- SpeedBites
- Posts
- Red Bull Reveals Hypercar's Final Look
Red Bull Reveals Hypercar's Final Look
Andrew Evans
January 05, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters, and welcome back after the winter break! Here's what's on the menu today, with a few extra stories you may have missed during the time off:
FIA will tinker mid-season if the 2026 racing isn’t good enough
You can buy a real, working, road-legal TRON bike
Subaru WRX STI teased for an overdue return
Why the Gran Turismo World Series is heading to Abu Dhabi
Toyota sweeps Dakar’s second stage, but Dacia driver still leads
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Red Bull has finalized the design of its RB17 hypercar, which is set to hit the roads later this year, revealing a more aggressive and aerodynamic profile than its prototype. Built on the company’s Formula One expertise, the RB17 features a powerful 1,200-horsepower hybrid engine and a race-focused interior, with only 50 units planned for production.
The Renault Filante Record 2025 successfully completed a distance of 1,008 kilometers in under ten hours, averaging a speed of 102km/h while consuming just 7.8kWh per 100km, all powered by a standard 87kWh battery. This achievement highlights the importance of aerodynamics and innovative technology in electric vehicle design, with a mini-series set to explore the journey behind this efficiency milestone.
Subaru is hinting at a potential revival of the STI brand, with an upcoming reveal at the Tokyo Auto Salon featuring a new variant of the WRX that includes classic design elements like prominent rear wings. While the company has previously teased STI concepts, this latest development appears to hold more promise, although the likelihood of its availability in Europe remains uncertain due to stringent emissions regulations.
Ferrari has filed a patent for an innovative predictive control system aimed at enhancing the aerodynamic performance of future road vehicles. This track-oriented technology seeks to anticipate aerodynamic adjustments based on projected driving conditions rather than simply reacting to driver inputs, potentially offering a significant edge in lap times.
Akio Toyoda has hinted at an upcoming mid-engined two-seater sports car, potentially reviving the MR2 name, through a teaser video shared by Toyota Gazoo Racing. With the Tokyo Auto Salon approaching, anticipation builds around the vehicle's details and its possible connection to Toyota's recent trademark filings and concept developments.
BMW has completed its acquisition of Alpina, signaling a new direction for the performance brand that emphasizes a distinctive combination of high performance and enhanced driving comfort. Operating under the name BMW Alpina, the brand will maintain its identity while integrating into the BMW Group alongside Mini and Rolls-Royce, with plans for a range of customized options and a focus on quality craftsmanship.
Bugatti's Solitaire program will continue its tradition of producing only two bespoke hypercars annually, with the next model set for 2026 paying tribute to the iconic Veyron 16.4 and its renowned W16 engine. This limited-edition vehicle aims to resonate with elite collectors, highlighting automotive storytelling and historical significance, while expectedly commanding a price exceeding $20 million.
Despite a lack of recent updates from the brand, Sony Honda Mobility has initiated trial production of the Afeela 1, its inaugural vehicle, with plans for a mid-year launch. The car features a dual-motor setup and advanced safety technology, along with connectivity options, though questions remain over whether its specifications will be enough to distinguish it in a competitive market filled with more powerful electric sedans.
Volkswagen has revealed the interior design of the upcoming ID Polo, noting the addition of physical buttons for essential functions in response to customer preferences. This electric supermini, positioned in the affordable segment of the market, mirrors the ID 2all concept and features enhanced materials and a user-friendly infotainment system, providing a spacious cabin comparable to that of the Golf.
Renault is set to unveil its new flagship Filante SUV on January 13, targeting the competitive luxury segment dominated by brands like Genesis, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz. Designed primarily for the South Korean market, this model will feature a spacious interior and advanced technology, built on a Geely platform co-developed with Volvo, while reflecting Renault's evolving design philosophy for future upscale offerings.
Starting January 1, 2027, China will prohibit retractable and flush door handles due to safety issues that hinder passenger evacuation during emergencies. Following investigations into incidents involving electric door malfunctions, the new regulations mandate that all vehicles under 3.5 tonnes must have conventional door handles with a mechanical emergency release feature.
Norway has almost achieved its ambitious goal of phasing out fossil fuel vehicle sales by 2025, with electric vehicles comprising nearly all new car registrations last year. The latest data reveals that 95.9% of the 179,549 cars sold that year were fully electric, and 97.5% were electrified, marking a significant milestone in the country's transition to a cleaner automotive landscape while other nations vacillate.
MOTORSPORT
The FIA plans to monitor and adjust the new 2026 Formula 1 regulations to ensure that overtaking remains challenging yet achievable. With the introduction of active aerodynamics and engine modes, officials are prepared to fine-tune specific elements during the season to maintain an engaging competitive balance.
In the second stage of the 2026 Dakar Rally, Toyota secured a dominant presence with Seth Quintero finishing first while four other Toyotas filled the rest of the top five. Despite a challenging start, Toyota's performance improved significantly, with Quintero achieving his third stage win while Dacia’s Nasser Al-Attiyah holds a narrow lead in the overall rankings.
The International Hot Rod Association has acquired Rockingham Speedway in North Carolina, a venue with a rich NASCAR history, ensuring its continued operation and enhancement. Future plans for the facility include improvements for spectators, a variety of new events, and a focus on maintaining its motorsport legacy.
Williams Racing has announced that the FW48, their Formula 1 car for 2026, will be unveiled on February 3, though the format of the reveal remains unconfirmed. Additionally, the team plans to start the season with a fan-created livery that received nearly 55,000 votes from around the globe, while aiming to build on their recent success in the constructors' championship.
Mercedes has announced that it will reveal its 2026 Formula 1 car, the W17, on January 22, with private testing scheduled for late January. The team aims to build on its previous successes while adapting to new regulations that center on a balanced hybrid powertrain, and will host a live-streamed launch event featuring drivers and team leadership on February 2.
Zhou Guanyu has been appointed as the reserve driver for Cadillac as they prepare for their inaugural season in Formula 1 in 2026. The 26-year-old, who previously served as Ferrari's reserve driver and raced for Alfa Romeo from 2022 to 2024, will support returning drivers Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez.
Andrew Shovlin, the trackside engineering director for Mercedes, stated that the team is not approaching the new era of Formula 1 with the belief that it will automatically lead the competition. He noted that the revised technical regulations, including significant changes to power units, will create a highly competitive environment.
This month, both Red Bull teams will experience their first testing of the newly developed power unit, marking a significant milestone for Ford and Red Bull, despite the event being closed to the public. Ford's increased involvement in the combustion engine development reflects a strategic shift, allowing the company to leverage insights from Formula 1 to enhance their road car technology.
Red Bull and Mercedes have revealed new logos as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season, aiming to compete at the forefront with the introduction of revised technical regulations. Red Bull is set to debut its first in-house power unit, in collaboration with Ford, while Mercedes has incorporated 'Petronas Formula 1 Team' into its branding.
McLaren's Oscar Piastri shared that he, along with George Russell and Alex Albon, engaged in an unofficial UNO tournament during their travels between races in the 2025 Formula 1 season, revealing that the rules were often improvised. Piastri reflected on the competitive spirit among drivers, noting how such lighthearted interactions provide a break from the intensity of racing.
Peugeot has announced the driver pairings for its two 9X8 entries in the FIA World Endurance Championship, featuring Nick Cassidy alongside Paul di Resta in the #93 car, while Stoffel Vandoorne completes the lineup. The #94 vehicle will continue with Loic Duval and Malthe Jakobsen, joined by Theo Pourchaire, as the team aims for a competitive edge in the challenging racing environment.
Pipo Derani, a driver for Genesis Magma Racing, believes the team has made significant strides in enhancing the performance of its new GMR-001 LMDh car as it prepares for its debut in the FIA World Endurance Championship. While acknowledging the challenges of competing against more established manufacturers, he is encouraged by the progress made since testing began in August.
The FIA has imposed an unusual sanction on Dakar Rally competitor Tom Coronel just before the start of the event, in Saudi Arabia on January 3. Despite minor issues during final preparations, including a GPS glitch and a flat tire, Coronel remains optimistic and eager to take on the rally, even after officials confiscated his uniquely spray-painted HANS device.
CURIOSITIES
An electric motorcycle inspired by the iconic Tron Light Cycle, known as the PBC NeuTron, is set to be auctioned without a reserve in January. With its striking hubless wheels and vibrant lighting, this street-legal bike is one of only ten ever made, blending futuristic design with practical features for road use.
A unique model of the Ferrari 250 GTO, known as “Bianco Speciale” and raced in era by drivers such as Graham Hill, is heading to auction this month and could fetch a world record price. The car is the only one of the 36 ever produced by the factory to leave with a white finish, and has a rich competition history and certified authenticity, maintaining its originality and eligibility for various prestigious automotive events.
At the recent Gran Turismo World Series Finals in Japan, it was revealed that Abu Dhabi will host the event for the first time in 2026, marking a significant milestone for the franchise. Series creator Kazunori Yamauchi highlighted the inclusive car culture in the UAE, contrasting it with the more male-centric scene in other regions, and noted the importance of this new venue as part of Abu Dhabi's broader initiative to become a hub for digital competition.
A 2001 Dodge Viper has been transformed into a dedicated drag racer with a supercharged Hellcat V8 engine and an automatic transmission, stripping away its original components for enhanced speed. Currently listed at under $20,000, this unconventional vehicle prioritizes performance over traditional features and street legality, appealing to those who appreciate unique automotive modifications.
Fernando Alonso has recently expanded his impressive car collection, which includes a newly acquired Aston Martin DBX S, priced around £210,000. Notably, he has also added a rare Mercedes CLK GTR to his lineup, a vehicle with a rich motorsport heritage valued at over $10 million, further highlighting his passion for automotive icons.
Dallas has implemented a network of over 600 AI-driven traffic cameras to monitor vehicles and assist in crime resolution, drawing both support for enhanced safety and criticism for potential privacy infringements. As the technology evolves, concerns about its oversight and security continue to provoke debate among citizens and civil rights advocates alike.
A pristine 1979 BMW M1 Procar, which has never participated in a race, is set to be auctioned in Tokyo in January 2026, with an anticipated sale price between ¥180 million and ¥220 million ($1.15 million to $1.4 million) and comes with full FIA documentation. This model, emblematic of BMW's motorsport legacy, was originally created for the M1 Procar series, where notable Formula 1 drivers were among the participants.
During its annual celebration in Tokyo, the Polyphony Digital team expressed gratitude to Gran Turismo enthusiasts through an original song titled "Arigato", which conveys appreciation for all fans, regardless of their gaming prowess. The event also featured notable figures from the gaming and automotive industries, alongside the presence of top Gran Turismo players, as they commemorated the franchise's impressive achievement of over 100 million copies sold since its inception.
Lego has introduced a new Technic kit featuring the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, allowing enthusiasts to engage with a detailed model of this iconic off-road vehicle. Comprising 723 pieces, the set includes functional elements like steering and suspension, along with playful accessories, making it suitable for builders aged ten and older at a price of £59.99 in the UK.
Nihon Automotive College is creating a unique Kei car inspired by the Toyota GR Supra for the upcoming 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, using a Daihatsu Copen as the base. This project will be part of a broader display that includes two additional vehicles, showcasing the students' innovative approach to automotive design.
Players of F1 25 can now acquire the Williams Gulf livery, which debuted at the 2025 Brazilian Grand Prix, at no cost for a limited period. This unique design, featuring words contributed by fans, celebrates the team's heritage and connection with Gulf Oil, and can be claimed through the in-game mailbox until January 6.
The Japanese Automotive Hall of Fame has recognized several lesser-known vehicles for 2025, including the Daihatsu Charade, which was notable for its innovative three-cylinder engine and success in the 1982 Safari Rally. Additionally, the induction of the Suminoe Flying Feather and the Minsei 6TW truck highlights the diverse historical contributions to Japan's automotive landscape, alongside the acknowledgment of influential figures like Osami Suzuki in the industry.
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!