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Hyundai Reveals Gaming-Inspired Insteroid Concept
Andrew Evans
April 01, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Classic GT seasons coming to Project Motor Racing
Goodwood Revival to honor VW Type 2’s 75th anniversary
Mazda teases new EZ-60 electric crossover
Button praises Cadillac LMDh's driving style
Rare Nismo 270R vandalized by unhappy fire chief
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Hyundai has unveiled the Insteroid, a concept small electric vehicle that showcases a bold design reminiscent of hot hatches and draws influence from gaming culture. While specific technical specifications remain undisclosed, the vehicle hints at a performance-oriented future for Hyundai's electric lineup, suggesting potential production interest in sportier variants of their smallest EV model.
Mazda has unveiled a teaser for its forthcoming EZ-60 electric crossover, which closely mirrors the Arata concept introduced at the previous year's Beijing Auto Show. This model is anticipated to launch in Europe as the CX-6e, available in both fully electric and range-extender variants, while production will occur in China, limiting its availability in North America.
The revival of the Bertone brand is marked by the introduction of the Runabout, a supercar that pays homage to its heritage with features like pop-up headlights and a mid-mounted V6 engine delivering 460 horsepower. While reminiscent of the classic Fiat X1/9, the Runabout offers buyers a choice between a minimalist design and a more practical targa version, showcasing a blend of modern performance and vintage aesthetics.
Renault and Nissan have reached an agreement intended to support Nissan's recovery, allowing the latter to withdraw from its planned investment in the Ampere division and divest some of its Renault shares. Additionally, Nissan will introduce a redesigned Renault Twingo in 2026, tailored with distinct features by the Japanese manufacturer.
A recent order for the Bugatti Tourbillon illustrates the extreme customization options available for the hypercar, with one buyer adding nearly $1 million in extras, pushing the total price to an astonishing $5.56 million. Among the notable upgrades is a two-tone red carbon exterior finish, at $360,000, highlighting the extravagant nature of a vehicle that already commands a high base price.
President Trump expressed indifference regarding potential price hikes by automakers due to his upcoming tariffs, asserting that such increases would encourage consumers to choose American-made vehicles. He indicated that while tariffs are intended to benefit domestic manufacturers, they may inadvertently raise costs for all vehicles, as companies often pass these expenses onto buyers.
Alfa Romeo has launched its Intensa series, a special edition that encompasses its entire vehicle lineup, including the Tonale, Giulia, Stelvio, and Junior Elettrica, aimed at highlighting the brand's unique heritage. Each Intensa model features distinctive design elements such as two-tone alloy wheels and premium interior materials, with pricing starting at £38,905 for the Junior Elettrica and reaching £59,800 for the Stelvio.
The Rolls-Royce Spectre, a notable luxury electric vehicle, has caught the eye of various tuners, including Mansory and Keyvany, the latter recently showcasing a modified version in Dubai. Keyvany's alteration features a striking bi-tone paint scheme, enhanced aerodynamics, and customized interior touches, with only six units planned for production, while retaining the original powertrain specifications.
At the recent SoCal Spring Fest 2025, automotive photographer Anthony Carter showcased a pre-production model of the 2026 Dodge Charger Daytona sedan, which features a striking new color called "Bludicrous". This event marked the first public appearance of Stellantis' electric muscle car, as production is set to commence in May 2025 after delays pushed its release beyond the original schedule.
MOTORSPORT
Jenson Button has quickly adapted to the Cadillac V-Series.R, noting that its driving style aligns more closely with his preferences compared to the prototypes he previously raced. As part of Hertz Team JOTA, he is benefiting from the extensive experience of his teammates while navigating the complexities of LMDh racing, particularly in the context of a factory-supported program.
The Goodwood Revival, taking place from September 12-14, promises an exhilarating experience for motorsport enthusiasts, featuring vintage racing and a variety of engaging activities. This year's event will celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Volkswagen Type 2 and honor Alfa Romeo's rich history, including the 50th anniversary of its World Sportscar Championship title.
Following a strong performance in Australia, Lando Norris faced challenges in China, losing ground to teammate Oscar Piastri due to McLaren's car dynamics that particularly affected his driving style. Despite his struggles with front tyre graining and adapting to the car's characteristics, Norris acknowledged the need to adjust his approach, while Piastri's adaptability allowed him to capitalize on the situation, indicating a competitive season ahead for both drivers.
Alpine has confirmed that Ryo Hirakawa will take the wheel during the initial practice session at the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend, stepping in for Jack Doohan. As a reserve driver for the team while also fulfilling his commitments with Toyota in the World Endurance Championship, Hirakawa is eager to contribute to the team's performance at Suzuka, reflecting on his journey since first attending the race in 2007.
Red Bull has set clear performance expectations for Yuki Tsunoda as he gears up for his debut race with the team this weekend, following his exchange with Liam Lawson, who failed to earn points in his initial races. Motorsport consultant Helmut Marko emphasized the importance of having competitive drivers to enhance strategic opportunities for Max Verstappen during the races.
Aston Martin's commitment to Formula 1 is set to continue for many years, as confirmed by team owner Lawrence Stroll following the announcement of a significant financial boost through the sale of its stake in the racing team. The company is actively seeking a strategic investor to enhance the team's value, while reaffirming its long-term sponsorship agreement, ensuring the iconic brand remains a fixture in the sport.
The upcoming Japanese Grand Prix marks the third event of the Formula 1 season at the renowned Suzuka Circuit, known for its demanding layout that encourages competitive racing. With recent track resurfacing and modifications to kerbs and run-off areas, teams will need to adapt their strategies, particularly in the first sector, while the second and third sectors remain unchanged.
Raymond Vermeulen, Max Verstappen's manager, has revealed that Red Bull's car is unlikely to gain any further speed this season, marking a shift in performance as they have not secured a win in the first two races for the first time since 2022. With Lando Norris currently leading the standings after a strong start, Vermeulen emphasizes that Verstappen will need to leverage his skills to remain competitive in what promises to be a challenging season.
Carlos Sainz's transition to Williams has been challenging, marked by inconsistent performances that contrast sharply with teammate Alex Albon's strong start to the season. Despite scoring his first point in the Chinese Grand Prix, Sainz is grappling with car balance issues and a need for adaptation, as he seeks to improve his competitiveness in upcoming races.
Motorsport serves as a testing ground for innovative technologies, such as an infrared tracking system developed by Infrared Kinetics, which aims to enhance performance monitoring for various high-speed vehicles. By adapting military-grade sensors for racing applications, the company envisions this technology not only improving race management but also transforming sectors like transportation, gaming, and defense.
FUN STUFF
Straight4 Studios has announced that the 2004/2005 GT Championship will be featured in the upcoming Project Motor Racing, marking a significant update ahead of the game's launch. This era of racing is noted for its powerful vehicles and minimal reliance on electronic assistance, with a diverse lineup that includes iconic models like the Saleen S7R and Lister Storm, although the full range of cars and tracks from that time remains to be confirmed.
A fire chief has admitted to vandalizing a rare Nissan 270R Nismo, leading the car's owner to file a lawsuit for $500,000 after a potential sale collapsed. The owner claims the damage necessitates extensive restoration to restore the vehicle's value, though the legitimacy of such a high claim remains uncertain.
The Porsche 962, a prominent figure in endurance racing during the 1980s, was so successful that it faced a ban from the FIA, leaving many of these iconic vehicles without a competitive future. In response, a few tuners, including Koenig Specials, transformed a limited number of these race cars into street-legal versions, with the Koenig C62 featuring a modified twin-turbo engine and retaining much of the original 962's design elements.
A Lamborghini Urus Performante has been deemed a total loss after its VIN plate was stolen, despite having only 52 miles and no mechanical issues. Now available at a salvage auction, potential buyers face the challenge of navigating complex legal registration due to the absence of the identification number.
Rarity, high-price, and a famous name are not always enough to guarantee a car’s status as a collectors’ item, as evidenced by the loss in value of this Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake. Developed from the Vanquish by Zagato, using the rear structure of the Rapide, only 99 examples of the Shooting Brake were built in 2019 - just 11 of which made it to the USA - at $877,000 apiece, and this Scorching Black example now available at auction sold for just half that earlier this year.
The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is set to reopen to the public on April 2, following a ribbon-cutting event, after being closed since November 2023 for renovations. Members and donors will have a special preview on April 1, and the revamped museum will offer expanded access to exhibits, including previously restricted areas and new interactive features.
Authorities in Victoria intervened in an unlawful street racing incident in Cranbourne North, where an 18-year-old driving a modified VW Golf R was recorded reaching speeds of 200 km/h in a zone restricted to 80 km/h. The driver, who was alone and operating under a learner's permit, now faces several charges, including excessive speeding and illegal racing, while his vehicle has been impounded for 30 days.
The 2025 MotoGP season's third round at Austin's Circuit of the Americas was marked by an unexpected turn of events when polesitter Marc Marquez switched to a dry bike just before the race, prompting nine other riders to follow suit before a red flag halted the proceedings. Compounding the situation, the MotoGP safety car, a BMW M5, crashed into the barriers prior to the race start, potentially due to a loss of grip on the damp track, highlighting a history of mishaps involving safety cars in the series.
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