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Cadillac is Back in Black (For Now)
Andrew Evans
January 14, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
BMW iM3: first M EV coming in 2027
Ex-Comas Renault 5 Turbo 'Superproduction heads to auction
Ford Puma M-Sport revealed for 2026 WRC season
New Jensen Interceptor set to be V8 luxury GT
Ford provides five Broncos to National Association for Search and Rescue
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Starting in 2027 with the iM3, BMW will exclusively introduce electric models for its M lineup, marking a definitive shift away from traditional combustion engines. While the company notes this transition reflects a proactive approach to tightening emissions regulations and the evolving automotive landscape, enthusiasts who associate the M3 with various straight six and V8 models may be harder to convince.
Jensen International Automotive is preparing to introduce a brand-new luxury British GT, inspired by the classic Jensen Interceptor but designed from scratch rather than as a restomod. The company aims to create a unique driving experience with modern engineering, including an aluminum chassis and a custom V8 engine, all while targeting a niche market alongside established British brands.
Ford has introduced the Bronco RTR, a new performance variant positioned below the Raptor, featuring advanced off-road capabilities and a unique aesthetic, although it will not be available in the UK. This model is powered by a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, designed for high-speed off-roading with enhanced cooling and an anti-lag system, promising around 300 horsepower and improved handling dynamics.
A new electric prototype from Saudi Arabia’s first EV brand Ceer has been spotted testing, sporting an unusual wedge shape and what the company claims is the world’s largest windshield. Designed in Saudi Arabia, the Ceer brand is a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund and Foxconn, using technology and components from BMW and Hyundai, with a high-performance model slated to use Rimac’s electric drive system.
Genesis has unveiled the GV60 Magma, its inaugural electric sports car, in South Korea, marking a significant milestone for the brand as it seeks to establish itself as a leader in luxury EVs. This model, part of the new Magma sub-brand, combines impressive performance with refined features, including a powerful dual-motor setup and exclusive design elements, as Genesis prepares for a global rollout this year.
Land Rover has introduced two exclusive special edition models within its Range Rover lineup: the 2026 Range Rover Velar Belgravia Edition and the 2026 Range Rover Evoque Hoxton Edition, each reflecting the unique character of notable London neighborhoods. While the Velar Belgravia Edition is limited to 400 units and features distinctive design elements, the Evoque Hoxton Edition boasts its own unique styling and enhancements, with both models now available for order.
Mazda has officially ended the production of the MX-30 R-EV in Europe, an electric vehicle with a rotary range-extender, marking the conclusion of its inaugural electric vehicle model. The company cited shifting consumer preferences and production focus as factors in the decision, following the earlier discontinuation of the pure-electric variant and highlighting the model's limited sales performance in both Europe and the US.
Volkswagen has launched its largest ever vehicle, as part of the VW-SAIC joint venture in China, with the ID. Era 9X coming in at over 17 feet in length and six and a half feet in width. Sporting a mere 1.5-liter turbocharged engine as a range extender, the 9X is equipped with electric motors providing a 295hp rear-wheel drive or 510hp all-wheel drive setup, with up to 249 miles of range from the 65.2kWh battery but more than 600 miles when including the range added by the combustion engine.
Researchers have developed large “pillows” like the Soft Car 360 to drastically improve the safety of autonomous vehicle testing by allowing engineers to crash into targets without damaging the test vehicles. These inflatable, lightweight, and durable objects, which can be quickly reset after impact, are transforming the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of recreating complex collision scenarios in a controlled environment.
MOTORSPORT
The Cadillac Formula 1 Team is on the brink of its inaugural track appearance, with its first pre-season test scheduled in Barcelona in just two weeks. Ahead of this milestone, the team unveiled a temporary livery that, although simple in black and silver, features a striking design and honors its founding members, while the official team colors will be disclosed during a Super Bowl advertisement on February 8.
M-Sport Ford has unveiled the latest version of the Puma Rally1, set to compete in the 2026 World Rally Championship, featuring a fresh color scheme that replaces the previous year's design. With an all-Irish driver lineup of Joshua McErlean and Jon Armstrong, the team has concentrated on refining the car's geometry and weight distribution during the off-season to enhance performance and stability.
Mathieu Serradori secured a commanding victory for Century in the Dakar Rally's 10th stage, while Dacia's Nasser Al-Attiyah reclaimed the lead in the overall standings. Despite facing a time penalty, Serradori managed to extend his advantage significantly, finishing ahead of Al-Attiyah, who returned to the top of the leaderboard for a potential sixth overall win in the event.
Mark Rushbrook, Ford's global director, wants to manage expectations for Red Bull's upcoming car in the 2026 season, noting that the team is undergoing major changes due to new aerodynamic and power unit regulations. While Ford's collaboration with Red Bull Powertrains initially centered on battery technology, Rushbrook also highlighted its broader contributions in engine calibration and component manufacturing.
McLaren has officially welcomed Mikkel Jensen, a former Peugeot racer, as the first driver of its Hypercar team for the World Endurance Championship set to launch in 2027. In addition to competing with McLaren United Autosports next year, Jensen will significantly contribute to the development of the new LMDh prototype, which aims to follow in the footsteps of the iconic McLaren F1 GTR.
Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has expressed interest in participating in the Bathurst 1000 after enjoying a recent test drive in an unspecified Supercars machine. He previously acknowledged the challenge of adjusting to the distinct characteristics of Supercars but believes that with some practice, he could adapt his driving style effectively.
Andretti will transition from its partnership with Porsche to Nissan for the upcoming inaugural Gen4 season of Formula E, starting at the end of 2026. This change follows a period of collaboration with Porsche, and Andretti's leadership expresses hopes for a more integrated relationship with Nissan, allowing for greater involvement in vehicle development and testing.
Porsche has confirmed that Ayhancan Guven, the current DTM champion, will participate in the rookie practice session for the Miami E-Prix, marking his second outing in Formula E. While he aims to secure a seat in the series for the next season, Guven must first accumulate the necessary FIA super licence points, which he plans to earn by competing in the World Endurance Championship this year.
CURIOSITIES
Erik Comas' 1987 Renault 5 Turbo 'Superproduction' will be auctioned at the Race Retro competition car event next month, with an estimated value between £200,000 and £250,000. This particular vehicle, which played a significant role in Comas' racing career prior to his Formula 1 tenure, is one of only three factory models from a limited production run and is presented in its original livery.
Ford is collaborating with the National Association for Search and Rescue to provide five specially equipped Bronco vehicles to support search and rescue operations in challenging environments. While two teams have already been selected, a nationwide application process will allow additional teams to apply for the remaining trucks until the end of April.
General Motors is preparing to auction a distinctive 2026 Corvette ZR1X with a Stars & Steel design, which will be available exclusively for charity at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Auction later this month. This one-of-a-kind model, created to honor America's 250th anniversary, features a hybrid powertrain and will have all proceeds directed to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting families of fallen heroes and veterans in need.
A Yangwang U9 electric hypercar has made a surprise appearance on the road in Miami, Florida, with the car not being officially sold in the USA and Chinese vehicles as a whole all-but missing from US roads. Enthusiast Richard Skelhorn bought the U9, a variant of which has achieved a 308mph top speed and a sub-seven minute lap at the Nurburgring Nordschleife, in August, registering it in Dubai and bringing it to the US as a “tourist” vehicle required to leave the country after a year.
A recent video captured by a traffic camera in Arkansas reveals a serious accident involving a Chevrolet Blazer that had stopped on Interstate 55 due to running out of fuel. As passengers attempted to retrieve gas, a passing vehicle collided with the Blazer at high speed, resulting in significant damage and prompting emergency services to respond to the scene.
A 2020 McLaren Senna GTR, one of only 75 produced and designed solely for track use, is available through an online auction listing, having recorded just 845 kilometers (525 miles). This model features advanced aerodynamics, a 814hp, twin-turbo V8 engine, and a specialized racing interior, making it a rare opportunity for enthusiasts looking to own a piece of high-performance automotive engineering.
The Colorado Springs Police Department has introduced mobile speed cameras aimed at enhancing safety throughout the city, particularly in areas like school zones and parks. After a month of issuing warnings, the program has transitioned to ticketing, with fines set at $40 unless violations occur in designated zones, where penalties are higher.
In Western Australia, law enforcement has intensified efforts to address illegal use of electric scooters and high-powered e-bikes, leading to the confiscation and destruction of numerous devices as part of Operation Moorhead. This initiative, prompted by rising community concerns over reckless riding behaviors, particularly among youth, aims to educate families about the legal limitations of micromobility devices and ensure safer public roadways.
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