McLaren Solus GT: Video Game Concept Transforms into Real-world Speed Demon
by AutoExpert | 21 July, 2023
The McLaren Solus GT, a lightning-fast, single-seat track car that once existed only in the virtual realm, has rocketed into reality. With a naturally aspirated V10 engine churning out over 830bhp, the Solus GT is a limited edition powerhouse, designed for speed, downforce, and shattering lap records.
Making its first public appearance at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the Solus GT demonstrated its prowess by setting an impressive pace in Goodwood's timed Sunday Shootout. The McLaren, with Marvin Kirchöfer behind the wheel, breezed through the hillclimb course in a mere 45.345 seconds, hitting an average speed of 149.1mph.
Its stunning carbon-fibre cockpit design, wide-set, enclosed wheels, and a massive rear wing are hard to miss. Built on a unique monocoque chassis, the vehicle tips the scales at under 1000kg, yet generates a gravity-defying 1200kg of downforce at full throttle.
Initially dreamt up for the Gran Turismo Sport video game back in 2017, the Solus GT has finally been given form and function, revealed at the Monterey Car Week in California. Its heart is a 5.2-litre V10 engine that revs up to 10,000rpm, delivering more than 830bhp and 479lb ft of torque.
The driver's space, accessible through a jet plane-like sliding canopy, houses a fixed motorsport-style seat, a Formula 1-inspired carbon-fibre steering wheel, and a digital rear-view display. For those lucky enough to own one of these beasts - all 25 of which have already been claimed at over £3 million each - a special travel case is included, perfect for globetrotting to various McLaren events.
