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Koenigsegg Reigns Again at Laguna Seca
Andrew Evans
November 07, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Rockstar Games postpones the next GTA to November 2026
Toyota takes a first WEC pole position of the year
Ford's EV losses threaten F-150 Lightning
Unique Robocop 6000 SUX up for auction
Hamilton calls for more transparency in FIA stewarding
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
An ongoing tussle between Koenigsegg and Czinger has seen the Swedish brand snatch back the lap record for a production road car, with the new Sadair’s Spear variant of the Jesko setting a 1:24.16 time. Despite running during a noise-restricted day and with additional silencers to adhere to the 90dB limit, this lowers the record by just over half a second from a time set by the Czinger 21C in 2024, with the car driven by multiple performance record holder Markus Lundh.
Ford's F-150 Lightning has experienced a significant drop in sales following the expiration of a $7,500 tax incentive for electric vehicles, contributing to the company's reported $13 billion loss in the EV sector since 2023. Despite these challenges, Ford is exploring the development of a more affordable electric pickup priced at $30,000, even as it shifts focus back to increasing production of its traditional internal combustion engine trucks.
Toyota is considering replacing the GR Corolla's 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, potentially enhancing power and tuning versatility. Additionally, the company is exploring the development of a mid-engine hybrid sports car, signaling its ongoing dedication to internal combustion engines amidst a shift towards electrification.
Honda plans to broaden its TrailSport lineup beyond the current offerings, enhancing off-road capabilities with improved suspension and ground clearance. The company is considering expanding this trim to additional models, including the HR-V and Prologue EV, to compete in the growing market for adventure-oriented vehicles.
Volkswagen has decided not to pursue electric or plug-in hybrid variants of the Amarok for its current generation, opting to maintain traditional diesel and gasoline engines instead. A hybrid model based on a Chinese platform is in development for South America, with production set to begin in 2027, distinguishing it from the global Amarok.
Volvo is implementing a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing expenses to enhance the affordability of its forthcoming electric model, the EX60, which will be positioned as the electric variant of the popular XC60. The automaker plans to leverage shared technology and resources with its parent company Geely to achieve significant cost efficiencies, while also maintaining its distinct brand identity.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has revealed that certain Honda vehicles may have improperly installed steel lug seat inserts, affecting models produced between December 2018 and December 2019. Although Honda initially found no issues in the US market, the company is now advising affected customers to have their vehicles inspected and will replace any faulty wheels at no cost.
Japanese car manufacturers have indicated that the trade tariffs imposed by the White House could lead to significant financial losses, labeling these import duties as a persistent challenge for the industry. This warning follows a recent trade agreement that, while reducing tariffs from 27.5 percent to 15 percent, still raises concerns among executives about the impact on profit margins.
MOTORSPORT
At the end of a challenging 2025 World Endurance Championship, Toyota has finally secured its first pole position of the season in a front-row lockout with Kamui Kobayashi achieving the fastest lap during the Hyperpole session. The results saw the two Peugeot entries occupy the second row, while several contenders for the Hypercar title faced difficulties, with only two of the four crews advancing to the final qualifying round.
Lewis Hamilton has expressed concerns regarding the need for improved transparency and accountability among race officials in Formula 1. His remarks follow a controversial incident during the recent race in Mexico City, where he and other drivers believed that stewards failed to enforce penalties for certain actions, ultimately impacting his race outcome.
Formula 1 is closely monitoring the potential for severe weather disruptions during the Brazilian Grand Prix, as forecasts predict an extratropical cyclone to impact the Sao Paulo area with heavy rainfall and strong winds. If conditions deteriorate, the FIA may face challenges in conducting both the sprint and qualifying sessions, with new regulations outlining how grid positions would be determined if qualifying cannot proceed.
Franco Colapinto will embark on his inaugural full season in Formula 1 with Alpine in 2026, having secured a new contract for the upcoming year. After transitioning from the Williams Racing Driver Academy, he has faced challenges in scoring points but has shown potential and consistency in performance alongside teammate Pierre Gasly.
George Russell expressed anticipation for the outcome of the 2026 F1 regulatory changes, predicting that the new cars and technologies will lead to unexpected overtakes in unconventional areas of the track. The changes will include new power units, active aerodynamics, and a manual override mode in place of DRS, though Russell reserves judgment on the effectiveness of that device.
Giorgio Sanna, previously the head of Lamborghini's motorsport division, has been appointed to lead McLaren Automotive's GT programs following Ian James's transition to the Jaguar Formula E team. In his new role, Sanna will manage McLaren's racing initiatives, including the 720S GT3 EVO and Artura GT4, while reporting to Jonathan Simms, the director of McLaren Special Operations and motorsport.
Penske Racing President Jonathan Diuguid has confirmed that the team will not field Porsche 963s independently in the FIA World Endurance Championship next season. This announcement follows uncertainty surrounding the future of the 963 in the WEC, particularly after Porsche's recent withdrawal from factory Hypercar competition, leaving questions about its participation in the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Romain Grosjean has concluded his three-year tenure with Lamborghini, where he primarily competed in the IMSA SportsCar Championship. His departure coincides with Lamborghini's decision to pause its LMDh initiative and redirect efforts towards the upcoming Temerario GT3 model set for 2026.
CURIOSITIES
A uniquely modified vehicle which found fame on the screen as the fictional 6000 SUX from Robocop is now available for auction. This car, based on a 1977 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, has seen better days but carries a notable cinematic legacy, with bidding expected to reach between €30,000 and €50,000.
Rockstar Games has announced a new release date for Grand Theft Auto VI, pushing it to November 19, 2026, as the development team seeks to enhance the game's quality. This marks the third delay for the highly anticipated title, which was initially expected to launch in 2025, and takes players back to Vice City for the first time since 2002.
A new Manufacturers Cup Exhibition Season is set to begin on November 12, following the conclusion of the GT World Series Round 3 in Los Angeles, featuring six rounds of racing over a condensed schedule. This season will reintroduce Gr.4 cars to the competition, requiring participants to strategically select brands with competitive offerings to achieve favorable rankings and rewards.
The Pagani Residences in North Bay Village, Florida, has introduced two luxurious penthouses priced at $28.5 million and $30 million, featuring expansive layouts and stunning views of Biscayne Bay. Each penthouse offers high-end finishes and exclusive perks, including a Pagani Utopia Roadster Miami Edition and a private tour of the Pagani Atelier in Italy.
A unique G29 Z4 coupe, creatively constructed from a GR Supra, was revealed at the SEMA show after an intensive five-week build process. This project involved significant modifications, including custom bodywork and interior enhancements, showcasing the potential of what a modern Z4 coupe could have looked like.
Mitsuoka is a manufacturer known for its eccentric retro-inspired vehicles, including the peculiar Orochi which features a striking design intended to convey the impression of a serpent to reflect its name. While the car falls short in performance compared to its intended competitors, it’s a highly unusual sight and one such example is now available through a classified listing.
Fall River authorities apprehended five individuals following a large street takeover involving numerous riders on various vehicles, including motorcycles and ATVs. The police department plans to enhance their response for future incidents after seizing several vehicles and expressing their commitment to maintaining public safety.
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!