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Aston Martin Driver Academy Launched
Andrew Evans
June 25, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Koenigsegg reveals 1603bhp “Sadair’s Spear”
McLaren P1 designer to create “Evo” model from flood-damaged model
Wolff explains why Mercedes has no interest in Le Mans Hypercars
Gran Turismo 7’s latest update arrives June 26, with WRC champ Delta
Striking Bentayga highlights Bentley’s commitment to customization
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Bentley's Mulliner division is expanding its customization offerings, responding to a demand for even more personalized options beyond the already extensive selection of colors and trims. A recent example includes a unique Bentayga EQB Azure finished in a custom Candy Pink, highlighting the brand's commitment to tailoring vehicles to individual preferences, despite the time-intensive manufacturing process involved.
The Koenigsegg Sadair's Spear, inspired by founder Christian von Koenigsegg's father's racing horse, builds on the Jesko's performance with enhanced power and weight reductions, achieving an impressive 1,603bhp when fueled with E85. Featuring advanced aerodynamics and engineering, this hypercar remains road legal while beating the Jesko Attack’s laptime at the home Gotland Ring circuit, with only 30 examples available.
Nissan has officially launched the Patrol Nismo, which shares its design with the Armada Nismo but stands out with a more powerful engine. The Patrol Nismo features a robust 495hp, twin-turbo V6, surpassing the Armada's output, and is equipped with advanced performance enhancements tailored for off-road enthusiasts.
Ian Callum's design firm has collaborated with the esteemed coachbuilder Wood & Pickett to transform a classic Mini into a modern hot hatch, integrating advanced technology and performance enhancements. This project uses the Mk5 Mini Sportspack chassis, upgraded with a more powerful engine, refined suspension, and bespoke interior features, with each £75,000 vehicle crafted to the specific desires of its owner.
Xiaomi's CEO, Lei Jun, has expressed the company's ambition to surpass Tesla's Model Y sales in China with the upcoming YU7 electric SUV, following the notable success of the SU7 sedan. With a production ramp-up that has seen over 180,000 SU7 units delivered in under a year, Xiaomi aims to capitalize on this momentum as it prepares to enter a competitive market dominated by Tesla's offerings.
General Motors is advancing its battery technology initiatives by investigating solid-state and sodium-ion batteries, alongside various anode and cathode chemistries, to enhance electric vehicle performance and reduce costs. The company's Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Michigan facilitates in-house development and testing of these new technologies, allowing GM greater control over the battery production process.
Ford is set to begin LFP battery production in the United States in 2026, marking a significant step toward offering more affordable electric vehicles. The new facility, backed by a substantial investment and anticipated federal tax credits, aims to bolster domestic manufacturing and enhance the company's competitiveness in the global market.
Nissan has reported a significant financial downturn, with a net loss of $4.5 billion for the previous fiscal year and an anticipated loss of $1.38 billion in the first quarter. The company's recent annual meeting revealed leadership changes on its board, alongside shareholder concerns regarding job cuts and the management's accountability for the ongoing struggles.
MOTORSPORT
Aston Martin has introduced its new Driver Academy, marking a significant step in its driver development efforts, with Spanish FIA F3 competitor Mari Boya as the inaugural member. This initiative, developed in collaboration with Fernando Alonso's karting school, aims to nurture emerging talent and enhance their skills both on and off the track.
Toto Wolff has spoken about Mercedes' absence from the Hypercar category of the World Endurance Championship, citing the problematic Balance of Power regulations as a significant deterrent. He emphasized that the team's current focus is on developing its GT3 car, with plans for a new model by 2027, and expressed a preference for a racing framework that prioritizes performance without external adjustments.
Despite recent progress in developing the Kyalami circuit in South Africa, which received FIA approval to pursue upgrades necessary for achieving Grade 1 status, the path to a potential F1 Grand Prix remains uncertain. There have been multiple bids to host a new grand prix in the continent, three for South Africa alone, while concerns about funding and the overall bidding process casting doubt on the feasibility of hosting such an event.
Christian Horner attributes some of the negative sentiment towards Red Bull Racing in Formula 1 to the team’s consistent success and their victories over British drivers, despite its UK base. He acknowledges that winning often breeds resentment, a reality he has faced since joining the sport in 2005, and emphasizes his commitment to maintaining his approach regardless of public opinion or criticism.
Sergio Perez has expressed that Red Bull played a significant role in creating a challenging atmosphere in his garage during the latter part of the 2024 Formula 1 season, leading to heightened expectations for his performance. Reflecting on his departure, he noted that the team failed to shield him from external pressures, despite being aware of the car's developmental hurdles, and he believes this contributed to the team's overall struggles.
Williams is working on solutions to address persistent cooling challenges in Formula 1, acknowledging that the issues extend beyond simple adjustments to bodywork. Team principal James Vowles indicated that while recent races have highlighted these problems, the organization is committed to a gradual improvement process across various operational aspects.
Lewis Hamilton approaches the Austrian Grand Prix on the verge of matching a challenging record in his Formula 1 career, having not finished on the podium since his second-place finish in Las Vegas. This upcoming race marks his 13th consecutive event since a top-three result, a streak that could tie his longest dry spell, while Ferrari's team principal expresses hope for improved performance at the Red Bull Ring where Hamilton has previously enjoyed success.
Daniel Ricciardo has been absent from Formula 1 since the Singapore Grand Prix last year, following his replacement by Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls, which led him to contemplate retirement. Despite this, the possibility of stepping in for Max Verstappen amid suspension concerns has sparked discussions about whether Ricciardo could either make a triumphant return or serve as a temporary solution for the team.
TOCA, the governing body of the British Touring Car Championship, has announced plans to amend the rules concerning the flat floor design of competing vehicles to eliminate any ambiguity. This decision follows discussions about the potential aerodynamic advantages of the floor's placement on EXCELR8 Motorsport’s Hyundai i30 N Fastbacks, which the team maintains complies with existing regulations.
ODDITIES
Gran Turismo series creator Kazunori Yamauchi has announced the upcoming update for GT7, set to launch on June 26, which will introduce three new vehicles. This update brings a unique collection of cars from the Stellantis group, including the championship-winning 1992 Lancia Delta HF Integrale WRC, as well as new race events and challenges featuring the advanced GT Sophy AI.
Frank Stephenson, the designer behind the original McLaren P1, is set to redevelop an example of the vehicle into a unique “Evo” model to create the fastest version ever made. The rebuild of the car, a flood-damaged example owned by YouTuber Freddy "Tavarish" Hernandez, will be documented on its owners’ YouTube channel.
Ferrari has ventured into the sailing domain with its Hypersail initiative, spearheaded by renowned Italian sailor Giovanni Soldini, aiming to merge its racing heritage with cutting-edge technology. The project features a groundbreaking 100-foot monohull yacht designed by Guillaume Verdier, set to launch in 2026, although Ferrari has no plans to participate in the America's Cup.
Broad Arrow Auctions has announced the inclusion of two notable Ferrari models for its first Zoute Concours Auction on October 10, featuring a 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4 and a 1970 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 ‘Plexi’ Daytona, both distinguished by their unique colors and storied histories. This auction will be part of the Zoute Grand Prix Car Week in Belgium, showcasing a selection of 70 exceptional collector vehicles.
Shaquille O’Neal revealed that his attempt to merge two Ferraris to accommodate his large frame turned out to be a regrettable investment, as he ultimately faced challenges with the vehicle during a rainstorm. Despite initially finding a way to make the modified car work, the unexpected weather led to significant damage, prompting him to reflect on the experience as his least favorable purchase.
Florida has enacted new legislation aimed at addressing severe speeding violations, particularly targeting drivers exceeding the speed limit by 50mph or more, as well as those driving at 100mph in a reckless manner. This law, which mandates court appearances for offenders and introduces potential fines and jail time, was influenced by a tragic incident involving the death of an 11-year old pedestrian, raising concerns about its implications for the legal system and its overall effectiveness.
A driver in a Jeep Patriot took an unauthorized detour through the National Mall in Washington DC on the evening of June 21, coming dangerously close to pedestrians. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but law enforcement eventually apprehended the individual, who is anticipated to face serious charges in court on June 23.
A 1970 Plymouth GTX is the subject of some pretty high bids in an online auction despite the fact that the car has all-but returned to the elements. Requiring nothing short of a complete restoration after an undetermined time parked up behind a junkyard, the car was originally a rare, high-specification model fitted with a standard 440ci engine which has since been removed, and will need trailering away from its current home in North Carolina.
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