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McLaren Production Centre in Woking
2015 ¥ 3 Concept ∂
“Every Detail Counts” – A Conversation with McLaren Production Director Alan Foster
DETAIL: How does McLaren’s automobile production differ from that of other manufacturers? Alan Foster: If we were to list all of the components used in automobile production it would be difficult to tell the different manufacturers apart. In the end all cars have four tires and a motor. Be that as it may, there are enormous differences in how automobiles are built. Our approach, which involves developing and producing sports cars in an atmosphere that is free of dirt and noise, reflects how exquisite and special these cars are. I like to compare it to a gourmet restaurant. The ingredients the top chefs use – like those of the different auto-
mobile manufacturers – are all quite similar. Nevertheless, our goal is to create special emotions here, extraordinary aesthetics, and a special “taste”. Regardless of whether the tours of the McLaren Production Centre are given to (potential) customers, politicians, or sponsors, afterwards they will all tell other people about the experience. If we are able to reach and inspire people, it will also become possible to influence how they feel and think about the brand. McLaren Automotive’s aim is to become the most important race car brand; we are aware that it will take more than just fast, beautiful cars to achieve that goal.
Base coat
DETAIL: What path do guests visiting the McLaren Campus and the McLaren Production Centre take? Alan Foster: The classic path usually begins in the north, in the entrance rotunda situated in the MTC. Following presentations in the sales centre and a walk past historic McLaren automobiles, Formula One race cars, and the collection of trophies, the visitors pass through an underground corridor. Clad completely in white high-gloss panels it leads to the MPC and gives visitors a break in the thinking process – allowing them, so to speak, to clean their palettes – before they enter the VIP-zone on the mezzanine. From a balcony they overlook the
Primer (colour)
Parts to be painted
Top coat
Parts to be painted
Laquer
Goods in
Lift to storage
Body assembly
Goods out General assembly
Re-work area
Quality sign off
Final wash
Monsoon wash
Test drive
Production line scale 1:1250
Access from MTC