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Aston Martin Valkyrie Owner Sues to Return "Dangerous" Hypercar
Andrew Evans
June 19, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Lanzante to reveal new 95-59 supercar at Goodwood
Surprise endorsement for Briatore to take over at Scuderia Ferrari
Gran Turismo 7 game update coming next week
Land Rover Defender special edition honors Camel Trophy
McLaren apologizes after IndyCar driver’s foul-mouthed tirade
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Lanzante is set to reveal the 95-59 supercar at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, honoring the legendary #59 McLaren F1 GTR that triumphed at Le Mans in 1995. Designed by former McLaren designer Paul Howse, this limited-edition vehicle will feature a carbon fiber structure based on a McLaren chassis, and be produced in just 59 units.
Land Rover has introduced a special edition of the Defender that draws inspiration from its historic Camel Trophy models, featuring off-road enhancements and vintage color options. This Defender 110 variant includes distinctive 20-inch alloy wheels, a choice of eye-catching paint finishes, and an optional accessory pack.
Ford has announced a recall affecting nearly all Mustang Mach-E vehicles due to a potential safety issue where occupants could become trapped if the 12-volt battery discharges below a certain level. This recall impacts over 300,000 units globally, with a stop-sale order in place, while Ford prepares a software update to address the problem.
Volkswagen is considering the development of a high-performance ID 2 R, which would incorporate in-wheel motors as part of an advanced four-wheel drive system. This model, positioned above the ID 2 GTI, aims to enhance performance through independent rear wheel motors while maintaining practicality, with a debut planned for 2026.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating the Nissan Cube after a crash revealed that the airbag module detached instead of deploying properly, raising concerns about the airbag system's reliability. Its inquiry focuses on a potential manufacturing flaw at a weld point in the Takata PSDI-X inflators used in 2009 models, while Nissan is currently gathering parts for further analysis without yet issuing a recall.
A recent study indicates that electric vehicle batteries exhibit minimal degradation, averaging a decline of just 1.8% annually, which allows them to potentially last for far longer than the average age of a car in the USA. While battery failure can occur, the rate is remarkably low, with fewer than 0.5% of EV batteries from the last ten years experiencing significant issues.
Nissan is focusing on solid-state battery technology as a crucial element for revitalizing its electric vehicle lineup, with expectations for enhanced range, quicker charging, and reduced costs. The automaker anticipates launching its initial solid-state battery EV by 2028, although rivals are also racing to bring their own versions to market.
The upcoming Kia EV9 GT, set to debut in the UK this summer with a starting price of £82,185, will be one of the quickest seven-seater electric SUVs with its dual-motor setup delivering a total of 502bhp. As well as achieving 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds, this model also incorporates advanced driving dynamics with electronic suspension and enhanced braking capabilities, although its range is lower than more efficient sibling models.
MOTORSPORT
Flavio Briatore, currently at Alpine, has received support from Ignazio La Russa, the President of the Italian Senate, for a potential leadership role at Ferrari. Despite his lack of experience with the Maranello team and controversial past, La Russa believes Briatore could bring significant changes to the struggling squad, although he emphasizes that deeper issues within the organization need to be addressed.
McLaren has responded to the inappropriate language used by driver Nolan Siegel during an IndyCar event, which followed a controversial penalty he received for blocking another competitor. Following the incident, Siegel publicly expressed regret in a video, acknowledging his emotional reaction and emphasizing his respect for his peers and the sport.
Williams encountered a challenging race in Canada, with Alex Albon forced to retire due to engine troubles while Carlos Sainz managed to secure a solitary point after starting from 16th. Both drivers expressed frustration over missed opportunities, citing technical issues and strategic missteps that could impact the team's standings as the season progresses.
Max Verstappen has expressed that Formula 1 is unlikely to return to the Nordschleife due to safety concerns, despite the track still hosting other racing events, including GT3 endurance races. He believes that while the Nordschleife is manageable for GT3 cars after testing there recently, the current F1 vehicles make it too hazardous for competition, though he would prefer a shorter calendar that prioritizes other historic tracks.
Mick Schumacher believes that his time away from Formula 1 and racing in the World Endurance Championship has enhanced his skills and prepared him for a potential comeback with Cadillac, which is set to enter the series next season. He reflects on his experiences with various teams as valuable learning opportunities that have enhanced his understanding of racing dynamics and driver psychology.
Isack Hadjar is optimistic that the upcoming technical regulations in 2026 could facilitate his transition to Red Bull, especially following his notable performances in his debut season. While acknowledging the varying timelines for driver development, he expressed enthusiasm for the potential fresh start that the new rules may provide.
George Russell disclosed that two high-ranking members of the Mercedes team were unable to catch their return flights to the UK following a protest from Red Bull regarding his conduct during the race in Montreal. The protest, which claimed Russell acted unsportsmanlike and fell too far behind the safety car, was ultimately dismissed after a lengthy review by the stewards, leading to Russell's frustration over the situation's impact on his team's schedule.
The second day of practice and qualifying at the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb saw competitors tackling various sections of the course, with Robb Holland leading the Time Attack 1 division. Meanwhile, Lance Fenderson, a quadriplegic racer, is making strides in his hand-controlled BMW M2 CS Racing, and Dai Yoshihara is adapting to driving the event's first hydrogen-powered vehicle, the Honda CR-V e:FCEV.
FUN STUFF
A German owner of an Aston Martin Valkyrie has filed a lawsuit, claiming the hypercar is both hazardous and unreliable, citing issues such as a malfunctioning headphone system that he claims nearly caused a serious accident. After paying €3 million for the vehicle three years ago the unnamed owner reports numerous problems, including damage related to a faulty suspension locking mechanism, leading him to seek a return of the car
The next update for Gran Turismo 7 is set to launch next week, introducing three new vehicles, all from a single European umbrella brand. Series creator Kazunori Yamauchi teased the vehicles via social media while revealing that the update is on its way, expected to be around June 26, although additional details remain undisclosed.
Volvo has introduced a new feature called "Abbey Road Studios Mode" in its EX90 electric vehicle, designed to emulate the acoustic environment of the legendary Abbey Road Studios through its advanced Bowers & Wilkins audio system. This mode allows drivers to experience a unique sound profile tailored for various listening preferences, enhancing the in-car music experience with presets that reflect the studio's iconic recording qualities.
A driver of a Ford Bronco Sport was filmed inadvertently driving into a construction zone where fresh concrete had been laid, resulting in her vehicle becoming heavily coated. Although she managed to extract her car from the mess, the incident highlights the challenges faced by road crews in Michigan, where careless driving can complicate repair efforts.
Brembo is entering the downhill mountain biking sector by supplying brake systems for Specialized’s 2025 UCI MTB World Series race bike, marking its first official integration into pedal-powered vehicles. The collaboration aims to enhance braking performance in competitive settings, with the Specialized Gravity Team set to debut this new technology at the upcoming Val di Sole event.
Aston Martin has introduced a luxurious residential tower in downtown Miami, featuring 391 condos that reflect the brand's style and appeal to affluent buyers, including many Aston Martin owners. Designed in collaboration with renowned architect Rodolfo Miani, the building offers a range of amenities, from private butler services to a stunning infinity pool, catering to those seeking a lifestyle that mirrors the elegance of their vehicles.
A recent fatal hit-and-run case in Canton Township, Ohio, has resulted in the local Stark County sheriff's office requesting public assistance to identify a white sedan believed to be involved in the incident. Although a vehicle with suspected front-end damage was captured on security cameras fleeing near the scene, making a positive identification on the car has proven difficult, with only a dropped passenger-side wiper providing other clues.
The ongoing issue of car thefts involving Kia models persists despite the implementation of anti-theft measures by the manufacturer. A recent incident highlighted this trend when a woman reported her locked Kia Optima stolen, revealing that the thief, a teenager, employed a widely circulated method to bypass security and was later apprehended with evidence linking him to the crime.
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!