McLaren releases new 720S Spider

McLaren Automotive is expanding its Super Series product family with the introduction of the 720S Spider. Revealed online and available to order with immediate effect, the new 720S Spider delivers the exhilaration of open-air driving and levels of day-to-day usability unseen in the convertible supercar class.

The design foundations of the new McLaren Spider are the seamless and organic forms introduced in 2017 with the 720S Coupe.

Combining to maximise downforce, minimise drag, enhance powertrain cooling and optimise aerodynamic performance, these shapes produce an overall appearance akin to a futuristic sculpture, formed by the air that flows over, under, around and through it. A new, electrically actuated Retractable Hard Top (RHT) is seamlessly integrated into the design.

The combination of electric motors and the strength and light weight of the carbon fibre RHT enables a maximum vehicle speed during operation of 50km/h.

Like all McLaren cars, the new 720S Spider has a carbon fibre structure at its core, in this case designated Monocage II-S. The strength, rigidity and light weight of the McLaren Monocage is the base for the dynamic excellence for which McLarens are renowned. This means that despite the removal of the fixed roof there is no need for additional strengthening, even the unusually slim but incredibly strong windscreen A-pillars first seen on the 720S Coupe remain. 

Overall, the new 720S Spider is just 49kg - or less than 4% - heavier than the 720S Coupe. The increased weight is primarily associated with the RHT and tonneau system. With a lightest dry weight of 1,332kg the 720S Spider is comfortably the lightest car in its competitive set, at 88kg less than the 1,420kg dry weight of its closest rival.

The canopy-like design of the 720S Coupe is recognised for the sense of 360-degree vision it provides, allowing light to flood into the cabin and setting a new benchmark for visibility. 

This philosophy of unrivalled vision is central to the second generation Super Series and the new Spider moves the game on again, with unique, glazed flying buttresses further aiding driver visibility as well as adding visual drama to the car.

The new 720S Spider is available in the same three specifications as the Coupe, with Performance and Luxury trims extending above the standard model. Two new exterior colours - Belize Blue and Aztec Gold - have been introduced for the new Spider among a palette of 23, one of which is Supernova Silver, a Heritage colour that was first available on the McLaren 12C.