McLaren’s Involvement in NASCAR: A Hidden Connection
While McLaren is famously recognized for its Formula 1 endeavors, the company is also making its mark in NASCAR. Often, the term "McLaren" refers to the McLaren Technology Group, which comprises McLaren Racing, the McLaren Honda Formula 1 team, McLaren Automotive—known for impressive vehicles like the McLaren P1 and McLaren 720S—and McLaren Applied Technologies, a division akin to Stark Industries in the automotive industry.
McLaren Applied Technologies is known for developing advanced technologies, often likened to "Tony Stark" innovations, for various sectors outside of automotive and motorsport, such as healthcare, pharmaceuticals, energy, transportation, and consumer brands. However, one specific technology they’ve crafted is for NASCAR.
In 2012, a significant shift occurred in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series when, for the first time since its inception in 1947, NASCAR transitioned from carburetors to electronic fuel injection. Less known is the fact that the Engine Control Unit (ECU) developed for stock cars was designed by McLaren Applied Technologies. While there were press releases about this partnership five years ago, many fans remain unaware of McLaren’s involvement in NASCAR.
McLaren’s history in the sport goes back further than 2012. In 2005, the company manufactured and supplied alternators to a leading NASCAR team, a venture that proved highly profitable. This success prompted McLaren to establish a presence in North Carolina, the heart of NASCAR, in 2008. Their alternators are utilized not just in NASCAR, but also in World Rallycross, World Endurance Racing, GT racing, and even the Dakar Rally.
The ECU McLaren produces for NASCAR, known as the TAG-400N, is equipped with Freescale processors, delivering precise engine management and data logging capabilities for race engines with up to eight cylinders.
In addition to its prominent role in Formula 1, McLaren is significantly involved in one of America’s most popular racing series, NASCAR. Beyond that, the company also contributes vital powertrain and electronic technologies to the Formula E racing series.
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