McLaren, the British supercar manufacturer, is navigating an era of profound change and increasing internationalization. While the question of a car manufacturer’s nationality is crucial for purists, McLaren is considering how to preserve its unique essence, its “Britishness,” while expanding its appeal abroad. Its CEO, Nick Collins, has shared his vision for the future.
The Maverick Spirit at the Heart of McLaren’s Identity
For Nick Collins, McLaren’s “Britishness” does not lie in clichés but in a characteristic spirit of rebellion and boldness. He describes it as a unique combination of respect for established rules and their tactical transgression. “There is a certain maverick spirit, a stance that emerges from British culture,” he explains, citing as examples Victorian architecture mixed with modern structures or fashion designer Vivienne Westwood.
A Legacy of Technical Revolution and Innovation
This non-conformist spirit is found in the brand’s technical DNA. Collins recalls the bold innovations that have marked its history, such as the pioneering adoption of the carbon fiber monocoque in the F1, the P1, and racing cars. “This boldness in engineering and technology, this bravery to do something radical, this sense of fun… That is the McLaren spirit,” he states, also emphasizing the importance of the positive team atmosphere fostered by Zak Brown in Formula 1.
British Design: Between Conformity and Transgression
From a design perspective, Britishness translates into the confidence to do the unexpected. Collins evokes Coco Chanel’s maxim, “Before you leave the house, take one accessory off,” to illustrate the philosophy of reduction to the essentials. However, he specifies that the goal is not to reduce to nothing but to find the right balance: “It’s enough of something, but with a touch of the unexpected.”
Balancing Tradition and Modernity for Sustainable Longevity
The challenge for McLaren is to find the perfect balance. A too abrupt break from the codes would only create a fleeting fashion product. Conversely, too strict an adherence to the rules leads to boredom. The recipe for success and longevity, according to Collins, lies in this “underlying beauty with a twist” that marries tradition with a hint of rebellion. It is this balance that defined the golden age of British design in the 60s.
The Future of McLaren’s DNA: Evolving Without Denying Its Roots
While McLaren acknowledges the need to evolve its design language and better differentiate its models in the future, the brand intends to celebrate and preserve the elements that define its DNA. “You should never be constrained by your past. You should celebrate it and move forward,” concludes Collins. Thus, McLaren’s Britishness is not a straitjacket but a spirit: a blend of technical boldness, unpredictable design, and a resolutely maverick character that continues to guide the brand toward new horizons.