McLaren has revealed powertrain details for its upcoming P1 supercar which will make its production debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March. The P1 will be fitted with a hybrid powertrain that includes a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and an electric motor, emitting less than 200g/km of CO2.

Hybrid powertrain for McLaren P1

Together, the 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine and the electric motor, produce a power output of 674 kW with a maximum torque figure of 900Nm. CO2 emissions will be less than 200g/km on the combined cycle and will be reduced to zero in full electric mode.

The 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine alone produces 542kW and 720Nm of torque and is a new, upgraded version of the familiar M838T unit. The engine block has a unique casting to incorporate the electric motor. The lightweight electric motor is unique to the P1 supercar and produces 132kW and 260Nm of torque from standstill which increases the throttle response of the P1 dramatically. The McLaren-developed ‘boost’ system, IPAS, offers 132kW instantly while the enhanced air-charging system allows for more top-end power. Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a dual-clutch 7-speed tranmission.

The P1 can be driven with either both the petrol engine and electric motor or the electric engine alone. Maximum power is possible when using both the engine and the electric motor. In electric mode, or E-mode, the P1 can travel for distances of more than 10km with zero tailpipe emissions, which is perfect for short urban runs. When the battery is empty, the petrol engine automatically takes over and recharges the battery.

Power is enhanced with two steering wheel mounted buttons that activate the Drag Reduction System (DRS) and the Instant Power Assist System (IPAS). The DRS reduces drag on the rear wing which helps increase speed. IPAS is designed to deliver power rapidly using a lightweight, high-density battery pack. The P1 is also equipped with a plug-in charger that is able to charge the battery in two hours.

Further detsails will be made avaialble when the McLaren P1 makes its production debut at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show on 5 March.