A Formula 1 World Champion will give the enhanced 12C sports car its World debut drive at Goodwood Festival of Speed this year. Vodafone McLaren Mercedes driver Jenson Button will take to the famous Goodwood Hill in a Production Prototype version of the revised 12C on Saturday 30 June. In addition, McLaren GT will unveil a McLaren 12C GT3 race car adorned with a unique livery, which highlights McLaren Group’s support of the ‘GREAT’ campaign launched this year by the Prime Minister’s Office and Department for Culture, Media and Sport. The GREAT campaign is designed to re-affirm Britain’s international reputation and deliver long-term economic benefits through additional tourism, trade and education.

In 2010 McLaren Automotive wowed the Goodwood crowds with the launch of the 12C, and last year the 12C GT3 made its public dynamic debut at the event. For the third year in succession, McLaren will debut an exciting new version of its groundbreaking sports car.

Highlights of the enhanced performance and styling package for the 12C include an engine power upgrade to 625PS (from 600PS), in addition to throttle and gearshift modifications designed to enhance the driving experience. A range of styling options are now available to order for the new 12C; including a striking Volcano Yellow paint finish, exclusive new interior trim comprising high quality Semi-Aniline perforated Leather and Alcantara,and a new Diamond Cut finish available for multiple wheel designs.

The Production Prototype 12C prepared for the Michelin Supercar Run at Goodwood is presented in a stunning Volcano Red exterior colour, features the new optional Leather interior and will be complete with Lightweight Forged Alloy Wheels in Diamond Cut finish. The new 12C model from McLaren will be available to view up close throughout the event in the Goodwood Supercar Paddock.

Motorsport fans in the Formula One Paddock at Festival of Speed are invited to visit McLaren GT and see the ‘GREAT’ 12C GT3, which sports a bespoke livery designed by McLaren Racing’s own graphic design team. Wearing a Union Jack which stretches the length of the car, the ‘GREAT’ 12C GT3 highlights McLaren Group’s support of the GREAT campaign, which was launched in 2012 by the Prime Minister’s Office and Department for Culture, Media and Sport.

McLaren Group is recognised by GREAT for McLaren Racing’s global success in motorsport and the increasing profile of McLaren Automotive worldwide as a leading developer and manufacturer of groundbreaking sports cars.

The GREAT 12C GT3 will be running in Batch 3 of the Hill programme on Friday, Saturday and Sunday at Goodwood Festival of Speed. Two high profile British guests from the world of entertainment will each experience 12C road car performance as they join McLaren’s professional racing drivers as passengers in the Michelin Supercar Run at 12.35pm on Saturday and Sunday respectively. Regular updates featuring the new 12C sports car and GREAT 12C GT3 at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed will be published at:www.facebook.com/mclarenautomotive

2012 is a once in a generation opportunity to promote the UK abroad. The world has already joined the nation in celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and will soon celebrate the Olympic and Paralympic Games. More information on GREAT may be found here