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Porsche Teases a 963-Based Road Car
Andrew Evans
April 25, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Sim video shows Spain’s new “Madring” F1 track
Flintoff documentary reveals more about Top Gear culture
Watch McLaren winter-testing its W1 hypercar
Tennis legend Federer to wave Le Mans starter’s flag
F1 25 game brings return of “Braking Point” story
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Porsche has appeared to tease a roadgoing version of its 963 Hypercar, in a video featuring a similar race car-derived street car from the 1970s. The short sequence focuses on the 917 road car made for Count Rossi in 1975, before flashing up a silhouette image of the 963 following the words “What if?” and a date of June 2025, very strongly hinting at the possibility that this new vehicle will be revealed at this year’s Le Mans race.
McLaren's recent video shows the W1 hypercar being rigorously tested in winter conditions, highlighting its hybrid capabilities and encouraging year-round use for owners. The footage emphasizes the vehicle's traction and stability systems, ensuring performance even in challenging environments, while also demonstrating the durability of its powertrain components under extreme cold.
The upcoming electric Range Rover, set to launch later this year, will feature a dual-motor setup generating 542 horsepower, powered by a substantial 117kWh battery. As anticipation builds, JLR has shared glimpses of the vehicle during testing, revealing performance metrics that position it similarly to the V8 Autobiography, despite its heavier battery.
At a recent event in Los Angeles, Slate Auto introduced its new electric pickup, simply named the Truck, which aims to offer an affordable price point of $20,000 after federal incentives, backed in part by Jeff Bezos. Designed for simplicity, the Truck features a basic two-door configuration, a minimalist interior with smartphone integration, and a focus on direct sales to consumers, though its production and pricing viability remain uncertain amidst changing EV incentives.
In light of impending tariffs on imported vehicles, Hyundai has established a task force aimed at refining its operational strategies to mitigate financial repercussions. This initiative coincides with the company's decision to relocate some Tucson crossover production to the US, reflecting its commitment to increasing the use of domestic parts in response to the evolving trade landscape.
Renault's Alpine brand has postponed its entry into the US market, originally slated for 2027, due to the economic fallout from recent import tariffs imposed by the current White House administration. This delay reflects the company's strategy to reassess its projects and mitigate financial risks while aiming to introduce a series of electric vehicles, including the A290 GT hot hatch and the forthcoming A390 crossover.
Canada is considering adjustments to its vehicle import regulations, potentially allowing access to cars from Europe, Japan, and Korea that currently cannot enter the market due to current alignment with US standards. This shift could not only enhance the variety available to Canadian consumers but also challenge the impact of US tariffs on the automotive sector.
Nissan is poised to report a record financial loss of approximately $5 billion for the fiscal year ending in March, significantly higher than its previous forecast of $561 million. The company is navigating a major restructuring following the collapse of merger discussions with Honda, which has led to job cuts and asset impairment charges as it seeks to stabilize its operations.
Ford has announced a significant advancement in its electric vehicle battery technology with the development of Lithium Manganese Rich (LMR) cells, which aim to enhance safety, energy density, and affordability. While the specifics of this breakthrough remain somewhat vague, the company is optimistic that these batteries could lead to more cost-effective long-range electric vehicles by the end of the decade.
MOTORSPORT
The organizers of the upcoming 2026 Spanish Grand Prix have unveiled a video simulation showcasing the new track, which will be constructed around the Ifema venue in Madrid. This nearly 5.5-kilometer circuit will feature a mix of public roads and custom-built sections, including a notable high-speed corner and various elevation changes, while the pit lane design aims to facilitate quicker pit stops for teams.
Roger Federer has been appointed as the official starter for the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours, a prestigious endurance race organized by the Automobile Club de l’Ouest. The Swiss tennis legend will signal the beginning of the event on June 14 at 4:00 PM, joining a roster of notable figures who have previously performed this role.
McLaren is set to withdraw from Formula E as the series transitions to its Gen 4 format in 2027, following the conclusion of its current contract with NEOM, which supported the team since it took over from Mercedes in 2023. Despite a modest performance in the series, including a single victory and several podium finishes, the team plans to redirect its focus towards its new Le Mans Hypercar initiative.
Takuma Sato, a veteran driver with two Indianapolis 500 victories, is set to compete in his 16th race for Rahal Letterman Lanigan Racing, having demonstrated strong performance during recent testing. However, his preparations were hindered when he crashed during practice, resulting in significant damage to his car, although he emerged with only minor injuries and expressed gratitude for the safety measures in place.
The FIA and Formula 1 teams are exploring adjustments to the 2026 engine regulations to help manufacturers that fall behind, while also addressing safety concerns related to grass fires experienced during the Japanese Grand Prix. Discussions included potential changes to energy management and materials used in car components, as well as plans to implement mandatory pit strategies for the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix.
Alex Albon has begun the 2025 Formula 1 season strongly, securing points in four out of five races, while emphasizing the importance of maximizing their current performance amid the unpredictable nature of the sport. With Williams currently experiencing its best start in nearly ten years, Albon acknowledges the need for strategic point accumulation as the team prepares for a significant overhaul in 2026, which may limit its ability to introduce upgrades this season.
Liam Lawson has been reassured that his aspirations in Formula 1 remain intact, despite facing challenges during a difficult season. Following a brief stint with Red Bull, where he struggled to find his footing, he has returned to Racing Bulls, where team management emphasizes their commitment to nurturing young talent and maintaining team cohesion.
The FIA has confirmed that there are no plans to modify the Rally1 regulations for the World Rally Championship next year, despite ongoing uncertainties regarding Hyundai's participation beyond 2025. While discussions with Hyundai continue to address its concerns, the governing body remains focused on ensuring a stable framework leading up to the introduction of new regulations in 2027.
ODDITIES
The documentary about Andrew "Freddie" Flintoff on Disney+ offers an insightful exploration of the darker aspects of the entertainment industry, highlighting the risks faced by even its most prominent figures. Set to premiere on April 25, the film recounts Flintoff's harrowing accident during a Top Gear shoot, revealing troubling details about safety compromises made by the BBC and the lasting impact on his life and career.
The latest installment of the Braking Point story mode in F1 25 reintroduces players to the narrative of the Konnersport team, now featuring a new driver lineup and a focus on championship contention. Players can expect enhanced engagement through character selection in key events, alongside adjustments to difficulty levels to better accommodate varying skill sets.
Formula 1's ambitious plans for a Vietnamese Grand Prix in 2020 were derailed by the pandemic, leaving a newly constructed track in Hanoi unused and abandoned. A recent exploration of the site reveals signs of neglect, with nature reclaiming the area while remnants of the event's infrastructure remain intact, highlighting a unique chapter in F1's history despite the absence of an actual race.
Lewis Hamilton's vegan burger chain, Neat Burgers, has shut down its last two UK locations due to significant financial losses, totaling £7.9 million in 2022. This closure jeopardizes approximately 150 jobs and leaves the brand with only two remaining outlets in Milan after previously operating in various international markets.
A rare convertible version of the Mercedes-Benz CLK AMG DTM is coming to auction next month, as one of just 80 examples of the car ever sold worldwide. Once the fastest four-seat convertible in the world, the DTM features new, aggressive bodywork, and a 582hp, 5.4-liter, supercharged V8, and this 13,600-mile example is expected to reach around $500,000.
While flying one’s own aircraft is a thrill, it also brings the challenge of transportation upon landing, particularly at rural airports where taxis and rental cars are scarce. To address this issue, Lawrence S. Shapiro developed the Suitcase Cycle, a motorcycle that could be disassembled and packed into a suitcase, offering a unique solution for pilots seeking convenient mobility after their flights.
Private parking companies in the UK are projected to issue 14.5 million penalty notices this year, leading to a potential total of £1.4 billion in fines by 2025. The rise in penalties, which has doubled since 2019, follows the abandonment of a proposed Private Parking Code of Practice aimed at regulating excessive charges, despite concerns about fairness and the impact on drivers.
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