McLaren P1 hypercar makes rare appearance at Formula 1 launch

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The event was designed to showcase the 2013 Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-28 Formula 1 car but the limelight was well and truly stolen when the upcoming P1 hypercar made a brief appearance.

Driven by former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button, the P1 teased onlookers at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, Surrey.
The car is said to run on a combination of brutal V8 petrol-power and innovative electric technology. A Formula 1-inspired KERS system will channel energy from the brakes and add an 'overboost' function to the already potent engine.

Both Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 drivers, Jenson Button and Sergio Perez are said to have had input into the design and performance of the P1, which customers can expect to see on their driveways towards the end of this year.


The P1 will be officially unveiled at this year's Geneva Motor show in March, where intrigued customers can decide whether or not they want to fork out the estimated £700,000 price tag.

This year, McLaren Automotive celebrates its 50th year of producing machines built for racing and they are celebrating with three, specially commissioned short films that capture the legacy of the iconic brand.

Watch the first installment below