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RML Builds Its First GT Hypercar
Andrew Evans
August 27, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
IndyCar partners with iRacing for first standalone game in 20 years
Bottas and Perez hopeful of progress in new Cadillac F1 team
Rolls-Royce reveals limited edition Spectres inspired by spring
F1 to introduce power limiters to prevent 2026 cars getting too fast for tracks
Gran Turismo 7 update arrives this week, brings Corvette concept cars
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
The RML GT Hypercar, previously known as the P39, marks the beginning of a limited production run of 39 vehicles, with the first model featuring a striking Storm Purple exterior and gold wheels. This special edition celebrates RML's 40th anniversary and boasts impressive performance stats, including a 0-60mph time of 2.4 seconds and a powerful 3.7-liter, twin-turbo engine producing up to 907hp.
Rolls-Royce has introduced the Spectre Inspired by Primavera series, a limited edition of electric coupes characterized by spring-themed aesthetics and distinctive color schemes. Each model features intricate cherry blossom designs both inside and out, including a hand-painted coachline and detailed etchings on the dashboard, reflecting the essence of the season.
At Pebble Beach, Ford's CEO Jim Farley presented his 1937 Lincoln K LeBaron Coupe, commenting on its advanced luxury features that were ahead of its time. While some at Ford envisioned an all-electric future for Lincoln, Farley advocates for a diverse lineup that includes hybrid and extended-range options, focusing on customization to attract a broader customer base rather than solely targeting high-end buyers.
The Volvo XC70 has returned, but now as a new SUV model rather than its previous estate form, which has been replaced by the V90 Cross Country. Built on Volvo's Scalable Modular Architecture, the updated XC70 offers both front- and all-wheel drive options with hybrid powertrains, featuring impressive performance metrics and a modern, minimalist interior design.
Mazda has developed a novel six-stroke engine design that generates hydrogen from fuel during operation, potentially extending the life of internal combustion technology. This engine operates on a modified cycle that captures carbon emissions while aiming for reduced environmental impact, although its complexity raises questions about practical implementation.
A cybersecurity expert uncovered more than 1,300 unsecured TeslaMate dashboards, exposing sensitive information such as vehicle locations due to the absence of basic security measures. The researcher stressed the importance of implementing authentication and access controls to protect Tesla owners from inadvertently sharing their data with the public.
Volkswagen has introduced the second generation of the T-Roc, featuring a refreshed exterior, a redesigned interior, and an innovative hybrid powertrain that will be integrated into the brand's future models. This latest iteration, which is longer than the previous model and aims to establish a unique identity apart from the Golf, will be available starting in November with a range of mild-hybrid options.
Changan, a prominent Chinese automotive manufacturer, is set to enter the UK market next month with the launch of the Deepal S07, an electric SUV designed in Italy and priced at £39,990. This model will be available through an initial network of twenty retailers, with plans for further expansion, and is designed to compete with established electric vehicles such as the Tesla Model Y and Volkswagen ID 4.
MOTORSPORT
The entry of Cadillac into Formula 1 with drivers Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas marks a significant shift, as both racers bring extensive experience and a strong track record from previous teams. While the duo acknowledges the challenges ahead, they remain optimistic about their potential for progress and success, fueled by General Motors' substantial investment in the project.
The FIA plans to impose restrictions on the power output of Formula 1 cars with the upcoming 2026 regulations, introducing rigorous safety measures. While the electrical systems will significantly increase to 350kW, allowing for a potential total output exceeding 1,000hp, specific races like Monaco and Singapore will feature limited power settings to manage speed effectively.
Valtteri Bottas acknowledges that Cadillac has been clear about the challenges ahead as it prepares to enter Formula 1 in 2026, where he will team up with Sergio Perez. With a focus on long-term development and realistic expectations, Bottas is eager to contribute to the new team's growth, despite the likelihood of a tough start in the highly competitive environment.
Sergio Perez, the new driver for Cadillac in Formula 1, reflects on his challenging tenure at Red Bull, where he faced difficulties adapting to a car designed for Max Verstappen's driving style. He believes that the struggles of 2025 drivers Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda reinforce his own experience, while expressing optimism that upcoming regulations will align better with his driving preferences.
Cadillac's Formula 1 team is collaborating with an unspecified second team to fulfill its Testing of Previous Cars program as it prepares for its inaugural season in 2026. With a driver lineup that includes Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez, the team is already engaging in race simulations to ensure a strong start at the Australian Grand Prix, while finalizing its testing arrangements.
Chip Ganassi, the team principal for Alex Palou, firmly rejected rumors suggesting that the IndyCar champion is in talks to join Formula 1, stating that Palou has not engaged in any discussions about such a move. Ganassi expressed concern that transitioning to a less competitive F1 seat could undermine Palou's current success in IndyCar, which he believes is more valuable than the allure of F1.
Joey Logano eagerly anticipates the arrival of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs, viewing this intense period as an opportunity to demonstrate his and his team's capabilities, despite its challenges. As he aims for a fourth championship title, Logano reflects on the unpredictability of the postseason, emphasizing that even a less dominant regular season can lead to significant achievements.
The Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli has unveiled its schedule for the 2026 season, marking the series' 60th anniversary with events at ten notable tracks across North America. Its National Championship will kick off at Sebring International Raceway and includes a highly anticipated return to Indianapolis Motor Speedway, while the Western Championship runs over three rounds and concludes at Circuit of The Americas.
CURIOSITIES
iRacing Studios has announced the development of a new standalone INDYCAR racing game, set to launch in late 2026, following a long-term licensing agreement with INDYCAR. This title will be the first dedicated game for the series in over twenty years, featuring a comprehensive career mode, licensed drivers, and multiplayer capabilities, with active involvement from INDYCAR teams and drivers in its creation.
Gran Turismo 7's upcoming update 1.62 is set to launch on August 28, introducing four new vehicles, including the Afeela 1 Signature and Chevrolet Corvette CX Concept, alongside three new races tied to the new cars. While the update will enhance the game with additional content, it will not include new features for the GT Sophy AI or new track locations, maintaining the status quo for the World Circuits menu.
A father-son team has dedicated 14 years to transforming a 1982 BMW 3 Series into a unique rally car that has already won the Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK and is now set to compete in the European final. This modified vehicle, featuring a Rover V8 engine and a striking design, is vying for a chance to be immortalized as a die-cast model in the upcoming Global Grand Finale.
Kunos Simulazioni has launched an open beta for the upcoming 0.3 update of Assetto Corsa EVO, allowing early access players to experience new multiplayer features, additional tracks, and cars. While the official release date remains unspecified, participants can easily join the beta by following a few steps in their Steam library, after which they can explore the latest enhancements before the final update is rolled out.
A man in the Netherlands has transformed a vintage fire truck into a unique mobile home, embodying a lifestyle focused on minimalism and sustainability in a tiny house community. His journey reflects a long-standing passion for alternative living, shaped by years spent in small spaces and a commitment to self-sufficiency through off-grid solutions.
A crime syndicate operating in Riverside County stole over 20 luxury vehicles, including Andrew Garcia's Lamborghini Huracan, by manipulating documentation and disguising identities. After conducting his own investigation with the aid of artificial intelligence, Garcia successfully located his car in Denver, leading to its recovery by local authorities.
In Turkey, a transport minister received a speeding citation for driving at 140mph on a highway with an 85mph limit after sharing a video of the incident on social media. Despite appearing to drive responsibly while listening to music and speeches, the footage clearly showed him exceeding the legal speed, leading to the ticket.
Carmel police apprehended Samuel P. Shaffer, 30, after he allegedly damaged the windscreens of two McLaren supercars during Monterey Car Week. The incident was just one of the issues faced by the police during the event, which also included a handful of other vandalism arrests as well as reckless driving and driving under the influence.
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!