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Subaru's Starlink Hacked
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Genesis GV60 Mountain Intervention Vehicle
Buy Michael Schumacher’s Ferrari F355
BMW’s M Hybrid scores a first-ever pole
F1 spices up hospitality with Gordon Ramsay
Inside Nissan’s Zama Heritage Car Garage
...and more!
INDUSTRY NEWS

Recent research has unveiled a significant security flaw in Subaru's Starlink system, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive user data, including a comprehensive year-long location history. While Subaru promptly addressed the issue, the incident highlights broader concerns about data privacy in connected vehicles, suggesting that even legitimate employees may have excessive access to personal information. [Carscoops]

The Genesis GV60 Mountain Intervention Vehicle (MIV) has been unveiled as a concept designed for rescue operations in challenging environments, featuring innovative snow tracks and specialized equipment. While it showcases impressive capabilities, such as vehicle-to-load functionality and enhanced safety features, its future availability for purchase remains uncertain. [Car Throttle]
Audi has transformed its Q6 Sportback E-Tron into an unconventional off-road concept featuring portal axles, a technology more often found in military vehicles and custom off-roaders. While details remain scarce, this high-riding electric SUV showcases enhanced ground clearance and rugged design elements, hinting at a potential new direction for the brand in adventurous vehicle engineering. [Motor1]
Tesla has decided to raise prices across its entire vehicle range in Canada, shortly after cutting prices elsewhere, and coinciding with the Canadian government's plans to phase out federal electric vehicle incentives. This price adjustment may hinder the growth of EV adoption in the country, especially given the backdrop of a weakening Canadian dollar and potential tariffs on imports. [Autoblog]
Rivian has unveiled its ambitious plans for advancing driver assistance technology, aiming for both Level 2 and Level 3 capabilities by 2026. With a focus on enhancing its second-generation models, Rivian intends to incorporate advanced AI and a comprehensive sensor suite to facilitate hands-free driving, setting the stage for a competitive edge in the evolving EV market. [InsideEVs]
Cadillac is entering a new chapter in its performance lineage with the introduction of the Lyriq-V, its inaugural electric performance crossover, boasting an impressive 615 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. With a starting price of $79,990 and a range of 285 miles, the Lyriq-V aims to challenge established luxury electric vehicles while offering advanced features and a focus on driving dynamics. [The Autopian]
Jaguar Land Rover has invested $2m in a company that focuses on the recycling of rare earth elements vital to electric vehicle operation. InMotion Ventures, the investment branch of the firm, contributed to the Series B funding of Cyclic Materials, increasing its total raised to $55 million, which will allow the company to enhance its operations and technology for the process. [Electrek]
Dodge is launching a unique initiative called the "badassador" program, aimed at engaging passionate automotive enthusiasts to promote the next generation of their muscle cars. While the initiative offers various perks like exclusive access to vehicles and events, it remains unclear if participants will receive monetary compensation for their contributions. [Carscoops]
MOTORSPORT

Formula 1 has formed a collaboration with renowned chef Gordon Ramsay, who will enhance the F1 Garage hospitality experience at ten events throughout the upcoming season. This partnership aims to merge the high-energy atmosphere of racing with Ramsay's culinary expertise, beginning with the Miami Grand Prix. [RacingNews365]

Dries Vanthoor achieved a first ever pole position for the BMW M Hybrid in the 63rd Rolex 24 at Daytona, leading the BMW M Team RLL in a qualifying session that was limited due to a stoppage. In LMP2, Daniel Goldburg secured the top spot with a competitive lap time, while Mike Rockenfeller's performance helped Ford Multimatic Motorsports dominate the GTD Pro front row. [Sportscar365]
Max Verstappen has begun his collaboration with Ford by driving a Mustang Dark Horse, ahead of the automaker's partnership with Red Bull Racing for the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season. The alliance will see Red Bull PowerTrains shift from its current Honda roots to a Ford-backed effort, ahead of the change in regulations for the 2026 season. [RacingNews365]
Cadillac's bid to enter Formula 1 is nearing completion, with the FIA expected to make a decision within weeks following a review of the proposal. This latest attempt, supported by General Motors, comes after a previous effort by Andretti Global was rejected due to commercial concerns, but now appears more promising as Cadillac prepares to finalize arrangements with FOM. [The Race]
Liam Lawson has completed his seat-fitting at Red Bull F1, as the driver steps up from Racing Bulls to drive season alongside Max Verstappen in 2025. Following this significant step, Lawson reflects on his long-standing connection with the team and expresses enthusiasm for officially becoming a driver after years in junior and reserve roles. [RacingNews365]
Alpine's team principal, Oliver Oakes, has emphasized that Jack Doohan will have a genuine opportunity to showcase his abilities when the 2025 Formula 1 season begins, despite speculation about his limited chances due to the signing of Franco Colapinto. Oakes reassured that the team is focused on cultivating a strong lineup for the future, rather than prematurely replacing Doohan after only a few races. [RacingNews365]
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu is confident that Oliver Bearman is on a path to becoming a Formula 1 driver for Ferrari, having impressed during his time with the team. Bearman, who has been loaned to Haas after showcasing his skills in practice sessions, notably stepped in for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari at the 2024 Saudi Arabian GP, where he achieved a seventh-place finish, and raced for Haas twice last year. [Autosport]
McLaren has appointed Alessandro Alunni Bravi as its chief business affairs officer and leader of the driver development program, following his departure from Sauber. Bravi's new role will encompass various responsibilities, including legal matters and commercial driver contract management, as he transitions from his previous position at Sauber amid significant team changes. [The Race]
FUN STUFF

A YouTuber has acquired a severely damaged McLaren Senna, originally wrecked by another YouTuber, in order to restore the rare hypercar. The restoration process is being undertaken by the Goonzquad channel, which aims to bring the vehicle back to its former glory while navigating various challenges related to sourcing parts and addressing extensive damage. [Jalopnik]

A recent incident in London nearly resulted in a Lamborghini Huracan Technica being engulfed in flames, but two quick-acting individuals managed to extinguish the fire before it spread. The cause of the blaze remains uncertain, although post-incident footage indicates that damaged wiring in the engine compartment may have contributed to the ignition. [Carscoops]
In celebration of Japan Month 2025, a small group of journalists had the rare opportunity to explore Nissan's Zama Heritage Collection, showcasing the automaker's significant contributions to automotive history despite its current challenges. The extensive display features hundreds of Nissans from the very first cars to the present day and dozens of racing cars that highlight the brand’s legacy. [Speedhunters]
Santo Domingo Motors in the Dominican Republic has creatively integrated a 1992 Chevy Silverado into its marketing strategy by mounting it five stories high on the side of their building, turning it into a local landmark. This unique display, created to commemorate a past employee's integrity following an accident, is taken down, serviced, and repainted every three years. [The Drive]
A rare, converted MINI Cooper, originally used as a promotional vehicle for Red Bull, has become available to buy. These two-seat cars originally came with a large, promotional Red Bull can and a matching blue and silver livery, but this model has been returned to its base silver - though does still retain parts of the trunk-cooling system originally used to store cans. [The Autopian]
F1 fans have a chance to acquire Michael Schumacher's own 1996 Ferrari F355 GTS, which he acquired during his inaugural season with the team. This particular model, featuring a unique Blu Le Mans exterior and a six-speed manual transmission, has been meticulously maintained and is now available for auction. [Car Throttle]
A recent Craigslist listing showcases an unusual assortment of vehicles for sale, including a one-of-a-kind amphibious car. The seller emphasizes that most of the cars are operational, highlighting the creativity and craftsmanship involved in their construction, making them intriguing options for collectors or enthusiasts. [The Autopian]
Fans of a certain political persuasion may be tempted into buying this unique Apocalypse Hellfire, built by a Florida company out of a Jeep Gladiator. Apocalypse Manufacturing has been making the vehicle, which sports a redesigned front end, offroad enhancements, and an additional axle to make it a 6×6, for several years, although this example also sports a custom wrap made to celebrate the 45th and 47th President. [Carscoops]
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