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Volkswagen Paywalls Horsepower
Andrew Evans
August 14, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
The Italian F2 star not on anyone’s radar
Lamborghini reveals $130,000 home audio system
New Renault Twingo spotted testing
Promotional bucking HEMI bronco stolen
McLaren's rivals distracted by allegations
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Volkswagen has introduced a subscription model for ID.3 owners, requiring an additional monthly fee to unlock the vehicle's full specified power output, which is otherwise limited. This move is the latest in a growing trend in the automotive industry, where other brands like BMW offer subscriptions to unlock desired features.
Set to debut in mid-2026, the fourth-generation Twingo will serve as Renault's affordable entry into the electric vehicle market, priced under £17,000, and will compete directly with the forthcoming Volkswagen ID.1. This new model follows the discontinuation of its petrol predecessor in the UK and aims to attract urban drivers with its distinctive design and features reminiscent of the original Twingo.
Jaguar Land Rover has announced a recall affecting over 121,000 Range Rover and Range Rover Sport vehicles in the US. due to a potential suspension issue that could impair vehicle control, alongside a separate recall for 21,000 Evoque models related to faulty airbags. The recall, which includes models from 2014 to 2017, will involve inspections and necessary repairs at no charge to the owners, ensuring safety is prioritized.
The U.S. Secret Service is collaborating with General Motors Defense to develop a new off-road vehicle that offers enhanced mobility and a lower profile compared to their current armored Chevy Suburbans. While specific details remain undisclosed, the initiative aims to create a platform that better suits various terrains and operational needs, particularly in environments where traditional vehicles may attract unwanted attention.
The MG4 has received approval for sale in China as the first mass-produced electric vehicle to incorporate a semi-solid-state battery, marking a significant advancement in EV technology. While pre-orders have begun with a starting price of approximately $10,000, detailed specifications and pricing for the new battery variant are expected to be disclosed in September, ahead of deliveries slated for late 2025.
Nissan is recalling nearly 14,000 units of the 2025 Frontier due to a minor issue with the daytime running lights caused by the automatic stop-start system, which briefly dims the lights during engine restarts. The problem, linked to a software update for the Engine Control Module, will be resolved at no cost to owners through a dealership update.
Tesla is reportedly considering an enhancement to its in-car graphics for Autopilot and Full Self-Driving functionalities by transitioning to Unreal Engine from Epic Games. Evidence of this potential shift has been discovered in the 2025.20 firmware for Model S and Model X vehicles equipped with AMD processors.
A new venture named Tensor has emerged, claiming to be the first company to produce an autonomous vehicle specifically designed for individual ownership. Although it has ties to AutoX, a Chinese autonomous vehicle developer, Tensor is positioning itself as an independent entity focused on personal autonomy and plans to launch its vehicle in various international markets by 2026.
MOTORSPORT
The ongoing Formula 2 season is highly competitive, with a narrow point margin among the top five drivers. While traditionally a stepping stone to F1, current championship leader Leonardo Fornaroli faces uncertainty regarding his future in Formula 1, particularly with upcoming regulatory changes that may limit opportunities for new talent.
McLaren's early-season scrutiny in the 2025 Formula 1 campaign ultimately reassured the team, as it recognized that Red Bull's focus on unsubstantiated theories about its car was a diversion. Team principal Andrea Stella noted that while Red Bull's intense pressure led to unnecessary inspections, it also meant their rivals were distracted from improving their own performance.
McLaren is on track to secure its second constructors' championship this year, having already achieved 11 victories in 14 races, significantly surpassing last year's performance. With a focus on innovative engineering and a commitment to developing a versatile car, the team is positioning itself for a competitive close to the season while allowing drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri to vie for the championship without internal conflict.
Mercedes' trackside engineering director, Andrew Shovlin, believes that Kimi Antonelli should not bear full responsibility for his recent struggles in performance, as many factors contributed to his challenges. While the young driver faced a tough start to his European season, Shovlin emphasized that the team's decisions, particularly regarding a rear suspension upgrade, played a significant role in impacting results.
Red Bull's team principal, Laurent Mekies, has dismissed the idea of integrating components from the Racing Bulls vehicle to address the challenges faced by the RB21. He emphasized that the distinct origins of the cars make it impractical to transfer elements between them, especially given the late stage of the season.
Porsche is set to honor its privateer victories at the Le Mans 24 Hours by featuring a distinctive livery inspired by the renowned New Man Joest 956 on a 911 GT3-R during the Suzuka 1000km race. The vehicle will be piloted by World Endurance Championship champions Kevin Estre and Laurens Vanthoor, alongside Patrick Pilet, as they aim to create a memorable performance in this prestigious endurance event.
Following his victory in the NASCAR Xfinity Series at Watkins Glen, Connor Zilisch was injured after falling while celebrating on top of his car, raising concerns about safety protocols. In response to speculation about potential changes to Victory Lane practices, NASCAR's communications director confirmed that there are currently no plans to restrict drivers from celebrating.
In the latest season of Drive to Survive, Haas team manager Ayao Komatsu reflected on the decision to bring Esteban Ocon on board, addressing initial skepticism about his fit within the team. With half a season now over, Komatsu asserts that Ocon has demonstrated his commitment to teamwork, particularly highlighted by his selfless decision to allow teammate Oliver Bearman to pass during a race, reinforcing the importance of trust and communication within the team dynamic.
CURIOSITIES
Lamborghini has collaborated with Sonus faber to create a luxurious version of the Ex3me loudspeaker, featuring distinctive design elements inspired by the iconic car brand. This high-end audio system, officially called Il Cremonese Ex3me - Automobili Lamborghini Edition and limited to just 50 units with five different Lamborghini color finishes, is set to debut at the Monterey Car Week with an estimated price around $130,000.
Ram is seeking the return of its unique "Bucking HEMI", a mechanical bull that embodies the brand's V8 performance legacy, which was stolen during the Roadkill Nights event in Pontiac, Michigan. The incident not only disrupts its promotional efforts as it prepares to reintroduce the HEMI V8 in the 2026 Ram 1500, but also highlights the importance of safeguarding distinctive brand assets.
Genesis has introduced a new range of lifestyle products in the US, featuring a meticulously crafted 1:18 scale model limited to just 500 pieces. While the collection includes various merchandise, such as clothing and accessories, the standout item remains the detailed G90 model, which is available alongside other scale replicas through select retailers and online.
The upcoming Fast & Furious: Arcade Edition, developed by Raw Thrills, aims to bring an engaging racing experience reminiscent of their previous arcade titles, although it lacks some iconic vehicles from the franchise. Set to launch on October 24 for various consoles, the game will feature eight customizable cars and local multiplayer options, alongside unique bonus challenges.
London's supercar scene has sparked concerns among locals regarding noise, reckless driving, and environmental impact. In response, the Metropolitan Police recently intensified efforts to address the issues, collaborating with the Motor Insurers' Bureau to seize dozens of high-value vehicles from owners lacking proper insurance during a focused operation in affluent neighborhoods.
AC Milan and BMW have extended their partnership, which began in 2021, allowing the German automotive brand to maintain its status as the club's official automotive partner in Italy. This collaboration has included the provision of vehicles to players and staff, joint events, and initiatives aimed at promoting sustainability, with plans for continued fan engagement in the upcoming season.
Carrera has unveiled its latest innovation, the Carrera Hybrid, which allows users to race 1:50-scale cars on a customizable track without traditional slots, using a mobile app for control. Set to launch a starter kit in the US on September 1st, the system features rechargeable battery-powered vehicles and offers a dynamic racing experience enhanced by app-driven performance adjustments and various track conditions.
A Plymouth GTX Convertible is available through an eBay auction for no reserve and beginning at $1,500, although its condition may make restoration a challenging endeavor. Although the seller acknowledges the vehicle's intact interior and powertrain, it’s not wholly clear which engine it is or how functional it is, while extensive rust damage and structural issues suggest replacement rather than restoration would be in order.
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