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Ford Takes Mustang GTD Back to the 'Ring
Andrew Evans
April 11, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
F1 25 game previewed with overhauled My Team feature
Mercedes star given supercar, but he can’t legally drive it
Norris invites Verstappen to test the McLaren MCL39
MG teases youth-oriented CyberX SUV
Sainz risks further fines after complaining about Suzuka penalty
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
MG has revealed teaser images for the CyberX, an electric SUV that expands its Cyber series which initially launched with the Cyberster roadster. This model is designed with a more robust appearance and aims to attract a younger demographic, while also being built on SAIC's innovative E3 electric platform, which enhances structural integrity and efficiency through its unique battery integration.
Ford has returned to the Nurburgring with its high-performance Mustang GTD, after it set a record as the fastest American production car on the iconic track in 2024 with a goal of raising the bar yet further. While unlikely to beat the overall production record, set by the F1-derived AMG ONE, the GTD’s record of 6:57.6 is only a couple of seconds shy of times set by the Porsche 911 GT3 and Lamborghini Huracan Performante.
Despite the widespread adoption of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) over the past decade, many drivers express dissatisfaction with their functionality, particularly when these systems are overly intrusive or unreliable. A recent study by AutoPacific highlights that while some features like parking sensors and blind spot cameras receive positive feedback, there is a notable resistance to systems that monitor driver behavior and issue frequent alerts, indicating a desire for more intuitive and less disruptive technology.
As spring arrives, off-road fans are gearing up for the Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah, where Jeep is unveiling several innovative concepts for 2025, including three entirely new models based on the Wrangler/Gladiator platform and four others showcasing the potential of Jeep Performance Parts. With a recent decline in sales, Jeep aims to rekindle interest in the brand by blending nostalgic design elements with modern engineering in these unique vehicles.
Lucid Motors has finalized an agreement to acquire key assets from Nikola Motor's bankruptcy, including its manufacturing facilities in Arizona, while also extending job offers to over 300 former Nikola employees. This strategic move aims to bolster Lucid's production capabilities as it prepares to launch new vehicle platforms, despite its own financial challenges.
The European Union and China are currently in discussions to establish a minimum pricing framework for electric vehicles, aiming to resolve ongoing tariff conflicts. Following the imposition of significant tariffs on Chinese EVs, both parties are seeking alternatives that could provide a more equitable solution while addressing concerns over unfair subsidies.
Tesla has launched a more affordable version of the Cybertruck Long Range, featuring a single rear motor and an estimated range of up to 362 miles with an optional tonneau cover, starting at $69,990. However, this model lacks several premium features found in the All-Wheel Drive variant, including reduced towing capacity and a simpler suspension system, while also offering fewer amenities and power outlets.
Stellantis has retracted several advertisements that suggested its vehicles are predominantly manufactured in the United States, following criticism from Truth in Advertising regarding the misleading nature of these claims. The organization pointed out that many components used in these vehicles are sourced from abroad, prompting Stellantis to revise the ads to accurately represent the vehicles' assembly origins.
A recall has been issued for nearly 44,400 Audi vehicles from the 2021 model year due to a malfunctioning digital driver display, which may fail while driving or parked, posing safety risks. The issue stems from a software-related problem linked to a cable that monitors power flow, prompting Audi to implement a software update to mitigate the sensitivity of the display system.
MOTORSPORT
Lando Norris has extended an invitation to Max Verstappen for a test drive in McLaren's Formula 1 car, expressing his belief that the Red Bull driver may be surprised by the experience. Despite Verstappen's recent comments about the MCL39's high level of performance, Norris remains confident in his and Oscar Piastri's driving abilities, asserting that the perception of the McLaren's superiority over the troubled RB21 is overstated.
Carlos Sainz expressed his frustration over a €20,000 fine for being late to the national anthem at the Japanese Grand Prix, attributing his tardiness to a stomach issue. While acknowledging the importance of punctuality, he criticized the severity of the penalty for a mere five-second delay for what was a medical issue, and highlighted the logistical challenges drivers face on race day.
Ferrari has introduced its first performance upgrade for the 2025 Formula 1 season at the Bahrain Grand Prix, focusing on enhancements to the SF-25's floor design to improve downforce. This update follows feedback from drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton, who emphasized the need for advancements to remain competitive against rivals like McLaren, Red Bull, and Mercedes.
Despite being closely associated with Bahrain through its majority ownership by the Mumtalakat sovereign wealth fund, McLaren has yet to secure a victory at the Sakhir circuit since its inclusion in the Formula 1 calendar in 2004 - a record its current drivers hope to break. The team's best result in recent years has been a third-place finish by Lewis Hamilton in 2010, with Lando Norris achieving fourth place on two occasions, while Oscar Piastri's highest placement has been eighth.
George Russell expressed his concerns about the FIA's direction following the resignation of deputy president Robert Reid, who cited a significant decline in governance standards. As a prominent figure in the Grand Prix Drivers' Association, Russell noted that the ongoing instability within the governing body is increasingly disheartening for drivers, who feel their attempts to influence change have had little effect.
Drivers like Carlos Sainz and Jack Doohan have expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of additional mandatory pit stops in enhancing overtaking during races like the recent Japanese Grand Prix, where many drivers maintained their starting positions. Sainz advocates for softer tire compounds to promote greater performance differentials, allowing for more opportunities to pass, while also emphasizing the need for clearer communication with tire supplier Pirelli regarding tire characteristics.
Senior drivers have voiced reservations about the upcoming 2026 regulations, with Charles Leclerc and ex-Ferrari team-mate Carlos Sainz suggesting that a return to V10 engines would be preferred. The drivers have concerns over the new car dynamics and performance as well as safety, with Leclerc noting that most drivers are of the opinion that V10s would be a better solution than the upcoming format, with speculation mounting that the new regulations may be changed sooner rather than later.
Formula 1 has partnered with Barilla Pasta, a leading pasta manufacturer headed by ex-Minardi racer Paolo Barilla, to establish a long-term collaboration that will enhance its presence both during races and in promotional activities. This partnership includes trackside advertising, digital initiatives, and the introduction of pasta bars in F1 paddocks, aiming to create a unique experience for fans and participants alike.
FUN STUFF
Codemasters and EA have shared insights into the upcoming F1 25 game, highlighting significant updates to the career mode and the revamped "My Team 2.0" feature, which shifts the player's role from owner-driver to solely managing a new team. This iteration introduces a more complex decision-making process regarding driver selection and team management, aiming to enhance the strategic depth of the game while maintaining accessibility for newcomers.
Mercedes has gifted its new driver Andrea Kimi Antonelli with a high-performance Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S, after the 18-year old rookie scored points in each of his first three races, but he won’t be able to drive it in his home country. Italian law prevents newly qualified drivers from driving cars over certain power and power-to-weight ratio limits in their first three years, which the supercar comfortably exceeds.
Sung Kang is reportedly involved in a new film centered on stunt driving and drifting, distinct from his anticipated Initial D project. Recently, he was seen in unconventional janitorial attire at various events, hinting at his participation in this upcoming production, which will feature driving scenes directed by Brian Scotto, known for his work with Hoonigan.
A modified 2002 Acura NSX-T hit an impressive $370,000 in selling at auction, with the low mileage, high quality presentation, and virtually original condition helping to set a record-breaking price despite the change from standard specification. The upgrades are only visible when lifting the engine cover, as the NSX sports a Comptech supercharger to boost the 3.2-liter V6 - although no power output is provided - with the rest of the car looking almost showroom-fresh.
Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman's "Long Way" series offers valuable insights not only for motorcyclists but for a broader audience. The latest installment, "Long Way Home," features a less conventional journey from McGregor's residence in Scotland to Boorman's in England, encompassing a nine-week adventure across 17 countries, including routes through Scandinavia and the Arctic.
Police in Connecticut say that they’ve arrested and charged a motorcyclist who posted multiple videos of reckless and high-speed riding to social media channels. The rider, who is named as Brice Bennett, came to the attention of the authorities after numerous complaints of a dangerously ridden motorbike and was traced after posting videos to his own accounts showing speeds of almost 200mph and reckless riding in rush-hour traffic.
A significant theft involving over 900 engines has been reported at Kia's manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh, India, with indications that the operation has been ongoing for nearly five years and likely involves insiders. Authorities are investigating the factory's employees and supply chain processes to uncover how such a large quantity of engines could be removed without detection.
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