- SpeedBites
- Posts
- Lego Brings the F1 Grid to Your Toybox
Lego Brings the F1 Grid to Your Toybox
Jordan Greer
November 22, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today’s highlights in the world of motoring include Lego's new partnership with Formula 1, as the sport itself prepares for a potential championship weekend and an 11th team moves closer to reality. If you know someone who shares our passion for all things automotive, why not share the joy and forward this newsletter to them? Let's hit the road together!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
The 2026 Kia EV9 GT, unveiled at the Los Angeles motor show, features dual electric motors delivering a combined output of 374kW and includes performance enhancements such as adaptive suspension and upgraded brakes. While its arrival in Australia is not yet confirmed, the GT variant is expected to start around $135,000, making it potentially the most expensive Kia to date.
Lotus has announced that it will not transition to a purely electric lineup by 2028 as previously planned, instead focusing on its new Hyper Hybrid technology that integrates a gasoline engine to extend driving range beyond 684 miles. CEO Feng Qingfeng highlighted that the combustion engine will function as a generator, providing efficient battery charging and maintaining performance in various conditions, while also acknowledging the added complexity and weight this system introduces to their vehicles.
Manthey Racing has introduced a performance enhancement kit for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, developed in collaboration with Porsche and designed to improve aerodynamics and handling on the track. Priced at £99,999, the kit includes extensive modifications such as a new aerodynamic package, upgraded suspension, and racing brake pads, while the car's powertrain remains unchanged at 518bhp.
Volkswagen plans to launch updated versions of its ID models starting in 2026, featuring a new design inspired by the ID 2all concept car and improvements in battery technology and performance. The company will also introduce a new ID 2 SUV concept at the 2025 Munich motor show, while streamlining its combustion engine lineup in response to upcoming EU7 emissions regulations.
Ford has filed a lawsuit against Vintage Broncos, now known as Vintage Modern, for trademark infringement due to its practice of modifying modern Broncos to resemble classic models. The company, which offers restoration services and modernized interpretations of classic cars, has been accused of misleading customers by reselling these modified vehicles under names that imply a connection to Ford.
Lucid Motors has highlighted its own luxury EV, the Air Sapphire, with a cheeky dig at Jaguar on social media. Responding to Jaguar’s “Copy Nothing” teaser for its upcoming ultra-luxury electric vehicle lineup, which will include models priced over $100,000 and feature a distinctive design that departs from traditional aesthetics, Lucid Motors responded with a photo of the Sapphire with the tagline "Compromise Nothing"
DS is teasing its upcoming tall fastback electric vehicle, potentially named the DS8, by redacting details in its press release, which has raised questions about what features may be concealed. The vehicle is expected to have a WLTP range of 466 miles and will likely share a 96.9 kWh battery with related models, while its design draws inspiration from the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept unveiled in 2020.
Bentley's Mulliner division has collaborated with a California dealership to create four bespoke Continental GT Speed Convertibles, collectively known as the 'Expressions of Texture' Collection. Each vehicle features unique design elements inspired by local landscapes, including distinctive color schemes, custom interiors, and specially crafted tonneau covers that reflect themes such as night skies and desert dunes.
BYD is expanding its electric vehicle manufacturing footprint in Southeast Asia, with plans for a new plant in Cambodia alongside facilities from Ford and Toyota, as the company seeks growth amid increasing competition in China's auto market. In October, BYD achieved record sales of over 500,000 new energy vehicles, marking its fifth consecutive month of record sales, while also planning to establish additional plants in Mexico, Brazil, Pakistan, Hungary, and Turkey.
Wired staff followed Waymo robotaxis for a day, observing how the automated driving technology dealt with urban environments like San Francisco. While the robotaxis demonstrated competent driving and garnered positive feedback from passengers, the piece underscores that significant limitations remain, and full replacement of human drivers is unlikely in the near future.
Ford has filed a patent for a system that could introduce personalized advertisements in the infotainment systems of future vehicles, potentially displaying ads based on the vehicle's location and driver data. While the technology aims to enhance user experience, concerns have been raised about privacy intrusions and the negative impact on brand perception, as many drivers may not appreciate being targeted with ads while in their cars.
MOTORSPORT
General Motors is progressing towards entering Formula 1 as a team owner in 2026, with plans for a GM-branded team that will operate independently of Andretti, whose co-founder Michael Andretti has stepped back from a managerial role. The new team will initially rely on customer engines from an existing supplier until GM can produce its own power unit by 2028, while F1 officials are reportedly viewing this bid more favorably than the previous Andretti proposal.
Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz expressed cautious optimism about their performance at the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix, highlighting their recent successes on high-speed tracks and Leclerc's previous strong showing in Las Vegas. While Leclerc aims to reduce McLaren's 36-point lead in the constructors' championship, Sainz noted the challenges posed by tire management and track temperatures that could impact their competitiveness.
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is set to take place this weekend, with Max Verstappen aiming for his fourth Formula 1 world championship as he leads Lando Norris by 62 points heading into the race. Several teams, including Williams, Sauber, Alpine, and Red Bull's sister team, have unveiled special liveries for the event, reflecting both heritage and local culture, while some drivers will also showcase unique helmet designs.
Max Verstappen is on the verge of becoming a four-time Formula 1 champion, equaling the tally held by former Red Bull Racing driver Sebastian Vettel, but he has expressed a lack of interest in accumulating more titles. He mentioned a desire to explore endurance racing, such as Le Mans and the Rolex 24 at Daytona, and emphasized that his continued participation in F1 will depend on the enjoyment of the new cars and the overall demands of the sport.
Max Verstappen discusses his approach to racing and the challenges he faces as he nears a fourth world championship title, emphasizing the importance of pushing limits while maintaining consistency throughout the season. He also addresses controversies surrounding his defensive driving tactics and the internal dynamics at Red Bull, including tensions involving team principal Christian Horner and his father, Jos Verstappen, while expressing a relaxed attitude towards his future in Formula 1.
Lewis Hamilton, currently seventh in the 2024 drivers' championship and two points behind his Mercedes teammate George Russell, expressed his determination to give his all in the remaining races despite a disappointing performance in the Sao Paulo Grand Prix. After finishing 10th in that race and reflecting on his struggles with the car's handling, Hamilton acknowledged his frustration but affirmed his commitment to the team before transitioning to Ferrari next season.
RB Formula 1 driver Yuki Tsunoda tested an IndyCar for the first time at Las Vegas Motor Speedway this week and expressed interest in potentially racing in the Indianapolis 500 in the future, although he currently feels unprepared for the challenge of oval racing. During the test, he noted the differences in driving dynamics compared to Formula 1, particularly appreciating the more direct control and the absence of driver aids in the IndyCar.
Franco Colapinto has expressed his desire to remain in Formula 1 but acknowledges the challenges in securing a race seat for the 2025 season, indicating he would prefer to race elsewhere rather than sit out. Despite speculation about a potential move to Red Bull, he remains focused on his current performance and is open to opportunities beyond F1 if necessary.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu expressed concerns about the proposed cost cap offset for Audi to account for Swiss wages, arguing that it could lead to complications and unfair advantages in Formula 1. He highlighted the need for the FIA to consider various economic factors across different regions, warning that focusing solely on Swiss wage differences may create further issues in the long run.
Lamborghini has withdrawn from the World Endurance Championship, ceasing its participation in both the Hypercar and LMGT3 classes, as indicated by its absence from the 2025 entry list. The decision follows a review of its SC63 LMDh program and the announcement that its partner, Iron Lynx, will switch to Mercedes for the LMGT3 category.
Aston Martin has announced Harry Tincknell and Alex Riberas as the first drivers for its 2025 World Endurance Championship campaign, while confirming that the Valkyrie AMR-LMH will not participate in the January Daytona 24 Hours. The team, known as Aston Martin THOR, will debut the Valkyrie in March at the Sebring 12 Hours, with plans for two-car entries in both the WEC and IMSA SportsCar Championship.
Hyundai is considering the addition of a fourth car to its lineup for the 2024 World Rally Championship, with discussions expected to take place during the Rally Japan season finale. The team will field three updated i20 N Rally1 cars next year, with Thierry Neuville and Ott Tanak confirmed as drivers, while the third driver remains unannounced amid speculation linking Adrien Fourmaux to the seat.
CURIOSITIES
Lego has announced a partnership with Formula 1 to release a series of licensed sets featuring all ten F1 teams, each designed to reflect the unique characteristics of this year's cars, with sets priced at £24.99 available from January 1. Additionally, more detailed models, including the Lego Icons Williams FW14B and a Technic version of Ferrari's SF-24, will launch in March, priced at £69.99 and £199.99 respectively, alongside offerings for younger fans such as Duplo and Lego City kits.
A Tesla Cybertruck owner experienced significant galvanic corrosion after using a sheet magnet to promote their business, resulting in pitting on the vehicle's stainless-steel body. The corrosion was likely caused by road debris trapped between the magnet and the surface, highlighting the risks of using metallic magnets on the Cybertruck without proper cleaning and preparation.
On November 29th, Lamborghini Mexico will host the Movember Bull Run 2024, a driving event aimed at raising awareness and funds for men's health issues, specifically prostate cancer prevention and support for men facing abuse. Participants are encouraged to donate 2,000 MXN ($100 USD) to join, with Lamborghini Mexico matching each contribution, thereby amplifying the funds directed to the ¿Y Los Hombres Qué? Foundation.
A Maryland truck driver was sentenced to 60 days in jail and five years of probation for illegally dumping over 5,000 gallons of diesel fuel at multiple locations, including along Route 10 and in Glen Burnie. Caught on surveillance footage, he admitted to the crime, which he committed to receive payment for another load pickup, and was also ordered to pay $10,000 to the Maryland Oil Disaster Containment Fund.
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!