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BMW Supplies iX to the Pope
Andrew Evans
December 10, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Europe’s combustion engine ban could be delayed to 2040
Verstappen tops highest-paid F1 driver list for 2025
UK government rules out equal protection for cats and dogs
Skoda’s Vision O progresses towards production with new prototype
New FIA Superlicence points allocation for IndyCar
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Several car manufacturers have consistently criticized the European Union's plan to prohibit the sale of new combustion-engine vehicles by 2035, arguing that such a transition to electric vehicles is premature due to high costs and inadequate charging infrastructure. In response to industry concerns, reports suggest that the EU may delay this deadline to 2039, with further details on the revised regulations expected soon.
The Skoda Vision O concept, first revealed at the Munich motor show, has progressed with the introduction of a working prototype, although it remains several years away from production. Positioned as a potential successor to the Octavia, this electric estate will likely feature a combination of plug-in hybrid and fully electric options while also introducing new design elements and innovative features from the brand.
Nissan's new global CEO faces significant challenges in cost-cutting efforts, while Christian Meunier, the chairman for the Americas, is equally determined to regain market presence in the US. Since taking charge at the beginning of the year, Meunier has stated the need for a clear vision, as the company grapples with declining sales and increased competition, particularly following recent turmoil.
Kia has introduced the latest version of the Seltos, which will make its debut in the UK and Europe next year, expanding its market presence. This new model, designed to appeal to lifestyle-oriented consumers, features a robust aesthetic and offers various powertrain options, including a hybrid variant expected in 2026.
The 2026 Subaru Uncharted is set to launch early next year with a starting price of $34,995, offering two powertrain options and a range exceeding 300 miles. This new entry-level electric vehicle features front-wheel drive as standard, while an all-wheel drive variant boasts 338hp, enhancing its appeal in the competitive EV market.
Stellantis has reportedly defaulted on its agreements with the Canadian government, which provided substantial financial assistance, following the company's relocation of Jeep Compass production from Ontario to Illinois. The Canadian government has indicated that Stellantis may be liable for over $150 million already disbursed, as the automaker's recent decisions are seen as violations of their contractual obligations.
VinFast is scaling back its operations in the US by shifting to a franchised dealer model and closing several stores, including half of its Canadian locations, due to sluggish electric vehicle sales and changing market conditions. The company, which has faced significant financial losses and challenges in its expansion plans, now operates fewer than twenty retail outlets while promising continued service through its remaining franchise partners.
Hyundai is initiating a recall for specific G90 sedans finished in Savile Silver due to a potential issue where the paint's aluminum content may interfere with front corner radar sensors, leading to unexpected braking. This recall, which affects approximately 483 vehicles from the 2023-2026 model years equipped with the Highway Driving Assist feature, was officially reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on December 1.
MOTORSPORT
Max Verstappen concluded the 2025 Formula 1 season as the top earner among drivers, despite falling short of securing a fifth consecutive championship title. Although Lewis Hamilton's base salary exceeded Verstappen's, the latter's performance bonuses ultimately positioned him as the highest-paid driver, followed by Lando Norris, who claimed the championship, and his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri.
The FIA has updated the superlicence points distribution for IndyCar, effective from the 2026 season, addressing long-standing concerns about the previous allocation's generosity. Under the new system, the top ten finishers will receive points in a revised manner, enhancing IndyCar's position as a key pathway to Formula 1, although it is not intended solely as a stepping stone to the premier championship.
Starting in 2026, Formula 1 will allow for the extension of free practice sessions during sprint weekends if a red flag occurs, ensuring teams have adequate time to prepare. This adjustment, applicable only if the session is halted before the 45-minute mark, aims to enhance practice opportunities without affecting the overall structure of regular grand prix weekends.
Honda is set to fully re-enter Formula 1 in 2026 by partnering with Aston Martin, marking a significant shift as the team transitions to a works outfit after years of collaboration with Mercedes. The Japanese marque hasn’t set definitive performance targets for the first season, instead focusing on building a cohesive team dynamic, as it looks towards long-term title success.
The 2026 F1 Academy calendar will feature 14 races over seven weekends, including new venues at Silverstone and Austin, replacing Miami and Singapore. The season will kick off in Shanghai and conclude at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, with F1 Academy's managing director emphasizing the series' growing visibility and commitment to fostering female talent in motorsport.
Ferrari's F1 team principal, Fred Vasseur, remains unconcerned by the public criticisms from drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, despite the discontent expressed by chairman John Elkann. Vasseur notes the importance of behind-the-scenes communication but encourages his drivers to voice their frustrations, viewing it as a necessary part of the team's pursuit of improvement and future success.
The FIA has announced that the ninth edition of the GT World Cup will return to Macau from November 19 to 22, 2026, pending circuit approval. This event will once again take place on the iconic Guia Circuit and will include the FIA TCR World Tour, following a successful race this year that saw Antonio Fuoco secure a historic win for Ferrari.
Kalle Rovanpera had to withdraw from the Super Formula test at Suzuka due to health issues after completing just one morning session. He experienced symptoms related to vertigo, which led to a doctor's recommendation to refrain from driving for the remainder of the event.
CURIOSITIES
BMW's iX, the brand's largest electric SUV, has recently garnered attention after the Italian division presented a model to Pope Leo XIV during a ceremonial event. This gesture underscores the company's commitment to environmental stewardship, aligning with the Pope's advocacy for sustainability, while also marking a significant moment in the vehicle's lifecycle as it approaches its eventual phase-out.
The UK government has declined to implement regulations requiring drivers to report incidents involving cats, despite a petition from over 10,000 advocates seeking similar protections as those for dogs. The Department for Transport cited enforcement difficulties due to cats' smaller sizes and their active hours, stating that many drivers may not even realize they have struck a cat, complicating potential prosecutions.
A small aircraft made an emergency landing on I-95 in Florida, landing atop a Toyota Camry and resulting in minor injuries for the 57-year old driver. The Federal Aviation Administration has initiated an investigation into the engine failure that prompted the pilot's descent onto a busy rush-hour freeway.
Rocketeer has engineered a powerful 3.0-liter V6 variant of the NA Mazda Miata, dubbed the 'Keiryo', which delivers an impressive 370 horsepower while maintaining a lightweight design. With a weight of just 1,874 pounds, this modified sports car achieves a power-to-weight ratio rivaling that of high-performance supercars like the Ferrari F40.
In a recent incident in San Francisco, three Waymo autonomous vehicles found themselves immobilized in a dead-end situation, with two of the cars making contact while a third waited idly. A human employee eventually intervened to resolve the standoff, highlighting the limitations of self-driving technology in complex scenarios where human intuition is often required.
A Plymouth Superbird, painted in Alpine White and featuring a black interior, is currently up for auction with the potential to set a new record for its class due to impressive provenance. Although the car is powered by a 440ci V8 engine rather than the more coveted Hemi variant, it was owned by racing icon Richard Petty for over three decades and has been restored to its original specifications, complete with his signature, unique touches, and certification of being part of the Petty Museum collection.
In Romania, a 49-year old man experienced a diabetic episode while driving a Mercedes-Benz, resulting in a dramatic crash where the vehicle launched from a roundabout and narrowly missed gas station pumps. Authorities responded promptly, and although the driver sustained some injuries, he was treated and released, later receiving a fine and potentially facing a license suspension.
A woman from New Jersey has initiated legal action against Volvo, claiming that a hands-free power tailgate struck her head resulting in a traumatic brain injury, during a hiking trip. The lawsuit raises significant questions about the safety of smart tailgate systems, alleging that the device is overly sensitive and lacks sufficient protective measures to prevent accidents.
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