F1 | McLaren presents the x2 prototype, the Formula 1 of the future

Today, McLaren presented its updated version of the prototype with which the English team sees the future of Formula 1 single-seaters, the McLaren x2. A project born in 2015, when the concept of the MP4-X was presented, a cutting-edge single-seater which, on paper, would have used all the latest technologies to improve the appearance and safety of the cars, as stated by John Allert, Group Brand Director of McLaren: “We wanted to take a leap towards the future. Combining some ingredients of F1, such as speed and performance, with other elements of emerging sports, such as the closed cockpit to improve safety and hybrid technology. We expect Formula 1 to become an exciting showcase for high tech in the future."

The new x2 is very similar to the MP4X concept but with small mechanical/aerodynamic improvements and a completely revised livery, similar to the one present on the current 2018 single-seaters of the English team, with papaya orange as the protagonist and a touch of blue on the wings. Among the improvements that McLaren has thought of for its energy obtained from the hybrid part and from the solar energy system. The x2, in fact, could also count on the contribution of some solar panels on the surface, which could be either integrated into the main system or used as a boost, such as push-to-pass in IndyCar. Other features of the new prototype would be a greater use of ground effect compared to today's cars, in addition to active aerodynamics (today prohibited in Formula 2, except for DRS), with sensors placed on the wings that could monitor the bodywork, ensuring greater aerodynamic load in the curves, and then use a more relaxed set-up on the long straights.