McLaren and HTC announce multi-year virtual reality partnership

McLaren has signed a multi-year partnership agreement with HTC, a pioneer in innovative, smart mobile and virtual reality (VR) technologies, combining cutting-edge motorsport technology with groundbreaking VR.

Engaging with fans is a key priority for McLaren and through HTC, the aim is to make the McLaren and Formula 1 story more immersive than ever.

McLaren and HTC will launch a special edition McLaren-branded HTC VIVE™ headset, to build breathtaking new experiences that transform the way fans engage with the team, capturing the visceral dynamism of the sport.

HTC will also become the official VR partner of McLaren’s esports programme, offering the world’s first VR esports competition. The newly launched premium PC-based VR system, Vive Pro, will be the official VR device for the competition as HTC and McLaren break new ground in VR gaming.

HTC has been delivering on the promise of VR with game-changing technology and best-in-class content, bringing premium VR to consumers and enterprises all around the world. Now, together with McLaren, HTC will make premium VR more accessible and immersive for fans around the world.

Zak Brown, Chief Executive Officer, McLaren Racing, said: “Today’s announcement is a real statement of intent from both McLaren and HTC VIVE. We are both committed to using the latest technology to give our fans the most immersive experience possible, short of physically putting them in the car. We will also work together to transform the way VR is used to enhance gaming, creating an experience that enables gamers to feel like one of the world’s best racing drivers.”

Alvin Wang Graylin, China President, HTC, said:“McLaren and HTC both have a long history of disruptive innovation in our respective fields. By joining forces, we will be giving F1 fans new ways to experience and enjoy the sport like never before. The McLaren esports programme will be the first time a real sport has been combined with esports, and now by adding VR to the mix, anyone can realize their dream of being an F1 driver.”

Rob Bloom, Group Digital Director, McLaren Group, said: “The new partnership between McLaren and HTC VIVE speaks to the heart of our digital strategy. Through immersive technology, we’re opening up a new channel to unlock the richness and thrill of the McLaren and Formula 1 story to a broad audience, pioneering the use of VR and AR to generate entertaining and engaging fan experiences across our racing and esports programmes.”