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Aston Martin Reveals its First Newey-Era F1 Car
Andrew Evans
February 10, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Caterham Seven updates for 2026
Armored truck heist in Italy looks like a movie gone rogue
Cadillac F1 team isn’t aiming for points this year
BYD Atto 3 Evo gains bigger battery, more power, and RWD
Dubai Police adds Mansory Lamborghini Revuelto to fleet
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Caterham has introduced a range of visual and interior enhancements for the iconic Seven, while maintaining its pricing structure. As the company progresses towards the production of its electric Project V, the updates include new paint options and upgraded leather seating, aimed at modernizing the classic model.
The BYD Atto 3, now known as the Atto 3 Evo, has transitioned to a rear-wheel drive layout and received an upgraded battery which enhances its capacity from 60.5kWh to 74.8kWh, resulting in an extended range of 317 miles. In addition to a more powerful motor that improves acceleration, the vehicle features a revamped electrical system for faster charging and a redesigned interior that optimizes storage space and modernizes controls.
Mercedes-AMG has introduced the GLC 53, a six-cylinder model that replaces the four-cylinder GLC 43 and 63 SE Performance variants, aligning with new emission regulations and the brand's evolving strategy. Set to launch in the UK later this year, the GLC 53 features a turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six engine paired with a 48V starter-generator, delivering enhanced performance and a focus on the driving experience.
The mayor of Viry-Chatillon, Jean-Marie Vilain, has criticized Renault for failing to uphold its commitments regarding the future of its former Formula 1 engine facility. Following the company's decision to discontinue its F1 program, plans to transform the site into 'Hypertech Alpine' have reportedly been abandoned, prompting concerns about the factory's future and the impact on local employees.
A Xiaomi YU7 Max was recently seen in California, leading to speculation about the company's potential entry into the US market, which CEO Lei Jun promptly denied, suggesting the vehicle was likely acquired by a local automaker for benchmarking purposes. Despite Xiaomi's ambitions for global expansion, it currently remains focused on the Chinese market, although interest in its electric vehicles is growing internationally, particularly among industry leaders like Ford.
In late 2025, BMW introduced a patented fastener design that resembles a valve stem cap, featuring hollowed-out sections that require a specialized tool for installation and removal. While such proprietary components may benefit manufacturers, they could complicate repairs for the substantial DIY community, which represents a significant portion of auto parts sales in the US.
In July, the US Environmental Protection Agency announced plans to revoke its scientific acknowledgment of the health risks posed by greenhouse gases, despite widespread public opposition and legal obligations to regulate these pollutants. This move, spearheaded by EPA administrator Lee Zeldin, threatens to undermine vehicle efficiency standards that save lives and reduce costs, potentially leading to increased fuel prices and health risks for American families.
European nations have historically levied high tariffs on American vehicles while allowing their own manufacturers to export to the US without additional fees, but this dynamic has shifted, with US cars now enjoying tariff-free access to Europe and European brands facing a 15% duty. Despite the challenges posed by this reversal, including significant profit declines and production adjustments, Volvo's CEO Hakan Samuelsson remains relatively optimistic about the new landscape, commenting on the company's strategy to manufacture closer to its primary markets.
Toyota has announced a recall affecting 141,286 Prius models due to a potential issue where the rear door may unintentionally open while the vehicle is in motion, posing a safety risk. The affected vehicles include various 2023-2026 Prius models, and while only a small percentage are estimated to have the defect, the company plans to notify owners and provide necessary repairs to prevent this malfunction.
MOTORSPORT
Adrian Newey has remarked that Aston Martin's latest vehicle, its first under his stewardship, represents a notably distinct interpretation of the current regulations. During the car's unveiling event he acknowledged the challenges of a tight design timeline while maintaining the team's focus on foundational elements to enhance development throughout the season.
Cadillac's new Formula 1 team is approaching its debut with cautious optimism, recognizing the intense competition and the challenges ahead despite recent regulatory changes that could alter team standings. CEO Dan Towriss noted a focus on long-term development and performance improvement rather than immediate point-scoring, acknowledging that the team may initially lag in aerodynamic capabilities compared to established rivals.
In Barcelona, teams explored various innovations in active aerodynamics, with Audi and Alpine presenting notably different designs for their rear wings. The 2026 regulations have encouraged diverse engineering approaches, allowing for unique configurations that enhance aerodynamic performance across the Formula 1 grid.
As the new Formula 1 season approaches, teams are set to conduct two testing sessions in Bahrain for their 2026 vehicles, following a closed five-day shakedown in Barcelona where Mercedes' performance raised eyebrows. Amid rising concerns from rivals, including Red Bull and Ferrari, regarding a potential loophole in Mercedes' engine design, the FIA is actively working towards a resolution to ensure fair competition ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.
Cadillac has appointed Marc Hynes as the chief racing officer for its Formula 1 team, bringing a wealth of experience from his previous roles in motorsport, including partnerships with key figures in the industry. In his new position, Hynes will focus on enhancing collaboration between various departments and managing the driver program, which includes reserve driver Zhou Guanyu, as the team prepares for its inaugural season.
Christian Horner, the former CEO of Red Bull Racing, is reportedly in discussions with MSP Sports Capital about a potential investment in the Alpine Formula 1 team. Following its exit from McLaren Racing in September 2025, MSP is eager to re-enter the F1 scene, and Horner has expressed that he would consider returning to the sport only for the right opportunity with a team focused on winning.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli was involved in a traffic incident shortly before heading to Bahrain, but he emerged uninjured and is set to participate in the upcoming Formula 1 pre-season test. The accident, which involved only his recently delivered, limited edition GT 63 vehicle and a guardrail, has been acknowledged by Mercedes, confirming that he will continue with his scheduled driving duties.
Oliver Solberg, currently leading the World Rally Championship after a strong performance in Monte Carlo, emphasizes his focus on learning and adapting as he prepares for the upcoming Rally Sweden. Despite the challenge of starting first on the road, he remains optimistic about his chances, having previously won the event in the WRC2 category.
CURIOSITIES
A recent incident on Italy's State Road 613 resembled a scene from an action film, featuring an armored truck robbery that included masked assailants, gunfire, and an explosion. While details remain unclear due to varying accounts, it appears that the thieves used a vehicle with flashing lights to pose as law enforcement and halt the armored van, leading to a chaotic confrontation.
Dubai's police force has expanded its impressive fleet with the addition of a Mansory-modified Lamborghini Revuelto, joining other high-performance vehicles like the Ferrari Purosangue and a selection of luxury brands. While these exotic patrol cars primarily serve as eye-catching symbols of the city's wealth, they are also capable of fulfilling official duties when necessary, highlighting the unique blend of luxury and utility in the region.
An unusual incident at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca has escalated into a legal dispute after a telehandler collided with a parked R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R during a red flag situation, leading to significant damage to the vehicle. The car's owner, who initially sought private resolution, has now publicly detailed the situation, claiming the track is deflecting responsibility and blaming him for the crash.
Toyota has introduced Fluorite, a game engine designed to facilitate game development, rather than a vehicle concept as one might expect from the automaker. This initiative aims to foster collaboration with developers while allowing Toyota to sidestep licensing costs, reflecting the growing intersection of automotive and technology sectors.
Mattel has announced new cars in its Brick Shop range, with the Aston Martin Vantage GT3 race car joining the models in the 1:16 scale Elite range. The Aston model features 790 pieces, along with opening doors, a working steering wheel, a diecast model of the car and a metal signature plate and is available to pre-order now.
Restoring a classic vehicle often presents challenges, particularly when dealing with an aging chassis, which is why the introduction of new reproduction frames for the Toyota AE86 Corolla sparked interest among enthusiasts. However, after testing one of these newly produced chassis, the team at BigTime discovered several issues, including poor welds and misalignments, raising concerns about the overall quality.
BMW introduced the Speedtop at the India Art Fair in New Delhi, marking its first appearance in the country, although it remains a concept with plans for limited production. As demand for exclusive vehicles grows, the automaker is also working on the Skytop targa models, both of which signify the end of the 8 Series, while the Speedtop is expected to be one of the last models featuring a traditional V8 engine.
The unique Bugatti Galibier, initially unveiled in 2009, remains an impressive example of luxury automotive design, featuring a powerful twin-supercharged W16 engine and a lavish interior adorned with premium materials. Although it was intended to gauge interest for a production model, the concept was ultimately shelved as Bugatti opted to focus on its more iconic Veyron, leaving the Galibier as a remarkable concept only.
In 2025, Richmond, Virginia issued over 102,350 speeding tickets in school zones, generating approximately $6.4 million in fines, although more than $3 million remains outstanding. The city plans to enhance its traffic enforcement by relocating speed cameras to areas deemed higher risk and is also preparing to implement a red-light camera system to further address traffic safety concerns.
A recent incident in Arkansas involved a driver of a Chevy HHR attempting to evade police, ultimately abandoning the vehicle on a snowy embankment and fleeing on foot. Captured on dash cam, the pursuit began when the driver was pulled over for driving with a suspended license and no insurance, leading to multiple traffic violations and the discovery of a firearm after the arrest.
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