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NASCAR Penalizes Race-Riggers
Jordan Greer
November 06, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today’s edition is packed with thrilling updates from the world of motorsports and beyond, including NASCAR’s punishments of three cars for race manipulation and Paris banning all through-traffic to reduce congestion. As always, if you enjoy our daily dose of automotive excitement, feel free to share SpeedBites with friends who might love it too!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
Jaguar Land Rover's first all-electric Range Rover, set to debut later this year, has already garnered over 48,000 clients on its waiting list, reflecting a growing demand for electric vehicles. The new model will feature an in-house EV powertrain and an advanced traction control system designed for all-terrain capability, alongside a notable wading depth of 33.8 inches.
The Audi Group has experienced a decline in sales across its brands, with overall sales down 10.9% for the first nine months of the year, and US sales of the Audi brand specifically falling by 16.8%. Despite these challenges, Lamborghini reported an 8.6% increase in sales, and Audi plans to introduce 15 new models in 2024, including the Q5 Sportback and a redesigned A7, while also revamping its strategy in China to focus on partnerships and localized production.
A recent crash involving a Tesla Cybertruck in Guadalajara, Mexico, resulted in one occupant, an 18-year-old woman, being thrown from the vehicle and hospitalized in critical condition, while the other three occupants sustained minor injuries. The Cybertruck, which reportedly crashed into a statue, was severely damaged, with extensive destruction to its structure and three wheels torn off, and this incident marks the second significant crash involving the vehicle in Mexico within a short timeframe.
Honda has unveiled a new 75-degree V3 engine featuring an electric compressor, designed to enhance performance in larger displacement motorcycles while maintaining relevance for internal combustion engines. This innovation, showcased at the EICMA show, aims to provide high-response torque across the rev range and could allow for lighter bikes that comply with modern emissions standards.
Karma Automotive has unveiled the Invictus, a performance-oriented version of the Revero sedan, featuring extensive carbon fiber components and a range-extended electric powertrain that produces 536hp and 550lb-ft of torque. The model boasts a 0-60 mph time of 3.97 seconds, improved suspension for enhanced handling, and will be produced in a limited run of 30 units, with pricing and delivery details yet to be disclosed.
The upcoming Nissan Patrol Nismo, currently in development with a potential reveal expected next year, will look like a “beast” according to senior vice president for global design Alfonso Albaisa. While it will also debut a new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine related to that of the Nissan GT-R, fans may miss the outgoing V8 engine’s soundtrack, with the demise of the eight-cylinder described by Albaisa as “inevitable”.
Mazda is recalling a total of 80,915 vehicles, primarily the 2024 and 2025 CX-90 and CX-70 models, due to issues that may cause multiple warning messages at start-up and potential malfunctions in critical systems. The recalls involve software updates to address these problems, including reprogramming the powertrain control module and other electronic systems, and affected owners can verify their vehicle's status through their dealer or the NHTSA website.
Kia has introduced two off-road concept electric vehicles, the EV9 ADVNTR and the PV5 WKNDR, at the 2024 SEMA show, showcasing innovative designs tailored for adventure. The EV9 ADVNTR features enhanced off-road capabilities and a roof rack for gear, while the PV5 WKNDR offers a modular interior with a unique storage solution and self-sufficient energy features, although neither model has confirmed production plans.
Paris has introduced a Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) in the central area, requiring non-residents to prove their destination within the zone to avoid a €135 fine, as part of efforts to reduce pollution and congestion. The initiative, which will be enforced after a six-month grace period, aims to limit through-traffic, with plans to expand ZTLs to other arrondissements starting in 2026.
Former Top Gear host Rutledge Wood showcased a custom-built, sparkly pink Japanese pickup truck at Toyota's SEMA booth, a project that took over five years and was influenced by his daughters and the JDM tuner scene. The truck features a 2JZ twin-turbo I6 engine, which required creative modifications to accommodate both the engine and air conditioning components.
Baris Centinok, GM's senior vice president of software and services, argues that the automaker's decision to replace Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with its proprietary Ultifi system enhances driver integration and experience, despite his previous decade-long tenure at Apple. He believes that a bespoke system allows for a more seamless interaction with vehicle features, while also addressing concerns about the limitations of smartphone mirroring technologies.
Kei trucks, small Japanese vehicles popular among enthusiasts in the U.S., face legal challenges in several states, including Michigan, where recent changes to vehicle registration laws have complicated their titling. Despite federal exemptions for vehicles over 25 years old, state regulations and interpretations have led to the revocation of titles for previously registered kei trucks, prompting calls for legislative reform to clarify their status.
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, the newly designated European commissioner for sustainable transport, reaffirmed his commitment to e-mobility and the EU's 2035 ban on new internal combustion engine car registrations during a recent hearing, despite pressures from the automotive industry. While he plans to present a comprehensive strategy to support the automotive sector's transition to electric vehicles, details on specific measures remain unclear.
Toyota and Legacy Motor Club have collaborated to create a tribute car, the Suprabird, for the 2024 SEMA show, inspired by the iconic Petty blue Plymouth Superbird that dominated NASCAR in the 1970s. The Suprabird features a modified GR Supra with a body kit reminiscent of the original Superbird, complete with a big wing and signature blue paint, while die-cast models will be available from Hot Wheels for collectors.
In response to the European Union's new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, China has filed a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization, arguing that the tariff increases lack a factual and legal basis and violate WTO rules. The complaint initiates a 60-day consultation period aimed at resolving the dispute, while Chinese officials have also advised local manufacturers to reconsider investments in countries that supported the tariffs.
MOTORSPORT
NASCAR has issued penalties to three teams and their key personnel, including fines, point deductions, and one-race suspensions, following incidents during the closing laps of the Round of 8 elimination race at Martinsville. The penalties stem from actions by drivers Austin Dillon and Ross Chastain, who formed a blockade to assist William Byron, while Bubba Wallace's sudden slowdown raised suspicions of intentional interference, leading to appeals from all affected teams.
Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu will depart the Stake F1 Team at the conclusion of the 2024 season after three years with the organization, which has failed to score any points in 21 races so far this year. Both drivers have expressed gratitude for their experiences, with Bottas facing an uncertain future in F1 and Zhou eager to continue his career progression, as they are replaced by Nico Hulkenberg and newcomer Gabriel Bortoleto.
Pirelli motorsport chief Mario Isola addressed allegations that some F1 teams, including McLaren, may be using water-cooled tyres to enhance performance, stating that Pirelli has found no evidence to support these claims. He explained the theoretical mechanics behind such a modification, emphasizing that any changes to tyre composition are prohibited and that the FIA will determine the next steps regarding the investigation.
Pierre Gasly and Esteban Ocon, once rivals since their karting days, have found common ground as teammates at Alpine F1, culminating in a shared podium finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix. Their relationship, which had been marred by past conflicts, has evolved as they reflect on their journey together and the challenges they faced throughout the season.
A war of words between FIA race steward Johnny Herbert, and fellow ex-F1 driver Jos Verstappen - the father of world champion Max Verstappen - has continued in the aftermath of the penalties issued to the championship leader at the Mexico City Grand Prix and allegations of bias. Herbert defended his ability to express opinions outside of his stewarding role, following comments from Verstappen that stewards should not talk to the press, adding that he is also an F1 pundit and will share his perspectives outside and separate from his position in the sport.
The World Rally Championship will eliminate hybrid power from its Rally1 cars starting next season, following discussions at a recent WRC Commission meeting. This decision comes amid ongoing concerns about the economic viability of maintaining hybrid units, particularly after new safety guidelines increased repair costs, prompting teams to advocate for the removal of hybrid technology to ensure continued participation in the series.
Nico Hulkenberg was disqualified during the Sao Paulo GP, marking the first in-race disqualification for an F1 driver in over 17 years, after receiving outside assistance from marshals while his Haas was stuck on a drain. Reflecting on the incident, Hulkenberg noted the marshals seemed to be “really happy with themselves” as they helped him in the challenging conditions, despite their actions inevitably leading to disqualification.
Robert Shwartzman, a former Ferrari Academy driver, will join PREMA Racing for the upcoming IndyCar season, marking his return to single-seater racing after competing in the World Endurance Championship. He expressed enthusiasm for the new challenges ahead, particularly the transition to oval racing, and believes his prior experience will aid in adapting quickly to the competitive series.
CURIOSITIES
Toronto police apprehended two suspects after a stolen Ram pickup truck was flagged by an automatic license plate reader. The encounter escalated when the truck rammed a police horse and crashed into two police vehicles before ultimately driving into a local business after being corralled by the mounted units and response vehicles, resulting in multiple charges against both individuals.
The official state car of the President of the United States, sometimes referred to as “The Beast” has evolved significantly over the past century, with significant past vehicles including President Taft's 1909 fleet that incorporated an electric car and a steam car, and the iconic 1961 Lincoln Continental used by President Kennedy. Wide-ranging and secretive modifications are needed for security and comfort, with the modern cars often destroyed at the end of their life.
Ringbrothers has transformed a 1970 Plymouth Barracuda into a restomod known as the "Infected" 'Cuda, featuring a supercharged Mopar Hellcrate Redeye Hemi engine that produces 807 horsepower and 717 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. The car boasts a custom chassis, modern interior upgrades, and a striking Pink Eye paint job, and will be showcased at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas.
Occoneechee Speedway, the only remaining track from NASCAR's inaugural season in 1949, is now a historic site in North Carolina where visitors can explore the remnants of the past amidst nature. Once a bustling race venue, the site features abandoned cars, old grandstands, and a concession stand, and is maintained by the Historic Speedway Group for public enjoyment.
Built by Legends has unveiled a second Nissan Skyline R34 GT-R at SEMA, featuring a Bayside Blue color scheme and extensive modifications that include a reinforced chassis, upgraded braking system, and a MINE's MB7 engine producing 650hp. The interior has been redesigned with a two-tone Ultrasuede finish and premium materials, with commissioning prices starting at $450,000, excluding the donor car.
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