McLaren's CEO Puts the Brakes on Full EVs for Supercars, Citing Weight and Performance Hurdles

In an automotive world increasingly dominated by the electric vehicle revolution, one iconic supercar manufacturer is pumping the brakes, at least for now. McLaren CEO Mike Flewitt has made it clear that while electrification is undeniably part of the future, fully electric supercars, in their purest, uncompromised form, remain a distant horizon for the Woking-based marque.

Flewitt's pragmatic view centers squarely on current battery technology.

For a brand synonymous with lightweight agility, blistering performance, and unadulterated driver engagement, the sheer weight and packaging demands of current battery packs present an insurmountable hurdle. "We are not ready to put a full EV on our core supercar range yet," Flewitt stated, underscoring that the current crop of battery tech simply isn't conducive to the kind of exhilarating experience McLaren owners expect.

It's not just about weight; it's also about sustained performance and practicality.

A supercar isn't just about a single sprint; it's about track capability, multiple high-speed runs, and rapid refueling (or recharging). "The problem is that you get one lap in, then a lot of charging," Flewitt explained, highlighting the significant challenge of managing thermal loads and maintaining consistent power output, let alone the lengthy downtime required for recharging compared to a quick fuel stop.

This doesn't mean McLaren is ignoring electrification entirely.

Far from it. The brand sees hybrid powertrains as the crucial interim step, a bridge to a fully electric future. Models like the Artura already exemplify this philosophy, leveraging electric motors to enhance performance while mitigating some of the weight penalties with advanced engineering and lightweight materials.

Flewitt believes hybrids offer the best of both worlds for the foreseeable future: a dose of electric power without sacrificing the core McLaren tenets.

McLaren is certainly not standing still. The company is heavily investing in research and development, particularly in advanced battery technologies and lightweighting solutions.

Flewitt acknowledges that the industry is making rapid strides, but for a McLaren-badged full EV that truly delivers on the brand's promise, he estimates it's still "10 or 20 years away." This long-term perspective allows the brand to innovate without compromising its current product integrity.

Ultimately, McLaren's commitment remains to the driver.

Every design and engineering decision revolves around creating the most engaging, responsive, and thrilling driving experience possible. Until battery technology can provide that experience without compromise—delivering incredible power, low weight, and rapid recharge times—McLaren will continue to tread cautiously on the path to full electrification for its most potent machines.