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2000hp Corvette Concepts Revealed, Heading Straight to Gran Turismo
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Lamborghini Fenomeno unveiled: brand’s most powerful V12 ever
Albert Park F1 track announces Oscar Piastri grandstands
Romain Dumas attacks the Nordschleife in a van, setting 6:48 lap
FIA still tinkering with 2026 F1 rules to prevent “unnatural things”
Gordon Murray reveals Special Vehicles division with F1 GTR-inspired S1
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS

Gordon Murray Automotive has introduced two new models, including a longtail version of the T.50 and a reinterpretation of the McLaren F1 GTR LM, during Monterey Car Week. The newly established Gordon Murray Special Vehicles division aims to produce exclusive editions with distinctive designs and enhanced customization options, featuring three distinct lines for limited editions, bespoke creations, and heritage-inspired reimaginings.

Lamborghini has introduced the Fenomeno, a new limited-edition hypercar with only 29 units available, joining the ranks of the brand's exclusive models like the Reventon and Centenario. This latest offering boasts a powerful 1,064bhp from a V12 engine paired with three electric motors, enhanced by a distinctive lithium-ion battery, marking it as the brand's most potent vehicle to date.
Red Bull is currently building the 50 examples of the RB17 hypercar, which it anticipates will outperform current Formula 1 vehicles in lap times at Spa-Francorchamps when equipped with slick tyres. Designed by Adrian Newey before his exit from the company, this lightweight, track-focused car will feature a powerful, 1200hp V10 engine and advanced aerodynamics, with a curb weight of less than 900kg.
The Ferrari Daytona SP3, originally priced at approximately £1.7 million, saw its value skyrocket when the new 600th chassis was auctioned for an astonishing $26 million at Monterey Car Week. In the process, car 599+1 became the most expensive vehicle from this millennium ever to be sold at auction, with the proceeds going to the charitable Ferrari Foundation.
Ford is set to conclude the production of its iconic GT with the introduction of the GT Mk IV, a specialized track-focused vehicle that enhances its racing lineage. Limited to just 67 units, this model features advanced aerodynamics and a powerful 3.8-liter, twin-turbo V6, ensuring exceptional performance on the circuit while providing buyers with personalized options and dedicated track support.
Volkswagen is embarking on an extensive product strategy, introducing ten new electric and combustion models over the next three years to revitalize its lineup amid declining sales and cost-cutting measures. Central to this initiative is the ID 1, an affordable electric hatchback expected to launch in 2027, which aims to capture a significant share of the growing entry-level EV market.
The Mahindra BE 6 Batman Edition presents an electric vehicle inspired by the iconic superhero, featuring a striking satin black finish and a 79kWh battery pack. Developed in collaboration with Warner Bros, this limited edition of 300 cars boasts distinctive design elements, including Bat-themed alloy wheels and unique lighting features that reflect the essence of the Dark Knight.
Ford is celebrating the 60th anniversary of the Bronco by unveiling a unique Bronco Roadster Concept that pays homage to the original 1966 U13 model, known for its minimalist design and playful character. This concept features a stripped-down aesthetic with an open-air configuration and a focus on simplicity, serving as a design exploration rather than as a vehicle intended for production.
MOTORSPORT

Oscar Piastri, the Melbourne native and current leader of the drivers' championship, will have a dedicated grandstand at the 2026 Australian Grand Prix. This addition, located along the main straight across from the McLaren pit, highlights Piastri's remarkable success, as he has already secured six victories this year, more than any other Australian driver in a single season in the championship’s history.

As teams gear up for the significant changes in Formula 1's chassis and engine regulations set for 2026, not all drivers are optimistic about the potential complexities these updates may introduce. While the FIA acknowledges the challenges posed by increased electrical power and energy management, it remains committed to refining the rules to ensure an engaging racing experience without compromising the sport's integrity.
Lewis Hamilton praised Zandvoort ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix, describing it as a circuit rich in character and challenging due to its unique topography. Although his recent performances there have not been his strongest, he appreciates the venue's distinctive features and the enthusiastic support from the fans.
Mercedes F1 has outlined its strategy for rookie Kimi Antonelli, emphasizing the importance of his development over immediate performance, particularly as he stepped into the role previously held by Lewis Hamilton. The team is focused on enhancing Antonelli's confidence and collaboration with engineers, while acknowledging challenges with the car's performance that have affected his recent results.
Fernando Alonso expressed indifference towards the opinions of newer F1 fans following the debut of a film featuring Brad Pitt, in which an older driver sees racing success, emphasizing that his focus remains on racing rather than public perception. Despite being the most experienced driver in the sport's history, Alonso noted that performance and teamwork are paramount, rather than how fans interpret their successes or challenges.
Austin Dillon celebrated his first victory of the 2025 season at Richmond Raceway, revealing during his winner's interview that he had been racing with a broken rib sustained from a fall while preparing for hunting season. Following his win, which marked his sixth career victory and propelled him into the NASCAR Cup playoffs for the first time since 2022, Dillon shared details about the injury and his recent performances.
The upcoming Gulf 12 Hours race will feature the GTX1 category, allowing Cup class vehicles from brands like Ferrari and McLaren to compete alongside GT3 entries at Yas Marina Circuit on December 14. Additionally, the event will implement updated regulations for driver classifications, particularly designating the Am class for Bronze-rated drivers and adjusting drive time requirements for both Pro and Pro-Am categories.
Alpine's choice to revert Jack Doohan to a reserve role was criticized, especially considering his status as a rookie facing unfamiliar tracks and a Sprint event. Following his replacement by Franco Colapinto after the Miami Grand Prix, a comparative analysis of their performances over their initial six races each reveals insights into their qualifying and racing capabilities relative to team leader Pierre Gasly.
CURIOSITIES

The recently revealed Chevrolet Corvette CX Concept and its racing counterpart, the CX.R Vision Gran Turismo, are set to be featured in Gran Turismo 7 with an anticipated release in the August update. While the CX is designed as a fully electric vehicle with a quad-motor system, the CX.R incorporates a hybrid configuration that combines a powerful V8 engine with electric motors, both vehicles aiming to influence future Corvette designs rather than enter production.

The Ford SuperVan 4.2 has made headlines once again after achieving a remarkable lap time at the Nurburgring, driven by renowned racer Romain Dumas, in honor of the late Sabine Schmitz who famously also once drove a Transit van around the circuit. With a record of 6:48.393, this electric van not only set a new benchmark for its category but also outpaced several high-performance vehicles.
A recent viral TikTok video depicting a Ford Mustang Mach-E appearing to drive itself while colliding with highway barriers has been brought into question after the California Highway Patrol took action against the driver. The CHP stated that the vehicle was not in autonomous mode and that the driver has been arrested for suspected DUI, while confirming that no serious injuries occurred despite a collision with another vehicle.
The Invicta S Type has been awarded the Gran Turismo Trophy at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, as chosen by series creator Kazunori Yamauchi. This selection opens the door for the vehicle's potential digital representation in the game, although past award winners have had mixed success in making that transition.
Queen Elizabeth II had a passion for driving, often opting to take the wheel herself even in her later years, as she navigated the Scottish Highlands in a simple manual Defender with her corgis. Now up for auction, a 2006 Land Rover Range Rover, specially modified for her use, features unique enhancements like a dog-themed hood ornament and a supercharged V8 engine, making it a highly sought-after piece for enthusiasts of the British monarchy.
In Florida, speed cameras in school zones can issue fines regardless of whether the warning signs are illuminated, leading to frustration among drivers who feel misled. Despite numerous appeals, the law permits enforcement even when the signs are not actively flashing, resulting in significant revenue for camera operators while leaving many drivers feeling unfairly penalized.
On a recent Speeding Awareness Day, Illinois law enforcement issued over 5,000 citations and conducted numerous arrests, emphasizing the state's commitment to traffic safety. The initiative, which has expanded to include several Midwestern states, aims to enhance road safety through both enforcement and community education.
New Haven, Connecticut, is intensifying efforts to catch drivers who are avoiding car taxes by failing to declare residency by employing a team of investigators to track down unregistered vehicles. So far, more than 500 cars have been identified, leading to the collection of over $27,000 in owed taxes, while some drivers are contesting their liability.
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