Series product family.
“Drivers will now be able to hone their skills under expert guidance backed-up by our technicians at the circuit and our motorsport retailers away from it.”
