Lando Norris Tests McLaren's 2027 MCL-HY Hypercar in Portimão
McLaren has shared behind-the-scenes footage of Lando Norris testing the 2027 MCL-HY hypercar in Portimão, marking a significant step in the team's World Endurance Championship ambitions. The testing session highlights McLaren's commitment to expanding beyond Formula 1.
Behind the Scenes at McLaren
McLaren has provided a unique look into its operations by releasing footage of Lando Norris testing the 2027 MCL-HY hypercar at the Algarve International Circuit in Portimão. This hypercar is set to compete in the World Endurance Championship starting next year.
The video captures the day-to-day realities of a test session, showcasing Norris's arrival, engineering briefings, and his time on the track. This transparency is a departure from the usual polished presentations, allowing fans to see the genuine effort behind the scenes. Norris completed 38 laps, totaling 177 km, which indicates a structured testing program rather than just a promotional event.
Norris's Experience and Insights
During the testing, Norris expressed his thoughts on transitioning from Formula 1's open-cockpit cars to a closed-cockpit hypercar. He noted, "Bit different, had a roof over my head!" highlighting the novelty of the experience. His candid remarks reflect the excitement and challenges he faces stepping into this new role.
McLaren's Commitment to the WEC
While there are no immediate plans for Norris to compete at Le Mans, this test underscores McLaren's serious approach to developing its hypercar program. The integration of resources and collaboration among departments signifies a robust commitment to expanding into endurance racing while maintaining its focus on Formula 1. With the WEC debut approaching, fans can anticipate more insights and updates from McLaren's hypercar project.