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- Unraced Jaguar D-Type Heads to Auction, $7m Estimate
Unraced Jaguar D-Type Heads to Auction, $7m Estimate
Andrew Evans
August 12, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Ford reveals new “Universal EV Production System”, $30k pickup on the way
Corkscrew Hillclimb raises curtain on Monterey Car Week
Rapper fakes a video claiming Tesla remotely disabled his Cybertruck
Sergio Perez set for F1 return after management change
Kimera Evo38 revealed in production spec: 600hp and all-wheel drive
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Ford has announced a new electric mid-size truck, set to debut in 2027, as part of its Universal EV Platform initiative, which aims to provide a more versatile and affordable electric vehicle lineup. Priced around $30,000, this truck will offer ample passenger space and competitive acceleration, incorporating lithium iron phosphate batteries designed to enhance efficiency and lower production costs.
The Kimera Evo38, a modern interpretation of the Lancia 037, has been officially unveiled at Monterey Car Week, showcasing significant enhancements over the predecessor Evo37. Now featuring an upgraded 2.2-liter twincharged engine with a mild hybrid system, the Evo38 not only sports 592hp but delivers power to all four wheels unlike the original car, and includes adjustable performance settings for a more dynamic driving experience.
General Motors is reportedly exploring the possibility of reviving the Chevrolet Camaro nameplate for a crossover vehicle, potentially including various versions such as an SS and a ZL1 model, built on the Ultium platform. While details remain speculative, the Camaro EV could feature a range of powertrains, with outputs reaching up to 1,160hp, and may make its debut as a 2027 model.
Hyundai is preparing to launch an affordable electric vehicle, likely named Ioniq 2, aimed at competing with the Renault 4 and enhancing its market presence in Europe. Set to debut at the Munich motor show and available for purchase in late 2026, this model will fill a gap in Hyundai's electric lineup while aligning closely with Kia's forthcoming EV2.
Hyundai and Kia are facing significant scrutiny due to poor vehicle security measures, including the lack of electronic immobilizers, which have made their cars particularly susceptible to theft. The brands’ reputations have been further damaged after it emerged Hyundai was offering owners in the UK a “subsidized upgrade”, requiring a £49 payment from customers, to patch the “Game Boy” vulnerability that allows thieves to exploit keyless entry systems, while Kia owners have no such solution available.
Czinger has decided to abandon its plans for a multi-model lineup, opting instead to concentrate on enhancing the longevity of its 1,233hp 21C hypercar. According to CCO George Biggs, the company will focus on evolving the existing model with potential new variations while moving away from previously considered projects like the grand tourer and SUV that were tied to the same engineering framework.
Cadillac engineers have acknowledged the potential for an electric Blackwing in the future, but current technological limitations and insufficient market demand are significant obstacles. While advancements like solid-state batteries may eventually pave the way for such a model, the company is not prepared to introduce an electric Blackwing at this time.
Mercedes-Benz is reassessing its commitment to an all-electric future due to sluggish demand for electric vehicles, with CEO Ola Kallenius expressing concerns that Europe's proposed 2035 ban on combustion engines may be overly ambitious. The company plans to introduce 18 new models by 2027, balancing electric and combustion options, while advocating for a technology-neutral approach to decarbonization to support the automotive market's stability.
The current White House administration has lost a lawsuit brought by 14 states over the suspension of government funding for electric vehicle charging points. $5bn had been set aside under the previous administration, as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, designed to ensure at least one charger for every 50 miles of major highway, but while the freeze has been found unlawful and funding resumed the current USDOT has relaxed the review requirements which may result in rural communities missing out.
MOTORSPORT
A fitness trainer who’s worked extensively with Sergio Perez has been quoted regarding a significant change to the driver’s management, which may indicate his desire to return to Formula 1. Following a challenging season with Red Bull, Perez has expressed his willingness to race again, provided he aligns with a promising team, with Cadillac reportedly considering him for a seat as it prepares to join the grid.
Racing driver Christine Sloss became the first ever female winner of the Corkscrew Hillclimb, a race tackling the infamous corner at Laguna Seca in the opposite direction, marking the beginning of the prestigious Monterey Car Week. Sloss drove a Ferrari SF90 XX Spider up the route in 29.535 seconds, also taking records for the fastest road-legal production car, hybrid, and convertible, though the overall record remains with the McMurtry Speirling set in 2024.
Franco Colapinto's return to Formula 1 with Alpine has been challenging, prompting his management to consider alternatives outside the sport. Despite his scheduled participation in the Dutch Grand Prix after the summer break, speculation suggests that his time with Alpine may be coming to an end, leading to potential opportunities in IndyCar and the World Endurance Championship.
Despite initial concerns about potential conflicts, Esteban Ocon's partnership with Ollie Bearman at Haas has shown promise, thanks in part to a foundation of trust established by team principal Ayao Komatsu. Following a minor collision during the British Grand Prix, both drivers demonstrated their commitment to collaboration, highlighting effective communication and mutual respect as key elements in their evolving relationship.
Since Audi's announcement of its gradual acquisition of Sauber in 2022, the prospect of launching its Formula 1 team seemed distant. Under the leadership of new team principal Jonathan Wheatley, Sauber is evolving into a more competitive entity, aiming to honor its legacy while preparing for the challenges of the 2026 season.
Alex Albon has highlighted the fresh perspective that Carlos Sainz brings to Williams, enhancing the team's ability to fine-tune the car's performance. With Sainz's extensive experience from competing at various teams, both drivers are leveraging their combined knowledge to maximize the vehicle's potential this season.
Lewis Hamilton holds significant influence over his future with Ferrari, as a contract provision allows him to decide whether to extend his deal for an additional year. This arrangement leaves the team with limited authority regarding their driver lineup, especially as Hamilton's presence is seen as a key asset for enhancing Ferrari's global visibility.
Helmut Marko, an advisor for Red Bull, has praised Rob Marshall's contributions to McLaren since his arrival, highlighting the significant role he plays in the team's current success. While Marko refrained from speculating on how Marshall's presence might have affected Red Bull's performance, he acknowledged the value of experienced engineers in enhancing a team's competitiveness.
George Russell emphasized that Formula 1 drivers prefer collaboration with the FIA rather than conflict, amid ongoing tensions between the drivers' association and the governing body. He expressed a desire for mutual progress, highlighting the importance of working together to enhance the sport and address regulatory concerns.
CURIOSITIES
The Jaguar D-Type, produced between 1954 and 1957, is renowned for its impressive performance in endurance racing, notably winning the 24 Hours of Le Mans three consecutive times. This particular 1956 model is unique, as it was never used in competition and has undergone modifications, but has since been restored to its original specifications and is set to be auctioned with an estimated value of around $7m.
Rapper Big Huey recently claimed that Tesla had remotely disabled his Cybertruck, leaving him stranded, but the incident was fabricated as a publicity stunt for his new song. Tesla quickly refuted the allegations, clarifying that it does not have the capability to disable vehicles from a distance and pointing out inconsistencies in the purported legal correspondence shared by Huey.
The GM Bowling Green Assembly Plant has experienced a further vehicle theft following an incident in March where eight Corvettes were stolen. Two ZR1 models, the first production Corvette with a twin-turbocharged engine, were stolen on August 8, with both vehicles later recovered and a man arrested in connection to the theft.
A man from Pennsylvania has been arrested for allegedly detonating an explosive device in his former boss's vehicle following his dismissal from work. Surveillance footage captured the suspect approaching the car before a significant explosion occurred, leading to police linking him to the crime through his online purchases and prior planning.
A rare BMW M1 Procar, one of just 54 ever manufactured, is set to be auctioned at Broad Arrow’s Monterey Jet Center event on August 14, 2025, with an estimated value between $1.45 million and $1.85 million. This particular chassis, number 94301057, has never participated in a race and remains in pristine, original condition, making it an exceptional find for collectors.
San Diego law enforcement is intensifying its response to illegal street takeovers by destroying vehicles involved in such activities, a measure not seen in nearly two decades. This approach aims to combat the rising dangers associated with reckless driving events while emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy towards offenders.
A 14-year old and his accomplice stole a Kia for a late-night joyride in Detroit, using a method that exploits a known vulnerability in certain Kia and Hyundai models lacking engine immobilizers. After crashing into a neighbor's home and causing a fire, the teenagers sustained minor injuries, but the incident highlights ongoing concerns about car thefts among youths who often face minimal consequences for their actions.
The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640, introduced in 2006, represents a significant evolution in the brand's supercar lineage, merging the essence of its predecessors with enhanced performance and sophistication. Among the limited number of manual transmission models available, one well-preserved 2007 coupe with just 8,310 miles is currently listed for sale, reflecting its rarity and the heightened interest in manual V12 Lamborghinis.
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