The McLaren W1 hypercar features a hybrid powertrain with 1258 hp and a lightweight design at 3084 pounds. Its distinguishing characteristic is its aerodynamic design, which centers around the ground effect concept.
The car's aerodynamics were developed by Robin Algoo, who previously worked as an aerodynamicist in Formula 1 before joining McLaren road cars. Algoo aimed to advance automotive aerodynamics beyond large rear wings, which he considered to have reached their practical limit for downforce generation.
The W1's design leverages Formula 1 technology to make ground effect the primary source of downforce in a road car. This approach contrasts with traditional methods that rely on large rear wings, which Algoo noted come with drag penalties and are less efficient than ground effect concepts.
A key component of the W1's aerodynamic system is its large rear diffuser. Its size was made possible by tilting the engine by three degrees. The diffuser also acts as a structural element, connecting the rear suspension and removing the need for a separate metal crossbeam. The effectiveness of the diffuser relies on addressing issues like front tire wake, which can hinder downforce generation, and creating a specific underbody shape.