McLaren W1 supercar features additively manufactured titanium suspension components
McLaren Automotive, headquartered in Woking, UK, has launched the new McLaren W1, its latest supercar and successor to the legendary McLaren F1 and P1. The W1 features Formula 1-inspired front suspension, mounted directly into the carbon fibre monocoque, with externally visible front arms and key components, some of which have been additively manufactured from titanium for weight optimisation.
The company reported that titanium Additive Manufacturing has been used for the front uprights and wishbones. These form integral parts of the McLaren Race Active Chassis Control III system, which includes an active inboard heave suspension, rear active drop links, and adaptive damping.
The W1’s advanced suspension system is reported to enable the supercar maintain stability and provide excellent cornering performance, both on the road and the track.
This follows the announcement that McLaren will use Divergent Additive Manufacturing technology to produce chassis components for its next-generation supercars. Divergent’s DAPS technology helps the automaker integrate more complex and innovative designs into its vehicle architecture, particularly in its additively manufactured suspension components.
The DAPS system is said to enable McLaren to significantly reduce the weight of critical structures while achieving better manufacturing efficiencies and supporting a more sustainable supply chain.
McLaren announced that a total of 399 W1’s, starting at around £2 million each, are set to be produced, all of which have now been reserved.
