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- Hennessey Venom Gets Power Bump - to 2,031hp
Hennessey Venom Gets Power Bump - to 2,031hp
Andrew Evans
April 18, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
New F1 game brings LIDAR scanned tracks
Russell trialed a cooling suit in Bahrain
How Gran Turismo Sophy AI adapts to car upgrades
Bugatti Tourbillon's hidden Speed Key revealed
Newey focuses on Aston’s 2026 car
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Bugatti has redesigned the placement of the Speed Key for the Tourbillon, moving it to a concealed area within the center console, which now features a premium suede finish and a dedicated slot for the key. This is a change from the location in previous models - the Veyron and Chiron - which placed the key that engages the special top speed setup between the driver’s seat and door, and inserting the key increases the car’s top speed from a limited 236mph to 276mph.
Hennessey has introduced the Venom F5 Evolution, a more powerful version of its 300mph-capable supercar that boasts an impressive 2,031 horsepower, an increase of 214hp compared to its predecessor. Enhanced aerodynamics, developed in collaboration with a noted Formula 1 aerodynamicist, enable this model to achieve a remarkable acceleration from 0 to 200mph in just 10.3 seconds.
Nissan is set to launch a compact electric crossover aimed at competing with the Volkswagen ID.1, with support from its partners Renault and Dacia to facilitate a 2026 release. This vehicle will use components from Renault's redesigned Twingo and feature a new lithium-iron phosphate battery, allowing it to maintain a competitive price point while being produced in Eastern Europe.
The all-new 2026 Subaru Outback marks a significant shift towards SUV styling while offering increased interior space and updated technology features. With a more angular design and enhanced driver assistance systems, this latest iteration continues to blend practicality with off-road capability, catering to both urban and adventurous drivers.
Volkswagen has decided to maintain its vehicle pricing through the end of May in response to increasing import tariffs, particularly affecting models produced in Mexico like the Tiguan, which faces a 27.5 percent tariff. The company's president indicated that any future price adjustments would depend on a thorough evaluation of the supply chain and competitive landscape, with costs potentially being distributed among dealers, suppliers, and consumers if tariffs remain.
Although Ford has long-since abandoned sedans in the North America, a facelifted Mondeo has been spotted testing in camouflage in the USA. The fifth-generation model is currently only sold in China, so it’s not expected that this updated vehicle will be made available in the North America and the reasons for bringing the test car to the USA are currently unclear.
Concerns arose among manufacturers and automotive fans regarding a potential ban on carbon fiber in vehicles within the European Union, but this proposal has now been withdrawn. The European Parliament has decided to exclude carbon fiber from the hazardous materials list in a revision of its End of Life Vehicles Directive, though health concerns over disposal of the material do exist.
Subaru has introduced a groundbreaking airbag system in the updated Forester, specifically designed to enhance safety for cyclists by extending protection along the windshield sides. Currently exclusive to the Japanese market, this innovative feature builds on previous pedestrian safety technology, but there is no confirmation of its availability in North America at this time.
Ford has announced three recalls affecting close to 150,000 vehicles, with the most critical issue concerning the 2025 Explorer, which may unexpectedly lose drive power. The recalls also include the Ranger, F-150, Expedition, Navigator, and Nautilus, addressing various safety concerns such as potential brake fluid leaks and programming errors that could impact vehicle operation.
MOTORSPORT
Aston Martin's newly appointed technical partner, Adrian Newey, is concentrating exclusively on the development of the 2026 vehicle, despite the team's current performance challenges. Team principal Andy Cowell noted that Newey is focused on refining design tools and enhancing operational efficiency at their advanced facilities, particularly the new wind tunnel, while also navigating the tight deadlines for the upcoming season.
George Russell recently used a cooling vest during the Bahrain Grand Prix, marking its unofficial introduction in a race setting as he secured second place. Although the FIA had initially planned to make these vests mandatory for high-temperature races, feedback from drivers led to a decision to allow voluntary use for now, with Russell expressing confidence in the system's effectiveness despite potential comfort issues in faster circuits like Saudi Arabia.
Genesis has provided an update on the GMR-001 hypercar, which is designed to compete in endurance racing, revealing that its V8 twin-turbo engine shares a significant number of components with the inline-four used in Hyundai's WRC vehicles. The development of this powertrain is progressing, with initial tests completed and plans for further testing and integration into the car's hybrid system scheduled for later this year.
George Russell remains unconcerned about his contract situation with Mercedes, emphasizing that his primary focus is on delivering strong performances on the track. While he acknowledges circulating rumors regarding his future, he believes that contract discussions typically occur later in the season and that driver contracts are often subject to performance-related conditions.
Lewis Hamilton asserts that Ferrari is under more intense scrutiny than any other team in Formula 1, yet he remains optimistic about its potential to achieve success with time. Following his transition from Mercedes, Hamilton has been adjusting his driving style to better align with Ferrari's performance, noting improvements during recent races and expressing confidence in the team's future.
Lando Norris took a brief hiatus to regroup after his third-place finish at the Bahrain Grand Prix, yet he remains optimistic about improving his performance in the upcoming races. Despite feeling uneasy with his car's handling, he continues to lead the championship, with teammate Oscar Piastri narrowing the points gap significantly after a strong showing in Bahrain.
Fernando Alonso acknowledged that speculation about Max Verstappen potentially moving to Aston Martin could benefit the team, although he deems it improbable that they would share a garage. While Alonso is committed to his contract for the upcoming season, he expressed optimism about his long-term future with Aston Martin, even beyond his driving career.
Gabriel Bortoleto likened his experience at Stake F1 to George Russell's initial season with Williams, acknowledging the challenges of competing without scoring points. The young driver, who previously won consecutive championships in F3 and F2, is focused on learning and improving as he navigates a difficult start to his Formula 1 career.
During a recent FIA press conference in Jeddah, Alex Albon inadvertently left his phone behind, leading Max Verstappen to humorously take selfies with fellow drivers Fernando Alonso and Isack Hadjar using Albon's device. Upon realizing his mistake, Albon returned and shared the amusing incident on social media, jokingly claiming to report a "robbery".
FUN STUFF
The latest update to Gran Turismo 7, version 1.57, enhanced the GT Sophy AI, now enabling it to adapt to player-modified vehicles in custom races. Researchers from Sony AI shared insights on the advancements in Sophy 2.1, highlighting improvements in its learning capabilities and testing processes to better handle a wider variety of cars and tuning setups.
Codemasters and EA have unveiled new details about the upcoming F1 25 title, highlighting significant enhancements, particularly the addition of tracks recreated using LIDAR technology for greater accuracy. These circuits have been scanned during official race weekends, and while there are just five at launch there’s an ongoing process for updating the venues in-game, along with a new reverse layout option for select circuits, and expanded customization tools, all aimed at enhancing the overall player experience.
For those looking to stand out at automotive gatherings, a street-legal 1988 Porsche 962C is available for purchase, boasting a rich racing history and a price tag of approximately $1.3 million. Originally designed for competition, this fully restored vehicle has been adapted for road use and is eligible for various vintage racing events, making it a unique blend of performance and practicality.
A Minnesota dealership is pursuing legal action against Bentley Denver and a transport firm after a Ferrari Roma it ordered was stolen during transit, allegedly due to a fraudulent carrier. The lawsuit highlights a lack of verification from both the dealership and the shipping company, amid rising incidents of vehicle theft during transportation in the US.
In 1972, Chevrolet manufactured 27,000 Corvettes, with the coupe being the more popular choice, totaling 20,496 units compared to just 6,508 convertibles. A blue convertible currently for sale features a non-original engine and various issues, including rust and a cracked fiberglass body, leading the seller to suggest a price of $8,370 while remaining open to offers.
In Salzburg, Austria, a controversial proposal involving a tunnel bored into a mountain, in order that Porsche heir Wolfgang Porsche can build and access a private garage underneath his villa, has sparked a divide among residents and local officials. The plan, which requires a change to the city's zoning regulations, has faced opposition due to concerns over privilege and the perceived ease with which it was approved compared to public infrastructure projects.
The Chevrolet SSR, despite its unconventional design and lackluster performance, has emerged as a unique collectible, though this particular 2004 model is heavily rusted and in poor condition. Currently listed for auction in Florida, it is only available to licensed dealers and rebuilders, and its extensive frame damage and unknown mileage suggest that it may be better suited for parts than restoration.
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