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Genesis Gunning for Range Rover with X Gran Equator Concept
Andrew Evans
September 26, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Hot Wheels releases new build-your-own Audi models
Pirelli to ditch ultra-soft tires for remainder of 2025
Mercedes teases all-electric VLE minivan
Audi leaps across open bridge in police chase
Sim failure played a role in Antonelli form slump
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Genesis is entering the competitive off-road segment with the X Gran Equator Concept, unveiled at the 2025 New York International Auto Show, positioning itself against established models like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Range Rover. Featuring a bold design that emphasizes minimalism and practicality, this concept vehicle combines advanced technology with a rugged aesthetic, hinting at potential powertrain options that could include hybrid or electric configurations.
Despite their declining popularity, several manufacturers, including Mercedes-Benz, continue to invest in minivan designs, as evidenced by the upcoming VLE electric van. Built on a new modular platform, this model promises a distinctive driving experience and features like an illuminated grille and advanced aerodynamics, with production expected to begin in 2026.
After years of inaction, safety regulators are now addressing concerns regarding electronic door handles, which were popularized by Tesla before more widespread adoption and have been linked to potential hazards during emergencies. In response to these safety issues, new regulations are being drafted in China that will require all vehicles to have both internal and external mechanical door release options, ensuring accessibility even in the event of a power failure.
Ford has expanded its recall to include an additional 4,632 units of the 2020 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator due to potential fire hazards linked to faulty battery junction box circuit boards. Owners are advised to park these vehicles outdoors until the necessary repairs are performed, as the issue may cause electrical shorts that lead to fires, even when the vehicles are not in operation.
Xiaomi Automobile has taken a significant step in its international strategy by launching a new research and development center in Munich, Germany, marking its first venture outside of China. This facility aims to enhance the company's innovation capabilities and foster collaborations with local talent and institutions, as it prepares to introduce its electric vehicles to the European market.
A senior executive at BMW has expressed confidence that internal combustion engines will remain part of the automotive landscape for the foreseeable future, despite the industry's shift towards electrification. While his remarks were later clarified by the company to emphasize regional variations in technology adoption, they highlight a commitment to maintaining combustion and hybrid options alongside new electric models.
Recent statistics indicate an eight percent increase in motorcyclist fatalities, raising concerns about the safety of vulnerable road users alongside a rise in pedestrian deaths. While overall road fatalities in Great Britain saw a slight increase of one percent in 2024, significant disparities exist in the trends of different user groups, highlighting the need for enhanced protective measures and a reevaluation of road safety strategies.
A recent report from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) indicates that UK motorists are facing inflated fuel prices, with petrol and diesel costs rising from 132 to 133.9 pence per litre and from 138.4 to 141.9 pence per litre, respectively, between May and August. The CMA also noted that profit margins for supermarket and other retailers have significantly increased during the second quarter of this year, raising concerns about the sustainability of these elevated prices compared to historical trends.
MOTORSPORT
Kimi Antonelli has demonstrated a notable recovery from earlier challenges in his Formula 1 career, with Mercedes acknowledging their role in his recent difficulties after a simulator failure affected preparations for Zandvoort and Monza. Following a commendable fourth-place finish at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, which contrasted with his performances in the previous two races, Antonelli is now focused on maintaining this level of consistency.
Pirelli's ultra-soft C6 tyre, initially intended for use in Singapore and Las Vegas, has been abandoned for the current season due to its poor performance and inability to provide a competitive advantage. Despite the tyre's design aimed at enhancing strategic diversity in racing, it has instead led to complications in qualifying and race strategy, prompting criticism from drivers like Max Verstappen.
Lewis Hamilton has withdrawn from a Pirelli tyre test in Formula 1 to be with his dog Roscoe, who is currently in a coma and suffering with pneumonia. The seven-time world champion shared on Instagram that while veterinary staff were able to restore Roscoe's heartbeat after sedation, his condition remains uncertain as they plan to assess him further.
Max Verstappen is currently preparing for the upcoming race at the Nurburgring Nordschleife by testing the Ferrari 296 GT3 on the grand prix track. After recently acquiring his racing license, he will compete alongside Chris Lulham in a race event this Saturday.
Charles Leclerc believes the current number of sprint races in Formula 1 is adequate, expressing hesitance towards the idea of reverse-grid formats, although he is open to experimenting with them during sprint weekends. Additionally, he has voiced his nostalgia for the V8 engines, advocating for a return to louder power units that he feels would enhance the excitement of the sport.
James Vowles has proposed that Formula 1 could explore adjustments to its structure, suggesting that race weekends could be condensed into two days to potentially allow for more events each season. While he believes the current number of races is adequate, he feels that reducing the practice time could enhance the overall experience and introduce greater unpredictability into the races.
Mick Schumacher is preparing to experience his inaugural IndyCar test at the Indianapolis road course, representing the Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing team. While currently engaged in Alpine's WEC program, he expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to drive an IndyCar and explore its unique characteristics, as he considers a potential future in the series.
NASCAR's Cup Series Playoff Committee is contemplating a shift away from the current playoff structure, potentially reinstating a traditional full-season championship format that many fans favor. While some committee members advocate for this change, there is also interest in refining the existing playoff system, including possible modifications to the bonus point structure and the championship finale format.
CURIOSITIES
Audi has collaborated with Mattel to produce miniature versions of the iconic RS2 Avant and R8 LMS GT3, available in the Brick Shop collection. Priced at $19.99 for the 1:32 RS2 Avant and $49.99 for the 1:16 R8 LMS, these models can be pre-ordered now and will officially launch later this fall.
During a recent police pursuit in Seattle, a driver of a stolen Audi executed a risky maneuver by crashing through a safety gate and leaping over the University Bridge. The vehicle was later discovered abandoned and damaged, while the suspect remains unidentified and at large.
A section of a busy road in Bangkok collapsed on Wednesday, leading to significant damage to the street and surrounding infrastructure, while a Toyota Hilux remained precariously on a small patch of intact pavement. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, with the incident believed to have been caused by nearby underground construction activities, and a further collapse was observed the following day.
Florida has enacted a new law aimed at addressing extreme speeding, allowing police to arrest drivers exceeding 100mph or going 50mph over the speed limit. A recent incident involving a C8 Corvette driver, who was caught traveling at 107mph while claiming to be late for a haircut, illustrates the law's enforcement in action.
Tim Walz, in addition to his roles as Minnesota's Governor and a Vice Presidential candidate, engages in hands-on car repair projects for friends. In a recent social media clip, he demonstrates how he replaced a damaged door on a BMW 3 Series, detailing the process of transferring components from a salvaged door to achieve a seamless installation.
A rare Polestar 1 has become available to buy, with the vehicle thought to be the only registered example in the UK and previously used for media activities surrounding the brand’s launch. The hybrid model, based on Volvo’s Concept Coupe, has also previously been owned by Top Gear’s Chris Harris, and with only 1,500 produced globally all in left-hand drive configuration is an unusual find.
The unique Zonda Riviera, originally a 2006 Zonda F, has undergone significant modifications, enhancing its power to 750hp from a 7.3-liter V12 engine, and has only been driven 564 miles. Set to be auctioned later this year in Abu Dhabi, it is anticipated to fetch between $9.5 million and $10.5 million, reflecting the rising value of rare Zonda models.
A woman from Knoxville returned her Tesla shortly after purchase due to unexpected financing denial, only to learn later that the vehicle had undisclosed issues. In a video, she expressed her disbelief over the situation, questioning the legality of driving off the lot without confirmed financing and revealing that the car had previously been damaged without proper disclosure.
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!