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Caterham's EV Revealed for US Market
Andrew Evans
January 08, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
FIrst 2026 F1 car takes to the track this week
Mercedes sues over missing $600k G-Wagen
Volvo’s EX60 to debut with 500-mile range
UK Government gives councils wider parking powers
Sir Stirling Moss estate legal battle
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Caterham's Project V made its US debut at CES in Las Vegas, coinciding with the unveiling of a functional prototype in Tokyo, highlighting the brand's commitment to a straightforward design and engaging driving experience. With plans for full production set for 2027, the automaker aims to establish a presence in the American market while maintaining its classic Seven model alongside the new electric vehicle.
Volvo has announced that its upcoming EX60 electric SUV will deliver up to 503 miles of range on a single charge, positioning it as the vehicle with the longest range available in the UK market. Featuring a 106kWh battery and improved efficiency, the EX60 is designed to support rapid charging capabilities, allowing for significant range recovery in a short time, while also showcasing a streamlined design inspired by the brand's Swedish heritage.
Ford is looking to offer a new Level 3 advanced driver assist system on less expensive vehicles, including an electric truck set to come in at around $30,000. The company has confirmed that the system, which offers “eyes-off” autonomous driving courtesy of a suite of LiDAR sensors, will debut on its new EV platform in 2028.
The launches of the next-generation Alfa Romeo Stelvio SUV and Giulia sedan have been postponed, allowing the current models to remain in production until 2027 with a limited range of engine and trim options. While the standard versions will feature a 276hp 2.0-liter turbo petrol engine, the high-performance Quadrifoglio variants will maintain their 513hp twin-turbo V6, with further details about the new models coming soon.
The 2026 version of the Xiaomi SU7 introduces significant enhancements primarily in its performance and technology, including an upgrade to an 800V architecture across all trims, which improves charging speed and range. While the exterior remains largely unchanged, the vehicle now features updated interior elements and increased power outputs, with a price increase of approximately $2,000.
Rezvani has unveiled a revamped version of the Tank SUV for 2026, characterized by a more aggressive and defined exterior. The updated model offers a range of powerful engine options, including a supercharged 1,000-horsepower V8, alongside various high-end safety features, with prices starting at $175,000.
Subaru has reached a settlement in a class-action lawsuit regarding alleged defects in its EyeSight driver-assistance technology, which affected several vehicle models from 2013 to 2024. As part of the agreement, plaintiffs will receive financial compensation of around $5,000, while Subaru will implement an extended warranty and reimburse certain repair costs related to the system.
A Senate committee hearing intended to address vehicle affordability with executives from Detroit's major automakers has been postponed, largely due to Ford CEO Jim Farley's refusal to attend. The delay, which has drawn criticism from Senator Ted Cruz, stems from scheduling conflicts and concerns over the witness list, with discussions ongoing to find a new date for the meeting.
MOTORSPORT
Audi's inaugural Formula 1 vehicle, the R26, is set to make its debut on January 9 in Barcelona, where drivers Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto will participate in a filming event. This early track outing positions Audi as a frontrunner in adapting to the sport's new regulations, which feature active aerodynamics and more electric power, as the team is the first to give its car an outing after assuming full control of the Sauber team.
The estate of the late Sir Stirling Moss is currently embroiled in a legal conflict between his son, Elliot Moss, and daughter, Allison Bradley, following the death of his widow, Lady Susie, in 2023. Elliot contends that an earlier will from 2002 should be honored, claiming it better represents his father's intentions, while alleging that the 2022 will was signed under coercive circumstances, amidst Lady Susie's struggles with mental health.
The inaugural collective testing session for the 2026 Formula 1 cars is set to occur in Barcelona at the end of this month, with the FIA having finalized many regulations while leaving some elements flexible for adjustment. A significant feature still under development is the overtake mode, which allows drivers to harness and deploy additional energy when within one second of a competitor, potentially leading to greater speed variations and opportunities for overtaking on the track.
Audi's Formula 1 team principal, Mattia Binotto, has outlined the ambition for the team to compete for championships by 2030, following its entry into the sport with a new power unit and the acquisition of the Sauber team. While the team aims to secure victories ahead of this timeline, Binotto acknowledges the challenges involved in establishing a competitive foundation in the highly demanding environment of Formula 1.
Adrian Sutil, a former Formula 1 racer, is currently in pre-trial detention facing fraud allegations, but his lawyer asserts that he and his family are victims of a blackmail scheme that has led to the theft of luxury cars worth around €17 million. The collection, which includes notable vehicles such as a Mercedes once owned by Elvis Presley, was reportedly taken under threat by individuals claiming ties to the Russian Wagner Group, prompting the family to file a criminal complaint.
Hyundai has had to delay Thierry Neuville's pre-event testing for the World Rally Championship opener in Monte Carlo due to heavy snowfall. Although other teams like Toyota were able to test in drier conditions, Neuville faced extreme weather that rendered meaningful testing impossible, prompting a rescheduling of the session for later in the week.
Participating in a full DTM season represents a significant financial burden, particularly for private teams like ABT Sportsline, which disclosed that the cost for operating two GT3 cars can exceed €3 million annually. Key expenses include vehicle acquisition, crash repairs, and personnel salaries, with additional financial support from sponsors and manufacturers often falling short of covering the total costs.
Mitch Guthrie achieved a significant victory for Ford in the fifth stage of the 2026 Dakar Rally, finishing ahead of his teammate Nani Roma after a penalty as the brand managed a 1-2-3 finish. Despite the setback, Toyota's Henk Lategan maintained his overall lead in the standings, with a reduced margin as the competition intensified among the top drivers.
Formula 1's consideration of V8/V10 hybrids has been set aside, but a new initiative called HybridV10 is gaining traction, aiming to feature the thrill of traditional racing engines. Spearheaded by Anthony Hamilton, this independent series plans to use hybrid-powered single-seaters, foster driver talent through a selection system, and establish a dedicated campus to support teams and aspiring racers.
CURIOSITIES
Local governments in the UK are set to gain the authority to implement widespread restrictions on pavement parking, moving away from the previous requirement of addressing the issue on a street-by-street basis. This legislative change aims to enhance accessibility for pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities, while also allowing councils to determine necessary exceptions based on local conditions.
Mercedes-Benz Financial is taking legal action under the federal Carmack Amendment against several companies responsible for transporting a $600,000 G63 which vanished in transit. A complex chain of custody reveals the difficulties involved in transporting cars across state lines, with the luxury SUV disappearing after being dropped off at the side of a road in Los Angeles with Mercedes looking to recover more than $400,000 liability.
The Corvette CX concept has been recognized as a finalist in two categories for the 2026 EyesOn Design Awards, competing for honors in Best Designed Interior and Best Concept Vehicle. This recognition highlights the innovative design and electric performance of the concept, which serves as a prototype for potential future Corvette developments.
A Lamborghini Jalpa in striking Giallo Fly yellow paint is being offered at auction, believed to be one of fewer than 100 US-specification vehicles and one of only seven in that color. Although never as popular as its stablemate Countach, which featured a V12 engine, the V8-powered Jalpa still represents an important part of the brand’s history and is a more amenable and attainable path to Lamborghini ownership even today.
Jerry Bruckheimer, the producer of the F1 movie, has discussed the creation of the film's Grammy-nominated soundtrack, which includes a diverse array of artists such as Doja Cat, Ed Sheeran, and Rosé. He noted the importance of crafting a contemporary and globally appealing sound, ensuring that the music aligns with the film's narrative and resonates with a wide audience, while also commenting that several tracks are already being featured during Formula 1 race events.
A Firebird Formula from 1974 is currently up for auction with no reserve price, allowing the highest bidder to acquire it in four days. This well-maintained vehicle features its original 400ci engine and has garnered significant interest, with the current bid at $15,700 and many potential buyers monitoring the listing.
A 1973 De Tomaso Pantera, which has undergone extensive upgrades that include a 427ci V8 engine and modernized braking systems failed to sell at $108,000 at a recent auction. The car which was also recently restored with meticulous attention to detail, and boasts enhanced suspension components for improved driving dynamics, is once again being offered for sale, with the seller clearly aiming for a far higher price.
Chevrolet's 5700 COE, a cab-over truck introduced in 1947, marked a significant shift for General Motors as it transitioned from wartime production to commercial vehicles. A recent restomod of this classic features a stretched cab, a powerful Cummins turbodiesel engine, and modern amenities, transforming it into a capable and stylish work vehicle that blends vintage design with contemporary functionality.
Tennessee has faced scrutiny over the high number of DUI arrests where individuals later demonstrated their blood-alcohol content was within legal limits, with recent data revealing that the actual count of such wrongful arrests is significantly greater than earlier estimates. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation acknowledged this oversight, clarifying that while officers may not have evidence of alcohol or drugs, it does not necessarily imply that the drivers were unimpaired, as other substances might not be detected in standard screenings.
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