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McLaren Presents Title-Defending F1 Car
Andrew Evans
January 26, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Bertone Runabout breaks cover in production form
Latest GT7 update due this week, with game’s first Chinese car
Porsche wins third Daytona 24 Hours in a row
Donkervoort P24 RS revealed: 600hp, 780kg
Inside an enormous, secret Bugatti collection
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The Bertone Runabout is a contemporary reimagining of a bold design from the Italian firm, originally unveiled nearly sixty years ago, and it is set to enter production. Unlike traditional restomods that repurpose older vehicles, this model features a brand-new construction with a lightweight aluminum chassis and a supercharged V6 engine, enabling impressive performance metrics.
The P24 RS, the latest offering from Donkervoort, marks the brand's most potent vehicle to date, following the F22 and representing its 20th model in nearly five decades. Weighing just 780kg, this two-seater features a 3.5-litre V6 engine with adjustable power settings, allowing drivers to tailor performance for various driving conditions, while it also hints at the possibility of a right-hand-drive version.
Jaguar Land Rover has dismissed speculation regarding the introduction of a hybrid or range-extender powertrain for the upcoming Jaguar Type 00, labeling the claims as unfounded. A company representative reaffirmed that the brand's commitment to an all-electric lineup remains intact, with the first electric model set to debut later this year.
Citroën is considering the possibility of reintroducing the MPV segment, inspired by its past success with models like the Xsara Picasso. The recent ELO concept, which presents a modern vision for a compact six-seater, reflects the brand's intent to revitalize interest in this vehicle category, contingent upon favorable public reception and market viability.
The Cupra Terramar, a compact crossover that will celebrate its second anniversary later this year, has recently been enhanced by ABT Sportsline, which has unveiled a modified version featuring distinctive styling and performance upgrades. This tuned model boasts a power increase to 320hp and includes aftermarket elements such as unique wheels and branding, while the interior remains largely untouched.
A recent evaluation in Germany tested 14 family-oriented electric vehicles, all claiming a WLTP range of over 310 miles, to determine their performance on a simulated long-distance route under cold conditions. None of the vehicles achieved their advertised range, with the Audi A6 Avant E-Tron Performance scoring the greatest range and quickest charge time and Tesla Model Y rating best for energy efficiency.
Geely has inaugurated an advanced safety and testing center in Hangzhou Bay, China, investing approximately 2 billion yuan to create a facility accessible to various automotive manufacturers. This center, which has already set five Guinness World Records, enables comprehensive vehicle assessments, including resilience to cyber threats and performance in extreme conditions, all under one roof.
Many current in-car voice command systems fall short of expectations, often complicating rather than simplifying the driving experience. Toyota's recent patent suggests a shift towards a more intuitive approach, allowing drivers to express general requests instead of relying on rigid phrases, while also considering the vehicle's environment to enhance safety and functionality.
MOTORSPORT
McLaren has unveiled digital images of its 2026 Formula 1 car in anticipation of its initial track appearance in Barcelona this week. The team plans to wait until later in the shakedown period to take to the circuit, with its chief designer indicating that the car's performance during this testing will closely resemble what will be used in the upcoming season.
Felipe Nasr secured Porsche’s third consecutive victory at the Rolex 24 at Daytona, driving for the Penske team, despite challenging conditions that included a lengthy yellow flag due to fog. The #31 Cadillac finished in second place, while the #24 BMW rounded out the top three, while BMW won the GTD class with its #1 M4 GT3 Evo.
Red Bull has officially unveiled its RB22 Formula 1 car for the upcoming 2026 season, following an earlier presentation of its livery in Detroit. Equipped with a new Red Bull Ford engine and designed to comply with the latest regulations, the car features advanced aerodynamics and a balanced energy system, and it will be driven by Max Verstappen and team newcomer Isack Hadjar during pre-season testing in Barcelona.
Aston Martin will not participate in the initial two days of the 2026 Formula 1 pre-season testing in Barcelona, with their presence on track potentially starting Wednesday or Thursday due to development delays. This decision follows a broader trend among teams facing challenges related to new regulations, including a shift to a lighter chassis and a transition to Honda as their power unit supplier.
Audi has appointed reigning Formula Regional European champion Freddie Slater as the inaugural member of its Driver Development Programme, which is overseen by former F1 driver Allan McNish. At just 17, Slater, who has already secured multiple titles in single-seater racing, will advance to Formula 3 with Trident while participating in the Formula Regional Oceania Trophy in New Zealand.
The FIA has reported significant interest from over ten tuners regarding the World Rally Championship's new technical regulations set to take effect in 2027, which aim to enhance participation in the sport. As the series transitions to these updated rules, which focus on affordability and flexibility, Project Rally One has emerged as the first tuner to officially commit to developing a vehicle under the new guidelines.
Oliver Solberg made a significant mark in the World Rally Championship by clinching victory at Rally Monte Carlo, overcoming harsh winter conditions and outpacing seasoned competitors, including his Toyota teammates. At just 24 years old, he not only secured his second career win but also became the youngest victor of this prestigious event in the WRC era.
The Nurburgring Endurance Series is working diligently to allow Max Verstappen to participate in a race prior to the Nurburgring 24 Hours, which is set for May 16-17. Recent adjustments to the racing calendar, including a rescheduling of the Rundstrecken-Challenge Nurburgring, have created a potential opportunity for Verstappen to compete in NLS2 on March 21, although his participation in the 24-hour event remains uncertain.
The Charity Commission has initiated an inquiry into the FIA Foundation, focusing on potential conflicts of interest following the appointment of Mohammed Ben Sulayem as chair, replacing David Richards. This investigation will assess the foundation's independence and its relationship with the FIA, particularly regarding grant management and the safeguarding of its assets.
CURIOSITIES
A forthcoming update for Gran Turismo 7 has been confirmed by series creator Kazunori Yamauchi, set to introduce three new vehicles, including the Hyundai Elantra N TCR and the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra, marking significant milestones in the game's history. While additional details about the update remain limited, players can anticipate new races and possibly some adjustments to existing events as the game prepares for its fourth year.
A hidden collection in Wolfsburg houses an impressive array of Bugatti vehicles, including unique models, prototypes, and a Veyron test mule based on a Lamborghini Diablo. Among the highlights is the one-off La Voiture Noire, which pays homage to a historical Bugatti and exemplifies the brand's legacy alongside several pre-war models and significant prototypes.
General Motors has unveiled a unique version of the 2026 Corvette ZR1X, featuring a design inspired by the American flag, which recently fetched $2.6 million at a charity auction. This one-off model, distinct from the Stars & Steel Limited Edition, boasts a hand-painted exterior and a powerful twin-turbocharged engine, with proceeds benefiting the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, supporting families of fallen first responders and veterans.
The current White House administration has transitioned the enforcement of diesel emissions violations from criminal to civil, effectively halting criminal prosecutions while maintaining the illegality of emissions tampering. Additionally, there are intentions to eliminate federal tailpipe emissions standards to help mitigate the increasing costs of vehicles, which have surpassed an average of $50,000.
Texas's recent prohibition of temporary paper tags aimed at reducing counterfeit license plates has inadvertently led to an increase in fake metal plates, as criminals have adapted their methods. The Texas Auto Dealer's Association had previously warned lawmakers that this shift could occur, emphasizing that the new metal tags could be just as easily forged, ultimately raising concerns about public safety and law enforcement effectiveness.
California presents a unique environment for automotive enthusiasts, blending fine driving conditions with a complex web of regulations. While the state offers picturesque routes for car lovers, it is also known for imposing some of the highest traffic fines in the nation, often accompanied by unexpected additional charges that appear to have no relation to driving.
Arizona legislators are advocating for a public referendum on the future of traffic cameras, spurred by recent controversies surrounding their use. Following a scandal involving numerous citations linked to retired judges, lawmakers are pushing for a statewide vote to determine whether these enforcement tools should be abolished.
In Texas, leaving a vehicle running while unattended can lead to fines of up to $500, as state law mandates that engines must be turned off and keys removed when drivers step away. While remote start systems are exempt under certain conditions, it's advisable to keep the car running only when someone is inside to avoid potential theft and legal repercussions.
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