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Morocco Bidding to Host Formula 1
Andrew Evans
May 28, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Alpine's 1000hp hybrid supercar coming in 2028
Nacon reveals full Revosim racing peripheral line-up
Domenicali defends Monaco: “So much attention”
Dieselgate still rumbling on, a decade later
Twin-hulled classic racer wows Villa d’Este crowd
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Alpine is set to introduce a new supercar in 2028, featuring a powerful mid-mounted V6 engine paired with two electric motors for enhanced performance. The vehicle will be constructed using lightweight materials and aims to bridge the gap between its sporty electric models and its racing heritage, with a fully electric version of the A110 also expected to debut in 2026.
The ongoing repercussions of the Dieselgate scandal continue to impact Volkswagen, with four former managers recently receiving prison sentences for their involvement in the emissions cheating scheme. Additionally, legal proceedings are still active against 31 other individuals, highlighting the extensive fallout from the scandal that has cost the company significantly.
Stellantis has appointed Antonio Filosa as the new CEO following the resignation of Carlos Tavares, who stepped down in December 2024 before his contract was set to expire. Filosa, a seasoned executive with a background in various leadership roles within the company, will face significant challenges as he takes charge amid declining profits and a struggling brand portfolio.
BMW has unveiled the new M2 CS sports car, enhancing its performance with a more powerful engine and reduced weight compared to its predecessor. This special edition features a finely tuned 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produces 530hp, allowing for quicker acceleration and a distinctive design that incorporates carbon fiber elements throughout.
General Motors is committing approximately $900 million to develop its next-generation V8 engines at the Tonawanda facility in New York, with production set to commence in 2027. This new engine line aims to enhance performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control for various full-size trucks and SUVs, while also incorporating advanced combustion technologies.
Jaguar has ended vehicle production as it embarks on a transformation, resulting in a significant drop in new vehicle registrations across Europe where only 49 new units were recorded in April. While the brand's sales have plummeted almost 98% year on year, Jaguar-Land Rover as a whole has experienced a profitable year, due to strong demand for its Land Rover models, particularly in North America.
Ford is initiating a recall affecting over a million vehicles due to issues with rearview camera functionality, which can result in frozen or delayed images. This recall spans a wide range of models, including popular trucks and SUVs, and is attributed to software malfunctions rather than hardware problems, necessitating updates either at dealerships or through remote installations.
Pirelli's advanced Cyber Tire technology may face restrictions in the US due to its significant ownership stake by a Chinese company, which conflicts with recent regulations aimed at limiting imports of connected vehicle technologies from China and Russia. As the automotive industry navigates these emerging challenges, automakers might seek exemptions to continue using this innovative tire technology before the impending deadlines for software and hardware restrictions.
BYD is intensifying its international expansion efforts after successfully establishing a foothold in Germany, now planning to enhance its operations in Australia. The company's recent acquisition of Heden Electric will enable it to manage vehicle sales directly, potentially increasing accessibility and support for electric vehicle customers in the region.
The initial deliveries of vehicles equipped with CATL's innovative swappable EV batteries have commenced in China, featuring the new "Choco-SEB" pack that allows for rapid battery exchanges in just 100 seconds. The Oshan 520, the first model using this technology, has already attracted significant interest with over 15,000 pre-orders and offers a competitive starting price, highlighting China's advancing position in the global automotive sector.
MOTORSPORT
Formula 1's potential return to Africa may gain momentum with a proposed $1.2 billion development project in Morocco, which includes a state-of-the-art racing circuit and various amenities. Discussions are ongoing with multiple African nations, as F1 executives seek to overcome previous obstacles that have hindered racing on the continent for over three decades.
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has commented on the Monaco Grand Prix, commenting that the race was “amazing” despite the fact that the introduction of a mandatory two-stop strategy did not achieve the anticipated outcomes. Despite the mixed reactions from participants and fans, he emphasized the significant interest generated by the event, indicating that it aligns with Formula 1's vision for high-profile races.
New regulations from the FIA will be implemented at the Spanish Grand Prix, introducing more stringent assessments for front-wing flexibility. Following earlier adjustments to rear-wing testing, teams have until the ninth round in Barcelona to adapt, prompting varied reactions from team bosses regarding the implications of these changes.
Stake F1 has refreshed its car design for the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix, announcing the update through Instagram. This event at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya marks the team's second unique appearance this season, as it aims for only its second points finish of the year following Hulkenberg's seventh-place result in Australia.
Mattia Binotto, leading Audi's Formula 1 initiative, has acknowledged that the team will not possess the most competitive power unit upon its entry in 2026. He emphasized the complexities of developing an advanced engine and expressed confidence that the team's current trajectory is promising, despite the challenges ahead.
Adrian Newey's initial race weekend with Aston Martin revealed significant challenges related to the team's driver-in-loop simulator, which he believes may take up to two years to fully rectify. Despite the simulator's potential, its current limitations hinder accurate data, complicating the team's development efforts and necessitating a strategic overhaul to enhance performance.
Cyril Abiteboul, head of the Genesis Magma Racing team, is currently focused on the rapid progress of the brand's “Trajectory” initiative, which has already secured two victories in the European Le Mans Series. With the development of its GMR-001 LMDh vehicle and its WRC-derived V8 engine advancing, the team is preparing for crucial decisions and testing ahead of its debut in the FIA WEC next year.
Cycling icon Sir Chris Hoy and television personality Chris Harris have been announced as the initial participants in the 'Dark Horse Stars' category for the upcoming Mustang Challenge Le Mans Invitational. The event, taking place from June 11-14 at Circuit de la Sarthe, will feature both drivers competing in the No. 77 Mustang Dark Horse R, with the possibility of Ford CEO Jim Farley joining them in this unique non-points race.
FUN STUFF
Nacon has officially launched its Revosim racing peripheral line, featuring the "Pure" Direct Drive wheelbase and steering wheel as its initial offerings, with additional accessories expected to follow in October. The first products will be available soon, including a complete set of components and racing gloves, all competitively priced to attract sim racing enthusiasts.
The one-off 1967 OSI Silver Fox made a surprise appearance at the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este in Italy, presented as part of a collection of racing prototypes. Built by Officine Stampaggi Industriali, the Silver Fox sports a highly unusual twin-hull design, with a one-liter Renault Alpine engine in one pod balanced out by the driver in the other, and though it never raced at Le Mans it was reportedly capable of 155mph despite the modest engine.
The Cadillac Escalade, fortified by Miami Armored, combines luxury with advanced protective features, offering defense against grenades and firearms while providing high-speed satellite internet access. This SUV is designed to ensure safety and comfort, equipped with reinforced structures and technology that allows occupants to remain connected and entertained, even in high-risk environments.
Hot Wheels will be releasing more new models soon, with some JDM classics and more vehicles born from its Ferrari collaboration. The new premium Car Culture castings include the Toyota Chaser JZX100 and the Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R, while the Toyota GR Yaris is set to debut alongside the rare NISMO 270R as the Ferrari F50 will also be part of the new range.
A teenager reportedly crashed a recently acquired BMW M4 while attempting to drift in Dearborn, Michigan, resulting in significant damage to the vehicle. Although the driver and a passenger emerged without injuries, the 16-year old received a citation for reckless driving, which carries serious penalties and has drawn criticism regarding the decision to purchase such a high-performance car for a young driver.
A 1963 Bel Air station wagon, recently unearthed after four decades in storage, is being offered through an eBay listing for $12,750, with the potential for negotiation. While the car is in need of some cosmetic refreshing, the owner has completed some essential repairs to prepare it for hitting the road.
Trevor Webb, a Minnesota precious metal dealer, has created a unique vehicle by merging a Jeep Wrangler tub with the unibody of a Toyota Prius, sparking debate over its practicality and design. This unconventional project, born from a desire to repurpose a titled Jeep body and an untitled Prius, results in a vehicle that offers impressive fuel efficiency while drawing attention for its unusual appearance.
The 1940s Willys jeep, a product of post-World War II ingenuity, continues to offer a nostalgic off-road experience, as demonstrated by a duo of YouTubers exploring its capabilities on various terrains. With its historical significance and affordability, the Willys MB presents an accessible entry point for enthusiasts interested in vintage vehicles, despite its limitations compared to modern off-road alternatives.
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!