McLaren Introduces EVO Update for 720S GT3

McLaren Automotive has introduced an evolution update package to the four-year-old McLaren 720S GT3 that is set to be homologated for use this year.

The newly-launched McLaren 720S GT3 EVO is the first upgrade to the British manufacturer’s flagship GT racing car which made its global customer debut in 2019.

Current teams running the McLaren 720S GT3 can have their existing cars converted to the latest specification, while the EVO variant can also be purchased as a new vehicle.

According to McLaren, the 720S GT3 EVO features “several key bodywork improvements” such as the front bumper and splitter, which are designed to increase downforce and shift the car’s balance forward. Those parts are also fitted with quick-release fastenings.

Cooling capabilities have been aided by the addition of a gurney flap on the front hood, while the rear wing gurney has been made taller to enhance downforce levels.

The suspension has been upgraded with new four-way adjustable dampers supplied by Ohlins, along with new front and rear upper wishbones.

The uprights are also new and are designed for quick changing courtesy of a bolted brake caliper on the front. McLaren has designed the uprights to be “more robust” in wheel-to-wheel contact situations, and flexible in terms of tire management and setup.

According to McLaren, customers choosing to upgrade their existing 720S GT3s to the EVO specification can do so with the option of fitting the new upright assembly.

Furthermore, the car’s headlights have been adjusted for improved night visibility.

“The McLaren 720S GT3 has been an incredible success in GT3 racing since its phenomenal debut four years ago, leading the [2018] Gulf 12 Hour race for several hours,” said McLaren Automotive director Ian Morgan.

“Since then it has recorded many race wins and championships, most recently titles in the Asian Le Mans Series, IMSA WeatherTech Sportscar Championship and GT World Challenge Europe last year and has begun 2023 with a podium in the Daytona 24 Hours.

“In that time we’ve maintained a close relationship with our customer racing teams and have incorporated many of their recommendations into the new EVO package, improving consistency of performance and serviceability, which will ensure that the McLaren 720S will continue to set the pace in GT3 racing for many more years to come.”

McLaren is entering the 2023 season with two newly-homologated GT cars, with the 720S GT3 EVO joining the McLaren Artura GT4 in the manufacturer’s racing stable.

The Woking-based company is also launching the McLaren Trophy single-make series for in-house modified Artura GT4s that will race at five events in Europe.

McLaren is the second GT3 brand to issue an Evo update this year, along with Lamborghini which debuted the Huracan GT3 EVO2 in last month’s Rolex 24 at Daytona.

The upcoming season also heralds the arrival of the brand-new Ferrari 296 GT3 and Type-992 Porsche 911 GT3 R.