Set to debut at this weekend’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the striking McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing Concept is a one-off show-and-go machine that was specifically designed to gauge interest in a potential series-build follow-up that would be aimed at buyers in the North American market. Based on the successful McLaren MP-4 12C GT3 race car, the Racing Concept wears historic colors found on the original McLaren Can-Am cars of Bruce McLaren and Denny Hulme that dominated that series back in the 1960-1970’s. However, unencumbered by any formal restrictions, the new Racing Concept boasts more sophisticated hardware and technology than is permitted by today’s GT3 Category racing rules and delivers even more spectacular performance.
Envisioned as the "ultimate track car," the McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing Concept features numerous exterior enhancements highlighted by a more aggressive aero package. Developed by the F1 specialists at McLaren Racing, it complements the 12C’s basic composite MonoCell tub and bodywork with a new carbon fiber front splitter, bespoke dive planes, a mega-spec fixed rear wing in place of the road-going’s MP4-C12’s active rear spoiler and a more aggressive diffuser. Collectively, they up the downforce index by 30 percent beyond the already formidable stick of the GT3 variant.
To ensure the McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition Racing maintains its high-velocity character, the 3.8-liter twin-turbo McLaren V8 nestled amidships has been suitably tweaked. Unique calibration and computer mapping plus a more capable cooling system allow it to turn out up to 630 horsepower, making this the most potent MP4-12C ever produced. Last pieces in this dynamic revamp include a set of Pirelli racing slicks on superlight black-satin finished alloy wheels and a special ultra-spec braking system created by Akebono.
The built-for-business cabin of the McLaren 12C Can-Am Edition share a good deal in common with the basic design of the GT3 variant, including mass quantities of carbon fiber, a full rollcage and an F1-style multifunction steering wheel patterned after the one found in the latest McLaren MP4-27 driven by Lewis Hamilton. The Can-Am Edition Concept also is fitted with a pair of Alcantara-covered Recaro racing seats that anchored their passengers with full six-point harnesses and an integrated air conditioning system.
