McLaren Automotive and engine supplier Ricardo have announced a multi-year partnership to produce a V8 powertrain unit for the automaker’s next-generation lightweight hybrid supercars. The high-performance V8 engine will be designed by McLaren’s in-house powertrain team as part of the company’s Future of Performance strategy. The partnership extends the existing relationship between the companies, with Ricardo having produced an estimated 34,000 powertrains for McLaren since the 12C was released in 2011.

Ricardo will supply both hybrid and non-hybrid powertrains to McLaren as the two companies invest further in the Shoreham facility, which employs more than 100 engineers and technicians. The high-performance V8 powertrain will form an integral part of McLaren’s next-generation product lineup, delivering best-in-class performance and thrilling driver engagement.

The new agreement is an important part of McLaren’s Future of Performance strategy and builds on the enduring relationship between the two British companies, providing a boost for jobs and ensuring increased investment in the domestic engineering supply chain for future technologies.

“We are extremely pleased to have concluded this new engine supply agreement with McLaren Automotive for their next-generation high-performance V8 powertrain,” said Graham Ritchie, CEO of Ricardo. “With this agreement, we look forward to continuing our established and highly successful relationship with McLaren into its third decade.”

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