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Race-Winning Senna McLaren Heads to Auction
Andrew Evans
November 03, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Honda S2000 revival mooted, but there’s issues
Nailbiting finish in NASCAR as Larson takes title
Lexus Sports Concept makes digital driving debut in Tokyo
The evolution of the A2RL autonomous racing events
Toyota’s next Hilux teased ahead of November 10 reveal
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Honda's aspiration to revive the S2000 roadster faces significant challenges, including a lack of a suitable platform and concerns about production costs and market demand. Despite the enthusiasm from company engineers for a new model, the shift towards hybrid and turbocharged technologies may not align with the characteristics that defined the original S2000, nor is Honda eager to split development costs by sharing major components with other brands.
Toyota is set to unveil the 2026 Hilux on November 10, featuring a refreshed exterior and interior design while retaining its established platform and mild-hybrid diesel engine. The new model aims to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, positioning itself in a competitive market alongside various midsize pickups.
Volkswagen is launching a new initiative from November 3 allowing UK customers to return their new electric car within 80-100 days if it doesn't meet their needs. This program offers a straightforward buyback process, with a flat 3% usage charge plus deductions for damage and alterations, and applies to the entire ID range.
Bentley's new Ombre by Mulliner collection introduces a series of three vehicles featuring meticulously hand-painted gradient finishes, each inspired by the diverse landscapes of California. This elaborate customization process, which takes around 60 hours per vehicle and comes at a price of approximately $68,000, highlights the brand's commitment to unique artistry and personalization.
The upcoming E-Class EQ from Mercedes-Benz is set to return to a more traditional design approach after previous electric vehicle aesthetics did not resonate with consumers. Recent spy footage reveals a shift towards a classic three-box sedan shape, incorporating practical enhancements while maintaining innovative features like advanced rear steering for improved handling.
Authorities in the UK have issued a warning to drivers about the risks of purchasing counterfeit car parts after a significant operation led to the confiscation of over £100,000 in potentially dangerous fake components. This crackdown, supported by several major manufacturers, highlights the growing prevalence of counterfeit goods in the automotive market, with many consumers unknowingly buying these lower-priced products.
In response to a lawsuit from major truck manufacturers challenging California's emissions regulations, the California Air Resources Board has initiated its own legal action, asserting that these companies have failed to adhere to the 2023 Clean Truck Partnership. CARB is seeking to enforce compliance with the agreement or, alternatively, to annul the contract and recover associated costs, with upcoming court proceedings expected to influence future interactions between state and federal emissions policies.
Ruter, the largest public transport operator in Norway, has discovered a potential security risk in its Chinese-made Yutong electric buses although it’s not accompanied by any evidence of malfeasance. The buses, of which around 300 operate in Oslo alone, have hidden SIM cards which purport to enable remote updates and technical support but could also be used to disable the vehicles.
MOTORSPORT
Denny Hamlin faced a heartbreaking end to his championship hopes at the 2025 title-decider, where he led a significant portion of the race but ultimately finished behind Kyle Larson after a late caution disrupted his strategy. Despite his impressive performance and personal motivations, including racing for his ailing father, Hamlin was left reflecting on yet another near-miss in his pursuit of a first championship title.
The Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) is set to host its second event at Yas Marina Circuit on November 15, featuring university teams that develop software for autonomous vehicles racing in modified Super Formula cars. This year, the competition has expanded to include 11 teams, with six qualifying for the grand final, and has introduced new virtual events to enhance team preparation while implementing significant technological upgrades to improve vehicle performance and reliability.
Laurent Mekies, the principal of Red Bull Racing, expressed a sense of optimism regarding the forthcoming power unit regulations, emphasizing that the team is not anxious about the changes. As Red Bull prepares to supply its own power units for the first time, Mekies believes that the shift towards a balanced energy source will enhance competition and generate engaging dynamics within the sport.
Carlos Sainz has expressed his willingness to see significant changes to the format of Sprint weekends in Formula 1, aiming to enhance the excitement of these shorter races. He suggests that implementing the use of softer tires for Sprints could provide a fresh dynamic, while also advocating for a willingness to experiment with various race formats, including the possibility of reversed grids.
Ferrari's 499P Le Mans Hypercar will compete in the Bahrain World Endurance Championship finale with a weight reduction of 5kg and an increase of 3kW in power, as the team aims for both the drivers' and manufacturers' championships. In contrast, Porsche's 963 LMDh has been adjusted to be heavier and less powerful, while Cadillac and Alpine also face power reduction and additional weight.
Felipe Massa's legal battle against Bernie Ecclestone, Formula One Management, and the FIA is currently on hold as the court awaits a decision on whether the case can proceed. The former F1 driver is pursuing £64 million in damages, asserting that the controversial events of the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix unfairly affected his championship outcome against Lewis Hamilton.
Dean Locke, F1's director of broadcast and media, has responded to criticism from fans and various drivers regarding the focus of media coverage particularly with regard to broadcast team radio messages. Locke emphasized the importance of providing a balanced narrative that encompasses both on-track action and the overall atmosphere of the event, and not be a mouthpiece for any one driver.
Lawrence Stroll, owner of Aston Martin's Formula 1 team, has outlined his vision to elevate the outfit to championship status. Following significant investments and a strategic partnership with Honda starting in 2026, the team is also enhancing its technical capabilities having brought in Adrian Newey, aiming to foster a culture of innovative engineering and peak performance.
The Mexican Grand Prix highlighted a trend in Formula 1 where recent races have largely adhered to a one-stop strategy, as teams prioritize minimizing pit stops to avoid potential errors. Discussions are underway about possibly mandating two pit stops per race to enhance unpredictability, though concerns remain about whether such changes would genuinely diversify race strategies or disrupt the current competitive balance.
During the NASCAR Cup race in Phoenix, teams faced significant tire failures, with multiple drivers experiencing cuts, particularly in the final laps. While Goodyear provided softer tires, many crew chiefs admitted to lowering air pressures to enhance speed, leading to a series of blown tires that ultimately influenced the race outcome.
CURIOSITIES
Ayrton Senna's memorable victory at the 1991 Brazilian Grand Prix, achieved while battling gearbox issues in his McLaren MP4/6, marked a significant milestone in his career with his first ever home win. Now, this historic race car, which has been preserved for nearly thirty years, is set to be auctioned on December 11, with estimates suggesting it could fetch between $12 million and $15 million due to its unique legacy.
A new vehicle, the Lexus Sport Concept, can be experienced in Gran Turismo 7, but accessing it requires attending a specific event rather than playing from home. To drive this concept, enthusiasts must visit the Tokyo Big Sight for the "Tokyo Future Tour 2035," where they can engage with a physical model in a simulated driving experience.
Even after its official discontinuation, the R35 Nissan GT-R continues to captivate car enthusiasts, with recent attention drawn by Liberty Walk's unique modifications. The standout features of this particular model include a striking widebody kit, a prominent rear wing, and a distinctive John Player Special livery that enhances its already bold appearance.
Arnold Schwarzenegger's recently restored 1977 Excalibur, completed by West Coast Customs, stands out as a unique blend of vintage design and American engineering, reminiscent of classic grand touring roadsters. This restoration not only revives a piece of automotive history but also supports a broader initiative focused on vocational training and second chances for formerly incarcerated individuals.
The Ontario government plans to eliminate all automated speed cameras, which have faced criticism for prioritizing revenue over safety, in favor of implementing physical traffic-calming measures. While the decision has been met with mixed reactions, some advocates worry about the potential safety risks during the transition period before new measures are established.
A couple in San Francisco faced a hefty parking fine of $1,524 for using their driveway, a penalty that stemmed from a previously overlooked regulation. After a prolonged appeal, the city ultimately rescinded the fine, with the mayor expressing a commitment to reform outdated property regulations to avoid similar issues in the future.
The first production Corvette of the C4 generation symbolizes a pivotal moment in American automotive history, marking the transition to modern performance with its advanced engineering and fuel-injected V8 engine. After decades of preservation by a dedicated owner and with extensive documentation, the first such vehicle, marked by VIN 00001 and with only 277 miles, is now available for sale at auction.
A Baltimore police officer has been suspended following the release of a video that depicted him aggressively pursuing a man with his SUV in a public area. The incident has sparked significant public outrage and prompted an internal investigation, with local officials emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in the matter.
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!