- SpeedBites
- Posts
- Genesis GMR-001 Completes 32hr Endurance Test
Genesis GMR-001 Completes 32hr Endurance Test
Andrew Evans
September 23, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Father of the Mazda Miata, Tom Matano, dies at 76
F1 drivers rent a van to get home after flight chaos
Lamborghini looking to revive SC63 with the right partner
McLaren's four-door model plans inevitable
Gran Turismo 7 update coming Wednesday, with five new cars
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Tsutomu “Tom” Matano, a prominent figure in automotive design and credited with the creation of the original Mazda Miata, passed away on September 20, 2025, at the age of 76, with the cause of death currently unreported. Throughout his career, Matano not only played a key role in the development of the Miata but also contributed significantly to the RX-7, leaving a lasting impact on the automotive enthusiast community.
McLaren is shifting its focus beyond traditional two-door supercars as it seeks to adapt and improve its financial standing, with plans for new models on the horizon. Following its acquisition by CYVN Holdings, the company is expected to introduce a hybridized lineup, including a utility-style vehicle slated for 2027, though specifics about its design remain uncertain.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has delayed the implementation of its updated five-star safety rating system, moving the start date from the 2026 model year to 2027 due to feedback from automakers regarding preparation time and guidance. This postponement comes as manufacturers express concerns over the clarity of new testing protocols and the feasibility of meeting stricter requirements for advanced safety technologies.
Nissan is set to introduce a new Level 2, semi-autonomous driving system some time during the 2027 financial year, and claims it may be “a little more clever” than Tesla’s FSD system. This next iteration of the ProPILOT system will use Wayve AI Driver software to process data from a LiDAR array in order to provide a more rounded understanding of situations and allowing the system to operate in complex urban settings.
Toyota's research division is exploring innovative ways to encourage electric vehicle owners to charge their cars more efficiently, including the development of an app called ChargeMinder. This application aims to provide personalized reminders based on user behavior and preferences, potentially leading to reduced energy consumption and greater sustainability in EV usage.
Chinese authorities have identified deficiencies in the driver-assistance technology of the Xiaomi SU7, prompting a recall of over 116,000 units produced between February 2024 and August 2025. The company plans to address the identified problems through an over-the-air software update, coinciding with the introduction of stricter safety regulations for such systems in China set to take effect in 2027.
Subaru has concluded the production of the Legacy after 35 years at its Indiana facility, a decision influenced by a significant drop in demand, with 2024 sales falling by 23% to 19,951 units. Additionally, the plant will cease manufacturing the Outback by the end of October, although it will continue operations by transitioning to Forester production, including a new hybrid variant.
Suzuki has unveiled a redesigned logo for the first time in two decades, featuring a sleek, flat design that replaces the previous chrome finish with a more eco-friendly silver tone. This new emblem, which retains the classic "S" shape, will make its debut on concept vehicles at the upcoming Japan Mobility Show, marking a shift in branding strategy aligned with contemporary digital trends.
MOTORSPORT
The Genesis GMR-001 LMDh prototype has completed its inaugural endurance test with the Genesis Magma Racing team, achieving 32 hours of continuous operation at the Autodromo Internacional do Algarve in Portugal. This testing phase allowed the team to evaluate the vehicle's components under challenging conditions, while also integrating new drivers and gathering essential data for future performance improvements ahead of their 2026 racing campaign.
Lamborghini is currently searching for a suitable partner to revive its SC63 LMDh initiative, which is aimed for a potential return in 2027, as confirmed by CEO Stephan Winkelmann. The company has temporarily halted its racing efforts with the prototype, focusing instead on a limited IMSA program this year, while expressing the need for a partner with the necessary expertise and resources to navigate the complexities of modern endurance racing.
During the Azerbaijani national anthem at the Baku City Circuit, several Formula 1 drivers were caught trying to suppress their laughter as children performed, particularly one enthusiastic young singer who drew attention on social media. While several drivers struggled to remain composed, Lewis Hamilton was spotted filming the event on his mobile phone.
Yuki Tsunoda attributed his notable performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix to a breakthrough he experienced after the Monza race, which has alleviated concerns regarding his future in Formula 1. Achieving sixth place in both qualifying and the race, Tsunoda's results reflect a significant improvement in his driving and the car's setup, particularly after adjustments made by the new team management at Red Bull.
Toto Wolff, the principal of Mercedes, humorously congratulated Williams' team leader James Vowles with a gift following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, where Carlos Sainz achieved a notable third-place finish. Vowles acknowledged Sainz's impressive performance, emphasizing that despite starting from the front row, he was unable to fend off the faster Mercedes of George Russell.
Red Bull Racing continues to thrive following the departure of Christian Horner, with Max Verstappen securing his second consecutive victory at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Horner's exit, which followed a significant settlement, allows him the opportunity to pursue a role with another Formula 1 team after a lengthy tenure marked by multiple championships and recent internal challenges.
Isack Hadjar expressed frustration with himself after a significant error during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which resulted in him finishing as the lowest-ranked driver from Red Bull. Despite a strong start and competitive pace, a mistake near the end of the race cost him valuable positions, leading to a disappointing outcome while his teammates achieved notable finishes.
Starting in 2027, the World Rally Championship will relocate its Italian leg to Rome, following next year's event in Sardinia. This transition is part of a new five-year agreement with the Automobile Club d'Italia, aimed at enhancing the visibility and appeal of rallying in Italy.
CURIOSITIES
The upcoming Gran Turismo 7 update will be released on September 24, a day earlier than the typical schedule, as confirmed by series creator Kazunori Yamauchi. This update will introduce several new vehicles, including the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo and the fifth-generation Toyota RAV4, alongside new races and features, although no new track will be added this time.
After facing a flight diversion due to inclement weather following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz opted to rent a van for their journey back to Monaco, accompanied by friends who documented their adventure. The two drivers had contrasting performances in Baku, with Sainz earning his first podium for Williams while Leclerc struggled to score points, ultimately finishing in ninth place.
A recent federal investigation has uncovered the alarming presence of counterfeit airbag inflators from a Chinese manufacturer in US vehicles, which have been linked to multiple fatal incidents. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has issued a stern warning to repair shops about the dangers posed by these substandard components, urging them to be cautious and highlighting the serious legal implications of installing such devices.
The Saratoga Automobile Museum is featuring an exhibit called “Speed-Style-Legacy: The Corvette Story,” which highlights notable models from Chevrolet's Corvette lineage, including the iconic 1957 Fuelie and the 2012 Daytona Prototype. Among the display is the 1961 Mako Shark I, a concept vehicle designed under William L. Mitchell, that not only showcases innovative aesthetics inspired by marine life but also played a significant role in advancing Corvette's engineering with various experimental powertrains.
For those who have long awaited a portable version of the classic driving game Out Run on the Game Boy Color, independent developer Rocketship Park has finally delivered a port after nearly three decades. While this adaptation is unofficial and diverges from the original arcade experience, it impressively captures the essence of the game despite the limitations of the handheld console.
The Honda Prelude's return to Europe next year highlights a growing interest in two-door coupes, potentially inspiring other manufacturers to revive classic models like the Alfa Romeo GTV and Nissan 200SX. Meanwhile, the VW Corrado, once a standout sports coupe with its VR6 engine, is becoming increasingly rare, especially in well-preserved condition, making it a sought-after classic for enthusiasts today.
In Novosibirsk, the team at Garage 54 has turned a unique autumn ritual into a spectacle, where they inflate oversized tires to the brink of explosion using battered sedans as their canvas. Their experiments often result in chaotic destruction, launching vehicles into the air while demonstrating the surprising resilience of the tires involved, all in the name of entertainment and viral content.
A dispute over an oil filter at an O'Reilly Auto Parts store in Albuquerque escalated tragically, resulting in the deaths of two employees, aged 18 and 47. The alleged shooter, Ismael Rene Tena, has been charged with murder after he reportedly opened fire outside the store following a confrontation over his demand for free oil.
That's all for today! We would love to hear your feedback, so just reply to this message to let us know what you thought about this issue. See you next time!