McLaren has unveiled its first open-cockpit road car – the Elva, which revives a name first used in the 1960s.
The Elva is the firm’s lightest road car to date – utilising McLaren’s famed 4.0-litre V8 that underpins all its models, which this time produces 804bhp and 800Nm. That means 0-60mph can be reached in just three seconds, though no top speed has been given.
Designed to be one of the most extreme open two-seaters ever to be produced, the Elva features no roof, no windscreen and no side windows – helping to create a sensory experience for the driver, says McLaren. A fixed windscreen can be had as an option, though.
The dramatic Elva roadster is the fourth model to feature in the British firm’s flagship ‘Ultimate Series’ – predecessors include the P1, Senna and the upcoming Speedtail. The name Elva originates from the McLaren-Elva M1a – a racing car that competed in the ‘60s and ‘70s that was famed for its low kerbweight and driving thrills.
Key to the Elva’s appeal is a world-first aero protection, which is where air is carefully funnelled from the nose of the car but is directed over the cockpit. The air management system only comes into force at higher speeds, though it can be deactivated by the driver.
As with all McLarens, buyers are expected to utilise the firm’s special operations (MSO) division to create a bespoke Elva. New materials to allow for increased durability to the elements are available – including a water-resistant material known as Ultrafabric.
As with every other Ultimate Series model, production is limited to 399 units, with prices starting from an eye-watering £1,425,000. First deliveries are not expected until the end of 2020.
