Whoopsy:

All because the P1 uses the 12C platform. The space above the gas tank is the only place they can stash the batteries. Also, they put the e-motor where the starter motor is as they didn't have room to extend the 12C chassis in order to fit it inline like the 918 or the LaFerrari. All hard points are confined by the 12C platform.

Despite the compromise, the P1 is still a great performer, but just imagine how much better it can be had McLaren got the money to do a ground up design instead of recycling the 12C platform.

 

The latest news of hybridization of the McLaren range does suggest that the company has learned a positive lesson.