McLaren Shows Futuristic Race Car

McLaren Automotive Ltd.'s new MP4-X concept race car features a number of emerging technologies the company says could eventually be used in Formula One cars. The concept includes next-generation electric power systems, advanced telematics, safety systems, driver controls and bio-sensors.

The closed-cockpit single seater is powered by an electric motor and ultra-thin battery pack that McLaren says is integrated into the vehicle’s crash structure. The company envisions capturing and storing energy from a variety of sources, including regenerative braking, inductive charging embedded in a race track and solar panels.

The car’s active aerodynamic system includes electrodes mounted on the car’s wings to tailor downforces for cornering and straightaways. The system, which isn’t permitted under current F1 regulations, could be powered by the car’s main electric motor.

In addition, McLaren says, an adaptive alloy could be used that enables the wing to change shapes when an electric current passes through it to optimize drafting maneuvers. And large venturi tunnels are employed under the floor to enhance ground effects.

McLaren also is exploring the use of “negative-stiffness” material structures in high-impact areas of the chassis to improve energy transfer and recovery. An integrated diagnostic system could monitor the vehicle’s structural integrity and relay the information to a pit crew during the race, while an advanced tire sensor could be used to monitor wear and the potential for a blowout.

A head-up display is used in place of traditional instrumentation. The system also could provide drivers with information about the positions of other cars, accidents, caution flags and messages from teammates.

Other future applications could include biometric sensors that would allow teams to monitor driver fatigue and a special bodysuit could display areas of impact trauma and injuries to help medical personnel after an accident. McLaren also imagines a future where it could eventually be possible to harness brain waves that let drivers control steering, braking and throttle functions via a holographic display system.