McLaren-Mercedes Partnership Start

Verified Timeline

Lore & Background

The group traces its roots to 1985, when Ron Dennis and Mansour Ojjeh formed TAG McLaren, evolving into the current McLaren Group structure over time. The Formula One team had been established by New Zealander Bruce McLaren in 1963. McLaren Group was renamed McLaren Technology Group in 2015. In June 2017, Dennis sold his 25% shareholding in the company to the other shareholders, in addition to his shares in McLaren Automotive. The group then merged with McLaren Automotive to form a new company using the previous McLaren Group name. In March 2024, Mumtalakat Holding Company acquired all outstanding shares and took full control.

In Their Own Story

When moving from concept to production, the engineering team faced a critical challenge: achieving the specific weight distribution Mercedes-Benz demanded. McLaren had to radically alter the initial Vision SLR design, a task that involved moving the engine nearly one meter back and lowering the fuel tank. The final production version was unveiled on 17 November 2003, featuring distinct adjustments like more complex side vents and a redesigned front nose with the three-pointed star plunged into it. Even before the car reached full prototype status, Mercedes utilized two bodies from the TVR Cerbera to refine their testing process. The production run lasted over six years, with the coupé model concluding in late 2010 and the roadster version ending earlier in early 2009.

Reader's Guide

The partnership between McLaren and Mercedes began in 1995 with McLaren choosing to use Mercedes engines. McLaren and Mercedes announced their intention to part ways in November 2009. Mercedes continued to supply engines to McLaren until 2014.

Did You Know?

• Bruce McLaren started Bruce McLaren Motor Racing in 1963 and the team first entered Formula One in 1966.
• McLaren's first Grand Prix win was the 1968 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa Francorchamps, driven by Bruce McLaren.
• The McLaren MP4/4 won 15 out of 16 races in 1988 and led every lap except 27.
• In late May 2020, McLaren Group announced the layoff of 25% of its workforce due to the COVID-19 pandemic.