McLaren F1 2022 Lego Car: Meet the MCL36 that marked the new era of Formula 1
The 2022 Formula 1 season was historic. After years of stability, the series introduced new technical regulations that completely transformed the cars, introducing unprecedented aerodynamic concepts, larger wheels, and chassis changes. The McLaren F1 Team entered this new era with the MCL36, a car that generated great expectations for the British team's fans. Driven by Lando Norris and Daniel Ricciardo, the model sought to put McLaren back among the leaders, honoring its glorious past and taking on rivals such as Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull.
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9/2/20253 min read
History and Origin of the MCL36
McLaren announced the MCL36 in February 2022, as part of its adaptation to the new regulations that came into effect that year. The car was designed under the leadership of James Key (Technical Director) and Andrea Stella, focusing on exploring the concept of ground effect, which returned to Formula 1 after almost 40 years.
The new regulations aimed to increase competitiveness and improve on-track competition, allowing cars to follow each other closely without losing much aerodynamic performance.
The MCL36 was born with high hopes: after a historic podium finish by Daniel Ricciardo in Monza 2021 and strong performances by Lando Norris, the team believed it could regularly compete for victories.
2022 Season: Track Performance
Despite expectations, McLaren's season was marked by ups and downs.
Highlights
Lando Norris achieved a podium finish at the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix in Imola, keeping McLaren among the teams capable of delivering surprises. The car showed good speed on medium- and high-speed circuits, but struggled on tracks with slower corners.
Challenges
The porpoising problem (vertical oscillation caused by ground effect) significantly hampered performance at the beginning of the season. Lack of consistency: in some races, the car was fighting for the top 5, while in others it struggled to even score points. Daniel Ricciardo struggled to adapt to the MCL36, while Norris was the driver who got the most out of the car.
Final Result
McLaren finished 5th in the constructors' championship, behind Alpine, Ferrari, Mercedes, and Red Bull. Lando Norris finished 7th in the drivers' championship, solidifying his position as the team leader. Daniel Ricciardo ended his tenure at McLaren at the end of the season, being replaced by Oscar Piastri in 2023.
Cultural Impact and Exclusivity
Even without regularly competing for victories, the MCL36 was important for marking the beginning of a new era in Formula 1. It became a beloved car among fans, in part due to Norris's charisma and the team's popularity on social media.
The vibrant papaya orange paint job solidified the visual identity of the modern McLaren. The car also gained special edition collectible miniatures, highly sought after by F1 fans.
Rare Facts
First McLaren of the new aerodynamic era – The MCL36 was the team's first car fully adapted for ground effects since the 1980s.
Brake Problems in Bahrain – Right from its debut, the car suffered from serious brake cooling failures, compromising performance in the first races.
Only podium of the season – Lando Norris was the only driver outside of Red Bull, Ferrari, and Mercedes to reach the podium in 2022.
Design and Engineering
The MCL36 was one of the most daring cars launched in 2022, introducing its own solutions to address the new regulations.
Design highlights:
Simpler nose and front wing profile, adapted to the new airflow.
Innovative sidepods, with narrow air intakes and a more aggressive design that caught the attention of the grid.
18-inch wheels, a new category requirement, with aerodynamic covers to reduce turbulence.
Ground effect, through the new floor with venturi tunnels, creating more downforce without relying on complex wings.
Vibrant colors, maintaining McLaren's identity with papaya orange and blue accents, one of the most iconic paint jobs on the grid.
Technical innovations:
Structure adapted to E10 fuel, an FIA requirement for 2022.
Cooling system redesigned to handle the new aerodynamic package.
Full integration with the engine supplied by Mercedes-AMG F1, maintaining the partnership that began in 2021.
Technical Specifications
Chassis: Carbon fiber monocoque
Engine: Mercedes-AMG F1 M13 E Performance, 1.6L V6 turbo hybrid
Estimated power: ~1,000 hp (with hybrid system)
Transmission: 8-speed sequential gearbox + reverse gear
Hybrid system: ERS (MGU-K + MGU-H) with energy recovery
Tires: 18-inch Pirelli
Minimum weight: 798 kg (new regulations)
Top speed: over 330 km/h (depending on aerodynamic setup)
McLaren MCL36
The McLaren MCL36 may not have been a winning car, but its role in the team's history is fundamental. It marked the beginning of the new era of Formula 1, served as a learning platform, and demonstrated that McLaren remains steadfast in its pursuit of the top.
With moments of brilliance, such as the podium at Imola, and challenges of adaptation, the MCL36 represents the team's struggle to return to where it once was: competing for world championships.