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Verstappen Wins on Nurburgring GT3 Debut
Andrew Evans
September 29, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
McLaren puts W1 prototype through its paces at Silverstone
Gamers to remotely deliver rental cars in Germany
Alpine takes first ever WEC victory at Fuji
Rare McLaren F1 crossing the block at $21 million estimate
Europe considering new ultra-compact “E-Car” segment
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Following earlier cold-weather testing of a camouflaged prototype, McLaren has now shown off the upcoming W1 supercar being put through its paces at a race track. McLaren released video footage of the W1 racing around the Silverstone circuit driven by Gareth Howell, formerly chief test driver at Gordon Murray Automotive and in his second stint at McLaren.
Automakers have been advocating for the European Union to establish a new budget-friendly segment for compact vehicles, and Ursula von der Leyen's recent announcement took many by surprise. In her address on September 10, she expressed the need for affordable options for consumers and indicated plans to collaborate with the industry on an initiative for small cars, adopting the term "E-car" suggested by Stellantis to reflect its European, environmental, and economical focus.
Jaguar Land Rover is set to resume vehicle production this week after a month-long halt caused by a cyber attack that disrupted operations across its manufacturing facilities. While the company has indicated that some production activities will restart in a controlled manner, it remains unclear which plants will be operational first or the expected output levels, as they work closely with cybersecurity experts and government agencies to ensure a secure recovery process.
Recent speculation suggests that the upcoming iterations of the Mazda MX-5 and Toyota GR86 may share a common platform, potentially marking a further collaboration between the two manufacturers. While both models are expected to maintain their distinct identities, the reports indicate they could feature an updated rear-wheel drive architecture, although conflicting information exists regarding their engine specifications.
Mazda has revealed the pricing of its EZ-60 midsize SUV, developed as part of a joint-venture with Changan, with the vehicle set to hit the Chinese market at the equivalent of just $16,800 for the entry level range-extender model. Also available as a battery-electric vehicle, the car will also be sold in other markets as the CX-6e but won’t be present in the US market.
Daihatsu's Copen, a beloved model in Japan's kei car market, is set to cease production in August after over two decades, although the company is exploring the potential for a new generation. The current iteration, introduced in 2014, features a lightweight design and modest power, embodying the charm of the kei car segment, which may not see a similar model again in the near future.
BMW's R&D chief, Joachim Post, has indicated that the modular design of the Neue Klasse platform could allow for the development of a dedicated performance vehicle in the future. That could mean a potential future for a camouflaged prototype coupe photographed a year ago and sporting Neue Klasse elements, as a production model.
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class will remain in production until 2028 despite its aging design, as the company plans to introduce a new, more affordable SUV to bridge the gap with the pricier CLA. This shift reflects a strategic pivot for the brand, aiming to attract a broader customer base by offering entry-level options while acknowledging the declining profits from higher-end models.
Chevrolet is openly revealing details about its upcoming second-generation Bolt EV, which features only subtle design changes while introducing significant improvements in performance and interior technology. The 2027 model will incorporate advanced charging capabilities and a new battery composition, transitioning to lithium-iron-phosphate cells, with plans for local production to mitigate tariff impacts.
MOTORSPORT
Max Verstappen's victory in his debut GT3 race at Nurburgring highlights the potential for sim racers to transition into professional motorsport. Verstappen, known for his sim-racing hobby, co-drove with teammate and esports racer Chris Lulham in a Ferrari 296 GT3, while there were also notable performances from other sim racing veterans like Jann Mardenborough who placed second, suggesting that virtual racing could increasingly serve as a legitimate pathway for aspiring drivers to enter the competitive racing scene.
Bruno Famin, Alpine's motorsport vice-president, celebrated the team's surprising victory at the Fuji 6 Hours, where drivers Charles Milesi, Paul-Loup Chatin, and Ferdinand Habsburg triumphed despite starting from ninth and facing numerous penalties. The chaotic race featured multiple safety interventions that ultimately favored Alpine's strategy, allowing it to capitalize on timely pit stops and secure its first World Endurance Championship win.
Cadillac has appointed Adam Baker, the former head of Audi Formula Racing, as the chief operating officer for its engine division as it prepares to enter Formula 1 next season. The American manufacturer plans to start as a customer team using Ferrari power units and aims to establish its own engine production by 2029, while Baker's role will focus on developing the engine department amidst evolving regulations in the sport.
In January, Formula 1 teams will conduct a shakedown test in Barcelona for their new 2026 cars, necessitating accurate predictions of their performance levels well in advance due to significant regulatory changes. With the introduction of advanced hybrid engines and revised chassis rules, teams are currently engaged in intense development efforts, aiming to optimize their designs while navigating the complexities of evolving aerodynamics and power unit integration.
Aiva Anagnostiadis, a driver for TAG Heuer Hitech GP in the F1 Academy, has announced that she will not participate in the upcoming sixth round in Singapore due to a foot injury requiring surgery. In her absence, Megan Bruce from the GB4 Championship will take her place, marking her debut in the F1 Academy while also impacting her participation in the final GB4 race.
Marc Marquez's journey in motorcycle racing began with early triumphs despite his youth, as he quickly ascended to the World Speed Championship at just 15 years old. Following a challenging period marked by injury and setbacks, he made a remarkable comeback with Ducati, ultimately securing his ninth world championship title, solidifying his legacy in the sport.
Denny Hamlin's pursuit of his 60th victory was thwarted in a chaotic finish that saw Chase Elliot take the win in overtime. After Hamlin-racer Bubba Wallace took the lead, Hamlin made a bold move that ultimately resulted in Wallace hitting the wall, with Elliott able to capitalize on the situation and overtake both drivers to secure a dramatic win.
In honor of its historic 1965 victory at the Mexico Grand Prix, Honda will feature the iconic RA272 during this year's event on October 26, driven by current Formula 1 racer Yuki Tsunoda. This demonstration not only celebrates six decades of Honda's participation in F1 but also highlights Tsunoda's unique connection to the brand as the only Japanese driver in the series this season.
CURIOSITIES
A German startup, Vay, is set to innovate the car rental industry in Europe by employing remote drivers to deliver vehicles directly to customers, allowing for a more convenient rental experience. With recent legal changes permitting this model, Vay plans to begin operations in Berlin and has already tested its technology in Las Vegas, aiming to transform how people access rental cars.
A rare 1994 McLaren F1, formerly owned by the Brunei Royal Family, is heading to auction with expectations of a sale price exceeding $21 million. This particular vehicle, notable for its unique history and enhancements that include the High-Downforce Kit (HDK), features signatures from legendary Formula 1 drivers Michael Schumacher and Lewis Hamilton, adding to its allure among collectors.
In a recent pursuit in Orange County, a California SWAT team engaged two suspects fleeing in a large International LT cab, only to discover that their tactical vehicle was no match for the sheer size of the semi-truck. After a collision that damaged the truck's fuel tank, the chase concluded when police successfully cornered the suspects at an intersection, leading to their surrender.
An auction is currently underway for a Scuderia Toro Rosso STR14 chassis from the 2019 Formula 1 season, presented by F1 Authentics. This rolling chassis, which was driven by Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon during a successful campaign, features the team's distinctive livery and includes several components, although it lacks a power unit, with bidding commencing at £400,000 and concluding on October 21.
A one-off Rolls-Royce Wraith commissioned by Roger Daltrey is available through a classified ad, with the distinctive model featuring design elements that pay tribute to The Who. The vehicle isn’t mechanically modified, retaining the original 6.6-liter V12, but includes nods to the band’s lyrics, a special commissioning plate, the group’s logo, and Daltrey’s signature, as well as its personalized licence plate.
MotorTrend's experience with its long-term Fisker Ocean took an unexpected turn when the vehicle, after being taken in for service, seemingly vanished without a trace. Following the company's bankruptcy, the magazine learned that the car had been sold off with other unsold inventory, leaving it in the dark about its final fate.
Heidelberg is testing the Cityscanner, an advanced vehicle equipped with cameras and lidar technology, to enhance the efficiency of parking enforcement by identifying violations in real time. This innovative system, which can assess around 1,500 vehicles per hour, represents a significant leap in productivity compared to traditional methods, although it raises privacy concerns and comes with a substantial price tag.
The 1963 Corvette, particularly the split-window coupe, has become a sought-after classic among collectors, with pristine examples fetching over $200,000. A convertible version currently listed for sale in Virginia, despite its poor condition and absence of an engine, comes with numerous spare parts and is priced at $20,000, inviting potential buyers to negotiate further.
Mate Rimac’s automotive collection reflects a blend of cutting-edge hypercars and nostalgic models, highlighting his journey from a passionate car enthusiast to a leader in automotive innovation. Among his impressive lineup, the Volkswagen Golf R32 stands out as a cherished daily driver, symbolizing his connection to simpler automotive pleasures and serving as a reminder of his roots in the industry.
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!