McLaren Automotive is unveiling two new models in its recently-launched Sports Series, both specifically intended for track use.
Both the 570S GT4 and 570S Sprint have been developed with the brand’s motorsport division McLaren GT, and GT racing category specialist CRS GT Limited.
The 570S GT is intended for competition and will be developed in a racing environment over the 2016 season. McLaren customer team Black Bull Ecurie Ecosse will run one car in the nine-round British GT Championship, alongside its GT3 specification McLaren 650S.
The Sprint, which is not due to be unveiled for some weeks, will be aimed more at the trackday customer, and will be sold without the specification required to meet motorsport competition regulations. However buyers who choose a Sprint will be able to upgrade it to GT4 specification at a later date if they choose.
To meet its motorsport requirements the GT adds an FIA-approved rollcage and fire extinguisher to the carbonfibre MonoCell II chassis that is common to the road 570 models. The carbnfibre technology has not been seen in GT4 racing before and is expected to be a major benefit due to its light weight and strength.
The bodywork is reprofiled, using carbonfibre and aluminium panels, to cover front and rear tracks widened to 1644mm and 1593mm respectively to accommodate centre-lock cast magnesium alloy race wheels and Pirelli sick race tyres.
Other aerodynamic additions include a high-level rear wing on aluminium pylons, a larger front splitter and reprofiled floor. The bonnet is also redesigned, similar to a GT3 unit with exit ducts from an extra high-temperature radiator mounted in the nose.
Two-way adjustable motorsport dampers and coilover springs are fitted along with an onboard jacking system, while the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine is the same as in the Sports Series road cars.
Following its year of development the 570S GT4 will become eligible for GT4 series worldwide from 2017, and McLaren will offer cars for sale to race teams at £159,900 direct from the factory.
Details of the 570 Sprint will be revealed when it is unveiled in coming weeks.
