McLaren MP4-12C Spyder in the Works?

The McLaren news has been coming fast recently, with the announcement of U.S sales and a new website detailing the car. The MP4-12C is McLaren's attempt at producing a competitor to the Ferrari 458 Italia.

A full-line exotic car manufacturer wouldn't be complete without a Spyder variant, and that could be next for McLaren.It wouldn't just be your typical Spyder supercar though.

The story centers around McLaren's new manufacturing facility. McLaren is constructing one that will build the  MP4-12C and other new models next to it's current plant, the McLaren Technology Center in Woking, England.

Part of the layout in plans for the facility included a section dedicated to "RHT Sub Assembly." RHT would stand for Retractable Hard Top, setting the MP4-12C apart from the 458 Italia, which will be offering a soft top for it's folding roof.

McLaren is looking to show off it's developmental prowess and one up Ferrari by doing so. Having a retractable hardtop adds a lot of weight, which is one of the reasons Ferrari has opted not to do it. However, the hardtop in the MP4-12C will be specifically constructed to reduce weight, being made out of either alloy or carbon fiber, both lightweight materials.

If the MP4-12C really does end up having a retractable hardtop like this, it really would help set it apart from the competition. It might capture potential California buyers who want the hardtop but also mid-engined looks and styling. Until we hear more, McLaren has to give us some more pictures of the MP4-12C in a different color. I'm tired of looking at this orange!