McLaren Automotive has officially confirmed the conclusion of the 720S-derived supercar lineage with the introduction of the 750S, effectively ending speculation regarding a "788HS" model. While reports circulating in enthusiast media previously suggested a high-performance "788HS" variant would debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the manufacturer has maintained the 750S as the final evolution of the platform.
Clarifying the 750S Lineage
The McLaren 750S serves as the successor to the 720S, incorporating significant mechanical refinements rather than a new chassis architecture. According to official technical specifications provided by McLaren, the vehicle produces 750PS (740bhp). This output is derived from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which represents a 30PS increase over the preceding 720S.
The confusion regarding a "788HS" designation likely stems from speculative automotive reporting rather than official factory releases. McLaren’s naming convention for the series has remained focused on the 750S coupe and spider variants, which utilize roughly 30% new components compared to the 720S to enhance power-to-weight ratios and aerodynamic efficiency.
Engineering Evolution from 720S to 750S
The transition from the 720S to the 750S focused on weight reduction and chassis optimization. McLaren engineers achieved a dry weight of 1,277kg for the coupe, making it the lightest and most powerful series-production McLaren supercar at the time of its 2023 launch.
Key technical changes verified by McLaren’s engineering team include:
- Weight Reduction: The 750S is 30kg lighter than the 720S, achieved through thinner windshield glass, carbon-fiber racing seats, and lighter alloy wheels.
- Transmission: A shorter final-drive ratio improves acceleration, enabling the vehicle to reach 0–100km/h (62mph) in 2.8 seconds.
- Suspension: The Proactive Chassis Control III system features revised geometry and softer front springs combined with stiffer rear springs to sharpen turn-in response.
Market Context and Performance Benchmarks
The 750S occupies a specific segment in the supercar market, competing against mid-engine platforms that prioritize track-focused agility over grand touring comfort. By finalizing the V8-powered 720S architecture with the 750S, McLaren has moved its development focus toward the Artura and future hybrid-electric powertrains.
| Feature | McLaren 720S | McLaren 750S |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 720PS | 750PS |
| Dry Weight | 1,283kg | 1,277kg |
| 0–100 km/h | 2.9 seconds | 2.8 seconds |
| Transmission | 7-Speed SSG | 7-Speed SSG (Revised) |
Data sourced from official McLaren Automotive technical releases.
Summary of the 750S Status
The 750S remains the definitive conclusion of the 720S-based program. As of the latest updates from the Goodwood Festival of Speed and official company communications, there is no production "788HS" model. The 750S is currently the primary focus for McLaren’s non-hybrid V8 supercar offerings, balancing the legacy of the 720S with modernized electronic control systems and powertrain mapping. Future developments from the brand are expected to lean further into electrified performance, following the roadmap established by the McLaren Artura.
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