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Mar 15, 2025
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The McLaren Elva: A Return to Roots

5 years ago
1 min read

 by Michael Satterfield

McLaren has pulled the cover off their latest Ultimate Series, the Elva Roadster. The open-cockpit two-seater celebrates Bruce McLaren-designed 1960s McLaren-Elva M1A sportscars that helped forged the legendary McLaren name in motorsports.

The Elva will be the lightest road car ever from McLaren, with carbon fiber chassis and body, unique carbon fiber seats and carbon-ceramic brakes. Powered by an 803hp, twin-turbocharged V8, it will be faster than the McLaren Senna with a 0-100km/h under 3 seconds.

McLaren continues to push the boundaries of supercar and hypercar development in pursuit of outstanding and unparalleled driving experiences for our customers and the McLaren Elva epitomizes that pioneering spirit. The McLaren-Elva M1A [Mk1] and its successors are in many ways the true spiritual forerunners of today’s McLarens – superlight, mid-engined cars with the highest levels of performance and dynamic excellence. It’s fitting that the new McLaren Ultimate Series roadster – a uniquely modern car that delivers the ultimate connection between driver, car and the elements and with that new height of driving pleasure on-road or track – acknowledges our rich heritage with the Elva name.

Mike Flewitt, CEO, McLaren Automotive

To keep occupants comfortable without a real windshield McLaren developed what they call the McLaren Active Air Management System (AAMS) is a world-first; the system shelters occupants by manipulating airflow and it has been homologated for sale in all major markets. For those less adventurous, a fixed windshield version is also available.

If you want one you better act fast as just like the P1TM, Senna, and Speedtail, just 399 of the Elva will be produced. Even with pricing starting at just over 1.8 million dollars, they should sell out quickly.

Michael Satterfield

Michael Satterfield, founder of The Gentleman Racer, is a storyteller, adventurer, and automotive expert whose work blends cars, travel, and culture. As a member of The Explorers Club, he brings a spirit of discovery to his work, whether uncovering forgotten racing history or embarking on global expeditions. His site has become a go-to destination for car enthusiasts and style aficionados, known for its compelling storytelling and unique perspective. A Texan with a passion for classic cars and motorsports, Michael is also a hands-on restorer, currently working on a 1960s SCCA-spec Formula Super Vee and other project cars. As the head of the Satterfield Group, he consults on branding and marketing for top automotive and lifestyle brands, bringing his deep industry knowledge to every project.

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