Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:

• Bugatti Tourbillon's 1775hp sound teased

• Villeneuve returns to Williams

• Car overheats due to fish

• Tincknell has high hopes for Valkyrie LMH

• Flying cars move one step closer

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

Bugatti is set to unveil the Tourbillon in 2025, and company CEO Mate Rimac has released a video showing off the sound of its V16 engine at idle. The naturally aspirated V16 engine will produce 986hp, boosted to an overall output of 1,775hp with the addition of three electric motors, for the limited-production car, with each of the 250 units priced to start at £3.2 million. [Car Throttle]

SkyDrive, a Japanese eVTOL manufacturer, has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining certification for its "SKYDRIVE" aircraft, paving the way for future commercial operations in Japan and the US. The company revealed its first real-world images of the eVTOL, which is set to be showcased at the upcoming World Expo 2025 in Osaka. [Electrek]

The Toyota Celica is set to return soon, with a possible hot model suggested by a recent trademark application for the GR Celica name in Brazil. Although Toyota has yet to reveal its cards on the matter, the company has recently shown a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine which could power such a car, similar to the WRC-winning model of the 1990s. [Drive]

Volvo has introduced the EX30 Cross Country, an elevated version of its smallest electric model, designed for those who appreciate rugged aesthetics and outdoor capability. While it retains the crossover's electric powertrain and all-wheel drive, the Cross Country variant features enhancements like increased ground clearance and optional off-road accessories for adventurous driving. [Car Throttle]

BMW development boss Frank Weber has stated that the brand will continue to offer V8-engined cars, though they may be limited to markets such as the US and Middle East. While acknowledging that other engines offer equal or better performance, the unique attributes of the V8 engine continue to resonate with customers in these markets where emissions regulations are not as strict. [Motor1]

Chevrolet is set to launch the Blazer EV SS later this quarter, nearly three years after its initial reveal, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel drive system that generates 615hp. This model not only offers performance comparable to Cadillac's offerings at a more accessible price point but also boasts an EPA-estimated range of 303 miles, making it a competitive choice in the electric vehicle market. [Carscoops]

The Abt RSQ8 Legacy Edition elevates the already powerful Audi RSQ8 by enhancing its performance to an impressive 740bhp through upgraded intercoolers and engine management adjustments. With modifications to its suspension for improved handling and a striking carbon fiber aesthetic, this limited edition SUV offers a more aggressive driving experience while maintaining its luxurious appeal. [Car Throttle]

Dodge's CEO Matt McAlear has indicated that the company is exploring various powertrain options for the Charger, including a V8. He acknowledged the challenges of compliance with emissions regulations and emphasized that developing new engines requires significant time and resources, making immediate changes unlikely. [The Drive]

BMW has introduced centerlock wheels for the first time in North America, although they don’t exactly come cheap, at $6,696 for a set. Specifically designed for the G8X M models, the necessary additional components - such as new wheel hubs - and tools bring the overall cost close to $20,000, and although it makes quick tire changes possible you will of course need another set of the wheels to do so… [Motor1]

Genesis has experienced an unusual mishap in development testing of its flagship GV90, with the vehicle ending up in a snowy ditch during cold-weather trials in the Arctic. It’s not known how the GV90, set to be based on the Neolun concept and positioned as the brand’s most opulent electric SUV, came to be in such an undignified spot, but the vehicle was later recovered on a flat-bed. [Electrek]

MOTORSPORT

Harry Tincknell has expressed confidence in the Aston Martin Valkyrie AMR-LMH's capabilities as it approaches its debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship, having been involved in its development since last year. As he transitions from driving the Porsche 963 to the new Hypercar, Tincknell acknowledges the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about the car's potential and the excitement of competing with a factory team once again. [Sportscar365]

Jacques Villeneuve will return to Williams in 2025 as an ambassador, almost three decades on from his championship win, joining fellow former champions Jenson Button and Jamie Chadwick. It’s the first time Villeneuve has returned in an official capacity to the team with which he saw success, with his subsequent F1 career never reaching the same highs, and he is eager to balance this new role with his broadcasting commitments. [The Race]

Arvid Lindblad has earned his FIA Super License by clinching the Formula Regional Oceania Championship, positioning him as a potential reserve driver for Red Bull. The 17-year old driver, who previously achieved notable success in both Formula 3 and the Italian Formula 4 series, expressed his gratitude to his team following his championship win in New Zealand, which he secured with two races remaining. [RACER]

Mario Andretti has spoken of how his son Michael stepped away from the bid to establish a new Formula 1 team, after recognizing that he was proving to be an “obstacle”. The younger Andretti moved aside to allow General Motors to take charge, committing to providing power units starting in 2028, and with the FIA now supporting the bid the team is set to debut next season. [RacingNews365]

FIA president Ben Sulayem has doubled-down on regulations regarding drivers' use of profanity, suggesting that further measures could be implemented. That includes the potential censorship or a broadcast delay of live communications, with some drivers already facing warnings, fines, and community service punishments for comments deemed unacceptable by the FIA. [RaceFans]

Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has shared insights into his decision to sign Esteban Ocon as Nico Hulkenberg's successor, emphasizing the French driver's blend of youth and experience. Komatsu believes Ocon's determination and proactive approach will be vital for the team's development, making him a fitting choice amid a range of available candidates. [RacingNews365]

Luke Browning is set to embark on a first full season in Formula 2 with Hitech GP, having tested a Williams F1 car in December 2024, in a career that illustrates the power of perseverance and talent. The 23-year old British driver started out driving a Citroen Saxo in Junior Saloons in 2016, progressing through championship wins in F4 and GB3, as well as an impressive debut in F2 before the Abu Dhabi FP1 test last year. [Autosport]

Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah Corniche Circuit will host a Formula E rookie testing session ahead of the E-Prix at the weekend. This session will involve eleven drivers, including former Red Bull racer Daniil Kvyat, 2023 F2 champion Theo Pourchaire, Jamie Chadwick, and Tatiana Calderon, driving the newest Gen3 Evo machinery. [RacingNews365]

Kellymoss has revealed an enhanced roster of female competitors for this year's Porsche single-make series in North America, ensuring representation of women in each of their racing events. Among the drivers are Loni Unser, who had a strong debut season, Canadian rookie Erika Hoffmann, and Ashley Freiberg, who is moving up to the Porsche Carrera Cup, alongside veteran Nicole Robichaud in the Porsche Club of America races. [Sportscar365]

FUN STUFF

The Le Mans-winning Ferrari 250 LM has achieved a record-breaking auction price of $36.3 million, making it the most valuable Ferrari sold at auction outside of the 250 GTO and the most expensive winner of the 24-hour race. This specific model, chassis 5893, has significant historic importance in motorsport as the last Ferrari to win the race overall until the Hypercar era, and has been part of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway collection since 1970. [Autoblog]

The latest update for Forza Motorsport is now available on both console and PC, adding a total of nine cars, including new additions from Hyundai and Toyota. Called "Daily Racers", the update largely features practical yet exciting vehicles, while also introducing a series of challenges and rewards for players to engage with until March 26. [GTPlanet]

In a surprising incident, a mechanic in Townsville, Queensland, discovered a dead fish lodged in a customer's car, which was causing the vehicle to overheat. The fish likely entered the engine bay while the owner drove through recent floodwaters, becoming trapped in the fan mechanism, and once removed the car functioned normally despite a lingering odor. [Drive]

An owner of a Tesla Cybertruck has praised the car’s passive safety features after the vehicle drove itself over a curb and into a light pole. The vehicle was operating on Tesla's Full Self-Driving V13 software, which requires supervision, but the owner lost concentration and failed to prevent the accident, highlighting concerns about the reliability of current semi-autonomous systems and their potential to mislead drivers into complacency. [Carscoops]

A recent social media video captures the demolition of the grandstands at Irwindale Speedway, marking the end of an era for the iconic venue known for its significance in Southern California's car culture. The once-celebrated track, a hub for drifting enthusiasts and motorsport events, is now being dismantled, leaving behind a bittersweet legacy amid ongoing discussions about its fate. [The Drive]

Volkswagen's ID.Buzz has been uniquely customized by a dealership to resemble the beloved Mystery Machine from Scooby-Doo. This one-of-a-kind vehicle features a vibrant wrap and is priced by the Illinois dealer at $76,295, reflecting both the customization and market adjustments, making it a distinctive option for fans of the franchise. [Jalopnik]

Law enforcement apprehended a customer at the Friendly Ford dealership in Crosby, Texas, over a suspected VIN-switching scam. The Subaru BRZ in question had been on their radar for a while, having been spotted on Guatemalan plats, and authorities are urging potential buyers to carefully verify the vehicle identification number of any car they consider purchasing, as counterfeit VINs are increasingly used in the resale of stolen vehicles. [Carscoops]

Two Mercedes-Benz AMG Hammer models, each with manual gearboxes, will feature at the upcoming Amelia Island Concours, where they will cross the block at Gooding & Company. These exceptional vehicles, previously valued in the low six-figure range, are now expected to fetch between $1.25 million and $2 million each, reflecting their rarity and historical significance in the collector car community. [Jalopnik]

RM Sotheby’s is set to auction a unique Singer DLS model, the 'Oppenheimer Commission', starting this week, with an expected price of up to £3m. Only 75 DLS models have ever been made, in collaboration with Williams Advanced Engineering, featuring a 500hp, 4.0-liter flat-six engine, with this example sporting a one-off design inspired by the Oppenheimer Blue diamond. [GTspirit]

Next month, a 1989 Chevrolet K5 Blazer will be auctioned at Mecum, showcasing its remarkable condition with only 21 miles and original features intact. While this classic SUV may require some maintenance due to its age, it offers a nostalgic driving experience free from modern data tracking and subscriptions, with the option to integrate contemporary technology if desired. [Motor1]

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