McLaren launches GREAT 12C to highlight British innovation

The 12C car was launched at the automotive manufacturer’s Woking technology centre by its Formula One driver Jenson Button.

Built entirely at its UK production centre, the car includes a one-piece carbon fibre MonoCell chassis, which forms the core structure of the car and weighs just 75kg.

As well as highlighting the UK’s status as a leading technology and innovation hub, the campaign aims to deliver long-term economic benefits through additional tourism, investment and education.

Martin Whitmarsh, CEO of the Mclaren Group, said he sees a resurgence in British engineering and manufacturing innovation, where McLaren plays its part through the exporting of 80% of its cars.

“The UK has led the world in the development of technologies which have changed people’s lives, from the jet engine to the internet.  I believe that we are now seeing a resurgence of that pioneering spirit and McLaren is playing its part,” he said.

“The McLaren 12C is a tangible embodiment of technological creativity and I hope with that with its GREAT livery it will help draw international attention to what the UK’s high-tech industry is capable of, and inspire young people at home.”

The ‘Innovation is GREAT’ 12C, whose union-flag livery was designed by McLaren Racing’s graphics team, is to embark on a national tour in the coming months.

After making its first appearance on 3^rd September at an exclusive ‘McLaren 50’ screening of Formula 1 film ‘Rush’, it will then lead a procession of rare cars from Buckingham Palace to Marlborough House Gardens in the St James’s Palace Concours d’Elegance.