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Porsche Debuts the 963 RSP
Jordan Greer
June 06, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Xiaomi SU7 Ultra joins Gran Turismo
Tom Cruise sets parachute jump record
Channing Tatum stars in motorsport film
McLaren F1 GTR's secret Mercedes history
Lewis Hamilton doubts Ferrari's comeback
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
The Porsche 963 RSP, a unique creation for Roger Penske, transforms the racing-focused 963 into a street-friendly version while retaining its powerful V-8 engine. This one-off vehicle will make its first public appearance during the upcoming Le Mans race week, highlighting its blend of racing heritage and modern design elements.
Hyundai is set to launch its first electric minivan, the Staria EV, which has recently been spotted undergoing road tests in Korea ahead of its anticipated debut later this year. This new model will feature various configurations, including passenger and cargo options, and is expected to offer a range of approximately 350 to 400 kilometers, powered by either a 76 kWh or 84 kWh battery.
Mitsubishi is actively considering a performance-oriented version of the Outlander, potentially bearing the Ralliart name, as part of its ongoing development efforts. Insights from its rallying history may influence this new model, which aims to blend sportiness with the practicality expected from a family SUV.
Automakers are urging the UK Government to foster a hydrogen refueling infrastructure akin to that in Europe, as they express dissatisfaction with the slow advancement of hydrogen fueling options. At a recent summit, industry leaders emphasized the need for regulatory support to facilitate the establishment of a comprehensive network, which is seen as essential for offering consumers viable alternatives to electric vehicles.
A new bipartisan proposal in Oregon aims to permit the registration of imported Kei trucks, contingent upon their compliance with federal safety standards. If enacted, the legislation would outline specific criteria for these vehicles, including age and size restrictions, and impose a registration fee alongside penalties for highway use.
As interest in electric vehicles declines, Honda is shifting its focus towards hybrid technology, with plans to introduce a new lineup featuring an advanced combustion-electric powertrain. The automaker aims to release 13 hybrid models by 2030, while still committing to its electric vehicle segment with the upcoming 0 Series, which includes a sedan and an SUV set to debut in 2026.
Lotus has launched two new variants of the Emira, the entry-level Turbo and the high-performance V6 SE, priced at £79,500 and £96,500, respectively. The Turbo variant features a 360bhp turbocharged engine, while the V6 SE boasts a supercharged 400bhp engine, both equipped with advanced technology and customizable options for enhanced driving experience.
MOTORSPORT
Peugeot is planning to develop a new Le Mans Hypercar, aiming for a launch around 2027, as part of its ongoing commitment to the World Endurance Championship. The company is currently in discussions with regulatory bodies regarding potential changes to its existing model, the 9X8, while emphasizing its long-term involvement in the series.
Fernando Alonso has expressed his positive impressions of working with Adrian Newey, who made his debut alongside the Aston Martin team during the Monaco Grand Prix. As Newey integrates into the squad, his expertise is already elevating the team's focus and attention to detail, particularly in engineering discussions.
Lance Stroll is expected to be ready to compete in the Canadian Grand Prix after undergoing wrist surgery, according to RacingNews365. Following persistent pain stemming from a previous cycling accident, he withdrew from the recent race in Barcelona for medical attention and was later warned by the FIA for not adhering to weighing protocols due to his condition.
McLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, acknowledges the complexities of managing two competitive drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who are currently vying for the championship while maintaining a collaborative atmosphere. The team emphasizes open communication and shared expectations to prevent conflicts, drawing lessons from past experiences in Formula 1, where teammate rivalries have led to detrimental outcomes.
Ferrari's team principal, Fred Vasseur, acknowledges that while the team is not yet meeting its performance goals, their recent rise to second in the constructors' championship indicates progress toward closing the gap with McLaren. Following a strong performance at the Spanish Grand Prix, Vasseur emphasizes the importance of maintaining focus on improving race pace to achieve their ultimate aim of winning races rather than merely securing second place.
Lewis Hamilton has expressed that while McLaren's current performance edge in Formula 1 is not impossible to overcome, he doubts Ferrari will be able to significantly narrow the gap. Despite joining Ferrari with aspirations of competing at the front, Hamilton has encountered challenges that limit his ability to secure top finishes, while McLaren continues to excel in both championship races.
Christian Horner, the head of Red Bull Racing, has called for clearer directives from the FIA regarding when drivers must relinquish positions, following a contentious incident involving Max Verstappen and George Russell at the Spanish Grand Prix. He expressed concerns that the current ambiguity in rules forces teams to make uncertain decisions about position changes, which can lead to avoidable penalties and confusion during races.
The Balance of Performance adjustments for the Hypercar category at the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans have been disclosed, indicating minimal alterations in weight for most competitors alongside notable power increases. Notably, Ferrari's 499P has seen a slight reduction in weight, while several other vehicles, including the Toyota GR010 Hybrid and Cadillac V.Series R, have experienced boosts in power output.
Sauber has implemented multiple enhancements to the C45 throughout the initial phase of the 2025 Formula 1 season, with the latest updates contributing to a notable fifth-place finish for Nico Hülkenberg in Spain. These modifications, which include adjustments to the car's floor, engine cover, and front wing, aim to improve downforce and overall performance, reflecting a more efficient production process under new management.
FUN STUFF
Xiaomi's SU7 Ultra is set to be integrated into Gran Turismo 7, as confirmed by a recent announcement from Moroccan media, following hints from series creator Kazunori Yamauchi. This collaboration signifies a notable development for the franchise, introducing a high-performance electric vehicle from a rapidly advancing automotive market.
The modified Ferrari 512 TR has undergone several questionable alterations, including a complete repaint of its upper body and the addition of an aftermarket rear wing, which detracts from its classic design. Despite these changes leading some to mistakenly believe it’s a replica, a license plate check confirms its authenticity as a genuine 1992 model still equipped with its original engine.
The McLaren F1 GTR, particularly chassis #11R, holds a significant place in motorsport history, having been involved in both McLaren's and Mercedes-AMG's racing endeavors. Originally a successful competitor, this chassis was covertly modified by Mercedes for their CLK GTR program, eventually returning to McLaren for restoration and now residing in a private collection, where it retains its racing heritage.
Tom Cruise has set a new Guinness World Record for the most burning parachute jumps by an individual, completing sixteen leaps for a scene in his latest film, The Final Reckoning. The record highlights his commitment to authenticity in action filmmaking, as he navigated the challenges of jumping from a helicopter at 7,500 feet with a parachute deliberately ignited for the shot.
A German truck driver recently set a new Guinness World Record by reversing an electric Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 for 77.4 miles (124.7 km) on a racetrack, surpassing the previous record by over 22 miles. This remarkable feat, which involved navigating a challenging course filled with tight turns, was completed in just over six hours and aimed to promote awareness of electric mobility and road safety.
Hollywood's fascination with motorsport continues to grow, as Brad Pitt shifts his focus from a fictional F1 driver to a film about the perilous Isle of Man TT races, with Channing Tatum set to star. The project, which will be produced by Pitt's Plan B Entertainment and directed by Reid Carolin, will be accompanied by a docuseries from Box to Box that delves into the lives of the riders participating in this historic and treacherous event.
Two former employees of Kia India are under investigation for allegedly stealing over 1,000 engines from the factory, a scheme that reportedly lasted for several years and had significant repercussions on the company’s operations and trust. Despite the internal theft being detected only recently, authorities are concerned that additional accomplices within the organization may still be involved in the ongoing investigation.
Max Verstappen celebrated the reopening of Red Bull's renowned Hangar-7 at Salzburg Airport by participating in a drag race featuring Sebastian Vettel's 2012 championship-winning RB8 alongside other Red Bull vehicles. This event marked a significant occasion for the brand, highlighting both its history and ongoing legacy in motorsport.
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