McLaren debuts 12C Can-Am Edition racing concept

You'd think the McLaren MP4-12C was campaigning in Formula One based on the constant pace of development the supercoupe has benefitted from over its first year. Heading into its second year, it is apparent that the development train won't stop, with the Can-Am Racing concept developed by McLaren GT making its debut during this weekend's Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance.

The U.S.-specific concept in McLaren Orange and satin black is based on the 12C GT3 racer, but breaks GT3-class rules to be the "ultimate track car." The bespoke aerodynamic package is said to increase downforce by 30 percent, which we're assuming is over its GT3 sibling. If there's a feature on this car that could make it to production, it's that the engine has been recalibrated to produce 630 horsepower, making this the most powerful MP4-12C to date just 14 hp beyond the latest road-going car.

The concept is a tribute to the anything-goes days of Can-Am racing in the sixties and seventies and the orange cars fielded by Bruce McLaren and Denny Hulme. You can find out more about it in the press release below and we'll bring you photos of the real thing from Pebble Beach.