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Steve McQueen's Hudson Wasp Daily Driver for Sale
Andrew Evans
September 15, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Aston Martin to debut Pirelli smart Cyber Tire
Sainz penalty points rescinded in rare walkback
Fiery top fuel crash in NHRA event in Pennsylvania
Verstappen gains Nurburgring license after Porsche drive
Lamborghini developing AI to improve driving
...and more!
Join the discussion: click here to chat about today's issue!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Aston Martin will become the first brand to use a new “smart” tire from Pirelli, which features sophisticated systems that integrate sensors and software within the tire structure. The Cyber Tire collects real-time data on tire conditions and communicates with the vehicle's control systems, although its introduction in the US may face regulatory challenges due to ownership ties to a Chinese company.
Lamborghini is developing advanced technology that leverages artificial intelligence to enhance driving experiences by adapting to a driver's behavior and emotional state in real time. This innovation includes a centralized "6D Sensor" that streamlines communication between various vehicle systems, potentially allowing future models to assist drivers more effectively on the road and track.
Volkswagen has postponed the launch of its electric Golf and T-Roc models, now expected closer to the end of the decade, primarily due to escalating production costs linked to upgrades at its Wolfsburg facility. This delay reflects broader challenges within the company as it navigates budget constraints while aiming to compete with rapidly advancing competitors in the electric vehicle market.
Toyota's latest electric vehicle, the bZ7, is a full-size sedan designed to compete with models like the Tesla Model S and BYD Han L, featuring a CALB-Tech battery and a 268hp electric motor. Set to debut in China by the end of 2025, the bZ7 incorporates advanced technology from Huawei and Xiaomi, enhancing its infotainment and smart connectivity capabilities.
BMW is advancing towards the launch of an electric M3, with insider information suggesting its debut could occur by 2027, alongside an electric M4 expected after 2028. Meanwhile, Mercedes-AMG is contemplating a high-performance electric coupe but remains cautious due to uncertain market demand, while continuing to support its traditional gasoline models.
Dodge won’t offer its high-performance Durango models in states which follow the California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations. For the 2026 model year, Dodge has shifted its Durango lineup to exclusively feature V8 engines, with the base GT offered in all states but the R/T and Hellcat models won’t be available in 18 states (and DC) which follow CARB standards.
Volvo is recalling certain models due to potential issues with front seatbelt assemblies supplied by Autoliv, where damage to the torsion bars may compromise safety during a crash. Affected vehicles include various 2026 models, and dealers will replace the faulty components at no cost to owners, with notifications set to be sent out by late October 2025.
In 2022, the European Union mandated that all new cars and vans sold after 2035 must eliminate local carbon dioxide emissions, prompting automakers globally to pivot towards electric vehicle production in response to this significant regulatory shift. The European Commission's decision to expedite the review of this mandate, originally set for 2026, reflects ongoing discussions about the feasibility of transitioning to battery-electric vehicles by the target date, amid concerns over infrastructure and consumer acceptance.
MOTORSPORT
The FIA has rescinded the penalty imposed on Carlos Sainz during the Dutch Grand Prix, which stemmed from a collision with Liam Lawson at Turn 1. While the stewards initially attributed fault to Sainz, they later concluded that the incident was a racing occurrence, leading to the removal of his penalty points, although the race results remain unchanged.
Max Verstappen has earned his A licence for the Nurburgring Nordschleife after completing the necessary certification process at the renowned German track in a Porsche Cayman. This achievement allows the Red Bull driver to participate in GT3 events, with plans already in motion for him to race a Ferrari GT3 in the upcoming NLS event on September 27.
Pirelli has suggested that teams at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix may consider a two-stop strategy due to the introduction of its softest tire compounds, C4, C5, and C6. While the current tire selection could encourage varied strategies, the efficiency of teams in managing tire performance may still lead to a one-stop approach.
Red Bull Racing’s Helmut Marko has asserted that the team's recent success at the Italian Grand Prix has revealed new opportunities for improvement at other challenging tracks on the 2025 schedule. With a focus on incorporating driver feedback and refining their engineering approach under new leadership, Red Bull aims to enhance performance in upcoming races, particularly in Singapore, where it has historically faced difficulties.
Toto Wolff believes that securing long-term contracts for drivers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli will not enhance their performance, commenting that a driver who thinks otherwise lacks the proper mentality. While Mercedes is in the process of negotiating extensions for both drivers, Wolff states that its typical approach favors shorter agreements, reflecting a longstanding team philosophy.
Cadillac's CEO, Dan Towriss, has outlined a clear plan for Colton Herta as he transitions from IndyCar to serve as the reserve driver for Cadillac in Formula 1, while competing in F2 to secure the necessary points for an F1 superlicence. Herta will start the 2026 season at 35 points, while the top three in the F2 championship are awarded the 40 points required for eligibility, as Towriss emphasizes the importance of gaining experience and respect for the European racing landscape.
FIA single-seater director Nikolas Tombazis has emphasized the significant challenges facing Formula 1 teams as they adapt to a new set of regulations for the upcoming season. With both chassis and power unit rules undergoing substantial revisions, he noted that while this could lead to a shift in competitive dynamics, it is likely to result in a wider performance gap among teams initially, as they navigate the learning curve associated with the changes.
Sebastien Ogier has taken the lead in the World Rally Championship following his fifth win of the season in Chile, where he triumphed over Toyota teammate Elfyn Evans by 11 seconds after a challenging series of stages. With this victory, Ogier now holds a two-point advantage in the championship standings, while Hyundai's early dominance faded, leaving Adrien Fourmaux to secure third place.
Tom Ingram demonstrated his classic car racing prowess by clinching victory at the RAC TT Celebration during the Goodwood Revival, overcoming a challenging 10.75-second penalty faced by competitor Rob Huff. The race, marked by treacherous weather conditions, saw Ingram and his co-driver Richard Kent secure a dramatic win, echoing their previous success in 2024.
CURIOSITIES
While Steve McQueen is most associated with certain cars through his iconic roles, he frequently drove a 1952 Hudson Wasp for everyday activities. This vehicle has been displayed at the Petersen Museum since 2006 and is now set to be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s in October with an estimated value between $40,000 and $60,000.
At a recent NHRA Top Fuel race in Pennsylvania, a collision occurred between drivers Doug Kalitta and Tony Stewart after their runs, resulting in both cars sustaining damage although the drivers emerged mostly unharmed. Stewart, who has no recollection of the incident, expressed confusion over the crash's circumstances, while Kalitta described it as one of the most severe accidents he has experienced in his lengthy racing career.
RPM Raceway has introduced Kart Klash, an innovative racing experience that brings elements reminiscent of Mario Kart to life at its indoor tracks in the northeast. The racing includes classic power-ups and weapons that are simulated by the arena and vehicles, offering a unique yet familiar challenge for participants.
Fans of Alfa Romeo’s latest halo supercar, the 33 Stradale, have a chance to pick up two of its previous offerings from the same collection, through auctions for an 8C Competizione coupe and its soft-top sibling. Only 500 of each vehicle were ever made, with 90 coupes and 35 Spiders heading to the USA, with the two cars being purchased by the same individual and stored in their own private museum ever since.
One example of the 2026 Toyota Supra Final Edition is set to be auctioned off soon, though it has been subject to a significant accident resulting in extensive damage. The car suffered a rollover after a collision which, along with a subsequent engine fire, left it unrepairable and likely only suitable for a small number of undamaged parts.
A woman allegedly brandished a firearm after colliding with another vehicle in Atlanta, escalating a confrontation that was captured on video. Although no injuries occurred, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with aggressive driving behavior.
A Ferrari Testarossa once owned by music icon Sir Rod Stewart is now available for purchase, adding a unique touch to this classic model's storied legacy. With a distinctive red interior and modifications from Stewart's ownership, this vehicle stands out in the market, priced at £150,000, which is relatively competitive for a model of its kind.
A New York collector stumbled upon a remarkable find while searching for antique tractor parts: a binder filled with nearly 80 hand-drawn design sketches from General Motors, dating back to the summer of 1940. These illustrations, which envisioned Buick models for 1942 that never reached production, are now preserved at GM's design headquarters after Quick recognized their significance and reached out to the company.
A 2009 Bentley Azure with just 1,800 miles has surfaced for auction, currently attracting bids of $57,500, and is expected to fetch a significantly higher price as the sale progresses. This model, one of the last produced before the Azure nameplate was retired, exemplifies meticulous craftsmanship and has been well-maintained, making it an exceptional find for collectors seeking a nearly pristine luxury vehicle.
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!