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International Harvester Scout Reborn
Jordan Greer
October 25, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today we're taking a look at the reborn International Harvester Scout, coming back as a pair of electric vehicles. If you know someone who shares your passion for all things automotive, why not share SpeedBites with them? Let's rev up and explore the latest in the automotive universe together!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
Scout Motors has introduced the Traveler and Terra, two electric vehicles designed to compete with the Land Rover Defender and electric pick-up trucks like the Rivian R1T, set to enter production in 2027. Both models will feature a body-on-frame platform and optional petrol-powered range extenders while retaining design elements reminiscent of the original Scout models from the 1960s and 1970s.
Hyundai N has unveiled the RN24, an experimental electric vehicle that combines the Ioniq 5 N's dual-motor system with a chassis inspired by World Rally Championship designs, emphasizing performance and drivability. The RN24 features a lightweight structure and advanced power distribution technology, showcasing Hyundai's ongoing commitment to innovation in electric motorsport while hinting at future production models.
Brabus has introduced the Brabus 800, a high-performance version of the Mercedes-AMG G 63, featuring an 800 hp V8 engine and 1,000 lb-ft of torque, significantly surpassing the standard model's output. The vehicle offers extensive customization options, including three color schemes and a distinctive body kit, with prices starting at 475,500 euros in Germany.
Lincoln has announced pricing for the 2025 Navigator, starting at $101,990 for the base Reserve trim, which includes a range of standard features despite its designation. The long wheelbase version adds $2,990, while the top-tier Black Label trim begins at $118,490 and offers unique interior themes and additional perks, with fully loaded models exceeding $134,000.
Radford Motors, co-founded by Jenson Button and Ant Anstead, is undergoing a Chapter 11 bankruptcy restructuring just three years after its launch, raising questions about potential ownership changes. The company, which specializes in limited-production coach-built cars like the Lotus Evora-based Type 62-2, is seeking new investment to stabilize its operations after struggling financially despite previous sales of exclusive models.
Euro NCAP has rated the BYD Atto 3's 'Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control' system as 'Not Recommended' due to its failure to intervene when a driver becomes unresponsive in the presence of a road obstacle, resulting in a score of zero in the Unresponsive Driver Intervention test. Despite receiving a five-star safety rating in crash tests, the Atto 3's driver-assistance features struggled in other evaluations, highlighting the complexities of assessing vehicle safety and technology.
The Lamborghini Temerario, successor to the Huracan, features a new aluminum spaceframe that offers 25% greater torsional stiffness than the previous model. Offering a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine with the assistance of three electric motors, the Temerario has a total output of 907hp and is priced starting at $357,621.
Subaru is marking the 30th anniversary of the Legacy-derived Outback with a special edition model in Japan, featuring upgraded suspension components and distinctive black accents, limited to 500 units. While the Outback continues to see increased popularity in the U.S., the Legacy sedan's demand has significantly declined, leading to its planned discontinuation after the 2025 model year.
MOTORSPORT
McLaren has requested a right of review for Lando Norris's five-second penalty from the United States Grand Prix, where he overtook Max Verstappen off the track. The hearing will occur on Friday, requiring McLaren to present new, significant evidence that was not available during the original decision, similar to a previous case involving Mercedes and Verstappen in 2021.
Following recent races in Austin, Formula 1 drivers expressed concerns about the enforcement of track limits and penalties, highlighting a perceived inconsistency in how rules are applied. Many, including Oscar Piastri and Alexander Albon, called for clearer regulations and modifications to track designs, suggesting that the presence of gravel traps could help mitigate issues related to drivers exploiting track boundaries.
Williams Racing has introduced a one-off yellow livery for the Mexican Grand Prix, incorporating the color as a nod to its historical designs from 1983 to 1993. This change features the yellow branding of sponsor Mercado Libre on the engine cover and marks the first time the color has appeared on the car in 36 years, coinciding with the team's aim to improve its performance following a recent 10th place finish.
Extreme H testing in Fontjoncouse, France, featured top drivers, including Kevin and Timmy Hansen, who experienced the hydrogen-fueled Pioneer 25, a successor to the Odyssey 21. The new car, which weighs more than the previous Extreme E car due to its hydrogen fuel cell and enhanced safety features, has shown improved driving dynamics and stability, prompting drivers to express optimism about its potential for the upcoming racing season.
Honda is set to collaborate with design legend Adrian Newey at Aston Martin for the 2026 Formula 1 regulations, acknowledging potential conflicts between chassis and power unit design teams. Despite past challenges in aligning visions, Honda Racing Corporation president Koji Watanabe expressed optimism that Newey's involvement could lead to competitive success similar to their achievements with Red Bull.
A recent controversy surrounding Red Bull Racing's front bib adjuster has thrown a spotlight onto Formula 1's parc ferme rules, which restrict changes to car setups between qualifying and the race. The FIA employs scrutineers and electronic monitoring to ensure adherence to these regulations, allowing only specific maintenance and safety modifications while closely tracking any alterations made to the cars.
Valentino Rossi's participation in BMW's M Hybrid V8 LMDh rookie test at the World Endurance Championship in Bahrain has been confirmed, alongside fellow drivers Dan Harper and Max Hesse. While this test is an opportunity for Rossi to experience the Hypercar, it is not intended as a trial for a future racing seat, as he plans to focus on enjoyment rather than competitive aspirations in his post-MotoGP career.
CURIOSITIES
A Jeep Wrangler JK owner in Morocco has transformed the vehicle into an ultra-narrow version, dubbed the world's skinniest Jeep, by significantly modifying its body and chassis. This unusual creation, which retains the original 3.6-liter V6 engine, has drawn attention for its bizarre proportions and design, including a solo driver's seat and a comically compact rear end, while also raising concerns about its stability due to its narrow track width.
Bear Grylls and RealTruck are collaborating to create rugged versions of the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tacoma, which will debut at the SEMA Show on November 7. These trucks, built by the Superlift Suspension team, are designed to promote Grylls' upcoming TV series, Adventure Garage, set to air in 2025, focusing on extreme vehicle transformations for various adventurous missions.
A 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee sold at auction recently for a surprising $13,000 sum, given that the typical market price for similar models is around $5,000. This particular vehicle’s value is attributed to its excellent condition, extensive service history, and the simplicity of its design compared to modern vehicles, as well as a low odometer reading of 38,000 miles.
The ALPINA B8 4.6, a rare variant of the E36 with only 221 units produced, is currently up for auction in the United States, despite never being officially sold there. This model features a modified V8 engine producing 333 horsepower and is distinguished by its unique design elements, including ALPINA Blue paint and specialized interior details.
Fashion icon Pierre Cardin once designed a vehicle: 1981 Cadillac Eldorado Evolution, a luxury vehicle priced at $58,000 - significantly higher than a standard Eldorado. The car has extensive modifications, including lavish interior features like lambswool carpets, a VCR, and a unique rear seat wet bar, as well as a puzzling control panel that remains a mystery to the article’s author.
A judge has ordered Rudy Giuliani to surrender his assets, including a 1980 Mercedes-Benz 500SL once owned by actress Lauren Bacall, to Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and Shaye Moss, whom he defamed. The court has mandated Giuliani to pay approximately $150 million in damages for emotional distress and defamation, with his valuables likely to be sold to compensate the plaintiffs.
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