McLaren P1's original designer calls Florida YouTuber who's restoring flooded P1 and gives him an offer

A flooded P1 that was once destined for scrap is now being rebuilt into a custom P1 Evo, with McLaren P1 designer Frank Stephenson stepping in to lead its transformation.

The YouTuber behind the project bought the McLaren P1 from Copart after it was severely flood-damaged, planning to restore it to factory condition.

Those plans changed when Frank Stephenson offered to create a bespoke body design, elevating the rebuild into a unique engineering collaboration.

The project has now evolved into a one-off hypercar build, aiming to outperform McLaren’s own factory models.

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Frank Stephenson reimagines the flooded P1

Frank Stephenson reached out after seeing early videos of the flooded P1 project, offering his expertise to redesign the car’s exterior.

His proposal focused on reshaping the McLaren P1 with a longtail extension, aerodynamic refinements, and a more aggressive roof scoop.

The aim was to improve airflow, increase stability at high speeds, and maintain the P1’s core identity.

The design team is using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to test airflow patterns and ensure that every change brings a real performance benefit.

Visual elements like integrated diffusers, vertical fins, and a sculpted rear section are not just aesthetic choices, they are engineered to reduce drag and control lift.

Material selection is also critical. Carbon fiber and titanium components will be used to reduce weight while keeping the car structurally sound.

Throughout the design process, Frank Stephenson has emphasized that the P1 Evo should feel like an evolution of the original McLaren P1, not a radical departure.

The flooded P1 will retain its distinct silhouette, but with modernized aerodynamics that could set new benchmarks for a road-going hypercar.

Mechanical rebuild of the flooded P1

The mechanical rebuild of the flooded P1 is as ambitious as its design overhaul.

The twin-turbo V8 is being rebuilt with forged internals and bespoke turbos developed by Tachion, boosting the engine’s output to 1,400 horsepower.

With the hybrid system removed, the P1 Evo will shed significant weight, improving its power-to-weight ratio and overall performance.

The suspension is being modified for adjustable ride height and custom driving modes, allowing the car to adapt for high-speed runs and track driving.

Active aerodynamic elements, including a retractable rear wing and functional diffusers, are being engineered to manage airflow dynamically at varying speeds.

Cooling improvements are also on the table.

The team is exploring a Lexan engine cover to display the upgraded powertrain while ensuring effective heat management.

A titanium exhaust system will provide weight savings and sharpen the car’s exhaust note.

With these upgrades, the flooded P1 is set to evolve into a hypercar that merges the design expertise of Frank Stephenson with cutting-edge mechanical performance.

The P1 Evo is expected to be completed within the year, marking it as one of the most distinctive McLaren P1 rebuilds ever attempted.

It’s a far cry from where this flooded P1 started – waterlogged and all but destroyed in Hurricane Ian.

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