Case Study:
Security Glazing for the McLaren 570GT.
thetintshop.co.uk has provided trusted glazing solutions for some of the world’s most prestigious automotive brands. A standout project was our collaboration with McLaren on the 570GT, introduced in 2016 as the road-focused evolution of the 570S.
Each 570GT was hand-built at McLaren’s Technology Centre in Woking before being shipped to Europe, the USA, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia. Designed as a dual road and race vehicle, the 570GT required glazing that could perform under high-speed track conditions while meeting strict homologation standards for everyday road use.
Project Background
Unlike many competition vehicles that rely on lightweight Perspex glazing, the 570GT required factory glass to remain in place to pass global road regulations. However, additional reinforcement was necessary to ensure safety and durability under both road and race environments.
McLaren engaged the tint shop to recommend a suitable security film and to carry out precision application across the vehicle’s glazing. After consultation, we specified a 175-micron security film, designed to strengthen the glass, resist shattering, and protect occupants during impact — all without compromising clarity or aesthetics.
The Challenge
The project involved balancing several demanding criteria:
- Road Legal Homologation: Meeting strict international vehicle regulations.
- Safety & Durability: Reinforcing glass to perform under impact and vibration.
- Dual Purpose Use: Supporting both competitive racing and everyday driving.
- Production Itegration: Ensuring the film was applied in line with McLaren’s hand-built assembly process.
The Solution
To align with McLaren’s meticulous production standards, The Tint Shop carried out the filming process onsite at Woking in carefully planned batches. Each pane of glass was filmed in advance, meaning that by the time the vehicle reached the glazing stage of assembly, the panels were ready for immediate installation.
This process ensured:
- Efficiency – no delays to the hand-built production line.
- Consistency – every vehicle received identical quality and finish.
- Durability – the filmed glass could withstand both track conditions and everyday driving.
- Compliance – meeting homologation standards across global markets.
Results and Impact
The project ensured that every McLaren 570GT left production with glazing fit for both track and road.
- McLaren achieved regulatory approval without resorting to perspex glazing.
- Vehicles were delivered worldwide with consistent, reinforced glass protection.
- Customers benefited from safety, durability, and clarity, with no compromise to McLaren’s luxury finish.
Conclusion
