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Schumacher's Benetton B192 Heads to Auction
Andrew Evans
January 06, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Ligier sets a new Nurburgring lap record
Toyota’s 2026 WRC Yaris revealed
Tesla Diner becomes a ghost town in six months
Sony-backed Afeela brand reveals SUV prototype
Brands Hatch hosts BTCC season launch
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Ligier has achieved a notable milestone at the Nurburgring by recording the slowest lap time ever on the Nordscheife with its diesel-powered JS50 quadricycle. The vehicle, which can be driven by those as young as 14, completed the 12.9-mile track in 28 minutes and 25.8 seconds, while Ligier also presented electric variants of the JS50 with one recording a fastest lap of 19 minutes and 53.4 seconds.
Afeela, the electric vehicle brand created by Sony and Honda, is set to introduce a new SUV in 2028, following the launch of its inaugural saloon model this year. The prototype, unveiled at CES in Las Vegas, aims to enhance versatility and space while maintaining design elements from the saloon, and is expected to compete with models like the Lucid Gravity and Volvo EX90.
Geely is making strides toward entering the U.S. market, as indicated by their presence at CES and comments from Ash Sutcliffe, the company's global communications head, who hinted at a possible announcement within the next two to three years. Despite potential challenges related to tariffs and regulations, Geely is confident in its ability to navigate these obstacles, particularly through its existing ties with Volvo's US operations.
Stellantis has paused operations at its Cassino facility in Italy due to insufficient demand for electric-only models from Alfa Romeo and Maserati, prompting a reassessment of future vehicle designs to include gasoline and hybrid options. This shift reflects the company's response to changing market dynamics and regulatory pressures, leading to delays in the launch of next-generation models initially intended to be exclusively electric.
In 2025, Volkswagen emerged as the leading car manufacturer in the UK, achieving sales of 178,599 vehicles, reflecting a growth of nearly 7.4 percent compared to the previous year, despite lacking a top-five model in sales. Following Volkswagen, BMW, Ford, and Kia reported sales of 122,721, 118,997, and 113,429 units respectively, while Chinese brands like BYD, Jaecoo, and Omoda collectively captured 10.5 percent of the market, with BYD alone accounting for 51,422 units sold.
Mitsubishi is hinting at the return of the Montero, a model with a storied rally heritage, with a brief teaser that suggests a new SUV is on the horizon. While specific details about its launch remain unclear, the company has trademarked the Montero name and indicated that several new models will debut in the coming years, potentially reviving interest in the brand beyond its current crossover offerings.
The Honda Prelude experienced a sluggish debut in the US market, recording only 174 sales in December, significantly lagging behind competitors like the Subaru BRZ and Toyota Supra. Meanwhile, Acura's sales performance was mixed, with slight overall growth overshadowed by the discontinuation of its only two models that had seen an increase in sales.
A group of US senators is urging Amazon to stop selling used vehicles with unresolved safety recalls, stating the need for clearer disclosure of recall information in vehicle listings. They are also advocating for a proposed bill that would prevent the sale of such cars, suggesting that Amazon could take proactive measures to enhance consumer safety even before the legislation is enacted.
MOTORSPORT
Toyota has unveiled a striking new design for its 2026 GR Yaris Rally1 vehicles, set to compete in this year's World Rally Championship, featuring a prominent red, black, and white color scheme. As the team prepares for the final season under the current Rally1 regulations, it aims to build on its recent success, having secured five consecutive manufacturers' titles and the highest number of WRC victories in history.
The British Touring Car Championship's 2026 Season Launch is set for Brands Hatch in April, while Croft Circuit will host two days of official pre-season testing on March 24 and 25. Fans can enjoy free entry at both events, with opportunities for autographs and photos with drivers at Brands Hatch, leading up to a comprehensive preview of the upcoming season.
Zhou Guanyu has shared his enthusiasm for joining Cadillac's Formula 1 team as a test and reserve driver for the upcoming 2026 season, highlighting his familiarity with key team members as a significant factor in his decision. He believes that his experience will not only aid his return to racing but also enhance the team's development alongside seasoned drivers like Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas.
Alpine's managing director, Steve Nielsen, has commented on the importance of allowing Franco Colapinto time to develop his skills as he prepares for his first full season in Formula 1 in 2026. Despite a challenging 2025 season where Colapinto struggled to score points after moving to Alpine, Nielsen acknowledges glimpses of his potential and stresses the need for stability and improvement within the team.
Gabriel Bortoleto has expressed how the legacy of Ayrton Senna continues to influence his racing journey, despite never having witnessed the legendary driver in action firsthand. Drawing inspiration from Senna's qualities, Bortoleto notes the importance of discipline, dedication, and interpersonal skills, which he strives to incorporate into his own career.
The Haas Formula 1 team has rescheduled the debut of its 2026 car, the VF-26, to January 19, moving it up from the previously planned date of January 23 to prevent conflicts with other team launches. This season will also see a significant change for Haas, as its collaboration with Toyota transitions to a title sponsorship, following a season where the team finished eighth in the constructors' standings.
Endurance racing has seen a surge in interest recently, largely due to the new LMDh and LMH regulations that have drawn major automotive brands to prestigious competitions like the WEC and IMSA SportsCar Championship. Prominent driver Alessandro Pier Guidi advocates for this discipline as a viable path for young racers, noting its growing competitiveness and advancements, which he believes can rival the allure of Formula 1.
Mitch Guthrie surged to the front of the Dakar Rally standings after a strong performance in the third stage, as key rivals endured a difficult day. Despite a slow start, Guthrie made up ground across the 421km stage to take his first ever Ultimate class stage win and move into the overall lead, with Martin Prokop finishing second in a customer Ford as the brand now occupies the top five spots in the overall standings.
NASCAR's commissioner, Steve Phelps, will step down at the end of the month after two decades with the organization, during which he faced significant challenges and contributed to its evolution. His departure follows a high-profile trial related to an antitrust lawsuit, where controversial comments he made were revealed, prompting calls for his resignation from some stakeholders.
CURIOSITIES
The B192 was pivotal in Michael Schumacher's ascent in Formula 1, marking a significant shift in the sport's trajectory after his debut with Jordan and subsequent signing by Benetton. Following its retirement, the car was preserved at Renault's facility before being purchased and restored to full working order by Laurent Redon, and now heads to auction in Paris in January with an estimated value of around $10m.
Tesla's diner in Los Angeles, launched in July 2025, aimed to redefine the EV charging experience by merging retro aesthetics with a unique dining atmosphere, but it has since struggled to maintain its initial appeal. As the novelty faded, the establishment has seen dwindling crowds, negative reviews highlighting high prices and slow service, and a shift from a vibrant destination to a largely empty venue.
A 1996 Hummer H1 will head to auction in Scottsdale this month, notable for being the final vehicle owned by Tupac Shakur. With its robust design rooted in military origins, the H1 reflects both the excess of the 1990s and the complex identity of its famous owner, making it a compelling piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The LifeSafer ISA system employs GPS technology and throttle management to prevent speeding, specifically targeting young drivers and those with a history of speeding violations. Pilot programs have demonstrated significant reductions in speeding incidents, alongside additional advantages such as improved fuel efficiency and decreased vehicle wear.
A special edition vehicle inspired by a race track can often attract attention as seen with the Peugeot 309 GTI Goodwood, which emerged during a time when the Goodwood venue was largely inactive. Despite its limited production and lack of popularity compared to the more celebrated 205 model, a restored example in a classified listing now offers a unique driving experience at a competitive price, appealing to collectors seeking something distinctive.
At the upcoming Tokyo Auto Salon, Result Japan will unveil the Neo86 bodykit, a tribute to the classic AE86 that enhances the modern GT86's aesthetics while maintaining its original engine. This kit, featuring distinctive design elements like pop-up headlights and a wider stance, aims to capture the spirit of the original while appealing to enthusiasts looking for a unique modification option.
With 2026 poised to be a significant one for Lotus, particularly with the anticipated arrival of plug-in hybrid versions of the Eletre and Emeya, enthusiasts might be tempted to reflect on a simpler past with the original Elise having been introduced 30 years prior. A pristine, one-owner Series 1 Elise with only 6,642 miles on the clock available through a classified ad serves as a testament to the model's enduring appeal and legacy.
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