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Audi's New Sub-Brand is Called... AUDI?
Jordan Greer
November 08, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today’s headlines include yet more naming confusion from Audi, as it launches a new sub-brand called AUDI, while Mazda looks to bring the gorgeous Iconic SP concept to production. As you catch up on these stories, remember to share the newsletter with friends who might enjoy a daily dose of automotive excitement. Happy reading!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
Audi has launched a new sub-brand for the Chinese market, simply named AUDI, which features all-caps branding to distinguish it from its traditional offerings. The first model, the AUDI E concept, boasts dual electric motors generating 764 horsepower and a range of 434 miles, with sales expected to begin in China in 2025.
Mazda plans to potentially bring the Iconic SP concept car to production, likely evolving it into the next-generation MX-5, which is expected to feature a rotary engine paired with an electric motor. The company is also focusing on improving rotary engine emissions compliance and has announced the formation of a new development group for rotary engines set to begin in February 2025.
Volvo's safety manager, Claudia Zarra, expressed skepticism about the practicality of full self-driving cars, emphasizing that their safety relies on ideal road conditions and stating that Volvo will not release fully autonomous vehicles until they are deemed completely safe. The company, which introduced its 360c autonomous concept in 2018, is currently focusing on its commercial vehicle division, having recently unveiled a production-ready fully autonomous lorry.
Bentley plans to unveil its first fully electric vehicle in 2026 as part of its updated Beyond100+ electrification strategy, which now aims for an all-electric lineup by 2035 instead of 2030. The new model, described as a "Luxury Urban SUV," will be smaller than the current Bentayga and is intended to attract a different customer base, despite acknowledging limited demand for electric options among traditional buyers.
Porsche Cars North America has recalled 1,851 vehicles due to potential issues with center lock wheel bolts that may not meet construction specifications, raising concerns about possible fractures. The company has advised affected vehicle owners to refrain from using their cars until an inspection can be conducted, with notifications to owners expected to begin in late December.
Rivian has secured a battery supply agreement with LG Energy Solution for its upcoming R2 electric SUV, which is expected to launch in 2026 and will utilize advanced 4695 cylindrical cells. The partnership aims to enhance the vehicle's performance with a projected range of over 300 miles, while Rivian anticipates a starting price of $45,000, positioning the R2 against competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Mercedes-AMG is set to introduce its first standalone super electric SUV, developed entirely from scratch on the new AMG. EA electric platform, with testing anticipated to begin this summer. The vehicle aims to leverage advanced axial-flux motor technology from Yasa, promising enhanced torque and efficiency, and will compete with upcoming electric models from Porsche and BMW.
Mazda has introduced a new 'Skyactiv Z' four-cylinder petrol engine family, which features a leaner combustion process aimed at improving efficiency and meeting stricter emissions standards, with a debut expected in the next-generation CX-5 SUV by 2027. The upcoming CX-5 will also incorporate a new petrol-electric hybrid system and is designed to be 60% less complex to manufacture, enhancing production efficiency and streamlining customer options.
Google’s Waymo division is leading the charge in the self-driving car race, but the company’s most recent patent in the field regards technology that will allow you to drive but take over if it thinks you are driving badly. The system will monitor driving and could override unsafe driving behaviors, enhancing road safety by intervening in emergencies or reckless situations, but raises significant concerns about personal freedom and privacy.
Renault's next-generation Clio, set to launch next year, will exclusively feature a hybrid powertrain, moving away from pure-petrol engines to meet stringent EU emissions targets. The new model will showcase updated design elements and is expected to be built on the existing CMF-B platform, with a focus on maintaining affordability for consumers amid the transition to electrified vehicles.
Mitsubishi announced on November 7 its plan to buy back up to 149,028,300 shares from Nissan, reducing Nissan's stake in Mitsubishi from 34.07 percent to 24.05 percent. Despite this share buyback, the two companies will continue their collaboration on various projects, including plans for a mid-size pickup for the U.S. market.
MOTORSPORT
The Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA) has publicly criticized FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem for his choice of language regarding driver conduct and fines, expressing concerns over his comments on swearing and the enforcement of rules on jewelry and undergarments. The letter highlights the drivers' desire for transparency regarding financial penalties and their frustration with feeling unheard by the FIA, marking their first collective public statement since 2017.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali indicated that some European Grands Prix may soon adopt a rotational schedule due to the crowded calendar, which already features a record 24 races. While there is significant interest from new venues, existing contracts with many European circuits could complicate this plan, as some tracks rely on annual races for financial stability.
Williams Racing has reported that recent accidents involving drivers Alex Albon and Franco Colapinto during the last two Formula 1 weekends have led to an unsustainable depletion of spare parts, leaving the team short on resources ahead of the upcoming Las Vegas race. Team principal James Vowles acknowledged the challenges posed by the five major crashes, emphasizing the need for the team to optimize its car configuration and ensure adequate spares to compete effectively.
The FIA has announced an increase in superlicence points for the Super Formula series starting in 2025, with the champion now receiving 30 points, aligning it with Formula E and FIA Formula 3. This change reflects the series' evolution and the growing number of races, which will rise to 12, as well as the success of its drivers in advancing to higher FIA championships, including Formula 1.
The F1 Academy champion for 2024 will earn a fully-funded drive in the GB3 series with Rodin Motorsport, along with 20 days of testing, as part of an initiative to support female drivers in motorsport. This announcement aligns with GB3's introduction of a new car for 2025 and an expanded race calendar, reflecting ongoing efforts to enhance opportunities for women in the sport.
A Subaru BRZ, classified as a Category N write-off, is being restored by veterans through Mission Motorsport, a charity focused on helping former service members transition to new careers via motorsport. The project not only aims to return the car to roadworthy condition but also to create an inclusive vehicle for disabled veterans, with it set to participate in the Race of Remembrance event this weekend.
An appeals panel investigating the NASCAR race manipulation incident in Martinsville decided to uphold penalties awarded to the teams involved, in order to maintain the integrity of the sport. Three teams initially planned to appeal but 23XI withdrew its appeal while both Chevrolet teams, Trackhouse and RCR, proceeded only to see both appeals denied.
Liam Lawson recounted an incident from their junior racing days where Yuki Tsunoda employed a tactic of closely passing him at high speeds, which Lawson interpreted as an attempt to intimidate. This behavior culminated in a crash during a session in Macau, where Tsunoda's maneuver resulted in significant damage to both cars, leading Lawson to suspect Tsunoda had deliberately misjudged the situation.
Ferrari plans to introduce an Evo version of its 296 GT3 for the 2026 racing season, focusing on improvements in aerodynamics, drivability, and reliability while maintaining the current engine and overall design. The decision to hold off on significant updates for 2025 follows successful performances in various championships, including key victories at the Nürburgring 24 and Rolex 24 at Daytona.
CURIOSITIES
A Lamborghini Huracan was destroyed by fire in Albany, New York, after the driver lost control while driving too fast for a curve on Clarksville Road South. Although the driver escaped with minor injuries, the incident occurred during a cruise with other exotic cars, which had reportedly been racing in the area for several hours prior to the crash.
An 18-year-old driver was arrested for allegedly exceeding the legal alcohol limit after his 2004 Mazda6 was involved in a high-speed crash in Baulkham Hills, Australia, on November 5, resulting in the car being sliced in half. Both the driver and the other vehicle's driver, a 45-year-old, escaped serious injury, but the Mazda's driver faces charges that could lead to significant fines and license suspension due to his blood alcohol content of 0.110, more than double the legal limit.
The 1990 C1-class Spice SE90C-017, known as "The Pink Spice," has a rich racing history, including participation in the Japan Supercar Championship and an attempt by an all-women team at Le Mans in 1991. After various ownerships and successful racing stints, including wins in the Group C revival series, the car is now available for sale in race-ready condition, featuring a low-hour Cosworth DFR engine and a range of spares.
The Japan Automotive Hall of Fame has revealed its 2024 inductees, which include the 1909 NS-go motorcycle, the Toyota 2000GT, the first-generation Suzuki Alto, and the first-generation Subaru Legacy, all recognized for their significant contributions to Japan's automotive history. Each vehicle was selected by a panel of judges comprising industry experts, highlighting milestones from Japan's early motorcycle production to advancements in sports cars and kei cars.
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