The new Macca is still at least 18 months away from production and won’t be launched before 2010, we hear. That leaves time for McLaren to finish its SLR project, which it co-developed with Mercedes-Benz and is now in its twilight years.

The final SLR will be built in 2009 and the project wound up – leaving space and time for the launch of the P11. We’ll see the final, run-out SLR version – the speedster codenamed Z199 and scooped here – at the 2009 Detroit motor show, concluding the triumvirate of SLR models.

McLaren is turning to partner Mercedes-Benz for a roadgoing V8. Merc has a shareholding in the McLaren group, so it makes sense to look to Germany. We’re still not certain which engine will be used, but the AMG 6.2-litre V8 is top of the list. One source suggested it could even be turbocharged.

The P11 will stick to the supercar-pure mid-engined, rear-drive layout and there will be plenty of emphasis on the links from F1 to road. We know the new McLaren will use ceramic brake discs, for instance.

[Source: Car Magazine ]