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Formula E Reveals Its Fastest Ever Car
Andrew Evans
November 05, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Hoonigan reveals Subaru Brataroo for next Gymkhana video
Audi Q9 Horch model spotted circulating the Nordschleife
F1 unveils new “Season Ticket”, giving one fan access to all races
Ringbrothers’ Kingpin: 800hp ‘69 Mach 1
McLaren family graves vandalized in New Zealand
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Recent spy shots have confirmed the presence of a luxury variant of the recently confirmed Audi Q9, likely to be named the Horch edition, as it was seen navigating the Nurburgring racetrack. This model is expected to feature distinctive design elements such as a unique front grille and enhanced comfort-focused interior amenities, catering to a premium experience for rear passengers.
The latest creation from Ringbrothers, a 1969 Mustang Mach 1 dubbed Kingpin, embodies a dark aesthetic inspired by cinematic villains, featuring a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers over 800 horsepower. This build not only enhances performance with a reworked chassis and independent suspension but also highlights the company’s extensive specialism in and aftermarket parts for Mustang models.
Alfa Romeo and Maserati are collaborating to launch the Bottegafuoriserie, an initiative aimed at producing exclusive limited-edition models while enhancing vehicle personalization options for buyers. This project not only seeks to honor the brands' rich heritage through restoration services but also aims to innovate by integrating modern technologies and design elements into future automotive creations.
Hyundai is set to introduce two new pickup trucks by the end of the decade, expanding its offerings to include a model tailored for the Australian market, expected to launch in June 2027, and a separate body-on-frame variant for North America. This strategic move marks a significant shift for the Hyundai Group, which has traditionally avoided the pickup segment, as it aims to compete with established models like the Hilux and Ranger while also enhancing its overall vehicle lineup.
The newly introduced pick-up variant of the Land Rover Defender, developed by Heritage Customs, transforms the standard Defender 130 into a working truck. With options for personalized features and two distinct styles, dubbed Heritage and Urban, customers can expect to invest approximately £60,000 for this conversion, which will take two to three months to complete.
The Jaecoo 7 has surpassed the Nissan Qashqai in UK registration figures for October, highlighting the competitive pressure that established brands face from emerging manufacturers. With 2,611 units registered last month compared to the Qashqai's 2,461, the Jaecoo 7 is poised to potentially enter the top ten best-seller list by year-end, reflecting a strong reception in its inaugural year.
Talos Vehicles has introduced a new sports car, the XXT, which is based on the Ferrari 599 GTB but designed to resemble a road-legal version of the 599XX race car after two years of development. This limited-production model features a tuned 6.0-liter V12 engine generating 674hp, alongside customizable options for buyers, including various finishes and performance enhancements, with a starting price of £950,000.
MOTORSPORT
Formula E has introduced its Gen4 car, set to make its competitive debut in the 2026-27 season, featuring a significant power increase to 600kW. This new model will maintain all-wheel drive capabilities at all times and incorporates advanced aerodynamic configurations, positioning it as a more relevant platform for automotive manufacturers amid a backdrop of declining team participation in the championship.
Max Verstappen has introduced Formula 1's inaugural season ticket, which provides one lucky fan each year with travel and accommodation for every grand prix. The first recipient, Brandon Burgess, gained social media attention for his ambitious plan to attend all 24 races in 2025 while managing a budget of £20,000 and his work commitments.
George Russell has stated that his primary aspiration has always been to become a Formula 1 world champion, rather than seeking the spotlight, as he navigated his contract negotiations with Mercedes. After finalizing a new deal prior to the US Grand Prix, he expressed confidence in his ability to compete for the championship in 2026, attributing his focus on racing to his ability to ignore external pressures.
Fernando Alonso expressed his interest in seeing how Kalle Rovanpera adapts to single-seater racing after the world rally champion announced his retirement from rallying to join Japan's Super Formula series. Alonso acknowledged the challenges Rovanpera may encounter in this transition but noted that the Finnish driver is likely to prepare thoroughly before his debut in the competitive environment.
Formula 1 teams face significant challenges with new circuits, as the introduction of venues like Miami, Las Vegas, and the upcoming Madrid track in 2026 complicates their operations. In a recent podcast episode, Nimesh Kotecha from Oracle Red Bull Racing discussed the importance of robust digital security and proactive planning to address the unique demands and potential risks associated with each race location.
Following a disappointing finish in the NASCAR Xfinity Series championship, Connor Zilisch's participation in the upcoming World Endurance Championship rookie test has been put on hold due to insufficient license points. Despite his impressive performance throughout the season, including ten race victories, Zilisch fell short of the necessary points after finishing second in the title race.
Chase Elliott has been recognized as NASCAR's Most Popular Driver since 2018, earning the National Motorsports Press Association award for the eighth year in a row. This achievement marks the 35th consecutive year that a member of the Elliott or Earnhardt family has received this fan-voted accolade, with Elliott’s father a 16-time winner.
CURIOSITIES
Hoonigan has revealed the vehicle to be used in its next Gymkhana video, Aussie Shred, when it is broadcast next month, presenting the “Subaru Brataroo” at SEMA. The car is based on the Subaru BRAT pickup, but now sports a 670hp, rallycross-derived flat-four engine, carbon fiber bodywork, and active aerodynamics.
The graves of Bruce McLaren and several family members in New Zealand have suffered significant damage and defacement, prompting a statement of shock from the Bruce McLaren Trust. This vandalism, which includes the application of gold paint and toy cars glued to the headstones, was first noted by a local grave restoration volunteer, who has since been working to repair the affected sites.
This weekend, the GT World Series will feature its inaugural Fan Fest in Los Angeles, with Grammy-nominated artist Lil Yachty set to perform. The event promises a variety of attractions, including the GT Awards, automotive panels, and a chance to experience upcoming game content.
Mercedes-Benz conducted a crash test on its eActros 600 electric truck, simulating a collision with a vehicle to assess the safety of its high-voltage battery system. The test confirmed that despite the significant impact, the battery modules remained undamaged, demonstrating the robustness of the truck's design and reinforcing the safety of modern electric vehicle batteries.
LaFontaine Chevrolet Buick GMC in Michigan has had its dealership license suspended due to allegations of misrepresenting loaner vehicles as new cars, a violation discovered during a state inspection. The dealership contends that these issues stem from outdated regulations and insists there was no intention to deceive customers, despite facing previous penalties for similar infractions.
At the SEMA show, the spotlight is on SUVs, with Nissan revamping its Y60 Patrol by integrating a powerful TB48DE inline-six engine, tuned to deliver 1,000 horsepower. This modified vehicle, alongside others like the Nissan Z and a tribute to the Patrol's racing legacy, highlights the growing trend of off-road vehicle customization in the automotive industry.
A rare, unmodified example of Toyota’s modern-classic, fourth-generation Supra is heading to auction at the Mecum Kissimmee event in January, with a valuation expected to reach into six figures. The Supra comes in entirely factory condition, including a six-speed manual gearbox, never-used targa roof, and the original Super White finish and chromed five-spoke wheels, and has just 6,100 miles on the clock.
Stellantis has reintroduced its powerful Hellephant A30 426 crate V8 engine, now enhanced with performance improvements, delivering 1,000 horsepower and 950 lbft of torque, with a starting price of $34,995. Additionally, the new Drag Pak engine, tailored for competitive drag racing and priced at $63,995, expands the lineup, although specific performance figures for this engine remain undisclosed.
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