The 12C Spider, which derives from the MP4-12C, will be available to order next week.

The 12C Spider name has only been revealed today after much secrecy around the internally codenamed P11 development programme.

The 12C Spider and the MP4-12C, which has sold over 1,000 units since it was launched on 21 June 2011, are part of the McLaren Automotive group that shares much technology with the McLaren Formula One team.

Production will begin in September this year with deliveries taking place from October. The cost of the new 12C Spider has not been confirmed but a spokesperson for McLaren told The Manufacturer that it will be upwards of £176,000.

McLaren Automotive’s second model, the 625PS, twin-turbo V8-engined 12C Spider, is based on the same super stiff carbon fibre MonoCell chassis as its hardtop sibling.

Ordering commences across the company’s network of retailers over the next few days.

Click here to read The Manufacturer’s factory visit to McLaren’s Production Centre.

Click here to read The Manufacturer’s factory visit to McLaren’s Technology Centre.

Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton, at the launch of the MP4-12C in Woking.

One man used to excitement behind the wheel is Jenson Button. Watch the Formula One driver discuss what speed means to him, the connection he feels with the machine he drives and about what he senses when driving a 300 km/h open top car below.

But is he talking about his MP4-27 Formula 1 car or the 12C Spider?