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Duster is HBO Max's New 70s' Car Chase Show
Andrew Evans
June 23, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Lexus LFR spotted testing on California roads
Huge penalty for Porsche results in BMW win at Nurburgring 24 Hours
Rare “McLaren Edition” SLR for sale in Japan
Lamborghini looks to synthetic fuels to extend ICE lifespan
Simone Faggioli wins shortened Pikes Peak
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Toyota's GR GT3 concept, introduced over three years ago, is expected to inspire a street-legal Lexus variant, tentatively named the LFR, which has been spotted undergoing testing in California. This upcoming model is being compared to the Mercedes-AMG GT, indicating that Lexus aims to establish a competitive presence in the performance car market, even as it is expected to be priced significantly lower than the LFA.
Lamborghini is focused on extending the lifespan of internal combustion engines by exploring synthetic fuels, which could allow it to comply with future emissions regulations while maintaining performance. Despite the challenges ahead for widespread adoption of these fuels, the brand believes that it can satisfy both enthusiasts and environmental standards in the long term.
Tesla has officially launched its Robotaxi service in Austin, marking a significant milestone after years of anticipation and delays. While the initial rollout features a limited fleet operating within a designated area, and with human chaperones, the company aims to expand its autonomous rideshare capabilities in the near future.
Mercedes-Benz has announced that it will continue to support internal combustion engines alongside its electric vehicle (EV) initiatives, indicating a longer lifespan for gas-powered models than previously anticipated. The company's upcoming vehicles, including the next-generation CLA and 2026 GLC, will offer both electric and combustion options, reflecting a strategic approach to varying market conditions and infrastructure readiness.
The latest iteration of the Toyota Land Cruiser has introduced a hybrid variant that combines a 48v motor-generator with its existing diesel engine, enhancing its performance without compromising its renowned ruggedness. Set to launch in the UK early next year, this hybrid model will be the sole option available for new buyers, with no significant changes to its power output anticipated.
Ford is facing legal action from owners of vehicles equipped with EcoBoost engines produced between 2013 and 2019, who claim the company failed to disclose a significant defect that allows coolant to leak into engine cylinders. The lawsuit specifically targets models such as the Escape, Fusion, Edge, and Lincoln MKC and MKZ, alleging that the automaker's inadequate responses to the issue could lead to severe engine damage and safety risks for consumers.
The Honda CR-V e:FCEV’s participation at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb relied on a portable refueling system, demonstrating a proof of concept that has use cases beyond occasional motorsport events. Zero Emissions Industries’ (ZEI) FTcase could be a solution to a recent push towards hydrogen fuel by the Department of Defense, with potential military applications to eliminate reliance on infrastructure for refueling.
In 2023, Porsche introduced the 911 S/T to commemorate the model's 60th anniversary, with only 1,963 units produced, making it particularly desirable for enthusiasts and collectors. However, a production error led to two vehicles bearing the same serial number, prompting the company to address the mix-up while assuring that the cars' unique VINs remain intact and unaffected.
MOTORSPORT
Rowe BMW claimed victory at the Nurburgring 24 Hours following a penalty imposed on the leading Manthey “Grello” Porsche in a race interrupted by an extensive red flag following a power failure in the pits. The 100-second penalty came as a result of a collision between the Porsche, driven by Kevin Estre at the time, and a GT4-class Aston Martin he was lapping that resulted in the Aston Martin ending up on its roof.
The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb was impacted by severe winds at the mountain’s summit, resulting in the race running over a shortened course. Italian racer Simone Faggioli was fastest to the lower Glen Cove finish in his Unlimited class Nova Proto NP01 Bardahl, just ahead of reigning champion Romain Dumas in the Super Mustang Mach-E who claimed the Pikes Peak Open category title.
The Austrian Grand Prix is set to be a critical point for leading Formula 1 teams, as both Ferrari and Red Bull are gearing up to implement substantial upgrades over the next two races. With Ferrari potentially unveiling multiple enhancements this weekend and Red Bull focusing on modifications aimed at their home event, the evolving dynamics could significantly influence the championship standings in the latter half of the season.
Arvid Lindblad participated in his first official F1 test at Imola, sharing driving duties with Ayumu Iwasa, as he gears up for his Formula 1 career after receiving his superlicence from the FIA. This session, in a two-year old Red Bull, marked his first significant experience and he is expected to make his practice debut later this season while continuing to build on his recent successes in Formula 2.
Alex Dunne, the current leader of the Formula 2 championship, will debut in Formula 1 during the Austrian Grand Prix, stepping in for Lando Norris in the first practice session. Having progressed rapidly through the ranks, Dunne has achieved notable success in junior categories and is now poised to gain valuable experience with McLaren as part of their driver development program.
Ferrari has confirmed that Dino Beganovic will drive the SF-25 during the initial practice session at the Austrian Grand Prix, stepping in for Charles Leclerc. This marks Beganovic's second appearance in an FP1 session this season, following his debut in Bahrain, and contributes to the team's requirement of four rookie sessions for the year.
Valtteri Bottas has hinted at his potential return to Formula 1 with a recent social media post related to the Cadillac F1 initiative. His remarks about a Cadillac SUV suggest he may be on the verge of joining the team, especially as discussions about driver placements intensify ahead of the 2026 season.
Aston Martin's team principal, Andy Cowell, clarified that Adrian Newey's leadership in the technical department is collaborative rather than authoritarian. Since joining the team earlier this year, Newey has been actively engaged in the design process for the upcoming 2026 car, focusing on intricate details and performance adjustments during race weekends.
FUN STUFF
HBO Max's new crime thriller, Duster, is set in the 1970s and follows a rookie agent and a conflicted criminal amidst thrilling car chases and a backdrop of meticulously curated vintage vehicles. Starring Josh Holloway as underworld driver Jim Ellis and a 1970 Plymouth Duster as its centerpiece, the series combines humor and action, with a dedicated picture car coordinator ensuring an authentic representation of the era.
A rare McLaren Special Operations-upgraded model of the Mercedes SLR McLaren has become available through RM Sotheby’s for $700,000. One of just 25 “McLaren Edition” examples of the supercar, offered to owners of the vehicle in 2018, the car boasts upgraded suspension and aerodynamics while retaining the standard engine, and this Japanese-market model has just over 17,000 miles on the odometer.
Police in North Charleston, SC, were engaged in a very low-speed, early morning pursuit of a man driving an allegedly stolen Komatsu excavator. The chase, at just 3mph, persisted for over an hour and the perpetrator was eventually captured by police dogs after attempting to flee on foot, with significant property damage sustained in the process.
Mate Rimac, a billionaire and CEO of Rimac Automobili and Bugatti, has recently added a Volkswagen Golf R32 to his daily driving routine, despite his access to high-performance hypercars. While the Golf R32 offers modest power compared to his more extravagant vehicles, he embraces the contrast and the similarities between the vehicles, showcasing a more relatable side of luxury car ownership.
Hertz has implemented an AI-driven vehicle inspection system at select locations to identify damages before and after rentals, but customers are finding the process challenging. One renter shared his experience of receiving substantial charges for minor damage, highlighting issues with communication and the lack of immediate access to customer support in addressing disputes.
A rare vehicle from a little known British lightweight sports car manufacturer Brooke Cars is available at auction, with the two-seat Double R sector estimated at around £45,000. The ultra-lightweight vehicle is inspired by 1960s’ F1 racers, and this example is the only one that sports a supercharged version of the 2.3-liter Ford Duratec engine which produces over 400hp.
A recent incident in Phoenix involved a semi-truck transporting two vehicles atop a dump trailer, which raised concerns about safety. State troopers contacted a commercial vehicle inspector who determined that, other than the absence of tail-lights, the load adhered to the minimum tie-down standards, allowing the driver to continue on their way.
The GMC Hummer EV Pickup, already an imposing vehicle, has been further transformed by its owner through modifications from Apocalypse Manufacturing and SoFlo Customs, resulting in a striking red exterior and a host of custom features. With only 6,712 miles on the odometer and a price tag reflecting significant upgrades, the truck's future sale price remains uncertain as it heads toward auction.
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