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Audi Leaks its Coupe Concept
Andrew Evans
September 01, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
McLaren confirms Norris retirement wasn’t down to the engine
Michigan’s famous low bridge claims its 100th truck
Lotus Emira to live on as a hybrid model, with new V6 coming too
Overland-converted Honda S2000 driving from Spain to Japan
Genesis GMR-001 completes 3,000km LMDh test
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
A recent image from Audi's Canadian social media looks to have accidentally shown its new concept vehicle set to debut at the Munich Motor Show, which is expected to influence the design of upcoming Audi models, including a two-seat sports car. The silhouette suggests a fresh design direction, with design elements that pay homage to the Audi TT and the second-generation R8, with speculation around an electric powertrain and a removable roof panel.
The Lotus Emira will continue production beyond its initially scheduled end in 2027, as the troubled company plans to introduce two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid and an alternative V6 engine. This decision comes in response to upcoming Euro 7 emissions regulations, with further details about the new powertrains yet to be revealed.
The Ford Mustang GTD is significantly wider than the standard car and, at 81.8 inches, would qualify for a requirement to fit amber lights on vehicles over 80 inches in width for safety, which have become popular among off-road enthusiasts as a result. However Ford has argued that the GTD doesn’t meet the threshold to be considered a working, or dual-purpose, vehicle under the same regulations, allowing the car to be produced without these additional lights.
The Fiat Grande Panda, initially expected in the UK this spring, is set to arrive soon with a nationwide dealer tour starting this week, followed by customer deliveries in the autumn. The model, offered in both mild hybrid and electric variants, has seen a price reduction due to the introduction of a new entry-level trim, making it competitive against other vehicles in its class.
Sony Honda Mobility plans to start delivering its Afeela 1 electric sedan in California by next spring, but this direct sales model has prompted franchised Honda and Acura dealers to seek legal action to prevent the company from accepting reservations. This dispute highlights ongoing tensions between traditional dealerships and manufacturers pursuing direct sales, particularly as Afeela's approach could undermine consumer protections offered by established retail networks.
This week, Thornley Kelham, a small British firm, introduces a new restomod based on the Jaguar XK, which imagines an evolution of the classic model had it continued beyond the XK150. The XK European Roadster boasts significant enhancements, including a 3.9-liter engine producing 360bhp, modern suspension, and a range of contemporary features, with only 25 units planned for production at a price of £750,000 each.
Horse Powertrain, a collaboration between Renault and Geely, recently debuted innovative powertrain technologies at the Shanghai Auto Show, including a groundbreaking unit that merges direct injection with liquid petroleum gas in a mass-produced engine. This new HR12 LPG MHEV system, features a 1.2-liter engine and a 48V mild hybrid setup, and is set to enter production in Romania with plans for future hybrid concepts that could transform electric vehicles into hybrids with minimal modifications.
Germany's automotive sector is experiencing significant challenges, with a workforce reduction of approximately 51,500 jobs over the past year, reflecting a seven percent decline. Contributing factors include intensified competition in the electric vehicle market, difficulties in innovation, and the adverse effects of tariffs imposed by the current US administration, all amidst a broader economic slowdown in the country.
UK motorists are divided over whether to completely prohibit pavement parking or to allow local authorities to regulate it in specific areas, as a parliamentary discussion approaches. A recent RAC survey indicates that while a significant majority of drivers recognize the need for action against pavement parking, opinions are nearly evenly split between those favoring a total ban and those advocating for increased local council authority to manage the issue.
MOTORSPORT
Genesis has successfully conducted its initial comprehensive testing of the GMR-001 LMDh vehicle at Paul Ricard, paving the way for its entry into the FIA World Endurance Championship next year. Over five days, the luxury brand completed over 500 laps, focusing on optimizing software configurations and gathering valuable feedback from drivers Andre Lotterer and Pipo Derani, while also preparing for future development.
McLaren has confirmed that the issue causing Lando Norris to retire from the Dutch Grand Prix stemmed from a chassis malfunction rather than a failure of the Mercedes engine. This incident has significantly impacted Norris's chances in the 2025 Formula 1 championship, leaving him trailing his teammate Oscar Piastri by 34 points with nine races remaining.
Charles Leclerc and George Russell faced scrutiny after their on-track incident during the Dutch Grand Prix, but the stewards ultimately decided not to impose penalties on either driver. Although Leclerc was found to have exceeded track limits prior to the collision, the investigation concluded that there was insufficient evidence to determine whether he had left the track during the incident.
Lando Norris expressed that his early exit from the Dutch Grand Prix significantly hindered his championship aspirations, yet he remains determined to push forward in the remaining races. Norris acknowledges the challenge ahead with only nine races remaining but is focused on giving his best to secure victories in each of the upcoming events.
Lewis Hamilton will serve a five-place grid penalty at the upcoming Italian Grand Prix due to exceeding speed limits during reconnaissance laps before the Dutch Grand Prix, violating directives aimed at ensuring safety. The stewards felt that Hamilton hadn’t slowed sufficiently on approach to the pit entry despite the British driver reducing his speed and braking earlier.
Carlos Sainz expressed frustration over a ten-second penalty he received for a collision with Liam Lawson during a safety car restart, deeming the decision "unacceptable" and questioning the stewarding standards in Formula 1. Following the race, Sainz attempted to discuss the incident with the stewards but was denied access, further aggravating his dissatisfaction with the situation.
Mike Conway will be absent from the upcoming World Endurance Championship race in Austin due to a shoulder injury, prompting Toyota to enlist Jose Maria Lopez as his replacement in the #7 Toyota GR010 HYBRID. Lopez, who previously raced for Toyota and has been preparing with the team, will join Kamui Kobayashi and Nyck de Vries for the 6-hour event on September 7.
Nick Cassidy is set to join Peugeot's Hypercar team in the World Endurance Championship starting in 2026, following a confirmed agreement that may also see him racing for the Maserati MSG Racing team in Formula E during the 2025/26 season. With prior experience in the GTE AM class and a successful career in various racing formats, Cassidy is expected to enhance Peugeot's driver lineup as it prepares for its fourth season in WEC.
Toyota has unveiled the Supra race car that will compete in the Supercars championship starting in 2026, revealing the prototype during the Bathurst 1000 event in Sydney. This marks a significant return to the series, as the manufacturer will join Chevrolet and Ford on the grid, with plans for extensive testing across Australia and participation from teams Walkinshaw Andretti United and Brad Jones Racing.
In a Southern 500 marked by mistakes on pit road among title contenders and an unexpected struggle from Hendrick Motorsports, Chase Briscoe achieved a nearly flawless performance to clinch victory for the second year in a row. Meanwhile, seven drivers in the Playoff faced challenges, with Josh Berry crashing out early in the race, as NASCAR prepares to move on to Gateway before concluding the Round of 16 at Bristol.
CURIOSITIES
In Lansing, Michigan, a railroad bridge known as "Big Penny" has gained notoriety for its unconventional design and has recently marked its 100th incident involving tall trucks since 2004. Adorned with playful decorations, the bridge continues to attract attention, yet drivers frequently overlook the numerous warnings about its height, leading to ongoing collisions.
A Honda S2000, primarily known for its sporting prowess, is being transformed by enthusiast Adri MP into an off-road capable vehicle, equipped with all-terrain tires and custom modifications. Currently on a remarkable journey from Barcelona to Tokyo, he aims to convert the car into a track-ready machine upon arrival in Japan, sharing his adventures and challenges through engaging social media updates.
KT Racing has outlined upcoming enhancements for Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, including a mid-season update set for September 10, which will introduce new features at the Wintory Casino. The developers have postponed the promised poker feature until Season 5 to better prepare the experience, while also planning to implement detective missions in Season 6 based on community feedback.
Maserati produced a limited run of just 50 units of the Maserati MC12, with half created in 2004 and the remainder in 2005, with one vehicle recently achieving the record for the highest auction price for a modern Maserati at $5.2 million. This particular model, which features a 6.0-liter V12 engine and shares components with the Ferrari Enzo, has logged just over 11,500 kilometers and showcases a striking Bianco Fuji pearlescent white exterior with blue accents.
A 1997 Toyota Supra recently sold at auction for $152,845, significantly exceeding its average market value of around $100,000, largely due to its low mileage and unmodified condition. The seller, a long-time enthusiast and second owner, had added minimal mileage since acquiring the vehicle in 2000 and is parting with it as he relocates.
Richmond Hill presents significant challenges for larger vehicles due to its narrowing path near Hardwicke Street, yet truck drivers often rely on Google Maps for navigation. This reliance has led to numerous disruptions and traffic issues in the area, highlighting the need for proper signage and the use of more suitable navigation applications designed for larger vehicles, with Google Maps primarily intended for passenger vehicles.
A unique Honda CR-X has been modified to feature a rear-mounted engine from a 1994 Prelude, creating a concept reminiscent of a Honda take on the Renault Clio V6. Currently listed for auction near Buffalo, New York, this vehicle boasts significant upgrades, including a five-speed transaxle and enhanced suspension, while maintaining an appearance that belies its performance enhancements.
The Airborne Entertainment YouTube channel embarked on a unique 24-hour challenge in Tallmadge, Ohio, where a modified Dodge Charger circled a roundabout repeatedly, aiming to maximize laps without mishaps. The vehicle, reminiscent of a former fire department unit, featured quirky modifications, including a milk dispenser replacing the windshield washer, which led to an unpleasant surprise for the drivers when the milk soured during the event.
A Florida car dealer is selling a full-sized model of a third-generation Bentley Continental GT which has been hand-made in wood. Comprising thousands of pieces of marine-grade plywood and teak, the Bentley took 3,000 hours to build, though the artist is unknown, and the 907kg model is listed on eBay for $98,900.
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