Lando Norris Takes the Wheel of an Electric Life-Size LEGO Technic McLaren P1

The LEGO Group and McLaren Automotive have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with LEGO bricks, creating a life-size, drivable version of the iconic McLaren P1 supercar. To put this extraordinary creation to the test, McLaren F1 driver Lando Norris took the wheel and completed a lap around the historic Silverstone Circuit.

This remarkable feat of engineering is a first for both companies. Built with a staggering 342,817 LEGO Technic elements, the 1:1 scale McLaren P1 boasts a functional electric motor, allowing it to navigate the legendary Silverstone track.

A Collaboration of Champions

This ambitious project brought together 23 specialists from both the LEGO Group and McLaren Automotive. Over 8,344 hours of design, development, and construction went into the project, utilizing a staggering 393 different types of LEGO Technic pieces.

“Having worked on the original P1 programme for McLaren, it’s amazing to see so many of the elements from the original McLaren P1™ brought to life so realistically by the LEGO Technic team for the full-scale model,” said Ben Gulliver, Test & Development Director at McLaren Automotive. “The car was an icon of its time. I hope that through this collaboration with the LEGO Group, we are able to inspire the next generation of designers and engineers to push the boundaries of automotive innovation.”

Norris Takes on the Challenge

Once the monumental build was complete, it was time for the ultimate test. Who better to get behind the wheel of this LEGO marvel than Lando Norris, a rising star in Formula 1 and a McLaren driver himself. Norris tackled the twists and turns of the 5.891km Silverstone Circuit, completing a lap at the iconic British track.

“It was a truly unique experience driving the life-size LEGO Technic McLaren P1™ around Silverstone,” said Norris. “The car handled surprisingly well, and it was a lot of fun to put it through its paces on such a legendary track. It’s a testament to the incredible work put in by the teams at LEGO and McLaren to create something so special.”

LEGO Technic McLaren P1 Set Available

For fans who can’t quite manage a life-size LEGO build, a smaller, more manageable version of the McLaren P1 is available. The 1:8 scale LEGO Technic McLaren P1 set is available for purchase at LEGO stores and online at www.LEGO.com/McLaren for £389.99 / €449.99 / $449.99.

This collaboration between the LEGO Group and McLaren Automotive is a remarkable achievement, showcasing the possibilities of creativity and engineering. It’s sure to inspire both LEGO enthusiasts and car lovers alike, proving that sometimes, the only limit is your imagination (and maybe a few hundred thousand LEGO bricks).

Author

Henry Benz

Henry Benz isn't your average automotive journalist. He's not obsessed with horsepower or zero-to-sixty times. His passion lies in the quiet hum of electric motors, the surge of instant torque, and the thrill of a world hurtling towards a sustainable future. Henry is the EV evangelist, your plug-in pal, and the guy who will make you fall in love with the world of electric vehicles, one test drive at a time. Henry's journey began in the golden age of muscle cars. He spent his youth wrenching on classic V8s, his nose forever stained with grease and his ears ringing with the roar of internal combustion. But as the climate crisis loomed larger, a seed of doubt sprouted in his gearhead heart. Could there be a way to enjoy the thrill of the open road without sacrificing the planet? That's when Henry discovered the world of EVs. He was captivated by the silent power, the instant acceleration, and the sleek, futuristic designs. He devoured every article, watched every documentary, and hopped behind the wheel of every electric car he could find. He was hooked.
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