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Toyota Gives GR Corolla Power to GR86
Jordan Greer
November 05, 2024
Good morning, SpeedBites readers! Today’s edition sees Toyota showing off an AWD GR86 rally car packing the GR Corolla’s powertrain, while McLaren’s Le Mans Hypercar entry moves a step closer to reality. As always, if you find our newsletter as thrilling as a lap around the Nürburgring, consider sharing it with friends who might enjoy the ride. Let's get started!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
Toyota is showcasing the GR86 Rally Legacy concept at SEMA, featuring all-wheel drive and a turbocharged engine derived from the GR Corolla, alongside a classic rally-inspired livery. The project required significant modifications to the GR86's chassis and drivetrain, indicating that it is not intended for production, but will be on display at the event starting November 5.
Aston Martin reported a third-quarter pre-tax loss of £10.3 million ($13.4 million), contributing to a total loss of £228 million ($295 million) for the year, as it faces declining sales and increased debt. While sales of its DBX SUV have dropped significantly, deliveries of its sports cars have risen by 16 percent, and the company remains optimistic about future performance despite ongoing challenges in the market.
Audi is revising its naming strategy to distinguish between gas and electric vehicles, with the A4 transitioning to the A5 and the introduction of the A6 E-Tron. The upcoming A7, set to debut early next year, will be available in both sedan and Avant variants, while a next-gen Q5 Sportback is also scheduled for reveal later this month.
The South Korean version of the Kia Sportage has received a significant mid-cycle facelift, which includes, a revamped interior with a new infotainment system. Notable additions include a Baby & Toddler mode for smoother acceleration, an updated transmission, and new customization options, with the US market expected to see these changes in the 2026 model year.
Mercedes-Benz's supply chain chief has stated that, despite advancements in battery recycling, the company will still require a significant portion of raw materials from mining to produce electric vehicle batteries. The newly opened Kuppenheim plant in Germany aims to recover 96% of materials from used batteries, but full self-sufficiency in sourcing materials through recycling is not anticipated until at least 2040.
A new Emergency Assist System from Volkswagen brings a significant advancement in addressing safety concerns in current semi-automated driver-assist systems. The system is noted for its ability to safely maneuver the vehicle off the road and stop when a driver becomes unresponsive, in contrast to other systems which simply stop in an active traffic lane.
Suzuki has introduced its first electric production car, the E Vitara, a small crossover set to be manufactured in India and sold in Japan and Europe. Built on a new HEARTECT-e platform, the E Vitara offers various configurations, including front-wheel and all-wheel drive, with battery options ranging from 49kWh to 61kWh, and is expected to begin production in spring 2025.
The Dacia Spring Cargo is now the most affordable compact electric van in the UK, priced at £13,145 for businesses after applying the government’s Plug-in Van Grant. It offers 1,085 liters of load space, a maximum payload of 370kg, and a range of up to 186 miles, making it suitable for urban deliveries despite its smaller cargo capacity compared to competitors.
A modified Volkswagen Amarok V6 ute has set a Guinness World Record by traversing Australia's 10 deserts and covering 6241 kilometers in six days and 17 hours. The journey, undertaken by drivers Rainer Zietlow, Marius Biela, and Brad Howes, began in Maree, South Australia, and ended in Alice Springs, with the vehicle consuming 1199 liters of diesel and experiencing only one puncture during the trip.
Suzuki's president has indicated that the brand does not plan to produce an electric or hybrid version of the Jimny, citing concerns that electrification would compromise the vehicle's core attributes. Despite calls for its return to the UK market, strict emissions regulations currently limit the Jimny's availability to light commercial vehicle status in Europe.
Modena Automobili is introducing a restomod version of the Maserati Biturbo Shamal, known as 'Project MA-01', with a limited production run of 33 units. The updated model features a twin-turbocharged V6 engine from the Ghibli S, producing 500bhp, alongside significant enhancements to its suspension, brakes, and exterior design while maintaining the original's grand touring capabilities.
A collaboration between AT&T and Voltpost aims to enhance curbside EV charging in Michigan by integrating internet connectivity into lamppost charging stations, allowing for quicker maintenance responses when issues arise. While these AC Level 2 chargers offer slower charging speeds similar to home chargers, they provide a practical solution for EV owners parking on the street during work or shopping trips, with plans for widespread installation in the coming years.
MOTORSPORT
McLaren has received approval to move forward with a factory Hypercar program, aiming for a 2027 launch to compete in the FIA WEC, with a prototype likely built under LMDh rules. The company is currently evaluating financial planning and may announce formal details at the Le Mans event, joining other manufacturers like Aston Martin and Genesis in future Hypercar initiatives.
The FIA has faced criticism for issuing different penalties to Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc for using profanity during press conferences, with Verstappen receiving community service and Leclerc a €10,000 fine. Fans expressed mixed opinions on the FIA's actions, with a significant portion believing that neither driver should have been penalized.
During a rain-affected race, drivers faced deteriorating conditions that led to the deployment of the Safety Car and later a red flag, impacting their strategies and communication with race engineers. Key moments included George Russell's last-minute decision to switch to full wet tyres, Lando Norris's pit strategy that allowed him to gain positions, and Esteban Ocon's decision to remain on track, ultimately leading him to the race lead.
McLaren's focus remains on securing the Formula 1 constructors' title, despite Lando Norris's diminished chances for the drivers' championship following a sixth-place finish in Brazil. Max Verstappen's victory from 17th on the grid puts him 62 points ahead of Norris, with three races remaining, while McLaren has extended their lead over Ferrari to 36 points, despite challenges with brake issues affecting their performance.
Lamborghini is reassessing its LMDh program for 2025, considering participation in either the World Endurance Championship or the IMSA SportsCar Championship, amid new regulations requiring two cars in the WEC's Hypercar class. Chief technical officer Rouven Mohr indicated that while the company aims to continue its motorsport efforts, all options, including potentially ending the SC63 program, are under review due to the challenges of managing multiple entries.
In October, BMW South Africa hosted the M Fest at Kyalami and premiered the M3 Touring and M5, while announcing the establishment of a Racing Academy aimed at identifying and nurturing talented drivers from previously disadvantaged backgrounds. The academy will begin with a sim racing program, followed by karting, and eventually transition to real racing experiences, with support from NGK Pablo Clark Racing and a planned launch by the end of the year.
CURIOSITIES
Civilian Armoured Vehicles (CAVs) are designed to resemble standard vehicles while providing protection against military-grade attacks, retaining performance and handling despite added weight. The Skoda Kodiaq Armoured SUV has successfully passed British Standards PAS 300 and PAS 301 tests, demonstrating its capability to withstand ballistic threats and maintain maneuverability under duress, while still offering luxury features and ample cargo space.
Grumman, known for its durable vehicles, ventured into the RV market with the Grumman Motorhome, designed to be exceptionally sturdy with a body made of thick aluminum that the company claimed would outlast multiple chassis and powertrains. Despite its robust construction, the interiors of these motorhomes have not aged as well, with the fiberglass roof being a weak spot for water ingress.
A proposed bill in Louisville, Kentucky, aims to allow the city to crush the cars of convicted street racers, with the intent of deterring dangerous behavior on public roads. Supported by both Republican state representative Jason Nemes and Democratic Mayor Craig Greenberg, the legislation is still in development and is expected to be formally introduced in January.
The Camel Trophy was an annual multi-day off-road adventure competition for Land Rover models that took place during the 1980s and '90s, and featured some intricate and unique trophies awarded to participants. Photographer Nick Dimbleby recently showcased these trophies at The Dunsford Collection museum in Surrey, England, where he will also give a talk about the event on December 7, and he has authored a book detailing the history of the Camel Trophy.
The Gear Box was a concept vehicle created by Mobility Outfitters in 1998 that combined features of a camper van and a 4×4, showcasing innovative design elements ahead of its time. Currently displayed at the Petersen Automotive Museum, the Gear Box highlights the evolution of overlanding vehicles and reflects the vision of its designer, Stewart Reed, who has had a notable career in automotive design.
Westen Champlin has transformed a Dodge Challenger Hellcat into an off-road capable vehicle by implementing significant modifications, including a custom three-link suspension and Ford F-350 axles, while retaining the original 6.2-liter supercharged V8 engine. Despite the extensive fabrication required, the project remains a work in progress, promising further updates as Champlin continues to refine the build.
A first-generation Mazda Miata is currently being showcased at SEMA with some major modifications that include a twin-turbocharged Lamborghini V10 engine. The engine, which likely adds some significant weight over the front axle as well as a large increase in power, prominently protrudes from the hood, while the original pop-up headlights have been replaced with turbos.
A recreation of an Acura Integra GS-R driven by Ja Rule's character in The Fast and the Furious is currently listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace for $20,000. This replica features accurate visual and mechanical modifications, though it has a salvage title and a handful of minor differences from the original car which only had a brief on-screen appearance but in one of the most iconic scenes in the franchise.
Japan is hosting the annual JAF Road Service Competition, where tow truck drivers from various prefectures compete in events such as righting a rolled-over car and loading a motorcycle onto a trailer. For the first time, the public is invited to watch this event, which aims to educate attendees about roadside assistance and the role of the Japanese Automotive Federation (JAF) in ensuring motorist safety, taking place on November 24 at a Chiba City shopping center.
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