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Alfa Romeo 4C Makes a Limited Comeback
Jordan Greer
October 29, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today, we’re looking a three new official models of the Alfa Romeo 4C, made from refurbished cars, while the fallout from the Mexico Grand Prix rumbles on. There's something for everyone in today's lineup, so don't forget to share the excitement with friends who might enjoy our daily dose of car culture.
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
Stellantis Heritage has revealed three special editions of the Alfa Romeo 4C, named the Collezione GT "Nicola Larini," featuring vintage-inspired colors and graphics, along with the signature of DTM champion Nicola Larini. Based on refurbished models from the original 2013-2020 production run, the three cars are for sale for an undisclosed price.
The fifth and final Pagani Huayra Codalunga has been delivered in Europe, featuring a unique teal exterior with white accents and a luxurious interior designed in collaboration with Hermes. Powered by a 6.0-liter, twin-turbocharged V12 engine producing 840 hp, this limited-run model is 14 inches longer than the standard Huayra while maintaining a weight of 2,822 lbs.
Mopar is showcasing a 1967 Plymouth GTX at SEMA 2024, featuring an "electromodded" design that highlights its e-Crate conversion kit aimed at modernizing classic Mopars while maintaining their aesthetic. Enthusiasts may not find the package appealing, as the 335hp and maximum range of 250 miles don’t match up to the original’s 440ci V8.
Genesis plans to introduce hybrid variants across its model lineup starting in 2027, as confirmed by the brand's Australian head, Justin Douglass, during the 2024 CEO Investor Day. While specific models and hybrid powertrain types remain unknown, the shift comes after the company revised its strategy to include hybrids in response to customer demand, moving away from its initial focus on exclusively electric and hydrogen vehicles from 2030.
Mazda has unveiled detailed specifications and pricing for the EZ-6, an electric vehicle featuring a sleek design, advanced technology, and two powertrain options: a fully electric variant and a range-extended model. The electric version offers up to 373 miles of range with a rear-mounted motor, while the range-extended variant combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor for a total range exceeding 808 miles, with pricing starting at approximately $19,600.
Porsche is exploring the possibility of developing internal combustion variants of its electric models due to declining demand for plug-in vehicles, despite its commitment to electrification. The company's leadership acknowledged a trend among premium customers favoring combustion engines, prompting a potential shift in strategy while navigating the complexities of adapting electric platforms for combustion use.
LG Energy Solution has reached an agreement with Ford to shift production of the Mustang Mach-E's batteries from Poland to Michigan, starting next year, while the Polish factory will focus on batteries for Ford's commercial vans in Europe. This move could enable the Mach-E to regain eligibility for federal tax credits related to battery sourcing, as the US Treasury's new requirements necessitate that a significant portion of critical minerals be sourced from North America or allied countries.
Ferrari's new F80, limited to 799 units and priced at $3.9 million, is being offered by a German dealer for approximately $6.3 million, which includes a significant markup. The listing, posted by an investment firm, confirms that the high price secures both a build slot and the vehicle, with a delivery date anticipated for late 2025.
AC Cars has introduced the Ace Classic Electric, an electric version of its roadster that weighs under 1134kg, making it one of the lightest open-top electric vehicles available. Powered by a 72kWh battery and a 300hp motor, the EV is expected to offer over 200 miles of range and will be priced from $275,000, with deliveries starting in spring next year.
The Abarth 600e, launching in the UK next month with a starting price of £41,975, features a single-motor electric powertrain derived from the Alfa Romeo Junior, delivering up to 278bhp and a 0-62mph time of 5.9 seconds. While it shares a 54kWh battery with the Fiat 600e, the Abarth's performance enhancements result in a reduced range of 207 miles per charge, alongside upgraded cooling, suspension, and distinctive styling elements.
The Cadillac OpenSpace motorhome, a concept vehicle from General Motors Design, showcases a vision for luxury mobility with Level 5 autonomous driving capabilities, allowing it to operate without driver input. Although currently existing only as conceptual drawings, the OpenSpace is designed to blend into its surroundings and offers unique features like expanded living spaces and access to a rooftop deck for enhanced passenger experiences.
MOTORSPORT
Incidents at the Formula 1 Mexico City Grand Prix which saw championship leader Max Verstappen receive two 10-second penalties have lead to discussions about potential conflicts of interest involving stewards. Red Bull fans have cited Mexico steward Tim Mayer’s family ties to McLaren, while other’s note Derek Warwick’s connections with Honda.
Ahead of the World Endurance Championship finale in Bahrain, championship contenders Ferrari and Toyota have received adjustments in their Balance of Performance, allowing them to compete with reduced minimum weights and increased power. Championship leader Porsche has added weight but also gains a power increase, with the tight standings meaning that any of the three can still win either or both of the titles.
Sergio Perez's position at Red Bull is uncertain following a disappointing performance at his home Grand Prix in Mexico, where he finished 17th after starting out of position and sustaining damage from a collision with Liam Lawson. Team principal Christian Horner acknowledged the scrutiny on Perez, stressing the need for both drivers to score points as they aim to improve their standing in the constructors' championship.
Liam Lawson apologized to Sergio Perez for displaying an obscene gesture during their on-track confrontation at the Mexico Grand Prix, which followed a collision that damaged Perez's car and affected its performance. Both drivers expressed differing views on the incident, with Perez attributing blame to Lawson, while Lawson contended he was left with no choice in the situation.
George Russell, director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, indicated that nearly all Formula 1 drivers support immediate changes to racing guidelines following recent incidents at the US and Mexico Grands Prix. He emphasized the need for ongoing discussions between drivers, stewards, and the FIA to ensure consistent enforcement of rules, citing a shift in attitudes following recent the controversial battles.
CURIOSITIES
Charles Leclerc has recently taken delivery of a customized Ferrari SF90 XX, featuring a satin black finish with red accents and personal touches reflecting the colors of the Monaco flag. The car, Ferrari’s first road car with the XX name, joins a collection of vehicles owned by the Scuderia Ferrari that include a Daytona SP3 in a similar color scheme, a 488 Pista Spider, and an 812 Competizione A.
In New South Wales, Australia, police officers pursuing a speeding dirt bike became stranded on train tracks after misjudging a roundabout, causing their BMW 530d patrol car to crash through a fence and land in a ditch. Fortunately, both officers sustained only minor injuries, while authorities are now seeking information on the fleeing rider and assessing the damage to the patrol vehicle.
A recent event celebrating Japanese car culture in Italy, the 2024 Tarox Magione Super Battle, featured two stunning modified cars in the shape of an FC Mazda RX-7 and an S14 Nissan 200SX. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Italian hills in Perugia, with the event itself staged at the Autodromo dell’Umbria, the piece is a look at the unique modifications of both vehicles.
A unique 1999 Dina Viaggio GV1000 coach is currently for sale in Ashland, Oregon for $35,000, and features an extensive list of modifications that cover a spectrum from unusual to bizarre. A second deck allows for eight beds, while the cabin also includes a kitchen, bathroom, and a large area that appears to be intended for a LAN party.
Morgan Clarke Design in California shop is developing the Dakar Prototype, an extreme off-road vehicle based on a Range Rover Velar. The car sports a custom steel chassis, custom suspension that fills up the rear seat area, and a rear-mounted 5.2-liter V10 from a Lamborghini Huracan, with additional twin-turbos to bump power up to 2,000hp. The shop intends to build six additional units.
New South Wales Ambulance has introduced Hazardous Area Rescue Ambulance (HARA) vehicles based on the Mercedes-Benz Unimog. These specially modified ambulances feature advanced safety measures, including a protective exoskeleton and a wading capability of up to 1.2 meters, and will be stationed at key locations to improve access to patients in remote areas.
A recent nine-car pileup in Oklahoma City was triggered by a distracted driver in a pickup truck who failed to notice stopped traffic, resulting in injuries to two individuals but no fatalities. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol emphasized the importance of driver attention, highlighting a 20 percent increase in distracted driving incidents nationwide from 2020 to 2022.
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