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New ZR1 is the Fastest Ever 'Vette
Andrew Evans
December 20, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today’s news includes the reveal of the latest Corvette ZR1’s performance figures as it becomes the fastest factory ‘Vette ever, while car insurers express concern about inexperienced drivers switching to high-performance EVs. Meanwhile French-Algerian F2 racer Isack Hadjar has filled the final seat on the F1 grid for 2025, replacing the promoted Liam Lawson at Racing Bulls, and Santa gets a sleigh upgrade in the fantasy form of the Ford Ranger Raptor North Edition. As you explore these stories and more, don't forget to share the excitement with friends who might enjoy our daily dose of automotive news. Happy reading!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
The 1,078hp Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 demonstrates impressive acceleration capabilities, achieving a 2.5-second sprint to 60 mph and a 9.7-second quarter mile on standard pump gas, with potential improvements using higher quality fuel and the ZTK package. Additionally, a new agreement in Europe aims to expand the availability of right-hand drive Corvettes in the UK, with new dealers set to launch both the standard and Z06 models in January.
Drivers who switch from a traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle to an electric vehicle are more likely to be involved in an accident in the first year than those who swap into a new ICE car, according to an insurance industry report. The increase is likely linked to the high-performance skewing of the electric vehicle car parc, while an insurance analyst suggests that improved driver training and familiarity with these vehicles could help mitigate the issue.
Dodge has announced an extension of the Durango R/T and Durango SRT Hellcat production into 2025, citing market demand and customer feedback as key factors. While the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 option has been discontinued, the Durango will continue to offer a 5.7-liter and a supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8, with pricing starting at $41,995 for the base model and reaching $113,720 for special edition SRT Hellcats.
Tesla has experienced a significant decline in electric vehicle registrations in Europe, with a 40.9% drop in November 2024 compared to the previous year, resulting in a decrease in market share from 3.6% to 2.2%. This downturn is attributed to factors such as reduced government incentives and the controversial stances of CEO Elon Musk, while other automakers have capitalized on Tesla's weakening position, leading to only a minor overall decline in EV registrations across the region.
Kei cars face ongoing regulatory challenges in several US states, with Colorado recently considering a proposal to restrict their registration, although that initiative did not pass. Despite their popularity in their native Japan as economical vehicles, the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators has influenced states to impose bans, citing safety and emissions standards — though some residents have successfully opposed such measures, as seen in Massachusetts.
Hyundai has unveiled the second-generation Palisade, which will feature a nine-seat option through a three-abreast layout in the front and a new turbocharged 2.5-liter engine to replace the previous model's naturally aspirated V-6. The updated SUV has increased dimensions, improved cargo capacity, and enhanced ride quality through advanced suspension technology, with sales starting in Korea and a US release anticipated for the 2026 model year.
Amazon has expanded its fleet of Rivian Electric Delivery Vans (EDVs) to over 20,000 units in the USA, which have collectively delivered over one billion packages since their introduction in 2022, while the company continues to install extensive charging infrastructure to support the growing fleet. Rivian's production pace suggests it is on track to meet its commitment of 100,000 EDVs by 2030, despite the exclusivity deal with Amazon ending last year, allowing other companies to purchase the vans.
Cadillac has released a video showcasing the 2025 CT5-V Blackwing being tested by its factory racing drivers Ricky Taylor and Filipe Albuquerque at Daytona International Speedway, highlighting its supercharged V8 engine and new Precision Package designed for track performance. The Precision Package includes enhancements such as increased spring rates, a larger front stabilizer bar, and carbon ceramic brakes, aimed at improving handling and driving dynamics for enthusiasts.
Hazar Denli, a former engineer for VinFast, has raised safety concerns about the VF6 and VF7 models, alleging that critical components like the front suspension were inadequately designed, which could lead to dangerous failures. After publicly sharing these concerns online, Denli was terminated from his position at Jaguar Land Rover, reportedly due to pressure from VinFast, and he is now pursuing legal action while the NHTSA investigates VinFast's safety practices.
Volkswagen is reportedly negotiating a deal to keep its factories in Germany operational while reinstating job security agreements until 2030, contingent on workers foregoing bonus payments. This comes in the wake of a significant strike involving 100,000 workers protesting against proposed job cuts and factory closures, as the automaker faces intense competition and declining sales, particularly in China.
Proton has unveiled its first pure-electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7, which is a rebadged version of the Geely Galaxy E5, sharing the same Geely Electric Architecture. The e.MAS 7 offers two battery options, with the base model featuring a 49.5kWh battery providing a WLTP range of 214 miles while the Premium trim has a 60.2kWh battery that extends the range to 254 miles, and both models include advanced features such as rapid charging and cell-to-chassis technology.
MOTORSPORT
Isack Hadjar has been promoted to Red Bull's second team, now officially named Racing Bulls, to compete alongside Yuki Tsunoda in the 2025 Formula 1 season, filling the last available seat on the grid. This change follows Liam Lawson's move to Red Bull and marks a shift in the team's branding, as the initials "RB" will now explicitly stand for Racing Bulls.
The European Commission has initiated a Phase II investigation into Liberty Media's acquisition of MotoGP, citing concerns about potential impacts on competition in broadcasting rights, with a decision expected by May 14, 2025. Liberty Media has expressed confidence that the acquisition will ultimately benefit MotoGP and its stakeholders, while agreeing to extend the transaction's longstop date to June 30, 2025 to facilitate the investigation.
Mattia Binotto, the new head of Audi's Formula 1 operations, acknowledges the significant challenges ahead as he works to transform a struggling team that has yet to score points and lacks a clear competitive strategy. He emphasizes the need for immediate improvements in infrastructure, personnel, and methodologies, while setting realistic expectations for gradual progress rather than immediate success.
George Russell has urged FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem to clarify his objectives for the governing body, amid ongoing tensions between the FIA and Formula 1 drivers regarding governance changes and the handling of driver conduct. The Grand Prix Drivers' Association is still awaiting a formal response to its request for respectful treatment, following a letter that criticized Ben Sulayem's approach to driver comments and compliance issues.
Ferrari plans to pair Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton as co-drivers in 2025, with team principal Frederic Vasseur expressing confidence in their ability to work together despite past challenges between Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. Vasseur believes that the mutual respect between Leclerc and Hamilton will enhance team performance, as both drivers are accustomed to competing at a high level.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has indicated that Yuki Tsunoda may need to be released if he is not utilized by the team in 2025, as he has been overlooked for promotion in favor of Liam Lawson despite outperforming previous teammates. Tsunoda's future is uncertain with many teams having established line-ups for the upcoming season, although Horner suggests that Tsunoda should focus on performing well to keep potential opportunities open.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert has endorsed Lando Norris as a strong contender for the 2025 championship, following Norris's second-place finish in the 2024 standings and four race wins. Herbert believes that with the right approach, Norris can leverage McLaren's current momentum before the significant regulatory changes in 2026.
In the 2024 Formula 1 season, Pirelli supplied 8,016 sets of tyres, of which approximately 34% were never used, highlighting significant waste in tyre allocation and usage. The data suggests that while some improvements have been made, such as the 'strip and fit' policy, further regulatory changes may be necessary to enhance tyre efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Valtteri Bottas will return to Mercedes as their reserve driver for the 2025 season after being released by Audi-owned Sauber, where he spent three years. Bottas, who previously raced for Mercedes from 2017 to 2021, will support race drivers George Russell and Andrea Kimi Antonelli while drawing on his extensive experience in Formula 1.
CURIOSITIES
Ford Australia has unveiled a concept vehicle: the Ranger Raptor-based Santamobile, designed for Santa Claus, featuring a tiny rocket engine, retractable wings, and a tailgate barbecue. While the concept includes several imaginative elements like heated cup holders and a unique load box for presents, Ford acknowledges the impracticality of some features, such as the wings, which they admitted cannot be installed on an ordinary human’s truck.
Residential owners in Australia are increasingly voting to prohibit battery-powered cars from charging in underground car parks due to concerns about electric fires. Despite the low incidence of EV fires—eight recorded in Australia since 2021—strata committees are responding to safety fears, with some developers exploiting legal loopholes to install EV chargers without adequate fire safety measures.
Dan Gurney's 1961 Chevy Impala has returned to California after a six-decade journey that included ownership changes across the US, England, and Australia. The car, originally purchased by Gurney and later modified by various owners, has been restored to its original condition and will now be part of the Gurney family collection and displayed in a museum.
Manhart has introduced the MH5 450, a modified version of the previous G31 BMW 5 Series Touring, featuring a tuned 3.0-liter turbocharged engine that produces 450 horsepower. The vehicle includes various enhancements such as a body kit, custom wheels, and lowered suspension, making it a practical option for winter travel while maintaining a subtle aesthetic.
An 11-year old in Oroville, California, led police on a brief pursuit after driving a minivan erratically on State Route 99, prompting authorities to prioritize public safety and discontinue the chase. The joyride ended when the child crashed the vehicle into a flooded area, but they were rescued without visible injuries and transported to a local hospital.
Classic car restoration specialist Tolman, best-known for its 205 GTIs, has revealed its latest project: a 1968 Mini Cooper S. The car has been transformed into a daily driver with modern enhancements while retaining its original charm, featuring a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and various modern conveniences.
Clay Kirksey has owned a 1966 Chevy C10 truck — nicknamed Gerald — since he was 16, and has converted it to a high-performance machine while retaining its vintage aesthetic. With thoroughly modernized mechanicals, Gerald now features a 408ci LS2-based engine from Texas Speed, delivering over 500hp to the rear wheels, as well as a custom interior and roll cage.
A unique Saab 9-5, modified by Scandinavian Airport and Road Systems (SARSYS) for runway friction testing, is currently up for auction. The car features specialized equipment — including a retracting rear wheel, water tank, and spray system — that assesses runway grip under various conditions, a critical function for ensuring aircraft safety during takeoff and landing.
An investigation by the Office of the State Comptroller revealed that the New Jersey State Police frequently grant preferential treatment to drivers who present “courtesy cards” or claim connections to law enforcement, with 139 out of 501 no-enforcement stops showing evidence of this bias. The report criticized the department's lack of oversight, noting that bodycam footage is rarely reviewed, and recommended that the NJSP implement measures to prevent officers from considering a driver's relationship to law enforcement in their enforcement decisions.
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