- V Engineering reveals a 12.4 kWh battery pack for the McLaren P1.
- It slashes weight by 23 kg while tripling energy capacity to 12.4 kWh.
- Customer installations for the aftermarket upgrade will start in 2027.
Is your McLaren P1 in need of a new battery pack? Independent outfit V Engineering says it has the answer, in the form of a battery replacement program for the discontinued hypercar.
The “Project Continuum” aims to resolve battery degradation issues while significantly increasing energy capacity, reducing weight, and extending zero-emission range without compromising on power delivery.
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McLaren built the P1 between 2013 and 2015, but V Engineering points out that the hybrid battery cells date back to 2010. That leaves a fair number of cars potentially nursing tired batteries or even being parked, as the original cells now closing in on 16 years old.
A Bigger, Lighter Replacement
The new module was developed alongside engineers from the original P1 program. It uses 21700 lithium cells built to FIA Formula E specifications, paired with a fresh glycol-based cooling system. The real story is the capacity, though: 12.4 kWh, a big jump over the standard battery’s 4.72 kWh. The swap also shaves 23 kg (50.7 lbs) off the car.
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V Engineering didn’t share the exact numbers, but it promises a longer zero-emission range. The original McLaren P1 offered an EV-only range of 10 km (6 miles). The extra capacity will also allow owners to enjoy longer track sessions taking advantage of the full 903 hp (916 PS / 674 kW) of combined output from the P1’s twin-turbo 3.8-liter V8 engine and single electric motor.
According to V Engineering, their product is compatible with the hypercar’s existing electrical architecture and offers plug-and-play installation.
There is no word on pricing, though the company revealed that discussions are already underway with owners across the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. Customer installations are scheduled to commence in Spring 2027.
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For those who don’t like aftermarket solutions, McLaren offers its own factory-backed “Gen II” battery replacement originally announced back in 2022. This one cuts weight by a more substantial 46 kg (101.4 lbs) compared to the original, but carries a sticker price of $156,700 and lengthy waiting times.
