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F1 Would Welcome a Chinese Team
Andrew Evans
July 08, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Ferrari builds extra Daytona for charity
Meet the 1,000hp Brabus Rocket GTS Deep Blue
Silverstone set to host the FIA World Endurance Championship again
Street-racing Cybertruck crashes into nine parked cars
Land Rover revives Freelander brand for China
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Jaguar Land Rover is set to introduce a new electrified SUV under the Freelander name in late 2026, focusing on advanced technology and launching initially in China. Developed in collaboration with Chery, this model will use a flexible platform and aims to capture the essence of the original Freelander, though European sales remain uncertain.
Brabus has introduced the Rocket GTS Deep Blue, an enhanced version of the Mercedes-AMG SL 63 shooting brake that features a striking blue carbon fiber finish and increased performance, adding $68,000 to the Rocket GTS’s price of $1.1 million. This model boasts a modified powertrain with a larger V8 engine, delivering a total output of approximately 1,000 horsepower, while aerodynamic improvements and exclusive wheel designs contribute to its distinctive appearance and handling.
The Kia EV5 is set to make its European debut later this year with intriguing, market-specific features like a sliding center console and a new Pet Mode feature. This mid-size crossover, built on the E-GMP platform and equipped with an 81.4kWh battery, offers a range of approximately 329 miles, featuring a single front-drive motor configuration.
Jim Farley, CEO of Ford, has indicated that the rise of artificial intelligence could potentially displace a substantial portion of white-collar jobs in the US, a concern echoed by other industry leaders. He also highlighted the increasing competition from Chinese automakers, noting their advanced technology and superior vehicle quality compared to Western counterparts.
The BMW X5 is set for a significant redesign, with recent spy shots capturing a prototype on the Nürburgring. While the current model underwent updates for 2024, the new version is expected to feature a design influenced by the Neue-Klasse, although only combustion-engine variants have been spotted so far, leaving the electric "iX5" still under wraps.
Foxconn is reportedly in negotiations with Nissan to manufacture electric vehicles at the Oppama plant in Japan, a facility that faces potential closure due to low production rates. This partnership could not only preserve jobs at the historic site but also enhance Foxconn's position as a contract manufacturer in the electric vehicle market.
Maserati is set to unveil a new iteration of the MC20 supercar at the upcoming Goodwood Festival of Speed, with hints suggesting it may feature subtle design updates and enhanced performance characteristics. Speculation surrounds the potential introduction of a hybrid variant, possibly named the MC25, as the brand continues to evolve amid tightening emissions regulations in Europe.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated an investigation into over 1.1 million Ram trucks due to potential rolling away risks linked to a previous recall addressing a brake transmission shift interlock issue. The focus is on models equipped with column shifters, where a malfunctioning locking pin may allow the vehicle to shift out of park unintentionally, raising safety concerns following multiple reports of injuries.
Specialist marque MST is introducing limited edition models known as the Mk1 and Mk2 Sports, paying homage to the classic Ford Escort in blending its renowned design with contemporary engineering advancements. Set to enter production in 2026 and 2027, respectively, these vehicles will feature a robust new UK-built chassis, enhanced performance specifications, and a distinctive aesthetic, all while remaining true to the spirit of the original Escort Mexico.
MOTORSPORT
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has indicated that he’d endorse the possibility of a Chinese team joining Formula 1, following the addition of Cadillac as the sport's 11th team from 2026. While there is no immediate urgency for a 12th team, Ben Sulayem emphasized that any new entry must enhance the overall value and sustainability of the championship.
The FIA World Endurance Championship is reportedly nearing an agreement to return to Silverstone in 2027, marking its first UK event since 2019. This potential race could be positioned as the ninth round of an expanded calendar, likely occurring early in the season before the 24 Hours of Le Mans, although financial negotiations are still ongoing.
Fernando Alonso expressed his dissatisfaction with a strategic decision made by his team during the British Grand Prix, which resulted in him dropping from sixth to tenth place after his first pit stop. In contrast, his teammate Lance Stroll benefited from a different strategy, moving from twelfth to fourth, leading team principal Andy Cowell to reflect on the need for a more unified approach in their race tactics.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem is confident that the reintroduction of V8 engines in Formula 1 is on the horizon, viewing it as a significant milestone for his leadership. As the sport prepares for the 2026 power unit changes, which emphasize hybrid technology and sustainable fuels, Ben Sulayem believes that a simpler V8 engine could enhance competitiveness and reduce costs for teams.
Ferrari revealed that it lost GPS tracking of Lewis Hamilton's vehicle during the British Grand Prix, leaving the team unaware of his position on the track. This technical issue complicated its strategy, particularly when deciding the optimal time for Hamilton to switch to slick tires amidst changing weather conditions.
McLaren's Formula E team will cease operations after the current season due to unsuccessful efforts to find a buyer. The organization, which had previously transitioned from a Mercedes entry to a customer team, will conclude its participation in the series and return its entry to Formula E Holdings, leaving drivers Sam Bird and Taylor Barnard seeking new opportunities for the upcoming season.
FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem has rejected Tim Mayer's allegations of a "reign of terror" during his leadership, emphasizing that his approach focuses on collaboration and trust rather than public criticism. In response to Mayer's campaign for the upcoming presidential election, Ben Sulayem invited scrutiny of the FIA's operations and reiterated his commitment to transparency and governance.
Thed Bjork narrowly avoided a serious accident during the final FIA TCR World Tour race at Vila Real while attempting to lap guest driver Michel Fernandes, whom he described as a significant hazard on the track. Despite the tense situation, where both Bjork and his teammate Ma Qing Hua came dangerously close to colliding with the slower car, all drivers managed to continue without any damage.
CURIOSITIES
Ferrari has introduced an additional Daytona SP3, marking the 600th unit of this mid-engine model which is part of its Icona series. This unique version, distinguished by its striking livery and eco-friendly interior materials, will be auctioned at Monterey Car Week, with all proceeds benefiting the Ferrari Foundation's educational initiatives.
A Tesla Cybertruck collided with nine parked vehicles in a Miami neighborhood, reportedly while racing against a Lamborghini Urus. Witnesses suggest the driver lost control during the incident, though authorities have yet to provide details on potential charges or the cause of the crash.
Tennessee has enacted legislation that permits the suspension of driving privileges for up to a year for teenagers found guilty of bullying, including cyberbullying. While first-time offenders may apply for a limited license for essential travel, lawmakers are also considering future amendments to allow driving to counseling sessions.
In Colorado Springs, users of digital parking meters have reported issues with being charged for time beyond the free parking period, as the meters do not prevent payments after enforcement hours have ended. City officials acknowledged the problem and plan to replace the outdated meters, aiming to enhance their functionality and prevent overcharging in the future.
A New York enthusiast is transforming a Chevrolet Camaro into a unique shooting brake, blending his passion for the classic muscle car with a love for wagons. Despite facing various challenges, Adam Benini is crafting this ambitious project from scratch, demonstrating that with determination and creativity, anyone can pursue their automotive dreams.
Phoenix is set to invest $12 million in a traffic enforcement camera system aimed at enhancing road safety and alleviating the demands on its limited police force. Although the specific locations for the cameras are yet to be determined, they are expected to be operational by the end of this year, marking a revival of automated enforcement after a previous program was discontinued in 2020.
Car accidents rarely lead to dramatic explosions like those depicted in films, but an incident in Herriman, Utah, resulted in just that when a three-vehicle collision caused a Domino's pizza outlet to explode. Fortunately, while several individuals required hospitalization for their injuries, there were no fatalities, and the building was unoccupied at the time of the blast, preventing further casualties.
A carjacking incident in Jasper County, Texas, resulted in the swift arrest of a suspect who inadvertently left his identification at the dealership after allegedly stealing a Mustang at gunpoint. The individual, identified as Justin Keith Colley, claimed to be delivering classified documents to the CIA, and was apprehended with a firearm in his possession while driving the Mustang on old plates.
YouTuber Morgan Burtwistle, known as Angryginge, was taken into custody for allegedly damaging a classic Formula 1 car during a livestream at Silverstone. Alongside fellow content creators, he was filming when law enforcement intervened, resulting in the arrest of him and two others, who were later released without charges.
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!