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McLaren Confirms Le Mans Return
Andrew Evans
April 10, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Singer takes Willow Springs part-ownership
FIA president under fire as deputy quits
US port congestion as manufacturers halt imports
Hayabusa-powered FIAT 500 hillclimb car
China’s Denza Z9 GT to take on Taycan
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
US ports are experiencing congestion as automakers, including Audi and Jaguar Land Rover, halt shipments due to concerns over impending tariffs. In response to the uncertainty surrounding these import taxes, many manufacturers are exploring options like storing vehicles in bonded warehouses to postpone tariff payments.
Chinese automaker Denza is making its mark in Europe with the introduction of the Z9 GT, a sleek estate designed to compete with the Porsche Taycan, set to launch in the UK by next year. This model, which offers impressive performance and advanced features, is a product of Denza's evolution from a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes to an independent brand targeting the premium market.
Stellantis, the parent company of several well-known American automotive brands, is facing significant challenges due to import tariffs imposed by the White House, particularly impacting its Italian brands, Maserati and Alfa Romeo. To navigate this difficult landscape, the company has sought assistance from management consultant firm McKinsey & Co. to explore strategic options, including potential partnerships and the feasibility of spinning off its luxury divisions.
German luxury car manufacturers are facing significant challenges in the Chinese market, experiencing steep declines in sales after years of growth. Brands like Porsche, Mercedes, and BMW have reported substantial drops in deliveries, prompting them to adapt their strategies in response to increasing competition from domestic automakers and shifting consumer preferences.
Polestar experienced a significant rebound in global sales during the first quarter, achieving a 76% increase compared to the same period last year, with a total of 12,304 vehicles sold. This recovery follows a challenging year in 2024, and is driven by the introduction of multiple models, including the Polestar 3 SUV, which is expected to enhance the brand's market presence.
JCR Developments, a UK-based tuning firm, believes enhancements can be made to the limited-production Porsche 911 S/T, and has introduced modifications focused on improving performance and handling without altering the core drivetrain. The upgrades focus on chassis and braking, with some aesthetic changes that include aerodisc rear wheels, but the company is set to reveal more upgrades in the near future.
Lamborghini and Ducati, both under Volkswagen's ownership, have collaborated to create the Ducati Panigale V4 Lamborghini, a special edition motorcycle that showcases a design inspired by Lamborghini's aesthetics. This model retains the performance specifications of the standard Panigale V4 S, featuring a powerful V4 engine and lightweight carbon fiber components, with only 630 units being produced, including a limited number tailored for existing Lamborghini owners.
Renault is enhancing its Scenic and Megane electric models with the introduction of the Esprit Alpine trim, which focuses on aesthetic upgrades rather than performance enhancements. While both vehicles maintain their existing powertrains, the new trim features distinctive design elements and improved interior comfort, alongside a range of technological updates and revised pricing for the base models.
The Subaru Outback is set to make its debut with a completely redesigned generation at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. This new iteration will showcase a more SUV-like appearance, enhanced off-road capabilities, and updated technology features, while also introducing a “self-charging” hybrid powertrain developed in collaboration with Toyota.
Canada has implemented a 25 percent tariff on vehicles imported from the United States, a move aimed at enforcing compliance with USMCA trade regulations while protecting local automotive jobs. This targeted approach seeks to address specific violations without broadly impacting the entire auto industry, as Canada navigates the complexities of ongoing trade tensions with its southern neighbor.
MOTORSPORT
McLaren is set to re-enter the Le Mans 24 Hours in 2027 with a new hypercar initiative, aiming to secure its first overall victory since 1995, facing competitors like Ferrari and Aston Martin. The team will participate under the LMDh regulations, using a customer chassis and a hybrid system, while likely incorporating a twin-turbo V6 engine derived from the one found in its Artura model.
The resignation of FIA deputy president Robert Reid has intensified scrutiny of president Mohammed Ben Sulayem's leadership, as concerns about governance and concentration of power mount. With Reid's departure and growing dissent from figures like Motorsport UK chairman David Richards, the upcoming election could see significant challenges to Ben Sulayem's authority, despite the absence of a clear opposition candidate at this time.
Natalie Robyn, the former chief executive of the FIA, has highlighted significant structural issues within the organization following her departure in May 2024 after a brief tenure. Her comments come shortly after the resignation of Robert Reid, the FIA's deputy president of sport, and reveal underlying tensions that contributed to her exit from the role.
David Richards, chairman of MotorsportUK, has expressed concerns regarding a perceived decline in ethical standards under FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, accusing the organization of lacking transparency and accountability. This dispute arose after Richards was denied entry to an FIA world council meeting due to his refusal to sign a confidentiality agreement, prompting him to seek a dialogue to address these governance issues.
Gabriel Bortoleto attributed his close call during a practice session in Japan to a lapse in judgment, describing it as a "brain failure". The incident occurred when he accidentally veered onto the grass while navigating a turn, although he noted that such mistakes are a common part of racing.
Red Bull continues to face challenges in securing a reliable teammate for Max Verstappen, as recent driver changes have not yielded significant improvements in performance. With the team's reliance on Verstappen for points and ongoing development issues that favor his driving style, there is a pressing need for adjustments to the RB21 to enhance competitiveness for both drivers.
The discussion surrounding rear wings in Formula 1 has intensified following the FIA's implementation of stricter regulations aimed at eliminating the "mini DRS effect." Despite these measures, some teams, including Haas and Alpine, have had to modify their designs to comply with the latest technical directives, while McLaren's rear wing has also drawn scrutiny for its performance during inspections.
Verstappen.com Racing, launched in 2022 to support Jos Verstappen's rally pursuits and foster talent in sim racing, is set to expand its presence into the GT World Challenge Europe by collaborating with established teams in 2025. Chris Lulham, a promising sim racer, will join GT drivers Harry King and Thierry Vermeulen in competing with an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO, marking a significant step in demonstrating the potential of sim racing as a pathway to professional motorsport.
FUN STUFF
Singer Vehicle Design has partnered with CrossHarbor Capital Partners to co-own Willow Springs International Raceway, aiming to enhance the venue while honoring its historical significance for car enthusiasts. The collaboration will introduce a private membership club open to all automotive fans, with a commitment to making extensive upgrades to the iconic racetrack without the intent of selling it in the future.
Integrating a Hayabusa engine into a Fiat 500 for hillclimb racing is a familiar concept, but the latest iteration continues to captivate enthusiasts with its thrilling performance. This particular model features a modified 1.6-liter engine generating around 250 horsepower, paired with a lightweight chassis and all-wheel drive, making it an exciting spectacle during its recent hillclimb runs in Italy.
MF Ghost is emerging as a significant cultural phenomenon, akin to Initial D, prompting Autobacs to collaborate with Blitz in creating dedicated MF Ghost Corners within their stores, where enthusiasts can purchase aftermarket parts to replicate the modifications seen on the character Kanata's Toyota 86. The initiative not only showcases a variety of performance components featured in the series, such as Blitz coilovers and turbo kits, but also aims to expand to numerous Autobacs locations throughout Japan, reflecting the series' growing influence in the automotive community.
A unique example of the 1970 Dodge Challenger has sold at auction in Canada for the equivalent of $284,000, making it reportedly the most expensive 383-engined car ever sold. One of a handful ever produced in Panther Pink with a matching stripe, the car is believed to be the only surviving example and underwent a comprehensive restoration in 2008 as well as sporting a well-documented history.
After recently acquiring his dream vehicle, a Ram 1500 TRX, a Broward County man found himself reporting its theft to local authorities, who ultimately provided no updates on the case. Taking initiative, he used social media and vehicle tracking technology to locate his truck 800 miles away, leading to its recovery and inspiring him to assist others in similar situations.
At a car show in Utah, an elderly driver narrowly missed hitting numerous spectators when his Subaru Forester sped through the crowd and crashed into a barrier. Following the incident, the driver exhibited unusual behavior, raising concerns about his health, although he appeared unharmed.
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!