McLaren Looks to China for Its Future Electric Supercar

McLaren Automotive may soon benefit from Chinese manufacturer Nio’s technology to develop its future electric supercars.

Abu Dhabi investment fund CYVN Holdings recently finalized the acquisition of McLaren’s automotive activities, previously owned by the Bahraini sovereign fund Mumtalakat. CYVN positions itself as a major player in global electric mobility after investing 2.2 billion dollars in Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Nio in December 2023, acquiring a 20.1% stake in the company. This initiative reflects CYVN Holdings’ enormous ambitions in the new mobility sector.

This technological bridge could logically extend to McLaren. The Financial Times reports that McLaren will thus be able to leverage Nio’s technologies, although its CEO, Michael Leiters, remains cautious about fully adopting electric powertrains for its most high-performance models. McLaren has never hesitated in the past to use mechanical components from other manufacturers, the most notable example being the BMW V12 that powered the legendary McLaren F1. But an electric Chinese powertrain is a whole different story!

McLaren seems to have no choice

In financial difficulty for several years, McLaren is seeking to reinvent itself. The capital infusion from CYVN and access to Nio’s technology come at a crucial moment, as the luxury car sector is under pressure to electrify. Nick Collins, future leader of the merged group, also mentions flexibility regarding future powertrains, leaving room for hybrids before a complete move towards electric. Needless to say, McLaren is not eager to rush into a fully electric transition that would be completely out of step with its DNA and its rich racing history. But one cannot go against the tide…

This operation finally illustrates the growing influence of Gulf funds in the strategic rapprochement between Chinese automotive tech giants and historic Western brands, redefining sector alliances.

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