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F1 Movie Sequel is in Development
Andrew Evans
February 11, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Mazda tops safety ratings
Red Bull’s new Ford engine catches rivals’ eyes
Toyota in the doghouse for TV ad
Suzuki’s new Across is another rebadged RAV4
Mercedes trick compression system still under debate
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Consumer Reports has identified Mazda as the leading brand in its latest Safety Verdict evaluation, which assesses various safety factors including crash performance and the effectiveness of driver-assistance technologies. This comprehensive analysis reflects the importance of both preventing accidents and ensuring occupant protection, highlighting Mazda's commitment to integrating user-friendly safety features across its vehicle lineup.
The Suzuki Across is a new family-oriented SUV featuring all-wheel drive, sharing its foundation and many design elements with the Toyota RAV4. This plug-in hybrid model is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a motor on each axle drawing power from a 22.7kWh battery, delivering impressive performance figures in both North American and European markets.
Mercedes-AMG's Black Series lineup will continue, as confirmed by outgoing CEO Michael Schiebe, who noted its significance as more than just a brand. Although the last model was released in 2021, Schiebe indicated that the next iteration must be exceptionally performance-oriented and bold in design.
Volvo's innovative SPA3 platform for electric vehicles may enable the brand to reintroduce traditional low-profile sedan and wagon models, such as the S60 and V90, despite a current lineup dominated by SUVs. This new architecture offers significant engineering adaptability, allowing for a lower vehicle stance and a more versatile design approach that is not constrained by the requirements of internal combustion engines.
The upcoming Mercedes-Benz A-Class, set to launch in 2028, will feature a significant redesign that combines elements of the A-Class and B-Class into a minivan-like format. With the discontinuation of more recent hatchback and sedan variants, this new model aims to enhance practicality while positioning itself distinctively within the brand's lineup.
In 2025, Ford Motor Co. faced significant financial challenges, culminating in an $11.1 billion net loss in the fourth quarter, attributed to unsuccessful investments in electric vehicles and supply chain disruptions. The company not only reported a full-year loss of $8.2 billion but also fell behind BYD in global vehicle sales for the first time, highlighting its struggles in key markets like Europe and China.
Stellantis was established in 2021 to strengthen two previously struggling automotive companies, yet the justification for this merger appears increasingly uncertain. Initially aligned in their approach to emissions standards, the US and Europe have diverged significantly, with the US rolling back regulations and imposing trade restrictions, which is disrupting the synergy between Stellantis's primary markets.
The increasing prevalence of cameras in vehicles has not fully addressed the challenges posed by nighttime visibility, as many systems struggle to deliver clear images under low-light conditions. Mercedes-Benz is exploring innovative solutions through a newly patented camera system that rapidly alternates between various imaging modes to enhance visibility in darkness, potentially improving safety and functionality in future vehicles.
The BMW Hams Hall facility in Birmingham, which began operations in 2001, has produced over 7.6 million engines, including those for Mini, BMW V8, and Rolls-Royce V12 models. As it celebrates its 25th anniversary, the plant is recognized for its critical role in engine manufacturing and its adaptation to evolving automotive technologies, including electrification.
MOTORSPORT
Despite initial skepticism regarding Red Bull's ability to compete with its first power units, the team's progress has raised eyebrows at the Bahrain test week, particularly regarding effective energy deployment on the track. Toto Wolff, head of rival outfit and engine supplier Mercedes, is among those acknowledging that the new engine developed with Ford has shown impressive reliability and performance during testing.
The innovative approach taken by Mercedes to skirt engine compression requirements continues to be the subject of discussion at the beginning of Formula 1 testing in Bahrain. Team principal Toto Wolff acknowledged the increasing pressure from rival manufacturers for the FIA to reassess measurement protocols, while asserting that Mercedes' engines remain compliant with current rules.
Speaking at the 2026 official test in Bahrain, Valtteri Bottas disclosed that his discussions to drive for the Cadillac Formula 1 team began over three years ago. As he officially joins the team alongside Sergio Perez, Bottas emphasized the commitment and emotional investment of his colleagues in building a competitive presence in Formula 1, despite the challenges faced prior to its entry confirmation.
Lewis Hamilton has expressed concerns about the new regulations in Formula 1, describing them as overly complicated and likely confusing for fans. He highlighted the significant energy management demands of the latest engines, which require teams to adopt unconventional driving strategies to optimize energy recovery.
Pat Symonds, executive engineering consultant for Cadillac's Formula 1 team, has come to the defense of Sergio Perez, asserting that the negative attention directed at the driver in recent years is unwarranted. As Cadillac prepares to enter the series in 2026 with a lineup featuring Perez and Valtteri Bottas, Symonds mentioned Perez's competence and experience, highlighting his strong performance in simulator sessions and his dedication to the team's efforts.
Audi's R26 has undergone significant modifications to its sidepod design as it enters the Bahrain Formula 1 testing, moving away from the more traditional approach seen in Barcelona. The updated configuration features narrower, taller inlets and a redesigned topography aimed at optimizing airflow management, particularly in response to the challenges posed by tire wake during cornering.
Valtteri Bottas, the driver for Cadillac's new Formula 1 team, noted that he was approached by the producers of Netflix's Drive to Survive following his signing for the 2026 season, filming a feature with the show. As Cadillac prepares to enter the grid with Bottas and Sergio Perez, the eighth season of the series is expected to highlight its journey, alongside other significant events from the 2025 season.
NASCAR Cup Series cars took to the Daytona track for their initial practice session ahead of the 68th Daytona 500, with drivers primarily focusing on single-car runs while occasionally forming small drafting groups. Austin Cindric, the 2022 Daytona 500 champion, recorded the fastest lap at 187.402 mph, leading a field that included notable competitors like Ross Chastain and Bubba Wallace.
CURIOSITIES
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer has announced that work is underway on a sequel to the successful F1 film, which has grossed over $630 million since its June 2025 release. Director Joseph Kosinski expressed interest in continuing the story of Sonny Hayes and the APXGP team, noting the positive global response to the original movie.
Australian authorities have determined that Toyota's latest advertisement for the Hilux violates safety regulations, as it depicts dogs riding unrestrained in the back of a moving truck, which critics argue encourages dangerous behavior. This incident adds to Toyota's history of regulatory challenges in Australia, including previous ads that have been banned for promoting unsafe driving practices.
In 2023, James Condon, also known as TheStradman, purchased a distinctive Koenigsegg Agera S previously owned by Lewis Hamilton, but has now decided to sell the vehicle due to financial constraints. Despite his deep affection for the car, which he had long admired, he recognizes that parting with it is necessary as he prepares to say goodbye at a Miami dealership where it awaits its next owner.
A recent accident involving a Ferrari LaFerrari in China has drawn attention, as it appears to be the same vehicle that was involved in a crash back in 2015 due to aquaplaning. While the cause of the latest incident is still unclear, the extensive carbon fiber construction of the hypercar suggests that repair costs could be significant, potentially reaching figures similar to the $1.4 million spent on repairs after the first crash.
Renntech is set to produce a limited run of 12 custom Mercedes-Benz SECs, each equipped with a powerful 7.5-liter V12 engine that generates 660 horsepower and is paired with a unique manual transaxle. The modifications include a widebody kit designed to improve aerodynamics and stability, with the first deliveries expected in December 2027.
Hyundai Motor is reportedly in discussions to provide Waymo with 50,000 IONIQ 5 electric vehicles by 2028, in a deal valued at approximately $2.5 billion. This arrangement follows a strategic partnership established last year, aimed at integrating Waymo's autonomous driving technology into Hyundai's offerings, as the company seeks to expand its fleet amidst growing demand for autonomous rides.
The Ford Racing Puma has gained significant recognition over the past 25 years, transforming from a niche performance vehicle into a sought-after classic, despite its modest horsepower relative to its original price. With its limited production and unique features, this model has become increasingly rare, and while it commands a premium today, its value may stabilize as enthusiasts weigh its historical significance against its performance capabilities.
Federal authorities have mandated a recall of the Fly 10 moped due to significant braking system deficiencies that fail to meet established safety standards, adding to the ongoing challenges faced by Fly E-Bike. This recall follows scrutiny from an investigation that revealed previous safety compliance issues, highlighting the need for stricter regulatory oversight in the growing e-moped market.
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