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- Nissan R35 GT-R Ends Production
Nissan R35 GT-R Ends Production
Andrew Evans
August 26, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
F1 changes pit lane speed limit to spice up Dutch GP
Old smart cars used in rehabilitation therapy
Yangwang’s 3,000hp U9 sets 294mph speed record
Honda’s official esports series returns for 2026
BMW reveals M Hybrid V8 for 2026 WEC/IMSA season
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The R35-generation Nissan GT-R has officially concluded its production run in Japan, marking the end of an 18-year era for the iconic sports car. While Nissan hints at a potential future revival of the GT-R nameplate, the automotive landscape's shift towards electrification suggests that any successor may look quite different from its predecessor.
The Yangwang U9, an all-electric supercar from China's BYD, has made headlines with its Track Edition variant achieving a remarkable speed of 472.41km/h to set a new production electric vehicle record. This version boasts enhanced performance features, including a total output of 2976hp from its four motors and advanced electric architecture, although its availability and road legality remain uncertain.
A new Classic Defender from Land Rover pays homage to Winston Churchill, reflecting the design of a Series I Land Rover he received in 1954, complete with distinctive Bronze Green paint and unique interior features inspired by his legacy. Limited to just ten units, the V8 Churchill Edition is based on a final edition Defender produced from 2012-2016 and is available in several styles, starting at £232,500 for a short wheelbase 90 model hardtop.
At The Quail last week, Lamborghini introduced the Fenomeno, its most potent road-legal model, marking the 20th anniversary of its Centro Stile division, with only 29 units to be made. Chief designer Mitja Borkert revealed that this vehicle draws inspiration from a secret internal concept, emphasizing that Lamborghini's design philosophy will continue to evolve rather than adhere to a fixed style.
Aston Martin and Mercedes are initiating recalls for several models due to safety concerns, with Mercedes addressing a potential steering issue in thousands of vehicles, including the EQE and GLC series, linked to improperly secured bolts. Meanwhile, Aston Martin is recalling 178 units of the Vanquish due to a software-related vacuum pump failure that could impair brake assist, requiring owners to visit dealerships for the necessary updates.
Ferrari's recent patent proposal introduces an innovative auto-braking mechanism designed to prevent damage to the vehicle's front splitter by detecting obstacles based on their height relative to the car. While the technology aims to enhance safety for supercar owners, its actual implementation in production models remains uncertain.
Tesla is now offering a retrofit kit for Model 3 vehicles to reintroduce traditional turn signal stalks, acknowledging the previous decision to replace them with buttons on the steering wheel. Currently available only for newer models, this upgrade reflects the company's responsiveness to customer preferences and suggests a potential shift back to more conventional controls in their vehicles.
Opel has revised its electric vehicle strategy, opting to maintain a diverse range of powertrains, including hybrids and internal combustion engines, rather than committing solely to an all-electric lineup by 2028. Despite this shift, the automaker remains a pioneer in offering a fully electrified model across its entire range, while adapting to market demands in various regions.
MOTORSPORT
BMW has introduced aerodynamic enhancements to its M Hybrid V8 LMDh in preparation for the upcoming World Endurance Championship and IMSA SportsCar Championship seasons. These modifications, including a more compact version of the signature grille, aim to enhance the vehicle's performance consistency across various racetracks and improve its cooling capabilities.
The FIA has decided to increase the pit-lane speed limit to 80km/h for the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, aiming to introduce greater strategic diversity in race tactics. This adjustment, along with Pirelli's selection of softer tire compounds, is intended to encourage teams to consider more than just a single pit stop during the event.
George Russell has suggested that Formula 1 could benefit from implementing a display system to enhance driver visibility during wet races, a concern that has intensified with the introduction of ground effect cars. He emphasized that existing technology, such as GPS, could be adapted to help drivers identify the positions of other cars when visibility is compromised by rain.
Alex Albon expressed strong confidence in his fourth season with Williams, noting that he has already surpassed his total points from the previous three years combined, which he believes is transforming the team's racing approach. Following significant changes in ownership and management, Williams has improved its standings, currently sitting fifth in the championship, thanks to a more consistent car and a solid strategy that has allowed it to score points without relying on risky maneuvers.
Oscar Piastri acknowledges the potential for tension to escalate within a team during the intense competition for the F1 drivers' championship, as he currently leads teammate Lando Norris by a narrow margin. Despite their friendly rapport, Piastri emphasizes the importance of collaboration to maintain a positive dynamic, aiming to avoid the pitfalls that have historically plagued intra-team rivalries in the sport.
Pierre Gasly expresses confidence in Flavio Briatore's ambition to elevate Alpine back to a competitive status in Formula 1, emphasizing Briatore's extensive experience and leadership qualities. Following a challenging period for the team, Briatore's return as an executive advisor aims to restore stability and drive towards a championship-contending future.
Haas and Toyota formed a collaboration in October 2024 aimed at enhancing their capabilities, particularly focusing on the development of a driver-in-loop simulator, which Haas currently lacks. This tool is expected to be vital for preparing for the more complex car mandated by the 2026 regulations, but Haas faces challenges as it continues to rely on Ferrari’s simulator, limiting its efficiency and preparation time.
NASCAR has reached an agreement to transfer one of the ownership charters entangled in ongoing legal disputes involving 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, contingent on court approval. The sanctioning body has formally notified the court and the involved teams of its plans, following a previous ruling that requires transparency regarding any charter transactions until the litigation is resolved.
William Byron, despite clinching the regular season championship, will not lead the NASCAR Cup playoffs due to a points reset, with his teammate Kyle Larson taking the top position instead. Larson's advantage stems from having more race victories and earning additional points through the fastest lap bonus, which has helped him secure a higher standing going into the playoffs.
CURIOSITIES
While Americans have been unable to purchase new Smart Fortwo vehicles since 2019, older cars are finding new homes as they are being repurposed in medical facilities to assist patients in regaining mobility. The cars serve as practical tools for rehabilitation, replacing more expensive, custom equipment, allowing individuals recovering from various conditions to practice entering and exiting vehicles in a controlled environment.
Honda is set to launch the third season of its esports competition, the Honda Racing eMS, in Gran Turismo 7, with the online qualifiers this week. This year's format will include three online finals in December, crowning regional champions from Asia-Oceania, North America/Latin America, and Europe/Middle East/Africa, while qualification will be determined through an online hot-lap event accessible to players aged seven and older.
A rare opportunity has emerged to acquire a Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 that once belonged to the legendary Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna, set to be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s in London this November, with an estimated value between €255,000 and €290,000. This particular vehicle, which Senna purchased in 1985 following a notable race victory, comes with original documentation and has a rich history, including signatures and memorabilia from prominent figures in motorsport.
Automotive enthusiasts often express concerns about the increasing size and weight of contemporary vehicles, largely driven by enhanced safety standards. A recent crash test comparing a 1989 Volkswagen Golf II with its 2024 successor highlighted significant advancements in occupant protection, demonstrating that modern cars provide far superior safety features and performance in collision scenarios.
Classic car enthusiast David Freiburger explores a unique junkyard that serves as a private collection, primarily accessible to a select group, where visitors can admire a range of vintage vehicles without the option to purchase. Among the notable finds are several muscle cars, including 1969 Dodge Chargers and 1970 Challengers, as well as a rare 1958 Edsel and a pair of 1955 DeSoto Fireflite sedans, each with a compelling backstory.
Nissan has collaborated with Casio to create a watch that honors the legacy of NISMO in motorsport, specifically reflecting on the iconic vehicles from the brand's competitive history. The Casio Edifice NISMO Heritage Edition features design elements inspired by Nissan's racing achievements, including a color scheme reminiscent of historic race cars and details that pay tribute to the brand’s drivers and vehicles.
Traffic enforcement cameras from Flock Safety are at the center of a privacy and surveillance controversy, with the claims that the devices are used beyond their intended purpose, and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) speaking out against the company. Flock’s license plate reader devices scan an estimated 20 billion vehicles a month in 49 US states, and have been implicated in passing data to Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials as well as in a stalking case involving a Kansas police chief.
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