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- Roadgoing Jaguar C-X75 Becomes Reality
Roadgoing Jaguar C-X75 Becomes Reality
Jordan Greer
October 30, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today’s edition sees two concept cars finally meet their potentials to become road cars, while two Chinese vehicles hit distance and ‘Ring records. If these stories rev up your engines, why not share the excitement with friends who might enjoy our daily dose of automotive wonders?
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
The Jaguar C-X75, originally designed in 2013, has been reengineered by design consultancy Callum, marking the completion of its second customer commission. This iteration, built on chassis 001 - a stunt car from the James Bond film Spectre - features a supercharged V8 engine, a revised interior with a focus on driver ergonomics, and a range of modifications including an active aerodynamics system and a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Bertone has announced the revival of its Runabout concept car, originally unveiled 55 years ago, with plans for a modern production version set to launch in 2026. The new model will feature a V6 engine producing approximately 500hp and will be available in two body styles, while retaining design elements reminiscent of the original, albeit with some necessary modifications for practicality.
A Roewe D7 DMH sedan has completed a 2208km journey across China in four days without refuelling or recharging, exceeding its official range of 1400km and averaging a fuel consumption of 2.49l/100km. The trip for the plug-in hybrid, which uses a 112hp 1.5-liter four cylinder engine and a 201hp rear-axle electric motor, began in Lanzhou and included stops in cities such as Jiayuguan and Urumqi.
Lucid is set to launch its Gravity SUV, with orders opening on November 7 and an initial price of $94,900 for the Grand Touring variant, which boasts over 800 hp and a range exceeding 440 miles. Production is expected to begin later this year, and a more affordable Gravity Touring model will follow in late 2024, starting at $79,900.
Cadillac has announced the 2026 Lyriq-V, marking the brand's first electric vehicle to carry the V-series badge, which will feature all-wheel drive and at least two electric motors. While specific performance figures have not been disclosed, the Lyriq-V is expected to exceed the dual-motor Lyriq's 500 horsepower, with design updates including a new illuminated grille pattern and Brembo brakes.
The Ram 2500 Power Wagon concept, set to debut at the SEMA Show, showcases a facelifted design featuring a two-tone paint job, Header Orange accents, and a robust set of accessories including a Warn winch and a sport hood. Ram will also display the 1500 RHO, equipped with various Mopar accessories and a powerful twin-turbo 3.0-liter straight six engine.
Toyota is advancing its electric Hilux project with a new prototype designed for Australian conditions, marking its entry into the all-electric utility truck market in collaboration with BHP. This prototype will undergo a year-long trial at Port Hedland, aiming to collect data on its performance in challenging mining environments, while details on its powertrain remain undisclosed.
Chinese automaker Xiaomi has introduced the SU7 Ultra, a high-performance electric vehicle featuring a tri-motor powertrain that produces 1,527 bhp and can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 1.98 seconds. Scheduled for release in late 2024 at a price of ¥814,900 in China, the SU7 Ultra boasts advanced engineering by Prodrive, a claimed range of 385 miles, and has set a Nürburgring lap record for four-door saloons.
A Tesla Model 3 equipped with Full Self-Driving technology struck a deer while driving on a highway at night, with the system failing to brake or swerve despite the animal being visible. The incident raises questions about the limitations of Tesla's vision-based system in low-light conditions and highlights the importance of human oversight when using advanced driver assistance systems.
MOTORSPORT
The Automobile Club de l'Ouest has announced several enhancements for the 2025 Le Mans 24 Hours to improve the fan experience, including new viewing areas, grandstands, and fan zones at key locations on the Circuit de la Sarthe. Notable additions include a grass bank for viewing at the Porsche Curves and a new fan zone at Tertre Rouge - replacing the camp site - both designed to accommodate thousands of spectators without requiring additional tickets for access.
The Laguna Seca Raceway is entering a new phase under the management of Friends of Laguna Seca, which is implementing a master plan aimed at enhancing the facility for the 2025 season while maintaining its historic character. Planned improvements include a new hospitality structure, restroom upgrades, and a complete remodel of the pit row suites, alongside a redesigned website to improve fan engagement and access to information.
Formula 1 engine suppliers Honda and Alpine have been fined for procedural breaches related to 2023 costs, though neither exceeded the $95 million spending cap. Honda, which is transitioning to Aston Martin in 2026, was fined $600,000, while Alpine received a $400,000 penalty, with both teams settling through an Accepted Breach Agreement after failing to provide accurate documentation.
Carlos Sainz is focused on securing a final race victory for Ferrari as he prepares to leave the team, aiming to assist in their pursuit of the F1 constructors' championship. After a challenging season marked by a mid-year slump and his impending departure to make way for Lewis Hamilton, Sainz has regained his competitive edge, recently finishing second in the United States Grand Prix and winning in Mexico City.
Mercedes is seeking a driver clothing executive to oversee the off-track wardrobes of George Russell and Kimi Antonelli, a role created due to the increasing number of brand partners and outfits required for various appearances. The executive will manage all aspects of the drivers' attire, coordinate with new clothing partner Adidas, and ensure compliance with branding guidelines, particularly in avoiding competitor logos, as the team transitions into a new era following Lewis Hamilton's departure.
Max Verstappen has commented on Sergio Perez's recent performance issues, suggesting that improvements to the RB20 car could help Perez regain his confidence, as the driver has only scored 47 points in the last 14 races. Despite Perez's struggles, Verstappen believes the team's focus should be on enhancing the car's performance rather than solely on Perez's difficulties, as Red Bull has fallen to third in the constructors' standings behind McLaren and Ferrari.
Following a disappointing performance at the Mexico Grand Prix, questions surrounding Sergio Perez's future with Red Bull Racing have intensified, with team principal Christian Horner acknowledging the scrutiny on underperforming drivers. Amidst ongoing turmoil within the team, including driver changes and internal conflicts, both Perez and the junior team VCARB face uncertainty as they navigate the remainder of the 2024 season.
Franco Colapinto expressed his disagreement with the 10-second penalty he received for contact with Liam Lawson during the Mexico Grand Prix, arguing that the stewards focused too much on the consequences of the incident rather than the actions leading up to it. Lawson, who sustained damage from the collision, described the incident as a clumsy one rather than intentional, and both drivers acknowledged the need for clearer guidelines on overtaking and defending in future races.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff expressed feelings of "déjà vu" regarding Max Verstappen's recent penalties in Mexico, recalling similar controversial incidents from the 2021 season involving Lewis Hamilton. Wolff acknowledged that the stewards' decision to penalize Verstappen for his aggressive driving against Lando Norris sets a precedent for maintaining fair competition in Formula 1.
CURIOSITIES
A Subaru Impreza WRC car extensively driven by Colin McRae from 1993 to 1996 is currently for sale in Bologna, Italy, listed at £390,000. The vehicle, which has been fully restored and includes a complete gravel rally kit, retains its original UK registration and distinctive blue and yellow livery associated with McRae's era.
Two high-performance Mercedes-AMG models, the GT 63 S E Performance and the SL 55, were involved in a head-on collision in Kochi, India, after the driver of the GT 63 lost control and struck a Hyundai Accent before swerving into the SL 55. Both vehicles sustained significant damage and are unlikely to be repaired, while all individuals involved received medical attention with no fatalities reported.
Michigan is set to reverse its ban on registering imported Japanese vehicles, allowing owners of Kei trucks and other models to drive legally in the state. This policy change follows a lawsuit led by local enthusiasts and an attorney, and while not yet official, it aims to restore titles and registrations for affected vehicles, marking a significant shift in the state's approach to JDM imports.
Honda has unveiled a one-off Civic e:HEV coated in a unique paint containing 64% real silver flakes, created by British artist Stuart Semple to celebrate 25 years of Honda hybrids. This special finish, which is claimed to be the first of its kind on a vehicle, was applied after multiple protective layers to ensure durability.
The Magic Roundabout in Swindon, UK, features six interconnected roundabouts—five smaller ones surrounding a central roundabout—designed to improve traffic flow by 25% to 35% compared to traditional roundabouts. Built in 1972 and located near various urban amenities, it remains a topic of debate among drivers, with some praising its efficiency while others consider it one of the most challenging intersections in the country.
Mattel has provided a rare look into the intricate process of designing and producing Hot Wheels cars, which involves artist concepts, collaborations, and extensive approval stages. The production process, refined since 1968, includes creating packaging that enhances consumer appeal, and features initiatives like the Hot Wheels Legends Tour to engage car enthusiasts and encourage unique vehicle submissions for toy production.
A group of thieves in Australia recently stole 20 Honda Civic Type Rs as part of a larger heist involving 45 vehicles, valued at approximately $1.3 million. While one woman has been arrested in connection with the theft, authorities are still searching for the remaining suspects and the missing cars.
In Albany, New York, the installation of speeding cameras in school zones has led to a significant number of tickets, with one driver receiving 29 citations in just ten school days. While the city aims to improve safety, the revenue generated from fines primarily benefits the camera company, raising questions about the effectiveness of the system and the potential need for stronger measures against repeat offenders.
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