The MCL35 represented a substantial development over its predecessor, the MCL34. James Key was recruited from Scuderia Toro Rosso in 2019 to lead the design, with the aim of reducing the pace deficit to leading teams, which at that point was over a second. A key focus was improving the MCL35’s cornering capability. The design emphasized the “outwash effect” – directing air around the tyre rather than over it – and featured a higher rear rake. The front wing was designed for increased outboard loading to maximize downforce. Compared to the MCL34, the MCL35 featured a thinner nose and a more complex bargeboard, with increased space between the front axle and sidepods to better manage cooling for the Renault engine. The car utilized a slimmer sidepod profile and re-designed brake ducts to improve cooling. Suspension geometry was also redesigned, repositioning both upper and lower wishbone elements to influence airflow over the bargeboards and floor. The design process shifted to emphasize the car as a whole and its performance relative to competitors, rather than focusing on individual components.
The MCL35 featured a new design that increased aerodynamic efficiency and was better optimized for Renault engines. The MCL35M, for the 2021 season, was adapted to accommodate the new Mercedes engine. This necessitated changes to the chassis architecture, hydraulics, cooling, electronics, and pipework. Despite switching engine suppliers, McLaren continued to design and manufacture their own gearboxes. The MCL35M featured a new gearbox and a slightly extended wheelbase. McLaren also experimented with diffuser designs, notably a unique implementation with extended strakes, and introduced a new front wing and floor to improve aerodynamic performance. The MCL35 was the first McLaren car to be wrapped with vinyl rather than painted, resulting in a matte finish and reduced weight.
The MCL35 debuted at the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix, driven by Carlos Sainz Jr. and Lando Norris. McLaren finished third in the 2020 World Constructors' Championship, achieving podiums at the Austrian and Italian Grands Prix, and setting a track record at the Red Bull Ring. Norris achieved his first Formula One podium at the 2020 Austrian Grand Prix, finishing third. Sainz finished fifth in the same race. In 2021, the MCL35M was driven by Norris and Daniel Ricciardo. The updated car debuted at the 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix. The car secured two fastest laps, one pole position, and five podiums throughout the season. McLaren achieved their first win since 2012 and first one-two finish since 2010 at the 2021 Italian Grand Prix, with Ricciardo winning and Norris finishing second. McLaren finished fourth in the 2021 Constructors’ Championship, losing third place to Ferrari. Ricciardo’s performance was often hampered by struggles to adapt to the car’s characteristics, particularly in low-speed corners.
The switch to Mercedes engines in 2021, and the need to modify the chassis to accommodate them, led to Formula One's adoption of a token-based system for 2021 vehicle development, subject to FIA inspection.
The success of both the MCL35 and MCL35M influenced McLaren’s design approach, with the team continuing to develop and refine their aerodynamic concepts. The Gulf livery used on the MCL35M at the 2021 Monaco Grand Prix inspired the color scheme of the MCL36. The MCL35M continued to be used in 2022 and 2023 for private tests with McLaren drivers and junior drivers, aiding in the development of future car designs and driver preparation.
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