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Lamborghini Cancels Lanzador EV
Andrew Evans
February 23, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
F1 champion Hill returns to Williams as ambassador
Top Gear studio recreated in LEGO
Xpeng’s six-wheeled van comes with its own personal aircraft
Rare NISMO 400R heads to auction, $1.1m estimate
Yuki Tsunoda escapes fiery Red Bull in demonstration run
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Lamborghini has officially scrapped its plans for the Lanzador electric coupe, as CEO Stephan Winkelmann pointed to challenges in meeting market demands and the emotional connection expected from their vehicles. This decision follows a period of reevaluation within the company, influenced by shifting regulatory landscapes and market dynamics, suggesting that a different plug-in hybrid model may emerge in its place.
Xpeng is developing an innovative six-wheeled electric van that features a deployable six-rotor drone capable of autonomous flight, designed to alleviate traffic congestion for its users. With plans for production set for late 2026, this vehicle aims to combine advanced mobility solutions with practicality, although it will face regulatory challenges before hitting the market.
Genesis is yet to make a significant impact in Europe, selling only 11,000 vehicles since 2021, though its Magma performance models stand out with their striking orange color and aggressive design. The upcoming GV60 Magma, an all-wheel drive electric crossover boasting 641hp, will debut in late 2026, with a focus on enhancing performance through European engineering expertise while aiming to create a refined driving experience that balances power and comfort.
Polestar is transitioning from a niche brand to a more mainstream player, with ambitions to achieve annual sales of 100,000 by launching several new models. However, the introduction of its two-door roadster, the Polestar 6, has been postponed until 2029, with the relatively underdeveloped electric roadster market still in the brand’s plans after it targets higher-profit vehicles.
At the recent Shanghai Auto Show, Lexus unveiled its first electric ES sedan, with its European debut now confirmed to be later this year alongside its arrival in the US. While specific mechanical details remain undisclosed, the eighth generation will feature a new platform designed for electrification, offering two electric variants with impressive ranges, a hybrid option, advanced safety systems, and an upgraded multimedia interface.
Mitsubishi is making a comeback in the UK market with the Outlander PHEV and L200 pickup, but it has no intention of reintroducing the Evolution model. The brand's return is bolstered by plans to establish 60 new dealerships, although the absence of a sedan in its lineup suggests that performance enthusiasts may be disappointed.
Volkswagen is working on a high-performance version of the Tiguan, known as the Tiguan R, which is anticipated to produce over 300hp and feature distinct enhancements such as quad exhausts and upgraded brakes. However, its availability in the US remains uncertain due to concerns about pricing and tariffs affecting production costs.
BMW has confirmed that it is not currently developing any new ultra-limited models, despite the potential for future releases beyond the existing 3.0 CSL, Skytop, and Speedtop. The M division's leadership has indicated that while they are open to creating another exclusive vehicle, their current focus remains on a substantial lineup of upcoming models, with no immediate plans for a fourth specialty car.
Honda is recalling its 10th-generation Civic due to a potential safety concern where wheels may not be securely attached, posing a risk of detachment while driving. This recall affects 46,152 vehicles in the UK, specifically those equipped with optional alloy wheels manufactured between 2017 and 2021, and owners will receive notifications starting in early 2026.
Taiwan is actively encouraging the transition from older combustion engine vehicles to electric alternatives through a financial incentive program, which has successfully facilitated the replacement of nearly 125,000 vehicles since its inception in 2022. This initiative aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by leveraging the country's existing electric scooter infrastructure to promote a cleaner transportation landscape.
MOTORSPORT
Damon Hill has returned to Williams as an ambassador, marking three decades since he secured the Formula 1 world championship with the team in 1996. His new role comes alongside fellow former champion Jacques Villeneuve and W Series titleholder Jamie Chadwick, as they aim to honor the team's rich history and contribute to its future endeavors.
Yuki Tsunoda recently participated in a demonstration event in San Francisco, where he experienced a dramatic incident when his Formula 1 car caught fire. The driver, who is transitioning to a reserve role for the upcoming season, managed to exit the vehicle unharmed as onlookers reacted to the unexpected spectacle.
A former team principal asserts that Formula 1 has the financial capacity to support additional teams beyond the recently approved Cadillac entry, citing significant growth in prize money and sponsorships. Claire Williams commented that while existing teams may resist expansion due to concerns over profit sharing, the current economic landscape allows for the possibility of multiple new entrants without jeopardizing the financial stability of established teams.
Lewis Hamilton took to social media to affirm his commitment to racing after pre-season testing in Bahrain, dismissing rumors about a potential retirement following the 2026 season. Expressing gratitude for his team's efforts and excitement for the upcoming season, he stated his renewed focus and readiness to tackle the challenges posed by new regulations.
James Vowles, the team principal of Williams F1, remarked that Red Bull appeared to be manipulating its power unit during the pre-season tests in Bahrain. He observed a noticeable shift in Red Bull's performance after discussions about its capabilities began, suggesting that the team reduced its output in response to the scrutiny.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has downplayed concerns regarding the upcoming season, which is set to begin in less than two weeks, despite significant changes to both power units and aerodynamic regulations. While some drivers have expressed worries about the new cars and the challenges of overtaking, Domenicali remains confident that the season will deliver exciting racing and believes any issues can be collaboratively addressed.
Formula E is planning to increase its race calendar for the 2026-27 season to include 18 or 19 events, as it prepares for the introduction of its more powerful Gen4 cars. The series is currently in discussions with various promoters to ensure that the new tracks meet safety standards while also enhancing the racing experience.
Four-time F1 world champion Max Verstappen has expressed his decision to avoid rally racing, despite his admiration for the sport and his father's achievements in it. He acknowledges the inherent dangers of rallying, particularly the risk of serious injury from collisions with stationary objects, which he feels outweighs the thrill of competing.
CURIOSITIES
A Dutch builder has crafted a detailed Lego model of the Top Gear studio, capturing iconic elements from the Clarkson, Hammond, and May era, and plans to share assembly instructions on Rebrickable. The design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, accommodating various Lego cars while reflecting the show's memorable features, despite the series currently being on hiatus.
A highly sought-after variant of the Nissan Skyline GT-R, the 1996 Nismo 400R, is set to be auctioned by Broad Arrow, with estimates suggesting it could fetch as much as $1.1 million. With only 44 units produced and distinctive components that are not available separately, this model stands out in the automotive world, making it a rare find for collectors.
The Formula 1 film, featuring Brad Pitt, won the Best Sound award at the 2026 BAFTA ceremony in London, adding to its successful awards season. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, the movie has garnered multiple accolades, including nominations for the upcoming Academy Awards, where it aims for recognition in several key categories.
Kylian Drumont emerged victorious for Romain Grosjean's esports team, R8G, during the inaugural Gran Turismo Esports Team Competition, which was broadcast over the weekend but took place in December 2025. The event featured twelve teams from the esports community with numerous Gran Turismo world champions taking part.
Jay Leno possesses an extensive car collection valued at approximately $100 million, featuring a distinctive Bugatti T38A that was once driven by Katherine Hepburn in the 1933 film Christopher Strong. Notably, this vehicle is the only Bugatti to have received a custom body crafted in the United States, created by Murphy Body Co., and it has an intriguing history involving multiple owners and a chassis swap with American Miller.
Puma has launched a new merchandise line inspired by the "Fast & Furious" franchise, featuring various items including t-shirts, hats, and sneakers modeled after iconic cars from the first two films. The collection highlights vibrant footwear designs that pay tribute to characters like Brian O’Conner and Dominic Toretto, while fans are left hoping for future releases that capture the essence of the series' earlier street racing themes.
The McLaren F1's triumph at the 1995 Le Mans 24 Hours remains a significant milestone in motorsport history, given the car's origins as a road vehicle rather than a dedicated racer. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of this achievement, McLaren produced a limited run of the Senna GTR LM, each wearing a livery from the original F1 racers, with one of the five cars now available through a classified ad.
New York is revisiting a proposal that would mandate registration and license plates for e-bikes, joining California’s lawmakers in this endeavor. Known as Priscilla's Law, this initiative aims to enhance accountability for riders amid rising safety concerns, although it faces criticism over potential bureaucratic burdens and equity issues for those who rely on e-bikes for work.
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