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Lancia Could Be Coming Back to WRC
Andrew Evans
September 02, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Return of the classic tiny smart car teased
Why does Gran Turismo 7 look so good? Its creators explain
Hadjar promised a new trophy after shattering his original
California’s “Leno’s Law” dropped despite wide support
Jaguar Land Rover hit by cyberattack, can’t register new cars
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Smart, a brand often synonymous with its iconic compact city car, the Fortwo, is set to revitalize its lineup with a new all-electric two-seater, the #2, as it transitions into a new era under Geely-Mercedes ownership. This upcoming model, designed by Mercedes and manufactured in China, aims to cater to urban markets in Europe while retaining a familiar aesthetic reminiscent of its predecessor.
Jaguar Land Rover is currently facing significant disruptions in production and sales due to a cyber attack that has persisted for two days. While the company is working to restore its systems and has indicated that there is no evidence of customer data theft, operations at the Solihull plant have reportedly been affected, leading to delays in vehicle production and deliveries.
Tesla's latest Master Plan indicates a strategic pivot away from its traditional focus on electric vehicles, focusing instead on the development of AI and robotics. While the company acknowledges its origins in EV manufacturing, its future direction appears to prioritize technology-driven solutions over new vehicle models.
Volkswagen is preparing to broaden its electric vehicle range with the upcoming ID.2 SUV, designed to be a more affordable entry point compared to the existing ID.3 and ID.4 models. Set to debut on September 7, this compact crossover will feature a spacious interior, modern technology, and competitive pricing starting around €25,000, addressing the growing demand for budget-friendly electric options in Europe.
The GWM Tank 500 Hi4-T PHEV marks the third model in the brand's Australian lineup to feature the Hi4 powertrain, following previous PHEV offerings like the H6 and Cannon Alpha. Equipped with a combined output of 300kW from its electric and gasoline engines, this SUV boasts impressive performance metrics, a robust towing capacity, and a range of advanced technology and safety features, with pricing details expected soon.
Hyundai is set to unveil its new Concept Three at the upcoming Munich Motor Show, which is anticipated to be the latest addition to the Ioniq electric vehicle lineup. The design sketch reveals a sleek hatchback with sporty features, hinting at the brand's potential plans for a performance-oriented production model.
Mercedes-AMG is developing a new V8 engine that promises enhanced power and improved fuel efficiency, despite the industry's shift towards smaller engines. While details on which models will feature this engine remain undisclosed, the brand is also preparing to enter the electric vehicle market with the upcoming AMG XX, aimed at competing with established electric performance sedans.
BMW has been exploring hydrogen technology since the late 1970s, evolving from early combustion engine prototypes to a focus on fuel cell systems for future vehicles. As part of its preparations for a 2028 launch, the company is initiating the production of its third-generation fuel cell systems in collaboration with Toyota, aiming to enhance efficiency and performance while potentially introducing a hydrogen variant of the next-generation X5 SUV.
Recent statistics reveal that male drivers are significantly more involved in fatal accidents compared to their female counterparts, challenging the stereotype that women are less capable behind the wheel. This data highlights that risk-taking behaviors, such as speeding and impaired driving, predominantly characterize male drivers, underscoring the need to address these dangerous habits rather than perpetuating myths.
MOTORSPORT
After securing a landmark third-place finish in the Netherlands, Isack Hadjar suffered a mishap which saw his porcelain trophy break during celebrations in the second such incident after a trophy was broken at the 2023 Hungarian Grand Prix. The manufacturer, Roya Delft, has promised to provide him with a replacement while allowing him to keep the damaged piece as a memorable keepsake.
Recent online leaks suggest that Lancia is in the process of developing and testing a new Rally2 category car based on the Ypsilon, which could provide the ten-time champions a path into the top category of the championship. Lancia has recently re-entered the competitive scene with its Ypsilon Rally4, while parent marque Stellantis currently campaigns a Citroen C3 Rally2, and with new regulations set to take effect in 2027 to unify the WRC and Rally2 categories it could herald a return for Lancia.
Oliver Bearman discussed how a small error during the Dutch Grand Prix nearly jeopardized his best finish in Formula 1, when he flat-spotted his new tires. After starting from the pit lane and employing a hard tire strategy, he managed to secure a sixth-place finish, marking a significant improvement over his previous best performance.
Fernando Alonso's aspirations for a strong finish at the Dutch Grand Prix were dashed as he ended the race in eighth place, trailing his teammate Lance Stroll despite showing competitive pace throughout the weekend. Frustrated by the team's strategy and the impact of a late safety car, Alonso expressed disappointment over missed opportunities, believing a fifth-place finish was achievable given his car's performance.
Andrea Kimi Antonelli apologised to his team during a chaotic Dutch Grand Prix for the Mercedes racer, after failing to overtake Williams’ Alexander Albon. The Italian's determination and frustration became evident later on when he attempted a risky overtaking maneuver on Charles Leclerc, resulting in the Ferrari driver being forced out of the race and a penalty for the Mercedes.
Ferrari is hinting at a potential special livery inspired by Niki Lauda for the upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza, commemorating the 50th anniversary of his inaugural world championship win with the team. In a recent social media post, the team announced that drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton will wear blue uniforms reminiscent of the colors associated with Lauda's racing era.
Mick Schumacher's anticipated move to Cadillac for a dual role in Formula 1 and the World Endurance Championship has fallen through, as the offered contract did not provide the level of freedom he currently enjoys with Alpine. With Cadillac now seeking a replacement for Jenson Button, Schumacher's future may lie with McLaren, which is preparing to enter the WEC in 2027, although his options remain limited.
Sebastien Ogier attributed his daring strategies during Rally Paraguay to his ambition for a ninth World Rally Championship title, successfully overcoming an early setback to secure his fourth win of the season. Despite facing challenges, including a puncture that left him without a spare tire, Ogier's calculated risks ultimately positioned him just nine points behind the championship leader with four events left in the season.
CURIOSITIES
At the SIGGRAPH 2025 conference in Vancouver, engineers from Polyphony Digital provided insights into the advanced visual technology powering Gran Turismo 7, detailing how the game achieves its unique graphical quality. The presentation focused on the innovative tone mapping techniques that replicate human visual perception, addressing challenges from previous iterations and outlining future developments for enhancing realism in gaming.
California has long been a cornerstone of automotive enthusiasm, but recent legislative actions have cast doubt on the future of classic vehicles in the state. The proposed Senate Bill 712, also known as “Leno’s Law” thanks to its celebrity backing, was aimed at exempting older cars from stringent smog regulations, but faced opposition and was ultimately rejected, raising concerns among collectors about the ongoing viability of classic car culture amidst evolving environmental policies.
A recently released police chase video illustrates the effectiveness of grappler technology in apprehending a stolen Chevy Cruze. Captured by a police dash cam during an incident in Detroit, the footage shows how the device immobilized the vehicle, leading to the arrest of the driver and two passengers without any injuries.
A classic car owner has created a video about his extremely rare, vintage 1914 Princess, entreating renowned car collector Jay Leno to buy it from him for restoration. Ben Logan discovered the car in the collection of Barney Pollard, who amassed a vast collection before World War II and went to extraordinary lengths to preserve it from being scrapped for the war effort, with the Princess being one of just three examples remaining.
Mary J.P. Moore held onto her Plymouth Superbird from its purchase in 1971 until her passing in 2010, serving as a lasting presence in the life of her son, Sam Posey, who became a noted racing driver and journalist. The vehicle, a unique blend of performance and personality, has now emerged on the auction market, attracting significant interest and bids that reflect its storied legacy and meticulous care over the years.
Following a revision of pursuit policies, the Florida Highway Patrol has seen a significant rise in chase-related fatalities, escalating from five in 2023 to fifteen in 2024. Experts are expressing concern that this change undermines established safety protocols, advocating for alternative strategies such as aerial surveillance and deferred apprehensions to mitigate risks to the public.
Larry Kosilla's approach to automotive care requires thorough detailing and long-term vehicle protection, which he has embodied through his company, Ammo NYC, established after launching his car wash in 2008. A recent video featuring the restoration of a 1991 Volkswagen Golf GTI illustrates the meticulous process undertaken by his team, showcasing the transformation of the vehicle from a neglected find to a beautifully restored classic.
The Capri RS3100, while not the first Ford that comes to mind for racing enthusiasts, stands out due to its limited production of only 250 units in the 1970s, designed to meet homologation requirements for motorsport. One particular model, which has undergone extensive restoration and enhancements and has a unique history as the sole RS3100 to reach Cornwall, is now for sale in a classified “price on application” listing.
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!