Whenever you’re talking supercars there’s one immutable truth: Light makes right. Sure, high horsepower, a precisely tuned suspension, and kidney-squeezing brakes are all critical components on any supercar’s pedigree, but every one of those systems is negatively impacted by weight. Every additional pound a supercar lugs around makes it harder for the engine, suspension and brake systems to do their job.

Unfortunately, when you’re talking the future of automotive design, there’s an equally immutable truth: Electrification is coming. Ultimately this means battery-powered EVs will replace most internal combustion vehicles over the next 10-20 years, but in the near term it means the increasing use of hybrid technology to meet fuel efficiency and emissions standards, even for high-end supercars like the all-new 2023 McLaren Artura.

Here’s where these two truths clash — electrification is inherently heavy, making it the least desirable drivetrain solution for high-performance sports cars. Yes, we know, electric motors provide instant torque, and the Tesla Plaid is really quick. In a straight line. But its curb weight of nearly 5,000 pounds is why all the Instagram videos never show it turning. And even highly capable hybrid supercars from recent years, like the Acura NSX and Porsche 918, weigh between 3,600 and 3,900 pounds. By supercars standards, that’s on the tubby side.

But like every automaker, McLaren sees the electric future rushing at it, and even the…