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- Ruf CTR Yellowbird Sells for $6m
Ruf CTR Yellowbird Sells for $6m
Andrew Evans
March 13, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Hamilton recreates iconic Ferrari movie scene
Ex-Tesla execs to build Longbow EV sports cars
May and Hammond revisit old Top Gear studio
New 911 GT2 RS on the way?
Adrian Newey boosts Aston Martin
...and more!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Longbow, a new British automotive startup founded by former executives from Tesla and Lucid, has introduced two electric sports cars, the Speedster and Roadster, which are set to enter production next year. With a focus on lightweight aluminum construction and impressive acceleration times, the company aims to capture the interest of enthusiasts while taking orders for both models, priced at £84,995 and £64,995 respectively.
A prototype for the upcoming 911 GT2 RS was observed undergoing tests at the Nurburgring, hinting at significant power improvements with expectations of over 700 horsepower from its twin-turbo six-cylinder engine. During a recent conference, Porsche hinted at introducing a new flagship model for the 911 lineup, potentially the GT2 RS, which may carry a price tag of around €450,000 and is anticipated to launch in 2026.
Toyota's GR division is set to incorporate a hybrid turbocharged 2.0-liter engine into its upcoming sports car lineup, enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. This innovative powertrain, which will also be featured in mainstream Toyota vehicles, reflects the company's commitment to advancing hybrid technology beyond traditional models.
Skoda is set to introduce a new electric seven-seater next year, designed to compete with the Kia EV9, as part of its growing range of dedicated electric vehicles. This model, inspired by the 2022 Vision 7S concept, will incorporate the brand's Modern Solid design language and is anticipated to be similar in size to the Kodiaq, while also featuring a spacious interior and advanced technology.
Jeep has reintroduced the striking “Mojito!” green paint option for the Gladiator, allowing customers to select this vibrant color across all trim levels for an additional fee. This bold shade, which also returns to the Wrangler after a seven-year hiatus, underscores Jeep's commitment to offering distinctive customization choices for its vehicles.
Porsche is contemplating the introduction of a new SUV model by the end of the decade, which will not be electric and will feature only gasoline and hybrid powertrains. This potential addition comes alongside the existing electric Macan and various powertrain options for the Cayenne, though details about the new SUV's size and specifications remain unclear.
A class action lawsuit has been initiated against Mercedes-Benz, alleging that sunroofs on various models, including the 2019 GLE, can unexpectedly shatter, posing safety risks to occupants. The plaintiff, who incurred nearly $5,000 in repair costs after her sunroof exploded, claims the company has long been aware of this issue yet has not implemented any corrective measures.
The Environmental Protection Agency is reassessing various regulations that target climate change impacts, particularly those affecting the automotive sector. Following the previous administration's implementation of stringent greenhouse gas standards, which aimed to increase electric vehicle adoption, the current administration is now evaluating these rules while emphasizing consumer choice and environmental protection.
MOTORSPORT
Aston Martin's team principal, Andy Cowell, has noted the positive impact of Adrian Newey's recent involvement, highlighting his immediate contributions to the understanding of the upcoming 2026 technical regulations. Since joining the team, Newey has been actively engaging with engineers, fostering collaboration and exploring innovative directions for their future projects.
Lewis Hamilton has marked the start of his Ferrari career by recreating a memorable moment from "Ferris Bueller's Day Off", featuring his ideal Ferrari in a short film produced by his company, Dawn Apollo Films. Hamilton expressed his excitement about the project, highlighting the extensive planning and advanced technology involved, while also reflecting on his passion for the Ferrari 250 GT California Spyder, which he considers a perfect car for leisurely drives.
Helmut Marko, an advisor for Red Bull, indicated that Max Verstappen might consider departing the team if performance does not enhance. During the initial media day of the 2025 Formula 1 season, Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton shared candid insights about their careers, while Charles Leclerc expressed his ultimate aspiration.
McLaren is optimistic about the collaboration between Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri as they head into the new season, having successfully managed their partnership last year. Team principal Andrea Stella expressed confidence that the drivers can continue to compete fairly while supporting each other, building on their achievements from the previous season.
Damon Hill, the 1996 Formula 1 champion, has joined the BBC's F1 radio team after leaving Sky Sports, where he had been a commentator. The BBC has also obtained exclusive radio broadcasting rights for F1 in the UK, which will cover all races, qualifying, and practice sessions for the upcoming three seasons.
Sauber's rookie Gabriel Bortoleto has responded to Red Bull's Helmut Marko, who labeled him a "B" caliber driver, by expressing his determination to prove his capabilities on the track. Despite facing challenges due to limited pre-season testing, Bortoleto remains focused on demonstrating his skills and improving as he enters the 2025 Formula 1 season.
Helmut Marko's influence over young drivers is significant, often determining their futures within the competitive realm of Formula 1, as seen in Yuki Tsunoda's precarious position with Red Bull's junior program. With limited opportunities for advancement and the pressure to excel in the upcoming season, Tsunoda recognizes that his performance will be critical in shaping his prospects, despite feeling overlooked in favor of teammate Liam Lawson.
Stefano Domenicali has extended his tenure as the head of Formula 1 with a new five-year agreement that will last until 2029. Since taking on the role in 2021, he has emphasized his commitment to enhancing the sport's global appeal and prioritizing fan engagement.
The Heart of Racing Team is approaching the Aston Martin Valkyrie's debut at the Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring with a focus on finishing the race, as emphasized by driver Ross Gunn. While the team acknowledges the challenges of competing against established rivals, it views this event as a crucial opportunity to gain valuable experience and improve its performance moving forward.
FUN STUFF
A Ruf CTR Yellowbird, made famous by the Faszination on the Nurburgring video, has sold at auction through Gooding&Company for a staggering $6.055 million — more than 40 times its original value. Powered by a 3.4-liter twin-turbo flat-six and derived from a late model 3.2 Carrera 911, the CTR Yellowbird was once the fastest production car in the world with a top speed of 213mph, and this one-of-29 vehicle also boasted pristine condition and a low odometer reading of 1,039 miles.
Richard Hammond and James May recently revisited the dilapidated production office that once served as the backdrop for Top Gear, reflecting on their experiences nearly a decade after the show's original format concluded. Their nostalgic journey, featured on May's YouTube channel, showcases the now-abandoned building, which holds memories of the iconic series despite its deteriorating condition.
A 73-year-old man in New South Wales was apprehended for driving a Subaru despite a staggering 91-year ban on his license, highlighting his status as a repeat offender. Following his arrest during a routine check, he faces serious legal consequences, including potential jail time, and will need to live for an improbable 165 years to regain his driving privileges.
A woman in Connecticut attempted to evade police after being clocked speeding over 100 mph, motivated by a desire to protect her unblemished driving record. Despite her efforts to escape, she was later apprehended and is now confronting multiple charges, including reckless driving and engaging in a police pursuit.
The inaugural Ford Mustang Dark Horse, which was previously sold for $375,000 with proceeds benefiting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, is set to be auctioned again at Barrett-Jackson's Palm Beach event. This time, the funds raised will support the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation, and the vehicle remains in pristine condition, still wrapped in factory protective plastic.
A 1988 Bentley Turbo R, once driven by Matt LeBlanc on Top Gear, is now available for auction after appearing in the show's 2019 season. While the vehicle has undergone modifications for racing and shows signs of wear from its time on the track, it retains its original engine and is currently listed for sale in Farnham, close to the former Top Gear test site.
A man named Shawn P. Weiner Sr. was apprehended after fleeing a vehicle accident involving a stolen car and running naked across a highway in New Hampshire. He is now facing multiple charges, including indecent exposure and reckless conduct, following the unusual incident that occurred on a chilly Sunday afternoon.
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