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BMW's M8-Based Speedtop Revealed
Andrew Evans
May 26, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
F1 team bosses call for Monaco track changes
Detailing an Aston Martin Valkyrie is a high-risk affair
Lamborghini and Balenciaga reveal fashion collaboration
Ferrari F40 track toy conversion up for sale
Vowles apologises to Wolff mid-race for Monaco tactics
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
BMW has introduced the Speedtop concept at this year's Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, which serves as a shooting brake variant of the previously unveiled Skytop. Unlike the earlier Z4 shooting brake concept that never reached production, the automaker plans to manufacture 70 units of the Speedtop, although it will not be available in the US market.
Balenciaga is officially unveiling its collaboration with Lamborghini, featuring a diverse range of apparel and accessories intended to reflect the brand's performance-inspired design. This collection, which includes oversized jackets, graphic tees, and accessories like handbags and jewelry, is available at select stores and online, but potential buyers should be prepared for steep prices that rival those of actual Lamborghini vehicles.
The Bovensiepen family, known for its work with Alpina, has established a new coachbuilding venture, debuting a powerful 600bhp super-GT named the Zagato at the Villa d'Este Concorso d'Eleganza. This grand tourer, based on the BMW M4 and crafted in collaboration with the renowned Italian design firm Zagato, offers extensive customization and features a distinctive design that sets it apart from its BMW origins.
Nissan is considering the sale of its Yokohama headquarters, valued at approximately 100 billion yen, as part of a strategy to address its financial difficulties exacerbated by recent tariffs. In light of these challenges, Japanese and US officials are engaging in discussions to seek a resolution regarding the tariffs impacting foreign automakers.
As of 2025, the average age of vehicles in the United States has reached 12.8 years, with passenger cars aging more rapidly than light trucks, while hybrids are trending relatively newer at 6.4 years. This culture of longer vehicle retention is expected to significantly boost the aftermarket industry as older cars exit their warranties, leading to increased demand for maintenance and repair services.
A class-action lawsuit in California accuses Tesla of employing predictive algorithms to artificially inflate odometer readings, potentially voiding warranties and leading to significant repair costs for vehicle owners. If the allegations are proven, the financial repercussions for Tesla could be substantial, with estimates suggesting a potential annual gain of nearly $4 billion from this practice.
A federal judge in Michigan has placed Bollinger Motors into receivership due to significant financial troubles, including claims that the company owes its founder over $10 million. Despite this setback, CEO Bryan Chambers remains optimistic, asserting that receivership can provide a pathway for the company to recover rather than face liquidation.
MOTORSPORT
Several Formula One team bosses have suggested that the Monaco street circuit layout should be changed, following a lacklustre 2025 event in which new pit stop regulations failed to address the course’s unique issues with overtaking. While the Automobile Club de Monaco believes that layout changes are almost impossible, McLaren’s Andrea Stella, Mercedes’ Toto Wolff, and Red Bull’s Christian Horner all agreed that it would be a solution to the problem.
Toto Wolff revealed that Williams team principal James Vowles reached out to him during the Monaco Grand Prix to express regret over the strategic decisions made by his team. Despite the frustration these tactics caused, Wolff acknowledged that Vowles acted out of necessity to secure valuable points for his drivers in a challenging race.
Max Verstappen reflected on his chances for the F1 championship after finishing fourth at the Monaco Grand Prix, where Red Bull faced significant challenges once again. Despite the team's historical difficulties at this circuit, Verstappen acknowledged that they performed well given the limitations, though he remains focused on each race rather than the overall title standings.
After the Monaco Grand Prix, Alex Albon and George Russell shared a dinner, with Albon humorously agreeing to cover the bill due to Russell's frustrations over being stuck behind the Williams during the race. Albon explained that the team's strategy to slow down competitors was a reaction to similar tactics used by other teams, acknowledging the challenges of overtaking on the narrow circuit.
In the aftermath of the Monaco Grand Prix, Racing Bulls effectively navigated the new two-stop rule, demonstrating strategic prowess that benefitted both Isack Hadjar and Liam Lawson, who finished sixth and eighth respectively. The team's approach, which included clever tactics to create advantageous gaps during pit stops, was praised by their leadership and highlighted as a key factor in their performance amidst the competitive landscape of Formula 1.
Thailand is preparing to propose a Formula 1 street race in Bangkok for 2028, with plans to seek cabinet approval next week, according to a government representative. The initiative aims to promote environmentally friendly practices and attract investment in green technology while boosting tourism in the country.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has confirmed his intention to seek re-election in December, emphasizing the need for additional time to achieve his motorsport objectives. Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz Sr. has expressed interest in challenging him for the position, marking the first indication of potential opposition, though Sainz maintains that his candidacy would not conflict with his son's participation in Formula 1.
The 2025 Indy 500 faced a delayed start due to rain, but once the race commenced, Alex Palou showcased impressive skill to secure victory. The event was marked by multiple incidents, including a fire in Alexander Rossi's pit and several crashes, but ultimately, Palou's strategic driving and timely pit stops led him to his first win on an oval track.
Ash Sutton maintains his lead in the British Touring Car Championship standings after securing two podium finishes at Snetterton, including a third place in the first race and a second place in the final reverse grid event. With a 15-point cushion over his competitors, Sutton looks ahead to Thruxton, where he aims to build on his previous successes despite challenges faced during the weekend.
FUN STUFF
Aston Martin's Valkyrie, an ultra-rare supercar limited to just 275 hand-built units, arrived at a detailing studio requiring meticulous care due to its high value and complex features. The detailing process involves extensive cleaning and protective measures, particularly in the interior, where costly mistakes could occur, all while preparing the vehicle for track use after its thorough polishing and PPF application.
A unique 1989 Ferrari F40 “Competizione”, which has a documented racing history and significant modifications, will be auctioned today, with an estimated value between $2.6 million and $3.1 million. Originally a standard road car, this F40 underwent a comprehensive transformation into a track-ready racer for then-owner Ian Hetherington - the game developer behind the Wipeout series - complete with performance enhancements and spare parts for potential future builds.
A 2001 Ferrari F2001, renowned for its pivotal role in securing Ferrari's first back-to-back titles, recently fetched €15,980,000 at the Monaco Grand Prix, marking it as one of the most expensive F1 cars ever sold. The proceeds from this sale will partially benefit the Michael Schumacher Keep Fighting Foundation, highlighting the vehicle's enduring legacy beyond its racing achievements.
A meticulously restored 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is currently available through an online auction, having undergone significant refurbishment in 2011 and featuring a striking Cortez Silver exterior paired with a Black interior. While the vehicle boasts a powerful GM Performance Parts 502ci V8 engine and several upgraded components, it does exhibit some wear and minor issues that potential buyers should consider before bidding, which remains open until the end of this month.
Drivers who want a Nissan Skyling GT-R but need something a little more practical can bid on this unusual Nissan Stagea, available at auction in the UK at the start of next month. Likely to be more attainable than its more famous sedan sibling, the Stagea shares its underpinnings with the R33-generation Skyline, as well as the 280hp RB25DET of the Skyline GT-T and all-wheel drive.
A Mini Cooper S with a unique history is listed for sale in a classified ad, with the vehicle being an original model used in the infamous 1966 Monte Carlo Rally and driven by Mini legend Paddy Hopkirk. The car was one of the three that originally locked out the podium before it was controversially disqualified for a headlight issue, making it a cherished piece of rally history and a sought-after collectible.
A recent incident in Los Angeles involved a driverless Dodge Charger colliding with a pole after the original driver fled during a police pursuit. The chase was initiated when police identified the vehicle through license plate recognition technology, leading to a high-speed situation that prompted officers to temporarily disengage.
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!