The McMurtry Spéirling has captured global attention as one of the fastest electric track cars ever created, cementing its status during the 2022 Goodwood Hillclimb. Its unprecedented performance and agility, amplified by cutting-edge engineering and battery technology, represent a new chapter in the evolution of electric vehicles. Behind its development lies an intricate combination of vision, technological innovation, and strategic partnerships that have propelled this remarkable car toward commercial availability.
Founded by Sir David McMurtry, whose legacy spans aerospace engineering and industrial technology, McMurtry Automotive set out in 2016 to create an accessible yet high-performance car. The team, led by automotive experts Thomas Yates and Kevin Ukoko-Rongione, envisioned a vehicle that combined the thrill of Formula One with the practicality required for broader usability. Their goal materialized in the Spéirling, a car that effortlessly marries power and control. Its unique fan-based suction system generates 2000kg of instant downforce, eliminating reliance on tire or brake heat and enabling unmatched stability and speed.
The Spéirling’s debut at the Goodwood Hillclimb not only shattered records but also demonstrated its capabilities as a proof of concept, paving the way for its evolution into the PURE series. This production model promises exceptional performance, including acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.55 seconds and cornering at 3G forces, all powered by 1000hp electric motors. To achieve this, McMurtry partnered with battery innovator Molicel and data-driven engineering firm About:Energy, whose expertise in battery testing and simulation accelerated the development process.
About:Energy’s role proved pivotal in optimizing battery performance. Through detailed testing and digital modeling, the company provided insights into cell behavior, degradation, and thermal management, allowing McMurtry to refine its battery systems efficiently. By centralizing and expediting cell testing, About:Energy reduced development timelines by 70%, enabling McMurtry to integrate cutting-edge Molicel P50B cells into the PURE model.
This collaboration has also highlighted the potential for McMurtry’s battery technology to benefit other industries. The modular packs developed for the PURE can be customized for diverse applications, leveraging About:Energy’s data to select optimal cells for cost and performance needs. Such versatility underscores the broader implications of McMurtry’s innovations beyond the realm of racing.
With production slated for 2025, McMurtry aims to deliver 100 units of the PURE, targeting enthusiasts and competitive drivers alike. This $1 million car offers a transformative driving experience, blending unprecedented speed with accessibility. The PURE’s advancements also reflect a broader shift in the automotive industry, where electrification and technological synergy are reshaping possibilities.
As the PURE enters the market, its impact on performance benchmarks and customer expectations is poised to be profound. McMurtry’s accelerated development cycle, driven by innovative partnerships and engineering excellence, sets a new standard in automotive design. This journey, from concept to commercialization, exemplifies the potential of visionary thinking and technological collaboration in creating groundbreaking solutions for the future of mobility.
