McLaren has unveiled its new 720S GT3 Evo for the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), and true to form, it’s an impressive sight. Adopting McLaren’s signature black and orange livery, the 720S GT3 features prominent air intakes on either side of extended canards at the front.
The car also boasts wider arches covering the new Good Year tires, replacing last season’s Pirellis. Each of the team’s cars will bear the numbers ’59’ and ’95,’ commemorating McLaren’s 1995 Le Mans victory with the F1 GTR, a nice touch.
In addition to the aggressive bumpers and splitters, the rear wing is wider with lower overhangs, giving the impression it could withstand a serious storm. Details about upgrades to the M840T 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine are yet to be revealed, but estimates put its output between 550 and 600bhp.
Given the focus on aerodynamics in GT3 cars, McLaren’s exterior enhancements alone are expected to significantly improve track performance.
Richard Dean, CEO of United Autosports, McLaren’s new partner, commented, “The design pays homage to racing history, particularly the 1995 Le Mans winner, while unmistakably belonging to the current McLaren family. It’s an exciting addition to McLaren’s 2024 lineup, complementing their Formula 1, IndyCar, and Formula E designs.”
This year marks McLaren’s debut in all three of motorsport’s ‘Triple Crown’ races in the same season, having previously won each individually.
The WEC season kicks off on March 2 in Qatar, with McLaren’s six-driver lineup competing in eight races, including the iconic Le Mans, which McLaren hasn’t contested since 1997.