McLaren said they were coming to Pebble Beach with a surprise. We weren't exactly sure what they had in mind, but we were obviously interested. And now the announcement has been made: this surprise turns out to be the first customized MP4-12C. The McLaren Exclusive group was set up in order to cater to buyers' specific requests for all new McLarens as well as to provide some VIP service for F1 and SLR owners.

And when it came to a customer requesting some customized work to their new MP4-12C, the VIP service was only too happy to oblige. This one of a kind MP4-12C features a Satin Orange paint with new fenders and louvers for added aero improvement. In addition, they also added engine cover gills, a carbon fiber windshield cowl, and a new carbon rear exhaust cover. The wheels have a polished face and black painted centers. The roof has also been painted black. The interior hasn't been altered, but the windows have been blacked out. Interestingly, this car was built off an early prototype testing model, but it's now worth about $270,000.

And in other McLaren related news...the company has just announced that Singapore-based businessman and philanthropist Peter Lim has completed a significant investment in the company. According to the official press release, because of Lim's investment, they now have on their automotive board a "well respected partner in Asia that will strengthen the company's corporate and trading influence in the region at a time of encouraging demand for the company's first 'pure' McLaren sports car." McLaren expanded their dealer network across 19 countries worldwide in 2011, including Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. Photos courtsey of Teamspeed.