McLaren Shows Hyper-GT Mule With F1-Inspired Center Driving Position

McLaren is using a modified 720S as a development mule for the Hyper-GT three-seater hypercar which is set to go on sale in 2019.

Codenamed BP23, the new McLaren will play the role of the Grand Tourer in the company’s Ultimate Series but its key feature will of course be the central driving seat, accompanied by two passenger seats on each side.

The similarities with the iconic F1 won’t stop there as McLaren plans a limited - and already sold-out - production run of just 106 units of the BP23 (Bespoke Project 2 with 3 seats), which will eventually become “the fastest ever McLaren” and despite being more focused in grand touring.

McLaren isn’t talking numbers right now but it’s safe to expect a hybrid powertrain with a thoroughly reworked version of the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 found in the 720S sitting in the middle. Power will be north of 1,000hp and closer to the 1,100hp mark while top speed will be greater than that of the F1’s 240mph.

Each one of the new Hyper GTs is priced at around $2.5 million but this won’t be the only Ultimate Series model McLaren will launch, as a track-focused hypercar is also expected to show up in the next two years.