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Renault's Land Speed Record-Inspired EV Concept
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Lamborghini Temerario’s chassis revealed
Rwanda, South Africa vie for F1
Signed Schumacher V10 for sale
Gran Turismo 7 adds IONIQ 5N
Beckham, Aguero in Formula E demo
...and more!
INDUSTRY NEWS

Lamborghini has teased more details about the upcoming Temerario, revealing its spaceframe chassis, without bodywork and interior components. This advanced framework, constructed from a unique high-strength alloy, enhances rigidity and interior space while accommodating the vehicle's significant power increase, all while keeping weight in check compared to its predecessor, the Huracan. [Car Throttle]

Renault has unveiled the Filante Record 2025, an innovative electric vehicle designed to showcase exceptional efficiency and performance, featuring an 87-kWh battery and a striking single-seater design. Inspired by historical Renault models that aimed for land speed records, this lightweight concept uses advanced materials and engineering techniques as it aims for energy consumption and range records. [Motor1]
Recent research indicates that advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) struggle to detect flashing lights, including those of emergency vehicles, leading to significant safety concerns. Conducted by Fujitsu and Ben-Gurion University, the study found that Tesla's Autopilot feature was involved in multiple collisions with emergency vehicles, highlighting the need for further advancements in object recognition technology within these systems. [TheTruthAboutCars]
The BMW M3 CS Touring has been introduced as a more performance-oriented variant of the M3 Touring, featuring enhancements that include a power boost and weight reduction through the use of carbon fiber components. With an upgraded engine output and improved suspension, this limited-edition model achieves faster acceleration and a higher top speed compared to its standard counterpart. [Autocar]
Tesla is set to introduce its first truly autonomous driving system in June, starting with a paid service in Austin, although details on whether existing vehicles will be updated or if a new robotaxi service will be launched remain unclear. While CEO Elon Musk emphasizes the company's unique approach that doesn't rely on detailed mapping, skepticism persists regarding the feasibility of achieving full autonomy with current technology, especially given Musk's history of overly optimistic timelines. [InsideEVs]
Waymo is set to introduce its autonomous vehicles to ten new cities in 2025, beginning with Las Vegas and San Diego, as part of a testing initiative to evaluate how its self-driving technology adapts to diverse environments. The company aims to gather valuable data on local driving conditions and vehicle interactions, although these tests do not guarantee the immediate rollout of a commercial robotaxi service. [The Verge - Transportation]
Honda is recalling 294,612 vehicles, including two models from Acura due to a potential engine stalling issue linked to faulty software settings provided by supplier Denso. While the situation poses a safety concern, the remedy involves a straightforward software update that requires affected owners to visit a dealership for the fix. [Motor1]
Sean Duffy, the newly appointed leader of the US Department of Transportation, has instructed the NHTSA to revise the Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, aiming to reduce new car prices for consumers while discarding a previous electric vehicle requirement. This move aligns with a recent executive order from President Trump, which emphasizes regulatory changes that prioritize consumer choice and affordability over stringent fuel efficiency mandates. [Motor1]
Concerns regarding potential tariffs on imported vehicles have prompted Volkswagen Group to explore adjustments in its production strategy. Reports suggest that Audi and Porsche may consider relocating some manufacturing to the United States, potentially using the new Scout Motors facility in South Carolina and the existing Volkswagen plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to accommodate electric vehicle production. [Motor1]
MOTORSPORT

United Autosports has been awarded the LMP2 class win at the Daytona 24 Hours, following a post-race penalty for the Tower Motorsports car. Tower had taken the checkered flag in first but an inspection revealed excessive wear on the skid block, and the car was relegated to the last position in LMP2, after filing a protest that was ultimately rejected. [RACER]

Lewis Hamilton was involved in a crash while testing the Ferrari SF-23 at Catalunya, resulting in a schedule change for the session. The repair process was hampered by low visibility, resulting in team-mate Charles Leclerc’s stint being cancelled and reserve driver Antonio Giovinazzi and young talent Dino Beganovic taking over testing duties on the final day. [Motorsport.com]
Lamborghini is currently looking for customer teams to operate its SC63 LMDh vehicle for the 2026 season, while this year it will compete as a full factory team in the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup. The company aims to enhance the car's competitiveness through its development efforts and is open to partnerships with new teams, although it acknowledges the challenges posed by current regulations in the World Endurance Championship. [Sportscar365]
Rwanda and South Africa are both competing to host a Formula 1 race, with Rwanda proposing a new circuit designed to integrate the country's natural landscape and sustainability goals, while South Africa relies on its historic Kyalami track. The bids reflect a broader ambition to revive motorsport in Africa, with both nations facing significant logistical and financial challenges in their pursuit of this prestigious event. [BBC Sport F1]
Formula E is set to stage a groundbreaking motorsport event, dubbed 'Evo Sessions', in March at the Miami International Autodrome, featuring 11 well-known celebrities who will undergo extensive training before competing in the cars. This initiative aims to provide fans with an unprecedented glimpse into the life of a Formula E driver, with all training documented for social media and a forthcoming feature-length film. [RacingNews365]
Zak Brown has expressed his support for the introduction of full-time FIA race stewards, suggesting that McLaren could contribute to their salaries, as the current system relies on unpaid volunteers. He emphasized the need for professional stewards to enhance decision-making consistency in Formula 1, arguing that the existing part-time arrangement is inadequate for a sport with significant stakes. [Autosport]
Johnny Herbert has expressed his feelings regarding the FIA's decision to exclude him from the F1 stewarding lineup for the upcoming 2025 season, citing his commentary work as a conflict of interest. Despite his removal after 15 years in the role, Herbert conveyed appreciation for his time as a steward and emphasized the importance of impartiality and respect in the position. [RacingNews365]
The World Endurance Championship is set to feature eight manufacturers competing in its premier class, with Aston Martin stepping in for Lamborghini and plans for Ford and McLaren to join by 2027. As both brands navigate technical disagreements and explore LMDh regulations, their return to endurance racing reflects a broader resurgence in the sport, highlighted by recent successes at events like the 24 Hours of Daytona. [The Race]
FUN STUFF

An update for Gran Turismo 7 has introduced four new vehicles that include the high-performance Hyundai IONIQ 5N, as well as implementing other changes which include adjustments to the game’s physics engine. New races and new events for the advanced GT Sophy AI are also included, alongside more engine swaps and a change to how online events are ranked. [GTPlanet]

TOM's has launched a restoration service to celebrate its 50th anniversary, showcasing a stripped-down AE86 to highlight its commitment to high-quality builds. It now offers a range of performance engines, including the 4A-G, 3S-GE, and 2JZ, with various levels of customization to meet the specific desires of enthusiasts. [Japanese Nostalgic Car]
An auction in Paris under RM Sotheby’s is listing a signed V10 engine from Michael Schumacher's 1998 Ferrari F300, with bids expected to range from approximately $62,000 to $83,000. This engine, part of a notable collection from former F1 engineer Nigel Stepney, features several original components and represents a significant piece of racing history, though its future use remains uncertain. [The Drive]
A Ford dealer in Michigan is being pursued for unauthorized use of Eminem’s track "Lose Yourself" in promotional videos on social media platforms for a limited edition F-150 Hybrid. The artist’s publishing company, Eight Mile Style, seeks to halt the unauthorized use of the music and demands compensation exceeding $150,000, emphasizing that neither Eminem nor the plaintiffs consented to any association with LaFontaine's advertising efforts. [Carscoops]
Nebraska State Patrol recently arrested a 16-year old after a pursuit in which the teenager reached 168mph in a Chevrolet Corvette. The chase began when the teen was spotted at 120mph and then attempted to evade capture before yielding after the use of stop sticks, with the incident highlighting the dangers involved in young drivers acquiring high-performance vehicles. [Jalopnik]
A modified Honda Civic Type R built for the race track and with extensive upgrades from HPD is available at auction. The car features a stripped-out interior along with track-specific parts that make the already impressive Type R a track-day weapon appealing for those looking to dive into competitive racing. [Jalopnik]
Tesla Cybertruck owners are reporting open hostility towards them and vandalism of the vehicle across various states. In online discussions, many drivers shared troubling incidents, prompting suggestions for protective measures and highlighting a growing concern about public perception of the controversial vehicle. [Jalopnik]
A tubular steel sculpture of a Porsche 934, crafted by artist Benedict Radcliffe, sold for an eye-watering $249,402, raising questions about whether a Porsche enthusiast would be better off paying less for a brand-new, functional Porsche 911 GT3. The 934 is an exceptionally rare vehicle, with only 31 built and an example recently selling for $1.55m, and the art piece features authentic design elements to pays homage to the original vehicle. [The Drive]
The Mitsuoka Orochi has gained renewed attention as the Year of the Snake begins, reflecting its namesake from Japanese mythology. While it incorporates various components from multiple manufacturers and was not intended as a sports car, the Orochi stands out as a unique creation that appeals to those seeking something distinct in the automotive landscape. [Japanese Nostalgic Car]
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