McLaren halts 12C production, offers free tech upgrades to customers
McLaren Automotive has in the past maintained that the production of 650S will be done alongside its three year old model- the MP4-12C. We also were aware of the fact that the company was focusing its resources on the newly launched 650S, which has received a huge response. So, it should not come as a surprise that McLaren has halted the production of the 12C in favour of the newer model.
A letter was sent out to existing 12C owners by the company's CEO Mike Flewitt in which he stated this fact. He also mentions that after three years the 650S represents the natural evolution of the company's model lineup.
McLaren however, has not left the customers of the 12C feeling that they own an outdated model. It has rolled out a free upgrade package which will be available from June and will enable the customers of the 12C to experience the technologies prevalent in the newer models.
The upgrade includes a new Active Aero software, which makes the rear wing behave differently depending on the condition, like Airbrake which helps in braking and Drag Reduction System (DRS) which lowers the wing for better straight line speed and aerodynamics. Another technology upgrade offered is for the Android based IRIS system which enhances its functionality even more. New features introduced on the 650S which comprise of reversing camera and DAB radio are also on offer albeit at a special price for the 12C owners.
| Last month we were proud to present the latest addition to our range: the McLaren 650S. Utilising advancements made during the development of the groundbreaking McLaren P1, the 650S provides an unparalleled combination of performance and refinement. True to the McLaren ethos, the benefits of such progress are not limited to our new models. As a McLaren owner, we want to be able to share these developments with you with the offer of a free Technology Upgrade available from June. This package of upgrades will offer new Active Aero software which will allow your 12C's existing Airbrake to 'sense' different driving scenarios, deploying to improve stability when lifting off the throttle or cresting a hill - this is in addition to the usual Airbrake position under heavy braking. The new system also includes a DRS (Drag Reduction System) mode which lowers the wing when driving at speed in a straight line, improving high-speed aerodynamics. The Technology Upgrade also includes improvements to functionality and usability of the Android-based IRIS system. Later 12C models (with door buttons) will further benefit from an external control to lower the windows, to aid easier access in confined spaces. In addition to this free upgrade, we are also offering a special price on two new features introduced with the 650S: the reversing camera and DAB radio. These cost options have been specially priced for 12C owners, to allow you to take advantage of the very latest technology (please note, depending on your model year, there may be hardware restrictions). To find out more about both the Technology Upgrade and the new options, please contact your local retailer who can discuss your car in more detail. Meanwhile, the final piece of news I wanted to share with you is regarding 12C production which we have decided to cease in light of the success of 650S. The new car has been so well received since its unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show (we already have a six month order bank) we will focus all our capacity at the McLaren Production Centre on 650S. After three years of 12C production, this represents a natural evolution of our model line-up. I want to assure you that McLaren remains dedicated to customer satisfaction and that we care about the ownership experience of every car we've ever sold. Once again, we thank you for your commitment to McLaren and being part of our committed pursuit for automotive excellence. Best Regards Mike Flewitt Cheif Executive Officer McLaren Automotive | |
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