Koenigsegg Teases a New Hypercar

Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:

  • Project Motor Racing launches November 25

  • Is Citroen set to replace Maserati in Formula E?

  • Production version of Mazda’s rotary Iconic SP to sit above MX-5

  • Cannonball Run-winning Dino 246GTS for sale

  • Pirelli looking to change underused wet F1 tire for 2026

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

Mazda's Iconic SP, first revealed at the Japan Mobility Show, has been confirmed to be the basis of a model that will sit above the MX-5, rather than a new iteration of the Miata. With a powerful dual-rotor engine and a design that borrows elements from its predecessor, this as-yet unnamed sports car is anticipated to launch before the next generation of the Miata.

Koenigsegg is set to unveil a new supercar, as indicated by a series of artistic teaser videos shared on Instagram that hint at various design elements. The official reveal is scheduled for June 25, and while the exact nature of the vehicle remains unclear, it may represent either a new model line or a unique creation for a specific client.

Lamborghini is reportedly preparing to introduce a new supercar, tentatively named the Fenomeno, which is anticipated to be the brand's most powerful model to date. Set to debut at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August, this limited edition, 29-example vehicle will be based on the Revuelto and is expected to feature a power output exceeding 1,001hp.

MG is set to introduce a new competitor to the Tesla Model Y during the Goodwood Festival of Speed, with a teaser image hinting at a rebadged version of the Chinese-market IM6 crossover. This launch may mark the brand's expansion into the premium segment in the UK, following its earlier success in Australia, and could see models from the sibling IM brand offered under the MG name.

Ford has revealed the new Tremor variant of the Explorer SUV, featuring enhancements designed for off-road enthusiasts as well as the option of a 400hp V6 engine. The Tremor model has enhanced suspension, all-terrain tires, and aesthetic upgrades, with pricing expected to be in the $50,000-$60,000 range when announced later this year.

Mercedes-Benz is expanding its offerings for G-Class enthusiasts with new experiences that go beyond the traditional driving program, including a five-day adventure through Morocco's diverse landscapes. Participants will navigate challenging terrains while enjoying luxury accommodations, highlighting the G-Wagen's capabilities in off-road conditions.

The US Senate is contemplating a proposal that would transform federal fuel economy regulations into non-binding recommendations for automakers, potentially eliminating penalties for those who fail to meet Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. This shift, linked to a broader tax and spending initiative, has divided the automotive industry, with some manufacturers advocating for the removal of fines while others call for a reassessment of the existing standards.

MOTORSPORT

Citroen is reportedly preparing to enter Formula E, potentially taking over from Maserati as part of Stellantis' evolving motorsport strategy, although the timeline for this transition remains uncertain. The future of the current Maserati team is in jeopardy, prompting discussions about the involvement of other Stellantis brands, including Opel, as the series approaches its Gen4 regulations.

Pirelli is seeking to make changes to its blue-sidewalled “extreme wet” tires for the 2026 season, with the current tire rarely used as the conditions required often cause significant spray and red flags. The tire often overheats too quickly outside of its operating window, and Pirelli is aiming to re-align the tire to be more durable like the intermediate variant.

Sebastian Vettel has revealed that he is in discussions with Red Bull regarding a potential return to Formula 1 in a non-driving capacity. Tipped to replace Dr. Helmut Marko as head of the Red Bull young driver program, Vettel acknowledges that he has distanced himself from the sport in recent years and is uncertain about the specifics of any future role.

Since joining Aston Martin's Formula 1 team in March, Adrian Newey has focused on developing the 2026 car design while also influencing the team's culture and engineering processes. His high standards and collaborative approach have energized the workforce, fostering a more cohesive environment and attracting new talent to the organization.

As Formula 1 approaches its summer races, Max Verstappen has unveiled a new helmet design featuring navy and orange colors, which he will wear during events in Austria, Belgium, and his home country, the Netherlands. Currently trailing championship leader Oscar Piastri by 43 points and in danger of a race ban due to penalty points, the three races may form a pivotal part of Verstappen’s challenge.

Mercedes has reinstated its revised rear suspension system, initially introduced at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, in an effort to address ongoing rear tire overheating problems with its car. Despite mixed results during its first outing, the team is optimistic about the update's potential, especially as it prepares for the upcoming race in Austria, where higher temperatures may further test the effectiveness of this new geometry.

F1 team leaders, including James Vowles, Fred Vasseur, and Ayao Komatsu, have discussed the challenges of determining when to shift focus entirely to the upcoming 2026 regulations. As the technical rule changes are set to take effect next year, teams are grappling with how to best allocate their resources during the current season, with some, like Williams, already prioritizing preparations for the new era.

Elia Weiss, at just 16 years old, is set to become the youngest driver to test a Formula E car, having been chosen by the Porsche factory team for a rookie session next month. This opportunity follows his recent victory in the German karting championship and marks a significant transition from karts to a competitive racing environment.

Katherine Legge, a seasoned racer with experience across various motorsport disciplines, recently tackled the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb for the second time, and explained some of the unique challenges offered by the event. Despite the obstacles posed by the mountain's elevation and unpredictable conditions that shortened this year’s race, she is determined to pursue the front-wheel drive record in future attempts.

FUN STUFF

The release date for Project Motor Racing has been set for November 25, with the title set to arrive simultaneously on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S/X consoles. Alongside this announcement, details about the game’s career mode and modding capabilities have emerged, highlighting a realistic motorsports experience where players manage finances while racing rather than unlocking content as they progress.

A 1973 Dino 246 GTS, notable for its original condition and history as a Cannonball record holder, is set to be auctioned at Mecum during Monterey Car Week. This iconic vehicle, which completed the cross-country journey from New York to Los Angeles in just under 36 hours in 1975 to set a new record, embodies the spirit of 1970s’ automotive rebellion.

A recent heatwave has caused significant road damage in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, leading to a dramatic incident where a Toyota Corolla was launched into the air due to a sudden road buckle. Local authorities have acknowledged the issue, warning that more streets may be at risk as extreme temperatures persist, while the driver of the airborne vehicle remains unaccounted for.

The flagship Selfridges store in Oxford Street, London, will host a unique pop-up store from June 23 to July 6, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the Formula 1 World Championship. This event, called 75 Years of Motion, will include a display of vintage merchandise for sale that includes items like team and event jackets, and a 1976 desk clock inspired by Niki Lauda’s crash helmet.

Ford is marking 75 years of providing vehicles for law enforcement in 2025, and as part of the activations around the landmark provided a specially designed Mustang GT for Jay Leno's Garage. This unique Mustang made its debut at SEMA in 2021, and Leno’s test-drive saw him making jokes with other drivers about pulling them over.

The Osaka Expo in Japan features participation from 158 nations, with the Czech Republic uniquely sending a convoy of classic cars, including a first-generation Toyota Celica, on a nearly 10,000-mile journey to the event. This caravan, organized by the Czech government, retraces the footsteps of a similar delegation from 1970, traveling through twelve countries before arriving in Osaka.

An Alfa Romeo 156 GTA, celebrated for its remarkable 3.2-liter V6 engine, is available for sale through a classified listing, with the one-owner car sporting just over 45,000 miles in the last 22 years. Often overlooked in its day due to the front-wheel drive layout, this vehicle is the preferred six-speed manual and has been meticulously maintained to command a keen price of £24,995.

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!