McLaren Sells Historic Automobiles to Elevate Money for New Supercar

(Bloomberg) — Money-strapped McLaren Holdings Ltd. has not too long ago offered a few of its prized heritage automotive assortment to Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund Mumtalakat Holding Co. to lift capital.

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The super-car maker was pressured to hunt an injection of funds after figuring out “sure technical upgrades” on its Artura hybrid supercar that triggered supply delays, McLaren stated earlier this week throughout its third-quarter earnings. Its major shareholder — with Mumtalakat proudly owning a close to 60% stake — agreed to help the corporate with a further £100 million ($123 million), the corporate stated.

A McLaren spokesman confirmed the sale of some heritage autos to the corporate’s major shareholder in return for the money infusion, with out elaborating on the small print of the vehicles offered.

McLaren’s heritage autos rely 54 uncommon System 1 racing vehicles and F1 supercars, in accordance with its 2021 annual report. The identical report states that the corporate sells vehicles from its assortment on occasion.

“We’re in lively talks with all shareholders concerning a recapitalization of the group,” McLaren stated on the decision, indicating the extra funds received’t be sufficient. It’s additionally persevering with talks for potential partnerships.

McLaren reported a lack of £203 million within the 9 months by way of September, in contrast with a £69 million loss a 12 months in the past. Liquidity on the finish of the third quarter declined to £87 million, down from £171 million.

The British marque has sought emergency financing a number of occasions over the previous few years from shareholders amid lengthy delays within the launch of the Artura. The newest spherical of fundraising comes simply months after its shareholders — which additionally embrace funding agency Ares Administration Company and Saudi Arabia’s Public Funding Fund — gave £125 million by way of convertible desire shares.

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(Updates with particulars of loss and liquidity place in sixth paragraph)

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