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

• Hyundai Ioniq 5N sets a Tsukuba lap record

• $15m motorsport mansion for sale in California

• Renault makes EV firefighting system available to all

• Walmart shoplifters made to wash cars

• Twingo will hit the Nurburgring 24 Hours

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

Ford has brought back an anti-flipping policy, prohibiting Mustang GTD owners from reselling their vehicles within the first two years of ownership, almost a decade on from its similar, controversial move with the GT supercar. The policy aims to deter immediate resale for profit and, while the exact production numbers remain unclear, interest in the 815hp Mustang GTD has surged, with thousands of potential buyers despite its high price point. [Carscoops]

Tesla is preparing to launch its inaugural public charging station for electric Semi trucks, with plans revealed for a site featuring twelve Megacharger stalls and a 1,600-square-foot facility that includes amenities for drivers. This development coincides with the anticipated start of mass production for the Tesla Semi, which is set to begin later this year, as the company seeks to enhance infrastructure for its growing fleet. [Electrek]

Renault Group has introduced an innovative fire suppression system for electric vehicles, and made it free to license for other brands with the intention of improving EV safety across the board by significantly reducing the time and water required to extinguish battery fires. The “Fireman Access” system can be installed in all electric and plug-in hybrid models, and allows for rapid water distribution to the battery cells, enabling quicker fire response compared to traditional methods. [Autocar]

Fiat is set to introduce new iterations of the 500 and Panda models, marking a strategic shift towards a broader lineup that includes larger vehicles over the next five years. This expansion, supported by the Stellantis group, will feature both electric and hybrid versions, alongside new C-segment models, as the brand aims to rejuvenate its offerings after a period of stagnation. [Autocar]

More than 40,000 Toyota and Lexus vehicles have been recalled due to potential damage to their second-row center seat belts. The issue arose from improper manufacturing processes, potentially leading to a failure to meet federal safety standards, with affected models including Camry sedans and Lexus NX and RX SUVs. [Carscoops]

Market trends in Australia revealed that new battery-electric vehicles experience significant depreciation in 2024, although hybrid vehicles demonstrated the least depreciation. While hybrids lost only 1.7% of their value over the year, electric vehicles experienced a significant decline of 25%, with the trend attributed to aggressive manufacturer discounts and a rapidly evolving market with numerous new entrants, which has negatively impacted the resale value of EVs. [Drive]

Researchers at Pennsylvania State University have developed a method to convert heat from vehicle exhaust into electrical energy by using a semiconductor that capitalizes on the movement of electrons between temperature gradients. Their innovative heatsink design enhances heat dissipation through forced convection, allowing the system to produce approximately 40 watts of electricity, which could be scaled up for larger engines, potentially improving the efficiency and longevity of various vehicles. [Jalopnik]

BMW's Neue Klasse introduces an innovative design approach that brings new functionality to a classic styling point, as the “Hofmeister kink” now serves as a rear door handle. This reimagining of the iconic BMW design was integrated into the Vision Driving Experience concept, which serves as a dynamic test vehicle for upcoming EVs, although the the overall styling direction has sparked mixed reactions among enthusiasts. [BMW Blog]

MOTORSPORT

Hyundai has made headlines by setting a new electric vehicle record at Tsukuba Circuit with its Time Attack version of the Ioniq 5N, achieving a time of 57.446 seconds. Although not in the top echelon of lap times at the famous circuit, the time surpasses an older benchmark set in the Group A Touring Car era, highlighting the brand's dedication to integrating high-performance electric vehicles into the automotive landscape. [PistonHeads​.com]

Rauh Racing, a family-run team from Germany, is transforming a Renault Twingo into a race car for the challenging Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2026, aiming to attract attention and potential sponsorships. The project involves significant modifications, including an engine swap from a Renaultsport Clio 172, while the team engages with fans through social media and plans to incorporate community contributions into the car's design. [Car Throttle]

Fernando Alonso hinted that Aston Martin has intriguing elements planned for the F1 75 Live event, which marks the start of the new racing season. As part of the celebration for Formula 1's 75th anniversary, all ten teams will showcase their new liveries at London's O2 Arena, generating excitement about what each team will reveal. [RacingNews365]

McLaren is implementing significant modifications to its MCL39 car in preparation for the 2025 Formula 1 season, as outlined by team principal Andrea Stella. With the aim of retaining its constructors' title, the team is focused on optimizing various components to enhance performance amid upcoming regulatory changes.[RacingNews365]

Mick Schumacher remains determined to return to Formula 1 despite missing out on a full-time seat for the 2025 season, marking three consecutive years away from the grid. While he shifts his focus to competing in the World Endurance Championship with Alpine, he continues to believe in his capabilities and hopes for another chance to prove himself in F1. [RacingNews365]

Pato O'Ward topped the IndyCar morning test session at Sebring International Raceway, clocking a lap time of 52.347 seconds, while reigning champion Alex Palou followed closely behind. The session, which faced a delay due to a power issue with the medical trailer, ultimately featured 14 drivers, with Meyer Shank Racing's Felix Rosenqvist absent due to illness, leading to teammate Marcus Armstrong stepping in for the afternoon run. [RACER]

The FIA's initiative to prohibit swearing among drivers has faced criticism after two incidents this weekend with different outcomes. Experienced F1 racer Carlos Sainz argues that the raw expressions heard over team radios reflect the genuine experiences of drivers, suggesting that such moments should not be suppressed, while adding that professionalism is essential in press settings. [RacingNews365]

Williams Racing has announced a multi-year collaboration with Super Group, the parent organization of Betway and Jackpot City, marking the latter's debut in Formula 1. This partnership follows the recent addition of Atlassian as a title sponsor and will see both brands featured on the team's 2025 car design, set to be revealed at the upcoming F1 75 season launch event in London. [RacingNews365]

FUN STUFF

An expansive motorsports property, featuring a dirt track, airstrip, and a fleet of offroad vehicles has been listed for $15 million on Zillow. The compound - in Winterhaven, CA, and overlooking the Mexico border - offers extensive facilities for automotive enthusiasts, including numerous garages and workshops, while also coming fully furnished and equipped with various maintenance equipment. [The Drive]

Todd Blue, known for his exotic car dealerships, is auctioning a selection of distinctive vehicles, all featuring various shades of blue, through RM Sotheby's. Highlights of the collection include a rare 1996 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 3.8 and a 2019 Porsche 911 GT2 RS, both expected to fetch high prices due to their limited production and unique features. [Carscoops]

In response to increasing incidents of shoplifting, a Michigan judge has introduced a unique form of punishment that requires offenders to wash cars in a Walmart parking lot. This initiative, supported by Walmart, aims to address theft in the community while potentially deterring future crimes through public accountability. [Carscoops]

BMW Classic is carefully restoring a BMW M1 that was damaged during a “scenic drive” at the 2013 Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este. The white example of the road-going version of the car is one of 163 made, from the fewer than 500 cars manufactured, and BMW Classic will be returning the car to its original condition more than a decade after its unfortunate incident. [BMW Blog]

A notable gathering of modified Porsches showcased the unique vision of Rod Emory at the 2024 Audrain Newport Concours d'Elegance. Emory, a pioneer of alternative restoration, created “Outlaw” vehicles characterized by their distinctive styling and performance enhancements, which have gradually gained recognition in a community previously dominated by traditionalist views on automotive restoration. [Car and Driver]

British supercar dealer Joe Macari has a listing for a unique Aston Martin Valkyrie, finished in purple carbon fiber with 24-karat gold accents. This highly customized model is named “Anemos”, from the Greek word for wind, and features purple and gold throughout the interior too, with over $600,000 in options in total - though no price is listed for the 50-mile hypercar which is expected to exceed its original £3 million tag. [Carscoops]

A young Subaru driver had a remarkable escape during recent severe weather in California when her car was skewered by a guard rail. The California Highway Patrol has been advising motorists in the area to exercise caution due to icy conditions, as multiple incidents have occurred involving vehicles losing control, with this 19-year old driver sustaining only “moderate” injuries despite the significant damage. [The Drive]

One driver in Switzerland was fined almost $110,000 for tailgating another car, due to the country’s income-based penalty system. The system, not uncommon in some European countries, takes into account the offender's salary to act as a deterrent to reckless driving, with the driver’s $1.8m annual income being used to calculate the fine - which was suspended for two years, though he still faces $14,500 in court fees. [Carscoops]

A modified 1995 Toyota Celica, altered to mimic the appearance of a fourth-generation Supra, is available for sale in Thailand. The vehicle, listed for approximately $11,800, features a range of custom enhancements, including a redesigned front end and upgraded wheels, while retaining the original Celica interior with some modern tech updates. [Carscoops]

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