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Renault 4 Dual-Motor Concept "Savane" Revealed
Andrew Evans
May 16, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Switzerland’s speed cameras keep being triggered by ducks
New Audi SQ7 spied in Nurburgring testing
Hamilton & Verstappen make top 100-earning sportsperson list
Rare Mk1 GT40 road car barn-find
Russell mocks FIA swearing climbdown timing as a ploy
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Renault has suggested the possibility of a 4x4 version of its new 4 crossover, as demonstrated by the unveiling of the Savane concept, which features off-road enhancements and a dual-motor setup for all-wheel drive. While specific technical details remain undisclosed, the concept indicates that the vehicle's architecture could support a more powerful configuration, though the company has yet to confirm plans for a production model.
The SQ7 is set to undergo significant updates ahead of its anticipated release for the 2027 model year, and the car is currently being tested for performance at the Nurburgring. This three-row SUV will feature design enhancements such as a revised front end and a focus on performance, while also transitioning to a new platform that may introduce hybrid powertrain options.
A modern concept Jaguar E-Type has been presented by Callum Designs, reinterpreting the classic shape with a contemporary twist. This concept features a streamlined exterior and modernized interior features, emphasizing the firm's design capabilities, although it remains a unique project without immediate plans for mass production.
Ram has postponed the launch of its electric and hybrid trucks, with the Ramcharger now scheduled for early 2026 and the Ram 1500 REV expected in 2027 due to decreased demand for large electric pickups. The Ramcharger aims to combine electric and gasoline power, offering a unique solution in the market, but its success remains uncertain until it is released and pricing is determined.
Dodge plans to discontinue the entry-level electric Charger Daytona for the 2026 model year following a lackluster reception and significant inventory challenges. This decision is influenced by factors such as high tariffs on imported vehicles and the model's inability to resonate with traditional muscle car enthusiasts.
GMC is enhancing the Hummer EV for the 2026 model year, introducing improved acceleration and additional off-road capabilities for both the Pickup and SUV variants. A notable addition is the King Crab mode, which allows for more agile maneuvering by enabling the rear wheels to turn more quickly than the front, and this feature will also be available via an over-the-air update for existing owners.
General Motors and LG Energy Solution are set to introduce lithium manganese-rich prismatic battery cells for upcoming electric trucks and SUVs, offering a significant increase in energy density while keeping costs competitive. The production of these cells is slated to commence by late 2027, with GM aiming to be the first to implement this technology in its vehicles by 2028, thereby enhancing range and supporting local material sourcing.
Ford has issued a safety recall affecting around 273,789 body-on-frame SUVs due to a potential brake fluid leak caused by misrouted front brake lines that could contact the engine air cleaner outlet pipe. The recall includes 223,315 Ford Expeditions and 50,474 Lincoln Navigators from the 2022 to 2024 model years, with repairs to be performed at no cost to owners starting in late May 2025.
MOTORSPORT
In 2025, Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen were recognized among the top earners in sports, with Hamilton ranking slightly higher at 22nd on Forbes' list, earning $80 million, while Verstappen followed closely in 24th place with $78 million. The majority of Verstappen's income stemmed from his Red Bull contract, whereas Hamilton's earnings were bolstered by significant off-track ventures, including endorsements and investments.
Grand Prix Drivers’ Association director George Russell has welcomed the FIA’s climbdown on its “ridiculous” rules about driver conduct, and suggested that the timing of the decision may be strategic with regards to the upcoming election for the FIA presidency. Remarking that the GPDA won’t be “saying thank you for something that was so crazy in the first place”, Russell noted that the drivers’ body had still not had any communication from the FIA on the matter, which had previously seen world champion Max Verstappen punished for swearing in a press conference.
Despite the impending shift to new regulations in 2026, Ferrari is continuing to enhance its 2025 car, particularly around the rear suspension, to improve performance and manage ride height issues that have affected its drivers. Team principal Fred Vasseur emphasized the importance of ongoing development in mechanical components, as these improvements could be beneficial under the upcoming rules, while maintaining a competitive focus for the current season.
Formula 1 drivers anticipate that the Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix at Imola may not return after this season, as the track lacks a future contract and faces competition from new venues. With the addition of a street race in Madrid to the 2026 calendar, many believe that maintaining two Italian races is impractical, leading to concerns about the potential loss of historically significant circuits.
Max Verstappen's recent test drive of a Ferrari at the Nurburgring has sparked significant discussion within the motorsport world, especially given that he did so under an alias and while balancing his F1 commitments. In contrast, Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu has firmly stated that his drivers will not be permitted to engage in similar activities, emphasizing the importance of focusing on their current racing responsibilities.
The Formula 1 community is abuzz with speculation as Carlos Sainz Sr. considers a bid for the FIA presidency, a move that could create an unusual dynamic given that his son, Carlos Sainz Jr., is also a driver on the grid. Prominent figures like George Russell and Max Verstappen have expressed their support for Sainz Sr., highlighting his extensive experience in motorsport and suggesting that his candidacy could benefit the sport without causing conflicts of interest.
After a confusion over job titles, the BWT Alpine Formula One Team has announced that, while it has appointed Dave Greenwood as the team representative for administrative interactions, Flavio Briatore continues to be the team principal after taking over from Oliver Oakes. This clarification comes after Oakes' recent resignation and aims to address confusion regarding the team's organizational structure.
The addition of Cadillac to the Formula 1 grid for the upcoming Monaco Grand Prix will pose challenges related to paddock and garage space, particularly given the limited area available in Monte Carlo. While most teams will need to adapt to temporary facilities, Red Bull and Racing Bulls will maintain their established luxurious paddock structure, which is constructed on a barge in the harbor, enhancing their presence during the event.
Anthony Hamilton, father of Lewis Hamilton, is poised to take on a formal position with the FIA to assist in the development of young drivers, following a year and a half of advisory work. His official role will be announced at the upcoming FIA conference in Macau, coinciding with the launch of the organization's Young Driver Development Pathway.
FUN STUFF
A 1966 Ford GT40 which spent 43 years in storage was discovered after its owner’s death, becoming one of the most significant barn-find vehicles of all time. The rare road-legal car, which has had some modifications largely relating to the paint, is distinguished by the fact it’s one of few that was never converted for racing, and its new owner is set to engage in a patient restoration of the vehicle over the coming years.
A duck was captured on a speed camera flying at 32mph in a 18mph zone in Switzerland, a nation known for its strict speeding regulations. This incident marks the second time in seven years that a duck has been captured by the same radar camera at the same speed, raising questions about why the birds behave in this manner.
While videos of cars driving at high speed around the Nurburgring Nordschleife are not exactly race, a recent entry into the genre has shown a rather surprising vehicle putting itself to the test at the famous venue: a 1990s’ Rolls-Royce. Nurburgring YouTuber Misha Charoudin is shown hustling the large luxury sedan, with modest horsepower even compared to modern hot hatches and a setup more suited to sedate driving, at impressive speeds.
Brian Lutton from Florida has transformed a BMW 7 Series into a unique utility vehicle, initially creating a pickup from an E38 model to tow project cars, but is now enhancing it into a more robust 6x6 version powered by a hybrid twin-turbo V12. This ambitious project involves extensive modifications, including a Tesla electric motor for added power and regenerative braking capabilities, as he continues to refine the vehicle's performance and aesthetics.
A couple in Texas attempted to chain-tow their broken-down Saab 9-3 convertible using a Ford Expedition, but they did so in reverse, leading to a precarious situation on the highway. The endeavor, which ended in a collision, was sparked by their lack of funds for a professional tow, prompting them to this unwise method instead.
Established in 1956 and lasting only three years, the Edsel brand was an ambitious attempt by Ford to create a distinct line between its existing models, ultimately resulting in significant financial losses. Despite its rapid decline, the Edsel Villager station wagon gained a modest following, and a rare 1959 unrestored model example is available for sale at a Minnesota dealership with original features and a unique two-tone interior.
Rallying and similar off-road competitions have given rise to some of the most distinctive race vehicles, with enthusiasts often highlighting famous models like the Audi Quattro and Subaru Impreza STI. However, a lesser-known yet remarkable contender, the 1990 Citroen ZX Rallye Raid, will be available for bidding at the upcoming Broad Arrow auction during the Concorso d'Eleganza Villa d'Este, highlighting its unique design and engineering tailored for the Dakar Rally.
Police in San Francisco locked dozens of cars in a fenced-off, private parking lot alleging the vehicles were engaged in an illegal sideshow, inspecting the plates and VIN of each car before allowing it to leave. Accounts of the event from attendees differ from the police reports, and the SFPD’s handling of the matter appears questionable with regards to laws intended to address takeovers on public roads and whether locking in the cars and their occupants constitutes unlawful detention.
A unique 1994 Dodge Viper, adorned with a striking leopard-print engine cover and various custom features, is currently available for purchase at Facebook Marketplace, although the aesthetics may not be to everyone’s tastes. Although the matt exterior finish, custom tail lights, and wheels could be off-putting, they are mostly reversible modifications and the car still sports its original V10 engine.
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