- SpeedBites
- Posts
- Alpine to Depart WEC at Season's End
Alpine to Depart WEC at Season's End
Andrew Evans
February 12, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
De Tomaso wins case against former CEO, brings P72 closer to production
Williams’ new animated pit garage screen proves an internet hit
BMW to mark M3 and Art Car anniversaries at Bathurst 12hr
EPA boss hints at restrictions for automatic stop-start systems
Kyosho introduces new 1:10 scale FJ60 Land Cruiser rock-crawler
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
De Tomaso Automobili has achieved a significant legal victory against its former CEO, Ryan Berris, with a jury unanimously rejecting his claims regarding an alleged compensation agreement. This resolution allows De Tomaso to concentrate on advancing production of the P72 supercar and other upcoming projects, reinforcing its commitment to a successful revival in the automotive market.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s administrator, Lee Zeldin, has suggested some upcoming regulatory action against stop-start technology, despite the agency continuing to claim that it can improve fuel economy by up to 5%. Zeldin teased that these systems may become subject to new legislation, even though it’s not currently mandatory, has been incentivized by the EPA, and can be turned off in most vehicles with the tech.
Jaguar Land Rover is preparing to unveil a significant update for its flagship Range Rover, which may coincide with the introduction of the long-awaited electric version later this year, marking its first new model since 2022. The refreshed design will feature alterations such as updated headlights and a modified grille, while retaining the existing powertrain options including hybrid and V8 variants, with the updated look to be revealed alongside the new electric version.
BMW has provided insights into its future direction for the Alpina brand, introducing a newly designed emblem that will adorn upcoming premium BMW Alpina vehicles. This updated badge, featuring refined elements from Alpina's heritage, signals the brand's elevated status within BMW's hierarchy, with plans for production to shift entirely to BMW facilities while maintaining Buchloe as a center for aftersales and heritage services.
While Mazda has been teasing a new rotary-engined halo model for several years, it remains a difficult model to deliver on a financial basis. Mazda Europe’s Christian Schultze noted that while the car enthusiasts at the company want to produce a modern RX-7 successor, the likely high price of any such vehicle would go against Mazda’s ethos of making “cars for ordinary people” and may not sell in sufficient numbers to balance the books on its development.
Honda has unveiled the Super-One, an electric hot hatch that draws inspiration from its iconic City Turbo II, ahead of its launch in Japan. This compact vehicle features a more aggressive design, enhanced performance capabilities, and a sound system that mimics traditional engine noises, catering to enthusiasts seeking a spirited driving experience.
In a recent patent filing, Ford has introduced an innovative approach to impact detection by incorporating deployable running boards in its vehicles, specifically targeting potential T-bone collisions. This system aims to enhance airbag deployment timing by extending the running boards prior to an impact, allowing for earlier detection and improved occupant safety, even though it may not be foolproof against taller vehicles.
Japan is set to welcome American-made vehicles, including models from Toyota, as part of a strategy to address trade imbalances. To facilitate this, a new compliance sticker will be required to indicate that these cars meet US safety standards, while Japanese authorities are encouraging additional modifications for the vehicles.
Stellantis has warned drivers of almost a quarter-million vehicles not to drive their cars, as they remain unrepaired following recalls for their Takata airbags. The company has replaced more than six million airbags in its cars, but outstanding recalls remain for certain Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep models with the defective airbags having the potential to explode if deployed.
MOTORSPORT
Alpine will exit the Hypercar class of the World Endurance Championship following the 2026 season, marking the end of its five-year participation in the series. The decision comes amid ongoing challenges in the motorsport sector and a strategic shift towards focusing on Formula 1, as the brand aims to enhance its long-term viability and brand recognition.
Team WRT is set to return to Mount Panorama for the 2026 Bathurst 12 Hour, aiming to replicate its impressive 1-2 finish from the previous year while celebrating the legacy of BMW Art Cars. The team will feature a BMW M4 GT3 EVO adorned with a vibrant design by Australian artist Ken Done, paying homage to the iconic Art Car series as part of the 50-year anniversary of this unique fusion of art and motorsport.
Formula 1 is preparing for discussions regarding potential modifications to the race start procedures, prompted by safety concerns linked to the complexities of launching the 2026 cars. Drivers have expressed difficulties in managing the intricate requirements for optimal starts, leading to fears that the likelihood of errors during race launches could increase significantly.
Lance Stroll expressed disappointment over Aston Martin's challenging pre-season testing, noting a significant gap of approximately four seconds from the leading teams. Despite the team's substantial investments and expectations, issues with the new Honda engine have hindered performance, leaving Stroll uncertain about their competitiveness as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Mercedes Formula 1 team faced another setback during the Bahrain test as Andrea Kimi Antonelli's W17 experienced a power unit failure after only three laps, leading to a complete replacement. While George Russell had a productive morning session, the team's running has been disrupted for two days, prompting potential adjustments to their schedule to allow Antonelli more time in the car.
IndyCar has confirmed a long-term agreement with Chevrolet and Honda, ensuring their roles as official engine manufacturers starting in 2027, with collaboration on upcoming engine and competition regulations for the 2028 season. This partnership allows both companies to maintain their legacies in the series while also securing charters that will enhance their involvement and support for the sport's growth.
The GT500 class in SUPER GT will experience a notable reduction in fuel flow as part of updated success handicap regulations for the upcoming season. The baseline fuel flow has been lowered to 90.2 kg/h for cars with a nominal handicap of up to 50 kg, with further decreases for heavier handicaps, while a new system for refueling rig restrictors aims to extend pit stop durations.
Formula E has confirmed that the upcoming Tokyo E-Prix will take place at night, with races scheduled to begin at 8 PM local time, significantly later than initially planned. This shift not only aligns with European viewing times but also allows the event to adapt to Japan's summer conditions, while highlighting the city's lively nightlife.
CURIOSITIES
During the testing sessions in Bahrain, Williams introduced a unique feature to its garage monitors, which now display animated eyes, capturing the attention of those in the paddock. Despite missing earlier testing in Barcelona, team principal James Vowles expressed optimism about the team's progress, emphasizing the importance of accumulating mileage to refine the car's performance and address any issues.
Kyosho has introduced a new remote-controlled crawler modeled after the Toyota FJ60 Land Cruiser, marking a departure from its previous offerings in this category. Designed with a unique platform, this 1:10-scale vehicle features a robust chassis and advanced suspension, making it an appealing choice for enthusiasts and families alike.
A Nissan Rogue unexpectedly ended up perched on a classic 300ZX at a car wash in Missouri, with the sports car's low front acting as an unintended ramp. Fortunately, no injuries occurred during the incident, although the 300ZX sustained noticeable damage while the Rogue remained largely unscathed.
The Ford Model T, which was produced from 1908 until 1927, achieved remarkable sales with over 15 million units sold globally, and many still remain operational today. A 1927 four-door Tourer recently found in a Swedish barn after 36 years of storage is in impressive shape, having been maintained by its original family, and is now displayed in a local car museum.
Aurora, an autonomous trucking firm based in Pittsburgh, is set to significantly expand its fleet of driverless delivery vehicles, with plans to enhance its software allowing for continuous travel between Fort Worth and Phoenix. This update will enable trucks to cover the 1,000-mile journey without the need for breaks, unlike human drivers who must rest after 11 hours on the road.
The US Department of Transportation has implemented new regulations aimed at preventing unqualified foreign nationals from acquiring commercial driver’s licenses, addressing significant safety concerns linked to past accidents. These updated rules require enhanced verification processes for applicants, so that only individuals with valid immigration status and verified driving histories can obtain licenses to operate large vehicles.
A resident in Michigan received a threatening video via WhatsApp, depicting an apparent attack on his truck, which authorities suspect was fabricated using AI technology. After the sender demanded $500 to prevent the supposed assault, the man reported the incident to the police, who found no evidence of an actual crime or damage to the vehicle, leading them to classify it as a scam attempt.
That's all for today! We would love to hear your feedback, so just reply to this message to let us know what you thought about this issue. See you next time!