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Slowing down that F1 car you just bought
Jordan Greer
February 26, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Sony's AFEELA EV Store Opens
Mercedes EQS Solid State Prototype
Volvo, Polestar Offer Free Chip Upgrade
BMW Rumored To Buy KTM
Genesis GV90 With Suicide Doors
Startup Detunes F1 Cars for Billionaires
...and more!
INDUSTRY NEWS
The AFEELA electric vehicle, developed through a collaboration between Sony and Honda, is currently on display in Los Angeles ahead of its planned launch in California in 2026. While reservations have begun for this model, which features a starting price of $90,000, the public can explore the vehicle and its technologies at a dedicated storefront in Century City for the next six months.
Elon Musk's ambition of launching a fully autonomous vehicle may come to fruition this year, with Tesla set to introduce its long-anticipated Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, by June. Despite discussions with Uber for a potential partnership, Tesla has opted to maintain independence, relying on its own fleet of Model 3 and Model Y cars equipped with upgraded software until the Cybercab production begins in 2026.
KTM is currently undergoing a court-supervised restructuring to avert bankruptcy, with speculation that BMW could be a potential buyer if the plan fails to gain creditor approval. Reports suggest that BMW might relocate KTM's operations and manufacturing, raising concerns about job losses and the future of the company's Austrian headquarters.
Mercedes is advancing solid-state battery technology by testing a modified version of its EQS model, which incorporates a lithium-metal solid-state battery developed by Factorial Energy. This innovative battery design, featuring a solid electrolyte and pneumatic actuators to manage volume changes, has the potential to enhance energy density and significantly extend the vehicle's range, surpassing that of traditional lithium-ion batteries.
The 2026 models of the Volvo EX90 and Polestar 3 electric SUVs will feature an upgraded Nvidia Drive AGX Orin processor, enhancing their computing capabilities, and existing owners will receive this upgrade at no additional cost. Both brands, having collaborated on these vehicles, aim to improve their autonomous driving systems by significantly increasing the processing power and expanding their deep learning models over time.
Genesis is advancing the development of the GV90, a luxurious SUV that will feature both traditional and rear-hinged doors, potentially without a B-pillar, setting it apart in the high-end market. Recent spy images reveal design elements closely resembling the Neolun concept, including a distinctive light signature and a spacious interior layout, with production expected to begin in December 2025 and a U.S. release anticipated in early 2026.
Morgan has announced that its new flagship model, the Supersport, will be unveiled on March 11, showcasing a design that combines elements from its classic Plus models with features reminiscent of the Aero series. This two-seat sports car will utilize an evolved platform from the Plus Six and is expected to be powered by a BMW turbocharged six-cylinder engine, offering enhanced performance and exclusivity compared to the existing lineup.
General Motors will temporarily halt production of the Chevrolet Corvette at its Bowling Green facility for four weeks leading up to the end of May, primarily to manage inventory and prepare for updates related to the 2026 model. During this period, the assembly line will undergo necessary adjustments, including potential changes to the Corvette's interior and the introduction of new models, while also addressing workforce transitions due to retirements.
Bugatti's latest offering, the Tourbillon, can be enhanced with the optional Equipe Pur Sang package, which features an unprecedented eight exhaust pipes and various exclusive design modifications, though it comes at a steep additional cost. While the performance specifications remain unchanged, the package elevates the vehicle's uniqueness, appealing to buyers seeking further distinction in their hypercars.
MOTORSPORT
Aston Martin has unveiled its new AMR25 car ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season, opting for an online reveal rather than participating in the London launch event where other teams showcased their liveries. With a focus on enhancing low-speed downforce and mid-corner balance, the team aims to build on lessons learned from the previous season while preparing for a competitive start in Australia on March 16.
Alpine's 2025 Formula 1 car, the A525, made its debut on the Bahrain circuit in preparation for the upcoming pre-season testing, which begins Wednesday. Following its livery unveiling in London, the vehicle underwent initial testing with drivers Pierre Gasly and Jack Doohan, who noted the smoothness of the car despite the limited running distance allowed.
Adrien Fourmaux, a driver in the Hyundai WRC, has faced a significant financial penalty for his candid remarks during a live broadcast, prompting the World Rally Drivers Alliance to publicly denounce the FIA's swearing ban as excessive and detrimental to the sport's image. The alliance is advocating for a dialogue with FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem to address the disproportionate fines and the broader implications of such penalties on drivers who are often not financially secure.
The FIA's decision to limit GT3 car exhaust noise to 100 decibels for the 2025 World Endurance Championship season has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with many expressing dissatisfaction over the reduced sound intensity and altered character of the vehicles. While some appreciate the quieter experience at races, the change has led to concerns that it detracts from the excitement of witnessing these cars in action, especially when compared to the louder Hypercars.
After 14 hours of Prologue testing, teams are analyzing data and preparing for the upcoming Free Practice session of the 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship, with notable improvements from several manufacturers suggesting a more competitive field. While Toyota completed the most laps, the performance of new entrants like BMW and Aston Martin indicates a potential shift in the balance of power among the Hypercar category.
FUN STUFF
Many racing enthusiasts believe they could excel in a vintage Formula 1 car, but the reality is that these vehicles are notoriously difficult to handle. A British startup named TDF is addressing this challenge by modifying authentic F1 chassis into more manageable track day cars, featuring a less powerful engine and enhanced durability for affluent clients who wish to experience the thrill of driving a classic race car without the usual complexities.
Hillclimb vehicles often push the limits of engineering, allowing builders to maximize power and aerodynamic features without restrictions. One standout example is a modified Lotus Exige, now equipped with a Ferrari-sourced twin-turbo V-8 that produces 925 horsepower, enabling it to achieve remarkable speeds at the Simola Hillclimb event in South Africa.
A city in Kansas has issued a warning regarding a fraudulent classic car website that falsely claims to be associated with the now-closed Maize Motors dealership. Local authorities confirmed that the new site, which features attractive vehicle listings, is a scam designed to deceive consumers, as the legitimate dealership's online presence is no longer active.
The owner of a stolen Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk experienced a dramatic turn of events when tracking technology allowed him to follow the vehicle during a police pursuit. Despite recovering the SUV, the high-speed chase and subsequent engine failure left the vehicle irreparably damaged, leading the owner to file an insurance claim.
Singer Vehicle Design remains a notable name in the automotive sector, particularly as it welcomes Raj Nair as its new CEO, highlighting its esteemed position in the industry. The current availability of the 'Silverstone' model, featuring advanced specifications and a striking color scheme, presents a rare chance for enthusiasts to acquire a meticulously reimagined 911, especially with Singer's Classic commissions currently on hold.
Hironao Yokomaku has been at the helm of VeilSide for nearly 40 years, blending striking design with high-performance engineering. Recently, he collaborated with actor Sung Kang to showcase a new project at the Tokyo Auto Salon, reaffirming VeilSide's enduring influence on car culture and its commitment to inspiring future enthusiasts.
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