The McMurtry Spéirling, a British-built electric fan car, has shattered two records at the Laguna Seca Reverse Corkscrew Hillclimb event in California, marking its dynamic debut in the US. Driven by former F1 and IndyCar driver Max Chilton, the Spéirling continued its undefeated streak in competition.
On the longer layout, Chilton and the Spéirling clocked a time of 28.6 seconds, beating the previous record of 34.69 seconds set by a 1976 Lotus Type 77 Formula One Car. The event also introduced a shorter course for 2024, where the Spéirling set a new benchmark of 21.958 seconds during the top 3 shootout.
The car’s exceptional performance is attributed to its unique fan downforce system and powerful electric powertrain. Generating 4,400 pounds of downforce from a standstill, the Spéirling combines this aerodynamic advantage with a 1,000bhp electric motor for unparalleled acceleration and handling.
“The Corkscrew is one of the most famous corners in the world,” says Chilton. “Normally it’s a blind approach on entry, so in the reverse hillclimb it’s unsighted on the exit. You have to shoot up the 18 metres elevation change and then hope you’ve picked the right line as you launch over the top. Luckily I had fan downforce to help keep me stuck to the ground.”
Thomas Yates, Managing Director of McMurtry Automotive, is enthusiastic about the company’s US debut: “The Reverse Corkscrew Hillclimb has been such an enjoyable way to showcase the cars in motion for the first time ever on US soil. The level of excitement from everyone here at Laguna Seca has made it very memorable. You’ll be seeing plenty more of McMurtry in the US over the coming years.”
The Spéirling’s technology forms the basis for the McMurtry Spéirling PURE, a track-focused version now available for order. McMurtry plans further demonstrations during the Monterey Motorsports Reunion, showcasing the car’s accessibility to driving enthusiasts despite its extraordinary performance capabilities.
