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Verstappen Makes it Four on the Spin
Jordan Greer
November 25, 2024
Welcome to today's edition of SpeedBites, where we're diving into the thrilling world of automotive innovation and motorsport excitement! After a long season, Max Verstappen has finally been confirmed as four-time F1 world champion, while legendary off-road marque Land Rover is preparing a Dakar Rally attempt for 2026. As you enjoy these stories and more, don't forget to share SpeedBites with fellow car enthusiasts who might appreciate the ride!
AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY NEWS
Toyota has confirmed plans for a new Celica, which is expected to be powered by a petrol engine rather than electric, following years of speculation and a recent trademark application. Senior executives indicated that the new model will utilize a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and discussions about the future of the GR86 suggest it may also continue with a new petrol engine.
Hyundai's design chief, SangYup Lee, emphasized the importance of having the right size for interior touchscreens, stating that ease of visibility and user experience are crucial, rather than simply maximizing screen size. He also highlighted that while the upcoming Ioniq 9 will feature a larger touchscreen than current models, Hyundai will continue to prioritize physical controls for essential functions to enhance safety and usability.
Bentley's Mulliner department has unveiled the 'Expressions of Texture' collection, featuring four bespoke Continental GT Speed Convertibles inspired by California's Coachella Valley environment. Each vehicle showcases unique design elements, including a 200-million-year-old stone dashboard and intricate quilting that reflects local topography, with finishes taking up to 55 hours to complete.
The BMW M5 Touring, designated as the G99, is currently showcased at the BMW Welt in a distinctive Speed Yellow color, part of the brand's 150 Individual color options. This model, which features optional carbon-ceramic brakes, marks the first time the M5 Touring is available in the United States and Canada, although it lacks a carbon fiber roof option and is expected to see a lighter Competition Sport variant no earlier than 2026 or 2027.
Mitsuoka has introduced the M55, a limited-edition model that reimagines the Honda Civic with design elements inspired by the outgoing Dodge Challenger, featuring a unique front and rear end. Limited to 100 units in Japan, the M55 is priced at approximately ¥8.08 million and is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 177bhp, with a focus on distinctive styling rather than conventional automotive norms.
Kia has introduced a concept version of its EV3 electric SUV that incorporates natural and recycled materials, including components made from apple skin, mushroom by-products, and rice bran silica. While these sustainable materials will not be included in the production model, Kia plans to increase the use of recycled plastics in future vehicles as part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.
A recent Consumer Reports study found that Tesla EVs are the least expensive cars to operate over a decade, but a separate German TÜV assessment ranked the Model 3 lowest in reliability for the second consecutive year, citing frequent failures in lights, brakes, and suspension. The TÜV noted that the Model 3's issues may stem from its weight and braking system design, while other EVs, particularly those adapted from combustion models, showed better reliability.
Volkswagen's entry-level electric vehicle, the ID. 2, is set to launch by late 2025, despite delays affecting other EV models. The ID. 2 will feature a design inspired by Volkswagen's heritage, including "Classic" and "Vintage" drive modes, and will be accompanied by an SUV variant and a GTI model in the coming years.
Chrysler is planning to introduce a fully electric variant of the Pacifica minivan, as confirmed by CEO Christine Feuell at the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show, although specific design details and a launch timeline remain unclear. This development follows the influence of the Halcyon concept, set to debut in February 2024, and raises questions about Chrysler's overall EV strategy amid financial challenges within its parent company, Stellantis.
The 2025 Volvo XC90 receives minor updates, including a refreshed exterior design, new interior trims, and an upgraded Google-based infotainment system on a larger screen, allowing it to remain competitive in the market for a few more years. Despite its age, the XC90 retains its strong family-friendly features, including a spacious second row and a built-in booster seat, while offering a range of powertrains that continue from previous models.
Utah-based EVject has developed the Escape Connector, an adapter that allows electric vehicle (EV) owners to quickly disconnect from a charging session in emergency situations without the risk of electric shock. The product faced legal challenges from Tesla, which claimed it was unsafe, but after modifications including the addition of a thermal sensor, EVject continues to advocate for constructive collaboration with Tesla while maintaining that their device is safe for users.
MOTORSPORT
Max Verstappen secured his fourth Formula 1 world championship with a fifth-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where George Russell dominated the race, leading a Mercedes one-two with Lewis Hamilton in second. Verstappen's title was confirmed as he consistently maintained a position ahead of his closest rival, Lando Norris, throughout the race, allowing him to join an elite group of drivers with four championships.
Max Verstappen secured his fourth Formula 1 world title with a fifth-place finish at the Las Vegas Grand Prix, despite claiming that his Red Bull team did not have the fastest car for about 70% of the season. After a challenging mid-season period, Verstappen praised his team's ability to adapt and improve, highlighting their resilience in overcoming performance issues to ultimately clinch the championship.
Land Rover will enter the Defender as the official car partner for the 2026 Dakar Rally, marking the brand's first participation in the event, with plans to provide a fleet of vehicles for the 2025 rally to assist officials and media. Details regarding modifications to the Defender for competition will be revealed during the 2025 Dakar event, as the company prepares for this significant venture.
During preparations for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, Formula 1 drivers noted the pervasive smell of marijuana, which is legal in Nevada, with some expressing concerns about potential drug test implications. Despite the odor being common at outdoor events, it was unusual for it to be noticeable inside a closed venue, leading to drivers joking about the situation as they approached the race weekend.
George Russell and Carlos Sainz expressed their approval of FIA's new Formula 1 race director Rui Marques, noting his prompt response to drivers' feedback during the Las Vegas GP. Both drivers highlighted specific changes made, such as adjustments to track limits and the visibility of the pit entry line, indicating a positive shift in communication and action between the race director and competitors.
The FIA has experienced significant turnover in its senior personnel over the past year, culminating in the unexpected removal of race director Niels Wittich shortly before the Las Vegas Grand Prix, with Rui Marques appointed as his successor. Martin Brundle and Danica Patrick have voiced concerns about the impact of these changes on driver safety and communication, emphasizing the need for the governing body to engage more effectively with the drivers amid ongoing controversies.
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren, advocates for the employment of full-time stewards in Formula 1 to address the complexities of the sport's regulations and enhance decision-making during races. His comments follow controversial incidents involving McLaren's Lando Norris and Red Bull's Max Verstappen, highlighting a perceived need for consistency in penalties and a shift away from rigid rule enforcement towards more discretionary judgment by experienced stewards.
A technical directive passed shortly ahead of the 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix forced a number of teams to make adjustments to skid blocks and ride heights. Notably, teams like Ferrari and Mercedes have had to modify their designs ahead of the Las Vegas Grand Prix, while others, such as Red Bull, reported no impact from the new directive.
CURIOSITIES
A YouTuber named David Andreyev has transformed a wrecked Model 3 Performance into a custom creation called the CyberRoadster, featuring extensive modifications and a striking candy red finish. While still needing interior work, the project showcases a blend of influences, including a muscular design reminiscent of supercars and elements inspired by Tesla's Cybertruck, all completed by Andreyev in his garage.
In the early 2000s, BMW's research department developed the Drive Stick Car, a concept based on the E46 3 Series Compact that replaced traditional controls with two vertical levers for acceleration, braking, and steering, utilizing drive-by-wire technology. Although it never reached production, the project influenced modern technologies such as electromechanical power steering and reflects BMW's innovative approach to exploring future driving experiences.
A 2022 McLaren 720S Coupe, originally priced at approximately $301,500, is currently being auctioned for under $50,000 due to significant water damage from the Persian Gulf floods in April 2024. The vehicle, listed as non-starting and requiring inspection, has visible blemishes and a water stain in the interior, raising concerns about its condition despite the seller's claims of "superb condition."
The Mecum Kissimmee auction in January will feature Austin Powers' 1967 Jaguar XK-E, reportedly the only car used throughout the film series. The vehicle, which has undergone restoration and mechanical updates, will be the "Main Attraction" on January 18, and comes with documentation confirming its authenticity as a film car.
McLaren and eBay Motors have listed a 1973 Plymouth Barracuda, which was showcased during the United States Grand Prix and driven by Lando Norris, for auction on eBay Motors. The car features various upgrades, including a 340 cubic-inch V-8 engine and modern enhancements, with all proceeds from the sale benefiting the Society of Women Engineers.
A rare Aston Martin Vantage V600 Le Mans is currently up for sale, in the shape of the factory prototype car which the company itself used in all of its press and marketing materials. Launched in 1999 to mark 40 years since its only outright Le Mans win, the V600 Le Mans features a 50hp increase in power and design elements that paid homage to the DBR1.
Hertz is selling over 180 used Maserati Grecale SUVs across the U.S., most priced under $45,000, making them competitively cheaper than new models like the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. However, potential buyers should be cautious of the risks associated with ex-rental vehicles, including high maintenance costs and varying warranty coverage, particularly for a luxury brand like Maserati.
The Mercedes-Benz TN vans, produced from 1977 to 1995, gained popularity in Europe for their versatility and dependability, but they lacked an off-road version until customizer Iglhaut Allrad began converting them with G-Wagen components in the 1980s. These modified vans, which combine a robust diesel engine with off-road capabilities, have become sought after in the U.S. market, despite their rarity and the challenges of sourcing parts for maintenance.
Boulder, Colorado police are investigating a series of unauthorized road signs that promote safer driving behaviors, such as discouraging phone use and speeding, despite their effectiveness and professional appearance. While the police acknowledge the intent behind these signs, they classify the act of placing them as "criminal tampering" and encourage residents to report any further instances.
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