MP4-12C

Advanced electronics developed by Formula 1 engineers

The pure, clean lines of the MP4-12C hide the complex, cutting-edge electronic systems under its skin. Since the 1990s, we’ve been developing sophisticated traction control and engine management systems for our racing cars. Working with the McLaren engineers who develop and supply these Electronic Control Units (ECUs) for our Formula 1 cars, we’ve designed advanced electronic systems to help power and tune the 12C.

Breaking new ground for sports cars

Heavy anti roll bars are traditionally used to reduce body roll, but as these become stiffer to aid performance, they can negatively affect ride comfort and vehicle traction. The 12C has a hydraulic Proactive Chassis Control system which is electronically managed to optimise stiffness and roll control in all conditions. A unique damping system also optimises damping performance for varying conditions. By analysing performance data and then adjusting the damping settings accordingly, the 12C can offer class-leading handling and ride comfort. 

Driver control

The driver can use the 12C’s Active Dynamics Panel, on the centre console, to select from four dynamic handling modes (Normal, Winter, Sport and Track) to alter the system settings to their preference or driving conditions.

Predictive gear changes

The gearbox features one of the 12C’s key electronic innovations – Pre-Cog. When the driver applies pressure to the rocker shift, Pre-Cog actively anticipates and prepares for the next gear change. It pre-loads the clutch and the next gear, saving milliseconds when the driver confirms the selection with the rocker shift. Pre-Cog rewards the driver who wants to extract every drop of performance out of the MP4-12C.

Precise cornering

The 12C features a McLaren-developed electronic system called Brake-Steer – a technology we first explored on our 1997 MP4/12 Formula 1 car. If a driver carries too much speed into a corner, the system gently brakes the inside rear wheel to help prevent under steer and keep the car dynamically balanced through the corner. This allows for smoother steering and throttle inputs and enables them to get on the power earlier.

Pure McLaren

In conventional sports cars, such electronic systems can mask the car’s true character but the 12C systems have been carefully designed to enhance the driver experience, allowing the driver to push harder and find the limits of the car with confidence, without feeling inhibited by the advanced technology.