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It's Not a Bugatti, It's a Dreame
Andrew Evans
September 18, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Cadillac F1 to run 2026 season from Silverstone facility
Burnout-inspired Wreckreation to launch in October
Americans' $1.7 trillion vehicle debt
Kentucky police crush a Hellcat to dissuade street racing
Perez set for Ferrari F1 TPC test with Cadillac
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Chinese vacuum cleaner manufacturer Dreame Technology is set to unveil a concept electric vehicle resembling a Bugatti Chiron at CES in Las Vegas next January, with plans for both fully electric and hybrid variants expected to enter production by 2027. The company is also looking to establish a second brand, Starry Sky Auto, aimed at producing luxury SUVs inspired by Rolls-Royce and Bentley.
The rising costs of new vehicles, averaging nearly $50,000, are driving many Americans into significant debt, with total auto-related liabilities reaching an astonishing $1.66 trillion. Recent trends indicate a troubling increase in payment delinquencies and extended loan terms, particularly among younger buyers, raising concerns reminiscent of pre-financial crisis conditions.
The Volkswagen Touareg is set to be phased out next year, yet there are indications that the brand may introduce a new electric SUV under the same name, potentially known as the ID.Touareg. While this model could fill a gap in Volkswagen's lineup, its availability in the U.S. remains uncertain as the company shifts focus towards smaller electric vehicles.
Xiaomi is making significant strides in the automotive sector with its new YU7 crossover, building on the success of its SU7 sedan, which has outperformed the Tesla Model 3 in China. The forthcoming high-performance variant, likely to be named YU7 GT, is set to feature an upgraded powertrain and advanced technology, further solidifying the company's ambitions in the electric vehicle market.
The Toyota GR Corolla has received a subtle update in Japan, incorporating enhancements derived from its performance in the Super Taikyu racing series to improve durability under high G-forces. Key modifications include increased structural adhesive for better rigidity, a new secondary intake duct for stable engine performance, and an upgraded JBL sound system that adds engine noise effects, while earlier models can also be upgraded to match these new specifications.
Hyundai has introduced the Ioniq 6 N electric sedan and is planning to expand its performance-oriented N lineup to over seven models by the end of the decade, aiming for significant global sales. Currently, the N series includes five vehicles, and there are indications that additional models, potentially including hybrids and new designs, are in the pipeline to enhance the brand's sporty offerings.
The Polestar 4 competes directly with the Tesla Model Y, distinguishing itself by omitting a rear window, a choice that has sparked mixed reactions among automotive critics. Despite some concerns regarding visibility, Polestar's CEO reports that many customers appreciate the digital rearview mirror feature, contributing to a notable increase in sales during the first half of the year.
Citroen has advised UK drivers to refrain from operating four of its latest models due to a brake failure concern linked to the pedal box assembly. The company’s parent, Stellantis, has implemented a stop-drive directive and will provide replacements for affected vehicles while they undergo inspection.
MOTORSPORT
Cadillac's Formula 1 team will primarily operate its 2026 car from Silverstone while its American headquarters in Fishers is under construction, according to team principal Graeme Lowdon. The team, which will debut at the Australian Grand Prix, plans to leverage multiple facilities across the US and UK to streamline operations and enhance collaboration among its staff.
Sergio Perez has announced his initial testing session with Cadillac F1 as the team prepares for its debut in the 2026 Formula 1 season. Alongside teammate Valtteri Bottas, Perez will be actively involved in extensive training and testing, including sessions in a Ferrari F1 car, to ensure he is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Racing driver Laura Villars has declared her candidacy for the FIA presidency, making her the first woman to seek this position, with a deadline looming for her to submit necessary documentation. Competing against current president Mohamed Ben Sulayem and former FIA steward Tim Mayer, Villars aims to promote a more inclusive and transparent governance structure within the organization, while also advocating for sustainability and youth involvement in motorsport.
Carlos Sainz views the recent reversal of his penalty from the Dutch Grand Prix as a significant advancement for Formula 1, especially in light of ongoing discussions regarding racing regulations. Despite finishing 13th in the race after serving a penalty, he expressed satisfaction with the outcome, emphasizing the importance of establishing a more consistent stewarding system and the need for clearer guidelines to reduce subjectivity in decision-making.
George Russell will not participate in the media day for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, as confirmed by his team, Mercedes. While he prepares for the upcoming race weekend, reserve driver Valtteri Bottas is on standby to step in if necessary, with the situation arising amid discussions regarding Russell's contract extension for the 2026 season.
As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, several teams, including Alpine, are still determining their driver lineups. With its second seat alongside Pierre Gasly still undecided, Alpine may continue with one of its 2025 drivers, Franco Colapinto or Jack Doohan, wait to see which Red Bull ecosystem driver becomes available, or make a switch to untested talent like Paul Aron.
Helmut Marko acknowledged Isack Hadjar's impressive performance at Zandvoort, suggesting that the rookie has shown he can handle the pressures of potentially joining Max Verstappen at Red Bull. Despite Hadjar's strong showing, the team faces a dilemma regarding its driver lineup, as both Yuki Tsunoda and Liam Lawson have struggled to demonstrate consistent progress, leaving the decision on who to retain uncertain.
The Ford Multimatic Motorsports team will continue its participation in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship GTD Pro class with two Mustang GT3s for a third consecutive season, as confirmed by the governing body. This year has marked a significant achievement for the team, highlighted by a victory at the Rolex 24 at Daytona and additional podium finishes, placing their drivers in competitive standings.
CURIOSITIES
THQ Nordic has announced that its open-world racing game, Wreckreation, will be launched on October 28 for all major platforms. Developed by Three Fields Entertainment, the game features a vast 400 square kilometer environment where players can create custom tracks and engage in various challenges, all while enjoying an experience reminiscent of the Burnout series.
In a dramatic public event, Louisville police destroyed a 2021 Dodge Durango Hellcat, which had been confiscated due to its involvement in illegal street racing and the presence of stolen parts. The department emphasized that this act was part of a broader initiative to deter reckless driving behaviors and promote community safety, despite facing criticism for not auctioning the vehicle instead.
A tragic incident occurred in Washington DC when a truck driver lost his life while unloading the Andy Warhol-designed BMW M1 Procar art car, which had been scheduled for display at Hagerty's upcoming event. The accident, attributed to a winch failure, prompted condolences from both Hagerty and BMW, as well as the cancellation of the planned Cars at the Capital exhibition.
A classic 1985 Mercedes-Benz 300 CD, featuring a striking Midnight Blue exterior and a well-preserved Palomino interior, has come up for sale, highlighting the durability and craftsmanship of its era. While it has minor issues, including dated tires, the 40-year old vehicle is equipped with modern upgrades like air conditioning and an Alpine audio system, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts looking to bid in the ongoing auction.
In Laois County, Ireland, recent changes to speed limits from 80km/h to 60km/h were not reflected in Google Maps, leading to drivers mistakenly exceeding the new limits and receiving speeding tickets. This situation highlights the importance of relying on road signs for accurate information, as outdated data in navigation apps can lead to confusion, especially when proper signage is lacking.
The microcar segment is experiencing a revival, particularly with the introduction of models like the Citroen Ami and Fiat Topolino, alongside emerging startups such as Dogood and Microlino. Among these, the BMW Isetta stands out as a classic, with its 1950s design and efficient performance, exemplifying the charm and practicality that modern urban drivers still appreciate today.
Logitech has launched the RS50, a new direct drive racing wheel offering 8Nm of torque at a starting price of £249.99, positioning it competitively against similar products from Fanatec and Moza. While the base is compatible with PC, additional purchases are necessary for a complete setup, including a wheel and pedals, with the RS pedal set priced at £119.99.
After a routine oil change at a dealership, Jacquelyn Gamble's 2021 Mercedes GLE 350 suffered issues that culminated in a vehicle failure, whereupon a significant hole was discovered in the engine block. Despite her belief that the dealership was responsible, she was quoted nearly $40,000 for a new engine, although a third-party warranty will cover the $15,000 cost of a used replacement.
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!