2012 Geneva Motor Show: Gemballa GT based on the McLaren MP4-12C

The Gemballa GT, which is based on the all-new McLaren MP4-12C, has finally made its debut. The car was created using the philosophy: "Pure performance with real passion.” It is actually the first non-Porsche-based car to carry the Gemballa GT name. There had been reports that the new McLaren is a distillation of the wide-ranging motorsport expertise of this company but this very advanced, empirical method has resulted in a car that had excellent abilities but with a slightly generic appearance and detached driving experience.

Gemballa CEO Andreas Schwarz said that it had aimed to instill the “missing emotion” into the Gemballa GT version of the MP4-12C. He said that its “starting point” is an aerodynamic styling kit and ultra-light forged alloy wheels. He added that they’re in development of a program to upgrade the engine too.

McLaren and Gemballa are both obsessed with lightweight, high-strength construction that has resulted to the significant usage of carbonfiber. It’s clear that McLaren MP4-12C is built on this philosophy from its F1-inspired carbonfiber centre tub to the body panels. It has a weight of only 1,434kg and is powered by a 608hp/441 kW bi-turbo 3.8 litre V8 motor.

The aerodynamic kit for the Gemballa GT includes a new front bumper/spoiler, side skirts, rear apron and a small rear wing, which are all produced in Germany. These parts make the car appear more purposeful and they also improve its stability in high speeds.

The original bodywork isn’t affected since they’re fitted to the factory mounting points. The Bespoke GEMBALLA forged alloy wheels are one size bigger than the factory model.

At the front, there are 20-inch diameter wheels while at the rear, the wheels are sized 21-inch. The arches are filled by these wheels and the car’s stance becomes more muscular. It also increases mechanical grip. The look of the McLaren MP4-12C is enhanced considerably with this Gemballa GT program. It’s believed that the upcoming modifications to its technical aspect add to the driving experience too.