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Crazier Cars are Coming from Lamborghini
Andrew Evans
October 03, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Details on Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown’s October update
Other drivers envy Verstappen’s GT3 success, says Russell
Lotus Esprit S1 reborn as carbon fiber V8 restomod
Gasly in the picture for Alpine Le Mans drive
Intrepid driver takes his NSX from Key West to the Arctic
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Lamborghini plans to expand its lineup with more innovative models following the positive reception of the Huracan Sterrato and Hurácan STO, indicating a willingness to explore bold redesigns. The brand is also enhancing customer customization options, including a new paint facility that provides hundreds of color choices for its latest vehicles, aiming to increase profitability without necessarily boosting sales figures.
The Encor Series 1 aims to revive interest in classic Lotus sports cars by reimagining the iconic Series 1 Esprit with a modern carbon fiber body while maintaining the original's chassis. Designed by a team with a rich background in high-performance automotive brands, this updated version preserves the distinctive wedge shape and pop-up headlights, incorporating contemporary elements for improved aesthetics and functionality.
Rolls-Royce has introduced a unique version of its Spectre model, designed specifically for a US couple to honor their Labrador-golden retriever mix named Bailey. This custom electric coupe features a two-tone exterior inspired by Bailey's fur, along with interior details like a marquetry portrait of the dog and paw print accents, showcasing the owners' affection for their pet.
Toyota is reportedly considering the addition of a plug-in hybrid variant to the Land Cruiser lineup, which would enhance its power and electric range while accommodating short-distance travel without emissions. This potential new model, alongside existing gasoline, diesel, and hybrid options, may face challenges related to weight and interior space due to the necessary battery and electric motor components.
Stellantis is reversing its strategy regarding the Hemi V8 engine, reinstating it in the Ram pickup and Jeep Wrangler while potentially introducing it to the new Dodge Charger, despite earlier plans to shift focus to electric vehicles. Additionally, the company has postponed the launch of an entry-level electric Charger R/T and may have scrapped the high-performance Charger Daytona Banshee due to lower than expected demand for electric models compared to their gasoline counterparts.
A prototype of the Faraday Future FF91 ignited at the company's Los Angeles headquarters, prompting a 40-minute firefighting effort that ultimately rendered the building unsafe for occupancy. Although the firm claims the incident was unrelated to the vehicle's battery, it has raised concerns amid ongoing challenges for the company, which is already facing scrutiny over its operational stability.
The upcoming Toyota RAV4 will transition to a hybrid-only lineup as it replaces the current fifth-generation model, which has maintained strong sales despite being on the market for seven years. With impressive figures still coming in, the RAV4 remains a top choice among compact crossovers in the US, outpacing competitors like the Honda CR-V and Nissan Rogue.
Tesla's Cybertruck is effectively barred from European roads due to its failure to meet stringent safety standards aimed at protecting vulnerable road users, as confirmed by German authorities. Despite the company's promotional efforts across the continent, the vehicle's design features and regulatory hurdles have hindered its registration and acceptance in the EU market.
MOTORSPORT
George Russell believes that many Formula 1 drivers envy Max Verstappen for his ability to excel in various motorsport disciplines beyond F1, particularly after Verstappen's impressive debut in GT racing. Lando Norris added that while competing in multiple series may not necessarily enhance Verstappen's legacy, it certainly highlights his exceptional talent and dominance in the sport.
Pierre Gasly has indicated that he is in discussions with Alpine regarding a potential drive at Le Mans, while also expressing admiration for Max Verstappen's recent success in his GT3 debut at the Nurburgring. Although Gasly is enthusiastic about participating in such events, he acknowledges the complexities involved in balancing his current commitments with the opportunity to race in other series.
The FIA has classified the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix as a 'heat hazard' event due to anticipated temperatures surpassing 31°C in a humid setting, allowing drivers the option to wear cooling vests during the race. While the use of these vests is not compulsory, teams are required to equip their cars with the necessary systems to prevent any competitive edge from lighter vehicles.
In his inaugural Formula 2 season, Dunne has demonstrated impressive speed with two victories, but inconsistent performances have hindered his championship aspirations, leaving him fifth in the standings. Following his amicable departure from McLaren, speculation surrounds his future in Formula 1, particularly regarding potential opportunities with Red Bull Racing as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Lando Norris has observed that McLaren no longer possesses the dominant edge over Red Bull that it had at the season's start, especially following Max Verstappen's recent victories. As he heads into the Singapore Grand Prix, Norris anticipates intense competition, particularly with Verstappen, while acknowledging that McLaren's success is attributed to both its competitive car and the consistent performance of its drivers.
The Cadillac F1 Team has appointed Simon Pagenaud, a seasoned racer with a rich background in IndyCar and endurance racing, to lead the development of its inaugural Formula 1 car. Despite facing challenges from a serious injury, Pagenaud is focused on enhancing the team's simulator capabilities and laying the groundwork for the car's performance ahead of its debut race.
Toyota has indicated that the revival of Equivalence of Technology rules could enable hydrogen vehicles to compete alongside traditional Hypercars in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Kazuki Nakajima, representing Toyota Gazoo Racing Europe, emphasized the need for collaborative discussions on regulations that would allow hydrogen-powered cars to be competitive, particularly as the current Hypercar rules extend until 2032.
Esteban Ocon, a driver for Haas in Formula 1, has expressed his enthusiasm for Lisa Billard, who has earned a wild card spot in the upcoming F1 Academy event in Singapore. At just 16 years old, Billard, representing Gatorade, is set to become the youngest wild card participant in the series, having previously made history as the first female winner of a French Junior Karting Championship race.
CURIOSITIES
KT Racing has announced the upcoming fifth season of Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown, which will introduce various gameplay enhancements, economic adjustments, and visual improvements later this month. Players can anticipate new features such as an updated user interface, construction sites in the game world, and a revamped in-game economy that increases race payouts and introduces vehicle selling options.
John Lange embarked on an adventurous journey in his Acura NSX, traveling from Key West to the Arctic Circle, driven by his passion for the car and a desire to explore. Initially planning a shorter trip, he found himself extending his route through Canada and Alaska, ultimately covering over 13,000 miles since his departure on August 5.
A rare Zonda F Roadster, owned by Horacio Pagani, was involved in a crash during the annual Raduno event in Italy, resulting in significant damage to its rear and suspension components. Originally purchased by Pagani's first customer, the car remains in its original condition, making it one of the most valuable models, and it is expected that Horacio will restore it to its previous state rather than upgrade it.
Researchers at the University of Leeds are seeking participants for a car-sharing study aimed at assessing the advantages of alternatives to traditional car ownership. The three-week experiment will involve 30 to 50 households, offering two paid participation models: one where a household lends their vehicle through an app, and another where participants can reserve a pre-selected rental car for specific days each week.
A TVR Tuscan once featured in a segment of the Top Gear television show, and previously part of the brand’s press fleet, is now available for purchase in a classified auction. The car, an “S” version of the facelifted model of the vehicle that made a debut in 1999, featured in numerous magazines at the time, as well as being used by The Stig to determine how quickly you’d need to be travelling to evade a speed camera, and its condition reflects a well cared-for existence since then.
Nissan is undergoing significant changes under new CEO Ivan Espinosa as part of its Re:Nissan restructuring initiative, which includes downsizing production and workforce. As part of this strategy, the company is reportedly planning to sell its majority stake in the Yokohama F. Marinos soccer team and has engaged potential buyers while also exploring the divestment of other assets like its headquarters.
A 1968 Pontiac Firebird convertible, recently uncovered after nearly ten years in a shipping container in West Hollywood, is now available for sale. While the vehicle requires some finishing touches, it comes with a fresh coat of paint, new hydraulics, and a 350-cubic-inch V8 engine, all for a price of $22,500.
North Carolina has enacted House Bill 926, which includes a clause aimed at safeguarding racetracks from nuisance complaints by nearby property owners. This legislation ensures that individuals who purchase property near a racing facility cannot challenge its operation based on noise, provided the facility has secured the necessary permits prior to their purchase.
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!