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

• Herbert dropped as FIA steward

• New Italian brand teases speedster

• Volkswagen ID.7 canceled for North America

• Tsunoda will be Red Bull’s reserve

• Taycan sets ice drift record

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

A new automotive brand from northwest Italy, Automobili Mignatta, is set to introduce its inaugural model, the Rina, a two-seater speedster that merges modern technology with the classic design of 1960s sports cars. Built on a lightweight carbon fiber chassis and powered by a naturally aspirated V8, the Rina promises a nostalgic driving experience with a focus on performance and exclusivity, as only 30 units will be produced annually. [Carscoops]

BMW is developing the M3 CS Touring, a high-performance wagon that is likely to offer enhanced power and reduced weight, similar to the M3 CS sedan introduced in 2024. Revealed through an Instagram teaser, it will feature design elements such as carbon fiber accents and a powerful inline-six engine, but will not be available in the US market. [Car and Driver]

While Lister remains a niche player in the automotive scene, its plans for a new supercar are threatened by upcoming UK emissions regulations that could eliminate exemptions for small manufacturers. The company is currently awaiting clarity from the government, as the potential shift to a 2030 deadline could jeopardize its ambitions to revive its iconic performance lineage. [Motor1]

Volkswagen has officially abandoned its plans for the ID. 7 electric sedan in the U.S. and Canada, citing the difficult current landscape for electric vehicles as a key factor. This decision reflects broader challenges in the North American EV market, exacerbated by potential policy shifts and consumer preferences favoring crossovers over sedans. [InsideEVs]

BMW has introduced a more affordable base version of the iX for the 2026 model year, reducing the starting price by over $10,000 while enhancing its range and performance. The updated lineup features various trims, including the xDrive45 with 402 horsepower and an estimated range of 312 miles, alongside the more powerful xDrive60 and M70 models, which showcase improved efficiency and revised aesthetics. [Car and Driver]

Lexus unveiled its Surf LX concept at a World Surf League event, showcasing a unique SUV designed for beach enthusiasts, featuring a striking matte blue finish and a host of surf-friendly amenities. The vehicle's interior is tailored for surfers, complete with specialized storage solutions and luxury touches, while Lexus emphasizes its commitment to the surf community through an extended partnership with the WSL. [Carscoops]

Porsche's GT division leader, Andreas Preuninger, emphasized the significance of manual transmissions in driving enjoyment, despite the recent elimination of manual options in most of the 911 lineup. He believes that the manual gearbox not only enhances the driving experience but also offers advantages in fuel efficiency and emissions, ensuring its continued presence in the GT3 model. [Motor1]

Alfa Romeo is transitioning the Giulia from a traditional sedan to a new crossover model, sharing its foundation with the upcoming Stelvio SUV. The redesigned Giulia will incorporate advanced technology and enhanced safety features, while maintaining the brand's distinctive aesthetic in a more modern format. [Carscoops]

Radical Motorsport has celebrated its 28th anniversary by producing its 3,000th car, a customized version of the SR3, which will be delivered to a loyal customer. This achievement highlights the company's enduring dedication to motorsport and its ability to thrive in a challenging automotive landscape. [RACER]

Honda is developing an affordable electric vehicle expected to retail for under $30,000, with a potential launch in the US by 2026, following the success of its Prologue EV. The new model will be produced in Ohio as part of a broader O-series lineup and aims to balance cost with performance by optimizing battery size and vehicle weight. [Carscoops]

MOTORSPORT

The FIA has confirmed that Johnny Herbert, a former Formula 1 driver, will no longer serve as a steward at grand prix events due to a conflict between his roles as an official and media commentator. This decision follows concerns about Herbert's ongoing partnerships with betting companies, which have raised questions about the appropriateness of his dual engagements in light of recent debate over stewarding decisions. [Motorsport​.com]

Andrea Kimi Antonelli has successfully obtained his road driving license just weeks ahead of his first Formula 1 race with Mercedes, where he will take the place of Lewis Hamilton alongside George Russell. Having completed extensive testing in F1 cars, he is set to participate in pre-season testing in Bahrain later this month. [BBC Sport F1]

Racing Bulls team principal Laurent Mekies has highlighted some of the challenges involved in the role, revisiting the decision to part ways with Daniel Ricciardo towards the end of 2024. Mekies acknowledge that Ricciardo was an asset to the team in terms of his individual qualities, but that the decision was results-oriented and stemmed from the need for consistent performance. [RacingNews365]

Lewis Hamilton is currently engaged in pre-season testing with Ferrari at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, working alongside teammate Charles Leclerc to adapt to the new team's protocols and vehicle dynamics. After a previous test in Italy, Hamilton is focusing on mastering the intricacies of Ferrari's engine systems, which differ significantly from the Mercedes power units he has driven for over a decade. [BBC Sport F1]

Max Verstappen has followed up on his cricket coaching session with a return favor, mentoring three England cricket players on a driving sim. Reunited with England players Will Jacks, Reece Topley, and Issy Wong, Verstappen guided the players for laps of the Baku street circuit in the F1 24 game, with Jacks eventually coming out on top. [RacingNews365]

Yuki Tsunoda has been appointed as the official reserve driver for Red Bull Racing for the 2025 Formula 1 season, following a decision to promote Liam Lawson instead of him to the main team. Should either Max Verstappen or Lawson be unable to compete due to penalties or injuries, Tsunoda will take their place, with Ayumu Iwasa ready to step in as his Racing Bulls reserve if needed. [RacingNews365]

The FIA has introduced a mentorship program aimed at supporting individuals with disabilities in motorsport, fostering community engagement and professional development. With a limited number of spots available, the initiative pairs less experienced participants with seasoned mentors, promoting skill enhancement and confidence through structured online interactions. [FIA Press Releases]

Palm Beach International Raceway has an uncertain future once more as it is on the market again, following a failed development proposal that aimed to replace it with warehouses. Despite its recent closure and the challenges of attracting buyers, the facility boasts significant potential for various events and is strategically located near a major industrial hub. [The Drive]

FUN STUFF

Broad Arrow Auctions will present the historic 1954 Jaguar D-Type Works Competition Car, known as 'OKV 2', at its 2025 Amelia Auction, where it will be sold without reserve. This iconic vehicle, which has an impressive racing pedigree featuring legendary drivers and numerous competitive outings, is expected to fetch between $6.5 million and $8.5 million during the event. [Sports Car Digest]

The third-generation Toyota MR2 Spyder was not known for being a particularly powerful car, but a man from New Zealand has been seeking to change that. After experimenting with a Mitsubishi V6 engine, which proved too violent, Brad Glasgow has since opted for a more manageable turbocharged four-cylinder from an Audi TT, which he has customized for improved drivability and performance. [The Drive]

A Porsche Taycan has recently set a new Guinness World Record for the longest continuous drift on ice by an electric vehicle, with instructor Jens Richter completing a distance of 10.876 miles in 46 minutes at the company's Arctic Center in Finland. This achievement marks the fourth record for the Taycan, which has previously excelled in various categories since 2020, showcasing its performance capabilities in extreme conditions. [Motor1]

Self-driving taxis are increasingly coming under attack in cities, with the latest incident Los Angeles seeing a Waymo vehicle vandalized while waiting at lights. It’s not clear what motivated the attack, in which the unoccupied Jaguar’s doors were torn off, but discussions are emerging about the need for enhanced legal protections and measures to prevent future attacks on these cars. [Jalopnik]

A rare, right-hand drive Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is available for sale in the UK, as one of only 25 cars made. The Trackhawk exemplifies a trend in performance SUVs, with a Hellcat-sourced, 717hp supercharged V8 engine that prioritizes straight-line speed over cornering finesse. [PistonHeads​.com]

While 2015 Dodge Chargers are not particularly unusual, an example previously used by the US Air Force to escort the U-2 spy plane has come up for sale at auction. Boasting just a few enhancements, such as a performance exhaust and a heavy-duty suspension, this low-mileage car’s extraordinary history makes it an intriguing option for collectors or enthusiasts. [Carscoops]

A fuel delivery error at a Circle K station in Avon, Ohio, resulted in at least 14 drivers mistakenly filling their vehicles with the wrong type of fuel, highlighting the potential problems associated with mis-fueling cars. The company has acknowledged the mistake, which saw diesel and gasoline deposited into the wrong storage tanks, and is working to reimburse affected customers. [Autoblog]

There’s an opportunity to pick up an extremely rare Polestar 1 for half of its original sticker price, as one of only 250 examples made for the USA. Polestar’s first car as a standalone manufacturer was a cool hybrid with a 93-mile electric range and a two-liter engine good for over 600hp combined, all inside a unique coupe-body derived from that of the Volvo S90. [Jalopnik]

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