New McLaren 765LT makes global debut

MANILA: The story of the McLaren Longtail (LT) continues with the introduction of the fifth variant and according to the marque is the “most dynamically advanced and engaging LT model ever,” the new 765LT.

Only 765 examples will ever be made and each one comes with a higher level of driver engagement and track-focused dynamics, minimized weight, optimized aerodynamics, and increased power.

It uses a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 that pumps out 755 hp and 800 Nm of torque and uses carbon fiber technology and bespoke carbon fiber LT body panels and aerodynamic features to reduce weight by as much as 176 pounds compared to the 720S.

The steering retains McLaren’s distinguished electro-hydraulic assistance but has been tweaked with a quicker ratio and a stiffer torsion bar for better feedback. The linked-hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control II suspension introduced with the 720S features updates to both software and hardware to meet the dynamic requirements of the 765LT, plus advances made during the development of the McLaren Senna and Speedtail have seen the suspension system algorithms revised to ensure even greater precision and control.

Compared to the 720S, front ride height is reduced by 5mm (rear is unchanged) and the front track is 6 mm wider, for greater grip and balance. New lightweight main springs feature additional "helper" springs to reduce unsprung mass and maintain load in the suspension on the full rebound, while the use of two springs saves weight in comparison with one larger dual-rate spring. Roll stiffness is increased further enhancing vehicle stability.

Aerodynamic downforce is 25% greater because of an extended front splitter, elongated active rear wing work, unique door blades, and extended rear diffuser.

To increase cooling capability, the new, high-set static position of the "Longtail" active rear wing draws hot air out of the engine bay as well as increasing downforce, while the airbrake functionality reduces dive sensitivity under heavy braking. This allows the front springs to be softer than would be required if they were solely responsible for maintaining the front ride height, which in turn enables improved front axle compliance characteristics, to the benefit on-road driving.

Gearbox and suspension can cycle between Comfort, Sport, and Track modes using the powertrain and handling settings within McLaren’s trademark Active Dynamics Panel. A new "limit downshift" transmission function is introduced on the 765LT. Previously, a downshift would be refused by McLaren’s seven-speed Sequential Shift Gearbox if the resulting change would over-rev the engine; on the new LT, the transmission software will acknowledge the downshift request and change gears accordingly when the engine speed and road speed can be harmonized.

It has carbon-ceramic discs, calipers from McLaren Senna, and uses F1-inspired integrated caliper cooling technology that reduces brake pad temperatures by up to 50-degrees.

“The 765LT is the most accomplished and exhilarating LT model ever from McLaren Automotive. Incredible performance and astonishing levels of driver engagement – the result of hundreds of detailed engineering actions undertaken to ensure the purest possible connection between driver and car – are the standout attributes of an LT developed with single-minded determination to deliver a wholly immersive driving experience to those who secure one of the 765 available to customer order,” said Mike Flewitt, CEO of McLaren Automotive.

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