Supercar company McLaren Automotive has forged a collaboration with Divergent Technologies to develop advanced suspension hardware. 

The partnership is for the new McLaren W1, the latest addition to McLaren’s supercar lineage.  

It utilises Divergent's additive manufacturing technology to create components that enhance the vehicle's performance and driver engagement. 

Launched earlier this month, the McLaren W1 is a supercar, succeeding the McLaren F1 and P1 models.  

It features a Formula 1-inspired front suspension system, which is integrated directly into the Aerocell carbon fibre monocoque. 

McLaren noted that Divergent's additive manufacturing technology has been instrumental in the development of its ‘sophisticated’ suspension systems.  

The technology is said to ensure optimal durability and stiffness in key components such as the front upper wishbone, aero form lower wishbone, and front upright.  

The 3D-printed front wishbones, which are visible externally, are among the structural suspension components produced by Divergent for the W1. 

McLaren noted that the collaboration enabled its engineers to quickly iterate designs, advancing the development of the supercar's suspension hardware.  

McLaren, known for its lightweight supercars, was launched in 2010 and now forms the largest part of the McLaren Group. 

McLaren Automotive CEO Michael Leiters said: “We are thrilled to have partnered with Divergent, a company that shares McLaren’s dedication to innovation in manufacturing and engineering.  

“This cutting-edge technology has enabled us to develop more complex suspension structures in the McLaren W1, which enhance the driving experience for our customers and support McLaren’s mission to continually push the boundaries of performance.” 

Divergent founder, chairman and CEO Kevin Czinger said: “We are proud to partner with McLaren on their newest engineering marvel, the W1. The suspension hardware designed and manufactured by Divergent has enabled the McLaren team to push the boundaries of what is possible in this digital manufacturing age of supercar production.” 

In August, McLaren disclosed that it has chosen Atlas Copco as its official smart tooling supplier.  

The alliance with Atlas Copco has allowed McLaren to optimise its manufacturing and engineering processes, working closely with product specialists to refine its operations.