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McLaren Elva

McLaren

McLaren Elva: McLaren open-cockpit hyper-roadster (2021+). No windshield, no roof. 815 horsepower V8. Limited 149 cars.
Photo: Liam Walker / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

McLaren open-cockpit hyper-roadster (2021+). No windshield, no roof. 815 horsepower V8. Limited 149 cars.

The McLaren Elva is an open-cockpit hyper-roadster produced from 2021. The Elva has no traditional windshield and no roof; it uses an Active Air Management System that creates air deflection over the cabin. The 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 makes 815 horsepower. Carbon fiber MonoCell chassis. The Elva pays tribute to McLaren M1A and M1B race cars of the 1960s. Production was limited to 149 cars total. Pricing was around $1.7 million new. The Elva represents McLaren most extreme road-legal open-cockpit interpretation. On WhipJury, Elva submissions are essentially impossible due to limited production.

Elva specifications

4.0L twin-turbo V8, 815 horsepower at 7,500 rpm. No windshield, no roof. Active Air Management System for cabin air deflection. Carbon fiber MonoCell chassis. Production: 149 cars total. Pricing: $1.7 million MSRP.

Frequently asked questions about McLaren Elva

How does Elva not need a windshield?
Active Air Management System. McLaren engineered an aerodynamic system that creates an air deflection bubble over the cabin at speed. At 70+ mph, the bubble effectively deflects air away from occupants. At lower speeds, occupants experience more wind. Some markets require optional windshield for road-legal sale.
How much does an Elva cost?
Used pricing: $1.5-2 million+ for clean examples. Original MSRP was around $1.7 million. Limited production (149 cars) supports values.
Is the Elva road legal?
Yes, in most markets where homologated. Some markets require optional windshield (offered as accessory). The Elva is street-legal as a hypercar with extreme open-cockpit character. Insurance and registration considerations apply.
Why is it called Elva?
Tribute to McLaren M1A and M1B race cars of the 1960s. The original cars were known as Elva McLaren before becoming pure McLaren brand. The Elva name pays homage to McLaren racing heritage with open-cockpit cars.
Is the Elva uncomfortable to drive?
Yes, by design. No windshield means full exposure to wind, weather, and noise. Active Air Management helps at high speed but lower speeds (city driving) expose occupants. The Elva is purposefully impractical; buyers value the unique experience over comfort.

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