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One Person Bought the Entire 20-Car Mansour Ojjeh McLaren Collection
Andrew Evans
August 28, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
McLaren considering new factories outside the UK
Unique porcelain trophies revealed for Dutch Grand Prix
Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo makes a surprise appearance in a different game
Mastercard becomes McLaren’s first F1 title sponsor in a decade
Porsche Macan EV becomes a gaming console
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
McLaren's new CEO has indicated that while the company will maintain its operations in Woking for supercars, it remains open to the possibility of manufacturing in other regions as needed. Nick Collins reaffirmed that McLaren envisages its current facilities as being the hub for supercar production for a very long time, but commented that it makes sense to build some other things, potentially the brand’s rumored SUV, in other locations.
The 2026 Porsche Macan Electric is the latest vehicle to gain gaming capabilities, through the AirConsole system which will allow passengers to play while stationary. Additionally, enhancements such as improved towing capacity, advanced parking features, and a voice-activated AI system reflect Porsche's commitment to integrating modern technology into its electric crossover lineup.
Dreame Technology, known for its high-speed vacuum cleaners, aims to enter the electric vehicle market by developing a hypercar that it claims will be the fastest in the world by 2027. Despite having no prior automotive experience, the company plans to position itself against established luxury brands like Bugatti and incorporate advanced AI technology into its vehicle to adapt to the driver's preferences.
Volkswagen is expected to present a run-out version of the Golf R incorporating a five-cylinder engine from the Audi RS3 hot hatch. This model would require significant alterations to the suspension and chassis, and is expected to coincide with the brand phasing out the Golf itself by 2027 in favor of ID-branded electric vehicles.
European automotive leaders are expressing concerns that the EU's intention to phase out combustion engines by the mid-2030s is impractical, citing challenges such as high production costs and reliance on Asian battery supplies. In a letter to the European Commission, industry executives stated the need for a more realistic approach to CO2 reduction targets that supports both climate objectives and the competitiveness of the region's automotive sector.
Despite concerns about the future of the Mustang amidst Ford's shift towards electric vehicles, the iconic pony car is set to continue, with a new Shelby GT500 expected to debut in 2026 featuring a powerful V8 engine. This commitment to both traditional muscle and innovative performance highlights Ford's strategy to maintain its automotive legacy while adapting to modern market demands.
Hyundai has committed an additional $5 billion to enhance its electric vehicle production in the USA, aiming to bolster its domestic supply chain and manufacturing capabilities. This decision follows a meeting between the new South Korean President and the White House and elevates the brand’s total investment to $26bn through to 2028, as it looks to skirt punitive tariffs on imported vehicles and components.
Porsche is actively seeking a new CEO to replace Oliver Blume, who has been under increasing pressure from investors to relinquish his dual leadership role and concentrate on addressing the challenges facing Volkswagen Group. Discussions have reportedly advanced with potential candidates, including both internal and external options, as the company grapples with issues such as declining sales in China and a shortage of electric vehicle offerings.
MOTORSPORT
The upcoming Dutch Grand Prix will feature uniquely crafted porcelain trophies for the top three finishers and the winning team, adorned with intricate designs in blue, gold, and orange. Max Verstappen will be seeking to build on his impressive track record at Circuit Zandvoort, where he has previously secured three victories in four races since its return to Formula 1 in 2021, before it leaves the calendar after next year’s event.
McLaren will officially adopt the name McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team from the 2026 Formula 1 season, marking a significant enhancement in its collaboration with the payment company. This partnership aims to deepen fan engagement through initiatives like the 'Team Priceless' program, which will offer unique experiences such as track sessions and interactions with drivers.
Several Formula 1 drivers have reacted to the news of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez signing for new team Cadillac, expressing confidence in the duo who are returning after being absent this season. Sauber’s Nico Hulkenberg and Esteban Ocon of Alpine both commented that the duo should be able to manage a smooth transition back to racing and enhance Cadillac’s development.
Red Bull's advisor Helmut Marko has firmly dismissed recent speculation regarding Alex Palou as a potential teammate for Max Verstappen in 2026. Red Bull and junior team Racing Bulls already have three current drivers vying for the seat, with Liam Lawson promoted and demoted inside two races, Yuki Tsunoda the incumbent, and Isack Hadjar impressing, while promising F2 racer Arvid Lindblad is also part of the Red Bulls setup.
Aston Martin F1's team principal, Andy Cowell, envisions transforming the team into an inventive and dynamic force as it adapts to the upcoming 2026 regulations in Formula 1. Following a challenging period, the organization is focused on enhancing its development processes and preparing for a significant partnership with Honda, while also navigating the complexities of designing its own components.
The Cadillac F1 team is establishing itself in the competitive motorsport landscape by strategically recruiting experienced professionals, but CEO Dan Towriss has dismissed speculation about hiring former Red Bull Racing leader Christian Horner. Despite Horner's extensive background, Towriss reaffirmed his commitment to current team principal Graeme Lowdon, alongside experienced drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez.
Envision has announced that Sebastien Buemi will continue racing with the team for a minimum of two more seasons, ensuring his presence in Formula E through the upcoming Gen4 era. The signing comes despite initial concerns about potential scheduling conflicts with the World Endurance Championship, but the deal will allow for exit options if necessary, as Season 2 champion Buemi looks to continue recent positive results.
CURIOSITIES
Automotive broker Tom Hartley Jnr has announced that all 20 McLaren models from the Mansour Ojjeh collection have been sold to a single buyer, ensuring that these final chassis models remain together. Ojjeh, who passed away in June 2021, played a significant role in the evolution of McLaren, and amassed the collection of final chassis number cars largely finished in the unique “Mansour Orange” color.
The Crew Motorfest has introduced a limited-time Elite Bundle that includes the Bugatti Vision Gran Turismo, a hypercar originally unveiled at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show for the Gran Turismo series. It’s the second time that a car specifically designed for Gran Turismo has appeared in any other console racer, following on from the Citroen GT by Citroen in the previous The Crew title in 2019, and raises questions about the licensing of these otherwise exclusive vehicles.
The latest update for Gran Turismo 7, version 1.62, has been released, introducing four new vehicles as part of a modest increase in overall content. Players can expect new racing events, a surprisingly large set of new engine swaps, an Extra Menu Book focusing on classic Japanese cars, and new Scapes set in Japan, although no new circuits for GT Sophy have been added this time.
The anticipated addition of Honda to the roster of Tokyo Xtreme Racer has finally materialized, as the developer Genki has confirmed the inclusion of the iconic first-generation NSX following successful negotiations. With a promotional video hinting at further announcements, excitement builds for the game's potential full release soon, possibly unveiling more details about Honda's participation and the overall game.
A former Wisconsin car salesman lost his job after sharing a TikTok video in which he claimed to have sold a vehicle to a single mother for $10,000 over the manufacturer's suggested retail price, later commenting that it was intended as a joke. The dealership, Zeigler Honda, refuted his assertion, emphasizing that it did not reflect its values, and subsequently dismissed him following public outcry and negative feedback.
The Honda N-Van Compo, crafted by Japan's White House Camper, represents a unique approach to compact living, merging the essence of a camper van with the dimensions of a Kei car. With a rich history in RV manufacturing, White House has designed this model to maximize functionality within a limited space, offering various features that enhance the camping experience.
Electrogenic has transformed a classic Aston Martin DB6, owned by comedian Jimmy Carr, into a fully electric vehicle, preserving its iconic design while eliminating emissions and mechanical issues. This innovative conversion allows for impressive performance, offering instant torque and a range of 150 miles, all while maintaining the car's classic allure and the option for future reversion to its original state.
The Chevrolet Corvette's legacy is deeply intertwined with significant figures, notably Zora Arkus-Duntov, who played a pivotal role in its development. His personal 1974 Stingray, a unique model that underwent meticulous preservation by the National Corvette Museum, will feature prominently in the museum's upcoming exhibition celebrating its anniversary.
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!