McLaren has opted to bid farewell to its iconic butterfly doors, a hallmark feature synonymous with the brand’s identity. The upcoming Halo supercar, scheduled for release later this year, will introduce a new door mechanism as an alternative.
The butterfly doors, famed for their dramatic upward swing resembling a butterfly’s wings, have long been a defining characteristic of McLaren’s vehicles. Their unique operation never failed to attract attention wherever a McLaren was spotted, whether it be at a gas station, a luxury hotel driveway, or outside a designer store.
However, McLaren’s decision to replace the butterfly doors does not signify a departure from its signature style. Instead, reports suggest that the forthcoming McLaren P18, positioned as the successor to the P1, will feature gullwing doors—a tribute to the classic design seen in the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing.
Unlike the butterfly doors, which hinge on the A-pillar, the gullwing doors of the P18 will attach to the roof, offering a fresh interpretation of the iconic door style. The adoption of a newly developed carbon fiber chassis further underscores McLaren’s dedication to innovation and performance.
In addition to the gullwing doors, the McLaren P18 is anticipated to incorporate design elements such as LED daytime running lights reminiscent of the Artura and 750S models, as well as a retractable spoiler to enhance aerodynamic efficiency.
Expected to be powered by a hybrid powertrain consisting of a V8 engine and an electric motor, the McLaren P18 is poised to deliver exhilarating performance, with horsepower figures exceeding 1,000.
Positioned to compete against formidable rivals such as the upcoming Porsche hypercar and successors to models like LaFerrari, the Mercedes-AMG One, and Aston Martin’s Valkyrie, the P18 aims to assert McLaren’s dominance in the high-performance segment.
While the P18 marks a departure from McLaren’s traditional butterfly doors, the adoption of gullwing doors underscores the brand’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering uncompromising performance and design.