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Lack of Demand as Audi Cancels Electric RS6
Andrew Evans
September 12, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Max Verstappen's Porsche up for auction
Citroen joins Formula E series, replacing Maserati
British firm reveals single-seat Elise restomod
FIA’s grassroots focus as joint kart/esports event launches
More on Endurance Motorsport Series, coming in 2026
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
A planned electric version of the Audi RS6, under the e-tron branding, has been cancelled with the brand citing a lack of demand for another high-performance EV model. While an RS6 model may still be produced, it’ll be based on the regular, combustion-engined A6, leaving the 543hp, dual-motor S6 to top the A6 e-tron range.
Analogue Automotive has introduced the VHPK, a restomod version of the Lotus Elise S1, commemorating the model's 30th anniversary with a design influenced by early 2000s race cars. Weighing just 600kg, this updated vehicle boasts a significantly enhanced engine producing over 250bhp and features advanced materials and components to improve performance and handling, with only 35 units planned for production.
Toyota's luxury division appears committed to advancing the development of the Lexus LFR, a model that has generated significant anticipation as a successor to the iconic LFA. Recent spy images reveal multiple prototypes, each featuring distinct aerodynamic elements, and suggest that the upcoming LFR will come in different specifications.
Rivian is initiating a recall of over 24,000 electric vehicles due to a malfunction in its Highway Assist software, which may fail to detect nearby cars in certain models. While the company is also working on software for Volkswagen's upcoming EVs, the recall highlights concerns about the reliability of its advanced driver-assistance systems, particularly as they relate to driver attentiveness.
BMW has introduced a refreshed version of its iconic propeller emblem, which features a streamlined design by eliminating one of the chrome rings. This updated badge made its first appearance on the iX3 at the Munich Motor Show and will gradually be incorporated into other new or updated models in the lineup.
Recent leaks from a North American dealer event have unveiled what appears to be the Toyota GRMN Corolla, a more performance-oriented variant of the GR Corolla, featuring distinct elements like a carbon fiber hood and an enhanced aerodynamic design. With a focus on track capabilities, this model is expected to include a manual transmission option and may offer increased torque, while an official announcement is anticipated soon.
At the IAA Mobility show in Munich, Mercedes-Benz's CEO Markus Schäfer announced the discontinuation of the "EQ" branding for electric vehicles, stating that future models will no longer carry this designation. The company aims to simplify its identity by transitioning to a more straightforward naming convention that clearly distinguishes electric vehicles from traditional models, reflecting a growing consumer understanding of powertrain options.
Shell is collaborating with the RML Group to develop a thermal management solution aimed at significantly reducing the time required for electric vehicle charging, targeting a 10%-80% charge in under ten minutes. This innovative approach involves a specialized thermal fluid designed to improve battery cooling efficiency, potentially enabling lighter vehicle designs and greater range with less frequent charging stops, although it remains in the experimental phase.
MOTORSPORT
Citroen will re-enter the world of motorsport by joining the Formula E series for the 2025-26 season, taking over the position previously held by Maserati within the MSG team. With a remarkable history in rallying, this marks the brand's first venture into open-wheel racing and all-electric competition, although it will join its luxury division, DS which competes in the series as DS Penske, with which it will share a powertrain.
The FIA has taken a significant step towards enhancing inclusivity in motor sport by hosting its inaugural joint Karting and Esport event at the Asum Ring in Sweden, coinciding with the upcoming FIA Karting World Championship. This event featured 27 competitors racing in the FIA F4 category using simulators, highlighting the potential of Esports to attract a younger audience and broaden participation in the sport.
Red Bull's team principal, Laurent Mekies, expressed the need for clearer performance evaluations of Yuki Tsunoda, who struggled again in the Italian Grand Prix due to damage sustained in a midfield clash, resulting in no points. As the team assesses its driver lineup for 2026, Mekies noted that while Tsunoda's qualifying pace shows promise, the chaotic race conditions hinder his ability to demonstrate improvements in race performance.
Fernando Alonso expressed his admiration for Adrian Newey's approach since joining Aston Martin, highlighting the designer's unique ability to view the car as an integrated whole rather than just a collection of individual components. Despite the team's struggles this season, Alonso is optimistic about the future, believing that Newey's expertise will significantly enhance its performance as it prepares for the upcoming season.
Peugeot Sport's technical director, Olivier Jansonnie, is awaiting definitive guidance from the FIA and ACO regarding the potential development of a new vehicle for the 2027 FIA World Endurance Championship to replace the existing 9X8 LMH. Jansonnie anticipates a resolution to discussions among manufacturers and governing bodies in the coming weeks, noting the importance of clear regulations to ensure fairness and consistency in the competitive landscape.
Mike Conway will rejoin the No. 7 Toyota GR010 Hybrid for the upcoming 6 Hours of Fuji, having missed the last FIA World Endurance Championship event due to an injury. His return means he will team up once again with Nyck de Vries and Kamui Kobayashi, while Jose Maria Lopez will switch back to the No. 87 Akkodis ASP Team Lexus RC F GT3 after filling in for Conway at the previous race.
Acura will continue its participation in the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship next season, entering two ARX-06 GTP cars in collaboration with Meyer Shank Racing for another year. With two victories already secured this season, the team is currently positioned second in the manufacturers' standings as it prepares for the remaining races.
Hankook has revised its tyre distribution for teams competing in the World Rally Championship ahead of Rally Chile, responding to requests from manufacturers due to unpredictable weather. The company shifted from its initial plan of primarily using hard compound tyres to increasing the allocation of soft tyres, recognizing the impact of recent heavy rainfall on the event's gravel stages.
CURIOSITIES
Porsche's 911 GT2 RS Clubsport, a limited-edition racing variant, was designed for track performance and one example, previously owned by Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, is now available for auction. This high-performance vehicle features extensive modifications for racing, including a lightweight structure and advanced aerodynamics, and comes with unique documentation of Verstappen's ownership and signature.
KT Racing has provided more insights into its 2026 title, Endurance Motorsport Series, through a new video from the Gamescom event. Combining racing with team management elements, EMS allows players to assume the roles of driver, engineer, and mechanic, and has features such as a livery editor that allows players to customize all of their vehicles at once, as well as a perk system for team personnel.
A man in Prince George, British Columbia, was apprehended for operating a Barbie-themed Power Wheels while allegedly intoxicated, prompting a traffic stop by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Despite his claims of sobriety and the toy car's size, authorities determined that driving such a vehicle under the influence posed a risk to public safety, leading to his arrest and a subsequent driving prohibition.
Honda has developed an interactive map featuring a selection of driving routes across 25 countries, incorporating input from Civic Type R owners, enthusiasts, and automotive experts. Dubbed "Honda Dream Drives", this project highlights both iconic roads like Italy's Stelvio Pass and hidden gems, inviting drivers to explore diverse landscapes while enjoying the performance of their vehicles.
Kaiser-Frazer Corporation was established in 1945 through a partnership between Henry J. Kaiser and Graham-Paige Motors, quickly producing vehicles that offered more features than their competitors. Despite initial success, the company struggled against larger automakers and ceased US production in 1955, leaving behind a collection of rare models that enthusiasts like Geoff Hacker are now dedicated to preserving.
A 1987 Buick Grand National, currently listed on Bring a Trailer, boasts an exceptionally low odometer reading of just 77 miles and retains its original window sticker. Having spent over three decades in storage before being acquired by its current owner in 2021, the vehicle is in pristine condition, yet concerns about potential deterioration from inactivity may arise, suggesting it might remain a collectible rather than a daily driver.
The owner of a 2007 Saturn Sky, who has driven it for approximately 26,700 miles since acquiring it in July 2021, is putting the vehicle up for auction, possibly to offset the cost of a recent Porsche purchase. With a clean title and no reported accidents, this roadster has some cosmetic imperfections but remains mechanically sound, making it a compelling option for bidders at the upcoming Cars&Bids auction.
A commercial for the Renault Koleos aired unexpectedly during a Texas Rangers baseball game, despite the vehicle not being available in the USA. The ad, which originated from Australia, featured pricing and promotional offers that may have confused viewers, highlighting an unusual error in sports advertising.
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