McLaren Group
McLaren Group is a British conglomerate headquartered in Woking, Surrey, England. Founded by Bruce McLaren in 1963, the company is recognized as one of the most successful teams in international motorsports, having won a number of championships in Formula One and IndyCar racing. Today, the company is part of the larger McLaren Technology Group, and serves as the parent company of several businesses related to sports and technology.
McLaren started as a racing team, and enjoyed immediate success when Bruce McLaren won the fourth Grand Prix of 1963. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the team continued to succeed in Formula One, winning numerous World Constructors Championships and drivers titles. McLaren also excelled in endurance racing, with drivers such as Niki Lauda and Alain Prost winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
In 1993, McLaren partnered with Mercedes-Benz to form the Mercedes-McLaren partnership in Formula One. This partnership put McLaren back on top, winning multiple constructors and drivers championships. Through the partnership, Mercedes-Benz helped modernize the team, equipping its cars with cutting-edge technology and advanced engines.
In addition to racing, McLaren also designs and sells luxury cars. Originally known as the McLaren F1, the companys first model used a three-seat configuration, with the driver placed at the full center of the car. This unique concept was quickly adopted by other manufacturers, and it eventually set the benchmark for future supercars.
The company also produces high-performance road cars, such as the McLaren 650s. Still rooted in motorsports, the companys vehicles come equipped with advanced aerodynamics and engines derived from racing technology. Many of the cars are also lighter than their competitors, as using lightweight materials helps improve performance.
Today, the McLaren Group is composed of several divisions, including McLaren Automotive, McLaren Racing, McLaren Technology Group, McLaren Applied Technologies, and McLaren Applied Sciences. In addition to producing sports cars and racing for Formula One and IndyCar, the company offers advanced technological solutions, including custom IT systems and 3D printing services.
In 2019, McLaren added a new division, McLaren Applied Technologies. This division is focused on developing advanced technologies and software solutions for businesses and government, such as artificial intelligence and hybrid systems. The division is also responsible for creating McLarens Advanced Workforce Intelligence platform, which allows businesses to measure and improve the performance of their employees by tracking key performance indicators.
By combining technology, motorsports, and luxury cars, McLaren has become a leading global company. With its headquarters in Woking, Surrey, England, McLaren operates divisions in more than 30 countries. The company has more than 4,000 employees and has achieved a total market capitalization over $2.2 billion.