The Art of Speed

The mid-engined McLaren Artura's petrol and electric combination provide a thrilling ride.

- JACQUES KEW

If you've been following Ferrari and McLaren's recent offerings, you'll know that both are charging ahead with compact, plug-in hybrid petrol-electric mid-engined sports cars, the 296 and the Artura, respectively.

Whereas mass-market brands tend to talk-up a hybrid powertrain's earth-saving credentials, sports car brands make no bones about the fact that an electric motor provides a thrilling boost to the drive experience.

The Artura a portmanteau of Art and Future is McLaren's latest plugin sports car and long-time fans will also have noticed the brand has slowly moved on from its familiar alphanumeric naming convention. McLaren has adopted several names for its recent models, such as Elva, Senna, Sabre, Speedtail, Solus, and the Artura, which some think leaves a more emotional impression, especially for something so aspirational.

If you consider how the evolution of sports cars creates only the fittest, fastest and best of breed, it should come as little surprise that the brands have turned to electric power to boost the efforts of the internal combustion engine.

It's evident, however, that even the most avid driver is properly engaged during bouts of enthusiastic driving, which should appease those in search of a soul in such hybrid systems.