Electric Cars

In an extraordinary event that is set to captivate the world of motorsport, McLaren is presenting a unique opportunity for enthusiasts and collectors alike: the auction of an exclusive trio of its high-performance racing vehicles. This unprecedented package includes a Formula 1 car slated for the 2026 season, a 2026-specification IndyCar, and one of McLaren's new Le Mans Hypercars, marking a rare instance where such cutting-edge machinery becomes available to a private buyer directly from the manufacturer.

This remarkable offering is deeply rooted in McLaren's ambitious pursuit of the prestigious 'Triple Crown' of motorsport, an accolade achieved by winning the Monaco Grand Prix, the Indianapolis 500, and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. McLaren stands as the only team to have previously secured this monumental achievement. By participating in all three pivotal racing series, the team is strategically positioning itself to potentially repeat this historic feat. The auction, conducted by RM Sotheby's, is scheduled for December 5th in Abu Dhabi, coinciding with the finale of the 2025 F1 season. The winning bidder will gain ownership of these formidable machines, which will be delivered upon the conclusion of their respective racing commitments, with the earliest handover expected in late 2027.

The acquisition of these vehicles presents a rare chance to own a piece of future motorsport history. The collection includes what is likely to be McLaren's MCL40, designed for the incoming 2026 Formula 1 regulations, alongside a Chevrolet-powered Dallara DW12 IndyCar and an early chassis of McLaren’s yet-to-be-named LMDh racer. While the prospect of owning such iconic racing cars is thrilling, the logistical considerations, such as potential technical support for private operation versus their role as static exhibits, remain an intriguing aspect for the future owner.

This auction not only highlights the pinnacle of engineering and ambition within motorsports but also underscores the enduring legacy and future aspirations of a legendary marque like McLaren. It serves as a reminder that the pursuit of excellence and the breaking of boundaries are continuous journeys, fostering innovation and inspiring both within and beyond the racing circuits.

The 2025 Porsche Taycan emerges as a significant contender in the electric vehicle landscape, building upon its well-established reputation. Despite being on the market for some time, this latest iteration introduces considerable advancements, particularly concerning its power, efficiency, and overall usability. Porsche has meticulously refined an already strong foundation, ensuring the Taycan remains a formidable option for discerning drivers in the rapidly evolving EV sector.

First introduced six years ago, the Porsche Taycan quickly set a benchmark for all-around electric vehicle excellence. Its ability to balance exhilarating performance with everyday practicality solidified its appeal, particularly in its more accessible configurations. While high-performance variants like the Turbo S cater to those seeking extreme velocity, the standard models have consistently been lauded as ideal daily drivers, particularly the versatile Sport Turismo. Recognizing the swift pace of electric vehicle innovation, Porsche understood the necessity of a comprehensive update to keep the Taycan competitive and ahead of its rivals.

Under the revised exterior, which features subtle stylistic updates such as redesigned headlights and bumpers, lie the most impactful changes. The 2025 Taycan now boasts a larger 97 kWh usable capacity battery pack, extending its estimated range to an impressive 416 miles under optimal conditions. In real-world testing, the vehicle achieved approximately 330 miles with an efficiency of 3.4 miles per kWh, a remarkable feat for a car delivering 430 horsepower. Furthermore, charging capabilities have seen a significant upgrade, with a maximum rate of 320 kW. This enables the battery to replenish from 10 to 80 percent in just 18 minutes, a charging speed that rivals the convenience of traditional combustion-engine refueling.

Chassis revisions are subtle yet noteworthy, with air suspension now standard across all Taycan models. This contributes to a driving experience that largely mirrors its predecessor, characterized by precision and responsiveness. While the vehicle exhibits Porsche's distinctive dynamic DNA, offering a taut and controlled feel, it maintains a certain detached quality inherent to many electric vehicles. This slight disconnect in steering feedback, though present, does not detract from the Taycan's exceptional body control and neutral handling. Its comfortable ride makes it particularly well-suited for extended journeys, a crucial factor for many prospective owners.

The interior design of the 2025 Taycan represents an evolution rather than a complete overhaul. The sophisticated digital instrument cluster and intuitive infotainment systems have been preserved, with minor enhancements aimed at improving user experience. The cabin continues to exude a sense of premium craftsmanship, offering a highly pleasant environment, albeit with a subtle lack of overt character. New standard features, including ambient lighting, a wireless smartphone charging tray, modern USB-C ports, and a reversing camera, enhance convenience and reflect customer expectations. Despite these additions, Porsche's extensive list of optional extras means that the base price, starting at £88,200, can quickly escalate, with a test vehicle reaching nearly £96,000 with a few selected upgrades.

Considering the financial aspect, potential buyers must weigh the vehicle's impressive performance and features against its depreciation. While a cash purchase might be less advisable given the current market's rapid depreciation of luxury EVs, acquiring a Taycan through a company lease scheme presents a more compelling proposition. Even when compared to newer competitors like the Lotus Emeya or the closely related Audi E-Tron GT, the Porsche Taycan continues to set the standard as the best in its class, offering a blend of driving dynamics, efficiency, and refined luxury that remains unmatched.