While the 650S Coupe and the 650S Spider are the newest additions to the McLaren family, it seems that the company has a few ideas up its sleeve for how to make them better still.
The bespoke division of McLaren Automotive, McLaren Special Operations (MSO), has released a set of images showcasing new concepts of engineering upgrades for these cars. It is titled the MSO 650S Coupe Concept and will be shown at a tour across China over the coming weeks.
Its new design is meant to have a “stealth-like, menacing appearance”. Looking at the images, in its Agrigan Black, a metallic shade that was created in-house along with a metallic ruby red flake, it certainly has that feel of stealth while the red shows it is a car that means business.
Meanwhile, its curved edges make it look incredibly sleek. Indeed, the bodywork has been changed slightly in a number of subtle ways and its cabin has more focus on the driver.
To add to the sense of style and engineering prowess that the car harbours, MSO suggest that it needs to be parked in direct sunlight. The paint effects undergo a dramatic change in this condition, which contrasts with the satin-finished carbon fibre highlights that have been added all over the car.
The new MSO bespoke features that are being incorporated into the concept model include a newly designed carbon fibre rear diffuser and carbon fibre side blades with the MSO-branding. Of course, it is only natural that MSO would want to make use of the lightweight material that is currently manufacturers’ top choice when making a vehicle that delivers on speed.
The car looks like it’s going to go fast and those side blades are certainly created with that in mind. They are designed to look more aggressive and, unlike those seen on previous models of the Spider and Coupe, they are full length. This improves the airflow along the bodywork and allows for better aerodynamic efficiency.
Looking at the rear, you can really see a sense of aggression and the menace that the designers were hoping for. Its bumper was inspired by Porsche’s well recognised sportscar, the GT3. The 650S Coupe Concept features a carbon fibre section in the centre that follows through to the unique diffuser as well as the airbrake.
Completing the stealthy, uniform look of the car, it is finished with a set of alloy wheels that are finished in satin black. These come with Pirelli P Zero Corsa tyres. Of course, what better choice for a fast car than a tyre brand known for its racing prowess?
Yet the whole car isn’t intended to be sold as is; MSO have put it together as a design study. MSO did say, however, that it will be monitoring reactions that relate to any of the production examples. Also, the side blades and diffuser are available to order from McLaren dealers. For the new 650S on the market, side blades cost £5,114 while the diffuser is priced at £7,245.
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