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Rennsport Roadmap Revealed for 2026
Andrew Evans
February 26, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Self-driving AI can be hijacked by signs
Peugeot reveals 2026 livery for 9X8 Hypercar
Racing game and hardware developer Nacon hits financial trouble
Porsche’s new three-row SUV coming soon, based on Audi Q9
Head of Pirelli’s motorsport arm to step down
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Researchers at the University of California, Santa Cruz have revealed that visual-language AI systems used in autonomous vehicles can be manipulated through specific real-world commands, such as signs, potentially compromising safety protocols. While current self-driving technology may not be at immediate risk, the findings highlight the need for automakers to consider vulnerabilities as they increasingly integrate sophisticated AI models into their vehicles.
Porsche is set to introduce its third SUV, currently codenamed the K1, aimed at the three-row luxury SUV segment, with initial models featuring gas and hybrid powertrains expected to debut by 2028. While an electric variant is still planned, the company is prioritizing combustion options due to current market conditions, sharing its platform with the forthcoming Audi Q9.
Oliver Zipse has been recognized by a global panel of 98 jurors as World Car Person of the Year, ahead of GM’s David Craig and Tisha Johnson of Slate. As he prepares to depart from his role as BMW's CEO in May, with Milan Nedeljkovic set to succeed him, he leaves the company after a period marked by significant innovations and the introduction of a comprehensive vehicle lineup under the Neue Klasse initiative.
The Bugatti W16 Mistral 'La Perle Rare' stands out as an exceptionally tailored hypercar, featuring custom pearlescent paint and intricate details crafted through the brand's Sur Mesure program. This unique vehicle showcases a blend of artistic design and engineering prowess, highlighted by its bespoke color palette and luxurious interior elements that reflect the owner's vision.
Ford is set to introduce new passenger vehicles tailored for the European market, including an electric model that will succeed the Fiesta. While the company has shifted its focus towards crossovers and SUVs, plans for additional passenger cars are underway, with the potential for a new sedan in the US contingent on its financial feasibility.
The updated Cupra Born is set to be revealed on March 5, featuring a revamped design influenced by the brand's latest models like the Terramar and Tavascan. While enhancements to the interior quality are anticipated, it remains unclear if the facelift will include any significant technical upgrades, as the current model already competes well in terms of range and performance.
The electric Mercedes Sprinter has been recalled in the US due to non-compliance with federal safety standards regarding its reversing sound, which is insufficiently loud. This issue, attributed to a flaw in the development process, affects a limited number of vehicles and will be addressed through software updates provided to dealerships at no cost to customers.
Amara Automotive, founded by former F1 engineer Tamara Ivancova, aims to revolutionize urban transportation with the Elecy, a four-wheeled e-bike designed for enhanced stability and comfort. Although still in prototype form, the Elecy promises significant environmental benefits and practicality for city dwellers, with plans for a promotional tour to generate interest and funding for future production.
A recall has been issued for certain 2023 to 2026 BMW sedans due to a potential fire risk associated with replacing the cabin air filter, affecting over 58,000 vehicles. The issue arises from the risk of damaging the air conditioning wiring harness during filter replacement, prompting BMW to implement a service action designed to mitigate this risk.
Recent analysis indicates that while Chinese vehicles represented about 10% of new car registrations in the UK last year, securing insurance for these models remains challenging, with some insurers unable to provide coverage for popular options. The competitive pricing of Chinese cars may initially attract buyers, but they often encounter higher insurance costs and limited provider choices compared to more established brands.
MOTORSPORT
Peugeot has unveiled a new design for its 9X8 Hypercar as it prepares for the 2026 FIA World Endurance Championship, moving away from its previous lime green and white color scheme. The updated livery, featuring a striking black and white pattern with red accents, aims to reflect the dynamic nature of the race cars and pays homage to the brand's heritage, with the colors reflecting the launch options of the Peugeot 205 GTi.
Pirelli has confirmed that Mario Isola will depart from his position as head of motorsports, including the Formula 1 program, with Dario Marrafuschi stepping in as his successor. Isola, who has been with Pirelli since 2017 and became the overall motorsports director in 2021, will assist with the transition until his departure on July 1, after which he is expected to lead ACI Sport as CEO.
Red Bull Racing has secured an extended partnership with Oracle, extending their collaboration through to 2030, following their initial agreement in 2022. The partnership has significantly contributed to the development of Red Bull's first-ever power unit, which incorporates a blend of combustion and electric energy, and is designed to operate on fully sustainable fuels.
During a media briefing in Bahrain, Andrea Stella revealed that McLaren had conducted tests on super clipping, allowing its 2026 cars to harvest energy while maintaining full throttle, at the cost of top speed. The team principal advocated for increasing the harvesting limit from 250kW to 350kW, suggesting that this adjustment could enhance energy management strategies if early race performances indicate a need for changes.
The penalty points system in Formula 1 can be complex, with several drivers nearing suspension due to accumulating points over recent seasons and former driver Kevin Magnussen the last to serve a race ban in 2024. His replacement for that race in Baku, Ollie Bearman, is the closest to the 12-point limit at present with ten penalty points, while other drivers all have fewer than six points.
Bernie Ecclestone has expressed concerns that the upcoming regulations could distance fans from Formula 1, aligning with Max Verstappen's critiques of the new power units that may alter traditional racing dynamics. As teams adapt to these changes, the 2026 season is expected to be highly competitive, with several drivers in contention for the championship and Ecclestone tipping George Russell, Mercedes, and Ferrari for success.
Recent social media posts have revealed what seems to be Toyota's upcoming World Rally Championship vehicle for 2027, featuring a design distinct from the current GR Yaris Rally1. As the sole mainstream automaker working on a car that meets the new WRC technical standards, Toyota is also rumored to be reviving the Celica name, which enjoyed success in rallying during the 1980s and 1990s.
This weekend, Aprilia will become the first MotoGP team to implement a unique form of active aerodynamics, cleverly navigating existing regulations by altering airflow rather than modifying the physical components of the bike. This innovative approach allows riders to adjust aerodynamic effects using their forearms, enhancing cornering performance while sacrificing some top speed, and positions Aprilia as a leader in aerodynamic advancements ahead of the upcoming regulatory changes.
During the recent Super Formula pre-season testing at Suzuka, Nirei Fukuzumi achieved the quickest lap time of 1m36.290s, marking a successful transition to Rookie Racing for the upcoming season. The event was notable not only for Fukuzumi's performance but also for a serious crash involving Luke Browning, who fortunately emerged unscathed after his car flipped during a rain-soaked session.
Gregoire Saucy, a 26-year old racer from Switzerland, has recently been integrated into the McLaren Driver Development Program following two seasons with United Autosports, a team co-owned by McLaren's CEO. As he prepares for the upcoming season in the European Le Mans Series and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, Saucy will also engage in testing opportunities across McLaren's various racing platforms, including Formula 1 and IndyCar.
CURIOSITIES
Rennsport is preparing for an ambitious 2026, with a focus on enhancing user engagement through four key areas as outlined by product director Kim Orremark. A significant price reduction for the Deluxe Edition, along with a commitment to regular content updates and a revamped AI system, aims to enrich the gaming experience while transitioning to self-publishing on consoles after ending its partnership with Nacon.
Nacon, a French gaming and hardware company, is facing significant financial challenges, leading both it and its majority owner, Big Ben Interactive, to file for legal proceedings to address their debts. With Nacon's insolvency filing and Big Ben seeking a conciliation procedure, the future of numerous projects, including upcoming game releases and hardware, hangs in the balance as they await a court ruling on their restructuring plans.
A rare McLaren Elva, valued at $2 million and one of only 149 produced, is currently available at auction on Copart, showing signs of significant damage but still operational. Previously owned by former Luminar CEO Austin Russell, the vehicle's condition raises questions about its history, particularly regarding the crash that led to its listing for sale.
Yokohama, a city known for its blend of historical attractions and modern automotive significance, is home to Nissan's headquarters and features a new bus line named Bayside Blue, which connects various tourist spots. While the city's officials have not confirmed a connection, the bus's color closely resembles the iconic hue associated with the R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R, sparking speculation about a nod to the city's automotive heritage.
A classic muscle star that was once a silver-screen star is available at auction, though the niche nature of the movie in which it appeared is reflected in the relatively low price. The Plymouth Barracuda, painted by the famous Barris Kustoms shop, played a pivotal role in the 1972 film Corky, about an unlikeable race car mechanic with dreams of being a racing driver and could sell for a tiny fraction of more famous cars like the Bullitt Mustang.
Kathy Hochul, governor of New York, has intervened after the state DMV deemed a personalized license plate to be inappropriate and not permitted for road use. Seth Bykofsky found himself in a similar situation to Wendy Auger, who previously also received a pardon for her identical controversial license plate in New Hampshire, resulting in the DMV's decision and Governor Hochul’s intervention.
A single mother in Lantana, Florida, has accumulated fines exceeding $160,000 due to her family's cars occasionally parking on her lawn, a necessity given the limitations of street parking at her corner lot. Despite her attempts to resolve the issue with local authorities, she continues to face penalties for both the parking situation and other minor property maintenance concerns.
Las Vegas police are operating approximately 200 Flock cameras funded primarily by private donations, which has raised concerns about the lack of public input in the decision-making process. Critics argue that this funding model circumvents the usual scrutiny associated with public safety contracts, leaving residents without a voice in the implementation of such surveillance technology.
Flock Safety, a surveillance firm based in Atlanta, aims to create a comprehensive network of cameras to monitor individuals continuously, which has sparked significant public backlash. Recent reports indicate a rise in vandalism against their cameras, with incidents occurring in multiple states, highlighting growing resistance to pervasive surveillance practices.
An investigation by the Philadelphia Inquirer has revealed a private bar catering exclusively to law enforcement officers is linked to several DUI incidents, including a collision in February 2021 where an officer crashed his vehicle into a couple's home. This incident, which resulted in injuries to the homeowners and the death of their pets, occurred after the officer, Gregory Campbell, was overserved at the 7C Lounge and recorded a blood-alcohol level almost three times the limit when tested six hours later.
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