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Genesis Hypercar Completes First Engine Test
Andrew Evans
July 24, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Another sedan bites the dust as Acura kills the TLX
One-of-one Bugatti Veyron Super Sport for sale
Toto Wolff: Antonelli/Russell pairing the priority for 2026
Test Drive Unlimited’s casino expansion immediately banned in 61 countries
Volvo and Tesla excel in official IIHS crash testing
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The Acura TLX is set to cease production shortly, following a lackluster sales performance that saw a significant drop in units sold over the past year. The decision to discontinue the midsize sedan is partly attributed to production adjustments at the Marysville Auto Plant, which have constrained output as the company shifts focus toward electric vehicle manufacturing.
The 2025 Tesla Model Y and 2025 Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid have received high marks in recent crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), both earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation. However the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Jeep Wrangler fell short with notable deficiencies in crash prevention systems.
Subaru is considering re-entering the B-segment with an economical electric hatchback, inspired by the success of the Renault 5, which has seen significant sales in Europe. The brand's leadership indicated that any decision to expand its electric vehicle offerings will depend on the sales performance of its current models, particularly the Uncharted SUV.
Drivers in the UK are significantly increasing their annual mileage in EVs compared to traditional gasoline vehicles, as highlighted by the RAC Foundation's analysis. In 2024, battery electric vehicles averaged over 10,000 miles annually, surpassing the mileage of gasoline cars, while plug-in hybrids have seen a consistent decrease in their yearly distance since 2020.
Chinese automotive manufacturers are increasingly challenging Western brands in the European market, with significant sales growth recorded in the first half of the year. BYD led this surge with a remarkable rise in electric vehicle sales, contributing to an overall 91 percent increase in Chinese brand registrations, with the marques just behind Mercedes in market share for H1 and exceeding it in June’s sales.
Kia has begun production of the PV5, its first modular utility vehicle designed on an electric skateboard platform, which aims to enhance practicality and versatility in both passenger and cargo configurations. The company plans to expand the PV5's offerings with various body styles and features, including a wheelchair-accessible version, although it has no plan to introduce this range to the US market due to regulatory challenges.
Researchers at MIT have developed a method for producing hydrogen that significantly reduces carbon emissions by utilizing recycled aluminum, seawater, and caffeine, potentially making it viable for large-scale industrial use. Their findings indicate that this innovative process generates considerably lower carbon dioxide emissions compared to conventional methods, offering a cost-effective alternative for hydrogen production.
Donald Trump recently suggested that he would prohibit European car manufacturers from selling vehicles in the US if pharmaceutical companies fail to reduce their drug prices. This statement raises questions about the connection between unrelated industries and highlights a misunderstanding of the political and economic landscape in Europe.
MOTORSPORT
Genesis has initiated the engine testing phase for its 2026 World Endurance Championship LMDh vehicle, the GMR-001 Hypercar, with the first successful run occurring at ORECA Motorsport's facilities. The development of the car's powertrain, which builds on technology from Hyundai's World Rally Championship, is progressing on schedule as the team prepares for its upcoming debut in the Hypercar class.
Toto Wolff has emphasized that retaining Mercedes’ current driver pairing of George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli for the 2026 season is his primary focus, despite ongoing discussions regarding Max Verstappen's future options. Wolff played down the possibility of surprise driver changes in the summer break, on the back of rumors that Verstappen is exploring a switch from Red Bull to the Mercedes team.
Tim Mayer, a candidate for the FIA presidency, has outlined his intention to reverse contentious policies, including the ability of the president to dismiss senate members and enforce non-disclosure agreements, should he win the upcoming election. His proposed reforms aim to restore accountability and transparency within the organization, emphasizing the importance of open communication.
Esteban Ocon expressed that the incident involving him and teammate Ollie Bearman during the British GP prevented both from earning points, leading to a candid discussion aimed at improving team dynamics. Bearman acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the collision in wet conditions and emphasized that measures have been established to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Racing Bulls and Aston Martin are set to implement aerodynamic enhancements at the Belgian Grand Prix as both teams strive to strengthen their positions in the competitive midfield of the 2025 Formula 1 season. With Racing Bulls aiming to close the gap to Sauber and Aston Martin introducing significant updates, the focus remains on optimizing performance in a tightly contested field during the sprint weekend at Spa.
Yuki Tsunoda expressed frustration over receiving penalty points from the stewards for the third consecutive race, feeling unfairly targeted despite previously escaping punishment for similar incidents. His recent penalties, including one for colliding with Oliver Bearman and another for overtaking a damaged car under red flags, have raised questions about the consistency of the stewards' decisions.
Ferrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, emphasized the importance of fully leveraging the new upgrade package during the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix, particularly given the limited practice time associated with the sprint format. The team has been testing a revised rear suspension at Mugello, aiming to enhance vehicle balance and performance, which it hopes will be beneficial during the condensed race weekend.
Alex Albon feels that while his performance at Williams remains consistent, the arrival of Carlos Sainz has shifted external perceptions of his abilities. He emphasizes that despite the increased recognition, he remains committed to the team's project and believes that the improvements in their car have played a significant role in highlighting his skills this season.
David Sanchez, Alpine's technical director, has expressed optimism about the team's progress on its 2026 vehicle, even as it faces challenges during the current season where it sits last in the constructors' standings. With a shift in focus towards the upcoming regulations, Sanchez believes that prioritizing the development of next year's car is yielding promising results, despite difficulties with the 2025 model.
CURIOSITIES
A one-of-one example of the Bugatti Veyron Super Sport is available through a classified ad, with the unique commission boasting custom features that pay tribute to the car’s 268mph world record speed for production cars. The last of the 48 Super Sports built, this car is specified to match the color scheme of the five World Record Edition models but with subtle differences such as a matt carbon finish, and is a 2,000-mile, one-owner vehicle.
Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown Season 4 Update Arrives With Casino Feature – But Not for Everyone…
The recent Season 4 update for Test Drive Unlimited Solar Crown introduces a significant addition by way of a casino, though it is inaccessible to players in numerous countries due to gambling regulations. Alongside the casino, players can engage in new "Stock Restriction" races and experience enhancements to vehicle audio and dynamics, while a revised Solar Pass system now incorporates a microtransaction model.
An unlikely vehicle has appeared in a classified listing on Facebook Marketplace, in the shape of a race-ready, 1986 Porsche 962. The vehicle, listed for $650,000, features a rebuilt Thompson monocoque and a three-liter, turbocharged flat-six engine, making it not only a striking piece of automotive history but also a viable option for those looking to participate in historic racing events.
Anticipation is building for the upcoming 'Project Road Trip' feature in American Truck Simulator, which aims to enhance gameplay by introducing a variety of vehicles for players to navigate through an expansive virtual representation of the US. The first wave of cars, including iconic models from Ford such as the 1967 Mustang and the modern F-150, will be part of a dedicated DLC pack, with customization options still being finalized by the developers.
After pulling over a BMW 3-Series that was missing its hood, police in Melbourne, Australia, were shocked to discover that the vehicle didn’t have fixed seats and was being driven by a man sitting on a plastic garden chair. The 64-year old driver claimed he was on his way to pick up parts for the E36-generation vehicle, and was issued with a defect notice that made it illegal to continue his trip.
Fanatec has introduced two new packages featuring the Porsche Vision Gran Turismo replica wheel, designed for compatibility with PC and PlayStation systems. Each bundle includes the unique Porsche wheel and CSL Pedals, paired with either a CSL DD or Gran Turismo DD Pro wheelbase, and offers a cost-effective option for sim racing enthusiasts looking to enhance their setups.
Honda is set to auction a used V10 Formula 1 engine that was driven by Ayrton Senna during the 1990 season, an item of significant historical value for motorsport enthusiasts. This particular engine, which has not been disassembled until recently, represents the last of its kind that Senna raced, making it a noteworthy piece for collectors and fans alike.
A man in Miami attempted to evade police during a traffic stop by mocking an officer before fleeing, only to crash into a semi-truck shortly after. Following the collision, Eduardo Barbaro Gonzalez was apprehended and discovered to have multiple outstanding warrants, leading to a range of charges including robbery and drug possession.
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