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Ferrari Luce: Maranello's First EV Named & Interior Reveal
Andrew Evans
February 09, 2026
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Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Cadillac F1’s split livery for 2026 unveiled
UK’s smart motorways deemed financial failures
McMurtry opens new factory; Speirling deliveries this summer
Michael Bay sues Cadillac over Super Bowl ad
Dodge Viper “Shooting Snake” to become reality
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Ferrari's inaugural electric vehicle, named Luce, is set to debut in May and will feature an innovative interior designed by Jony Ive, known for his work with Apple. This four-door, four-seat GT will deliver up to 1000bhp through a quad-motor system, while maintaining a blend of physical controls and advanced technology to enhance user interaction.
McMurtry Automotive has launched a new manufacturing facility in Gloucestershire dedicated to producing the Speirling, a record-breaking single-seat electric hypercar. This site will not only facilitate the production of customer vehicles, expected to begin this summer, but also support future product development and the establishment of McMurtry Technology, which will provide engineering services to other companies.
Honda has announced an update for the FL5-generation Civic Type R, featuring minor enhancements to its design, while also revealing the HRC Concept, which is nearly ready for production and aims to elevate the Type R experience. Drawing inspiration from Honda's racing endeavors, this new model will incorporate advanced aerodynamics and performance features, positioning it as a more track-oriented variant.
The TOM’S Century is a highly customized luxury sedan from Toyota, available exclusively in Japan, that merges exceptional craftsmanship with performance enhancements. Priced from around $201,000, this vehicle targets discerning buyers who value rarity and meticulous attention to detail in their automotive experience.
Skoda is set to introduce the Epiq, its first electric SUV built on the MEB+ platform, which marks a significant step in the brand's evolution with its new Modern Solid design language. This model will offer three variants with varying battery capacities and ranges, aiming to be an affordable addition to the electric vehicle market while featuring a spacious trunk that surpasses its internal combustion counterpart, the Kamiq.
Mazda continues to explore the potential of the rotary engine, as evidenced by the recent unveiling of the Iconic SP at the Japan Mobility Show, which aims for production rather than remaining a mere concept. Despite challenges related to affordability and market viability, the company remains committed to developing a rotary-powered sports car, integrating hybrid technology to address emissions while maintaining the engine's distinctive characteristics.
BYD's US subsidiaries have initiated legal action against the government, contesting the legitimacy of tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which could potentially facilitate the entry of Chinese vehicles into the American market. Although there is growing consumer interest in Chinese automobiles, US dealers are largely resistant, fearing that these manufacturers could disrupt fair competition due to their state-supported advantages.
Automakers in the US are urgently working to remove Chinese software from connected vehicles in response to new national-security regulations set to take effect on March 17. This complex compliance challenge requires manufacturers to thoroughly audit their supply chains, as many vehicles currently depend on software developed in China, while future hardware restrictions are also anticipated.
MOTORSPORT
Cadillac has revealed the design of its inaugural Formula 1 car livery in a commercial aired during the Super Bowl, featuring a two-tone scheme with grayish white on one side and black on the other. The branding includes logos from various sponsors, reflecting the team's identity and ambition in the motorsport arena, while drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas return to competition after a year off.
Michael Bay has initiated legal action against Cadillac's Formula 1 team, claiming that his creative concepts were used in a recent Super Bowl advertisement without his consent. In response, Cadillac asserts that the ideas for the ad were already in development prior to its discussions with Bay and expresses confidence that the matter will be resolved amicably.
McLaren has acknowledged that the upcoming floor regulations for the 2026 F1 season will diminish some of the advantages it gained during the previous years. Chief designer Rob Marshall remarked that the team is adapting to a completely new car design, which involves significant changes to aerodynamics, floor construction, and overall vehicle dynamics.
The head of Red Bull Powertrains has described the challenges and dynamics of establishing a new engine division from the ground up as an ongoing process. As the team prepares to enter the 2026 season as an in-house power unit provider, it is focused not only on engine design but also on fostering a unique company culture and integrating experienced personnel from other teams.
Mattia Binotto has expressed that the extensive list of tasks ahead of Audi's inaugural Formula 1 season is unprecedented, as the team gears up for significant regulatory changes. Despite facing initial technical challenges during testing, Audi concluded the Barcelona shakedown on a high note, accumulating valuable mileage and insights that will aid its preparations for the upcoming races.
Alpine's managing director, Steve Nielsen, has expressed his ambition for the team to improve this season after finishing last in the standings last year, a first in its history. With a renewed focus on its 2026 car, Nielsen aims for consistent point finishes and a stronger presence in the midfield, noting that the team's historical performance and aspirations demand better results on the track.
As the Daytona 500 approaches, drivers are expected to adopt fuel-saving strategies early in the race, a practice that often disappoints some fans. NASCAR officials acknowledge the ongoing discussions about potential changes to enhance the racing experience, yet they note that any modifications may not fundamentally alter the necessity for teams to manage their fuel consumption effectively.
Formula E has announced the details for its upcoming Evo Sessions event, where popular online content creators and influencers will compete at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit following the Jeddah E-Prix. This year's format features a competitive head-to-head challenge among two teams, offering fans a unique opportunity to engage with the sport through the lens of influential content creators.
CURIOSITIES
Sebastian Simonsson has envisioned a striking shooting brake variant of the first-generation Dodge Viper, blending traditional artistry with AI-enhanced visuals to create a unique design. Following a wave of enthusiasm on social media, efforts are now underway to transform this “Shooting Snake” concept into a tangible vehicle, with involvement from individuals experienced in the Viper platform.
A recent evaluation by National Highways indicates that the majority of smart motorway initiatives are failing to deliver expected financial benefits, with only three out of sixteen projects deemed likely to achieve their value for money goals. Critics, including the AA president, argue that these schemes not only lead to longer travel times and increased congestion but also represent a significant misallocation of resources.
The recent sale of a 2005 Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG coupe for over $300,000 highlights the unexpected dynamics of the used car market, particularly for rare models. Originally owned by collector Michael Fux and featuring low mileage and exclusive specifications, this vehicle's significant price reflects its rarity and the unique appeal of its powerful V12 engine.
Colorado legislators are contemplating a change to state law that would permit municipalities to implement speed cameras on interstate highways. This potential legislation, prompted by safety concerns from local authorities like Wheat Ridge, aims to address high accident rates while also raising questions about the financial implications of increased ticketing.
While Alvis cars wound up long ago, its passenger division was transferred to a group of enthusiastic former employees who continue to offer maintenance and restoration services for owners. Only around 5,000 cars remain from almost 22,000 made, with the factory holding original parts and blueprints to restore and even build continuation models with modernised powertrains to pass present-day emission regulations.
A 13-year old in England took his family's campervan for a late-night drive, reaching speeds of 70mph before being pulled over by police. As a result of his actions, he received six penalty points on his future driving record, along with a conditional discharge and a court-ordered obligation to help pay costs incurred during the proceedings.
The first Ruf SCR supplied to a customer is available through a classified listing in the UK, with this unique vehicle boasting classic 911 looks based on a lightweight carbon monocoque and a four-liter flat six engine that produces 510hp. One of only 70 cars made, chassis #02 features a Birch Green exterior over Brown Deerskin Alcantara, with 9,000 miles on the clocks attesting to its all-round usability.
The Lorain County Sheriff's Office in Ohio announced plans to repossess 41 police vehicles due to unpaid lease obligations, prompting a strong response from the deputies who criticized county commissioners for failing to meet financial commitments. In contrast, the commissioners refuted these claims, asserting that the vehicles were not at risk of repossession and labeling the deputies' statements as misleading.
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