The McLaren M860 P1 is a 3,799 cc, 90° V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine, integrated with an electric hybrid system, produced exclusively between 2013 and 2015. Developed in partnership with Ricardo, it features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), dry-sump lubrication, and a flat-plane crankshaft. This powertrain architecture delivers a combined system output of 727 kW (986 PS), with the internal combustion engine alone producing 542 kW (737 PS) and 720 Nm of torque, enabling explosive acceleration.
Fitted solely to the limited-production McLaren P1 hypercar, the M860 P1 was engineered for ultimate track-focused performance with road-legal compliance. Emissions standards were met through gasoline direct injection (GDI), catalytic converters, and the hybrid system’s ability to operate in zero-emission mode for short distances, achieving compliance with Euro 6 regulations for its production period.
One documented engineering focus was managing the thermal load on the electric motor and power electronics during sustained high-performance driving. This was addressed through a dedicated cooling circuit and software protocols, detailed in McLaren Technical Service Bulletin TSB-M860P1-01. The hybrid system's control software received iterative updates to optimize power delivery and energy recovery.
All production years (2013–2015) meet Euro 6 standards for the markets in which the vehicles were sold (UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/MCL/P1).
The McLaren M860 P1 is a 3,799 cc 90° V8 twin-turbocharged petrol engine, paired with an electric motor, engineered for the ultimate hypercar experience (2013-2015). It combines a flat-plane crankshaft with dry-sump lubrication and a hybrid electric system to deliver unparalleled performance. Designed to meet Euro 6 standards, it represents the pinnacle of road-legal, track-capable powertrain technology.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,799 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 90° V8, DOHC, 32-valve | |
| Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 93.0 mm × 69.9 mm | |
| Power output (ICE) | 542 kW (737 PS) | |
| Torque (ICE) | 720 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Liquid-cooled with auxiliary hybrid system coolers | |
| Turbocharger | Twin mono-scroll turbochargers (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | McLaren C30 Spec (SAE 0W-40) | |
| Dry weight (ICE) | 176 kg |
The hybrid system provides instant torque fill and allows for silent, zero-emission operation but demands specialized maintenance for its high-voltage components and cooling circuits. The ICE requires meticulous care using McLaren C30 0W-40 oil. Extended high-RPM operation requires monitoring both engine and hybrid system temperatures. Fuel must meet 98 RON (EU) or 93 AKI (US) minimum. Software updates for the hybrid control unit are critical for optimal performance and safety, as per TSB-M860P1-01.
Oil Specs: Requires McLaren C30 specification (0W-40) for the ICE (McLaren Owner's Handbook). Not interchangeable with standard ACEA specs.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all model years (2013-2015) for designated markets (UK VCA Type Approval #VCA/MCL/P1).
Power Ratings: ICE power measured under SAE J1349 standards. Peak output requires 98 RON fuel (McLaren Technical Service Bulletin TSB-M860P1-01).
McLaren Technical Information System: Docs M860P1-SPEC-01, TSB-M860P1-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/MCL/P1)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The McLaren M860 P1 was used exclusively in the McLaren P1 hypercar with longitudinal, rear-mid mounting and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This powertrain is a bespoke, integrated system where the ICE and electric motor are calibrated as a single unit. Software and hardware are not interchangeable with other McLaren models, as documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code 'M860' is cast into the front face of the engine block, near the alternator (McLaren TIS M860P1-ID-01). The 8th VIN digit is 'P' for all P1 vehicles. Visually, it is distinguished by its integration with the rear-mounted electric motor and unique hybrid system ancillaries. Critical differentiation from M838T/M840T: M860 has a 3.8L displacement and is only found in the P1 with its specific hybrid components. The entire powertrain control software is unique to the P1 (McLaren TIS SW-COMPAT-02).
The M860 P1's primary documented focus is managing heat in the hybrid power electronics and electric motor during extreme performance driving. McLaren service data indicates the TSB-M860P1-01 cooling system update was effective, while owner reports highlight the criticality of specialized high-voltage system maintenance. Sustained track use without adequate cooling can stress components, making adherence to McLaren's specific service protocols essential.
Analysis derived from McLaren technical bulletins (2013-2015) and aggregated owner service reports (2014-2024). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines and require certified high-voltage technicians.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MACLAREN M860-P1.
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