FYI: Top Gear’s head of car testing is astounded by the McMurtry Speirling’s breakthrough performance on track.
McMurtry Speirling: Redefining Performance on Track
A New Benchmark in Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) have increasingly been designed for track performance, but the McMurtry Speirling sets a new benchmark. The latest iteration, the Speirling Pure prototype, has been shattering lap records globally with its extraordinary combination of power, lightness, and innovative downforce technology.
Unmatched Power and Acceleration
The Speirling boasts 1,000 horsepower from its dual rear-wheel motors, catapulting it to 60 mph in under 1.5 seconds. However, the standout feature is its fan system, which generates up to 4,400 pounds of downforce, effectively gluing the car to the track surface even when stationary.
Cornering Capabilities
This unprecedented downforce translates to exceptional cornering abilities, subjecting drivers to over 3G of lateral force. To put that in perspective, even the top track-oriented road cars like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS can only manage about 1.3G in corners, while Formula 1 cars can reach up to 6G in very high-speed turns.
An Unrivaled Driving Experience
Driving the McMurtry Speirling is unlike anything else. The force it generates allows for cornering at unimaginable speeds while maintaining a surefooted and undramatic demeanor. Top Gear’s head of car testing, Ollie Marriage, experienced the Speirling Pure firsthand and was left in utter amazement. He explored the vehicle’s three fan settings, which simulate different racing experiences: GT3, LMP1, and F1 levels of acceleration and grip.
The Strain of Speed
While thrilling, the forces involved in driving the Speirling take a physical toll. After a few laps, Marriage noted the considerable strain from both lateral and longitudinal forces, underscoring the sheer might of the vehicle’s capabilities.
Future Production Plans
McMurtry confirms that neither the prototype nor the Speirling Pure will be produced in their current forms. The production model will feature a longer wheelbase and a larger 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack, increasing its weight to approximately 2,650 pounds. Despite this, it will still rip through a quarter-mile in about 8 seconds and achieve a top speed of 185 mph.
Exclusive and Expensive
Priced at £895,000 (over $1.1 million), the McMurtry Speirling is an exclusive, high-cost single-seater track car. Only 100 units will be built, with the first deliveries expected in 2025. Additionally, McMurtry is exploring the feasibility of creating a road-legal version.
Conclusion
The McMurtry Speirling is pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible with electric vehicles. Its combination of power, innovative downforce technology, and unparalleled cornering abilities set it apart as a groundbreaking track vehicle. As McMurtry prepares the Speirling for production, it’s clear that this car will continue to astonish and excite automotive enthusiasts worldwide.
For more insights and updates, reach out to us at tips@automotive.fyi or on Twitter @automotivefyi.
William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
