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Volkswagen's EV City Car Previewed
Andrew Evans
March 06, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Motorsport UK threatens FIA with legal action
Thieves steal $320K in parts from Abt
Jaguar promises “elegant sunset” for its old models
$5.4m Mercedes-AMG One scam
Verstappen's GT3 racing team debut
...and more!
INDUSTRY NEWS
Volkswagen is set to launch the production version of the ID Every1, an affordable electric vehicle priced at approximately £17,000, aimed for release in 2027 as a successor to the Up city car. This model will use a modified front-wheel drive platform and is designed to provide a range of at least 155 miles, featuring a new electric motor and a distinctive design that reflects the brand's commitment to accessible electric mobility in Europe.
Jaguar is embarking on a significant transformation, introducing a new brand identity and a lineup of vehicles aimed at elevating its market position, despite mixed reactions from within the company. Managing director Rawdon Glover emphasized the necessity of this shift, indicating that future models will target a higher price range while still seeking to retain existing customers during this transition and promising a fitting send-off for the final cars of the current ethos.
Tesla is set to establish a new Megafactory in Texas, following the approval of a tax abatement agreement with Waller County, which will support significant investments in facility and manufacturing equipment upgrades. The 1-million-square-foot site, previously leased by logistics firm DB Schenker, will be repurposed for Megapack production, contributing to local job creation and expanding Tesla's energy sector operations.
Chevrolet has unveiled the Silverado EV ZR2 race truck concept, showcasing a robust design with advanced features such as a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system generating 1,100 horsepower and a suspension designed for off-road performance. This prototype, primarily constructed from existing production components, was revealed at the Mint 400 event and highlights the brand's commitment to electric performance in the truck segment.
General Motors is embroiled in a legal dispute initiated by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin, who accuses the company and its OnStar division of unlawfully selling driver information to third parties, enabling insurers to adjust premiums or deny coverage. This lawsuit, part of a broader pattern of legal challenges against GM regarding data privacy, seeks financial restitution for consumers and aims to halt further unauthorized data sales.
The US government has provided a temporary reprieve from the 25 percent tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico for major domestic automakers, allowing Ford, GM, and Stellantis an additional month to adapt before the tariffs take effect on April 2. This exemption, requested by the companies, aims to prevent immediate economic disadvantages while raising concerns about potential increases in production costs and new vehicle prices once the tariffs are implemented.
Tesla is facing significant challenges, with declining sales, disappointing performance of the Cybertruck, and a substantial drop in stock value since early 2025. In response, the company is reintroducing attractive financing options for the Model 3 sedan, including zero down payment and low-interest rates, to attract buyers as it navigates a difficult financial period.
A new British company named Halcyon has introduced an electric restomod version of the classic Rolls-Royce Corniche, transforming its traditional drivetrain into a powerful electric setup. This conversion not only enhances performance with options for extended range and customizable driving modes but also reimagines the interior with modern features and personal touches, all starting at a price of £395,000.
MOTORSPORT
The FIA is potentially facing legal repercussions after some members were excluded from a World Motor Sport Council meeting due to their refusal to accept a new confidentiality agreement, which has been labeled a "gagging order" by David Richards, chairman of Motorsport UK. Richards, who has expressed disappointment over the FIA's lack of transparency and governance, has indicated that further legal action will be pursued unless the organization addresses the concerns raised by Motorsport UK.
Max Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 champion, has initiated his own GT3 racing team, entering a single Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Evo in the GT World Challenge Europe’s Gold Cup category, supported by 2 Seas Motorsport. The team will feature drivers Thierry Vermeulen, Chris Lulham, and Harry King, with Verstappen expressing his commitment to nurturing emerging talent in motorsport.
Red Bull's decision to pair Liam Lawson with Max Verstappen for the upcoming F1 season marks a strategic shift in their approach to managing the second driver's role. With Lawson's limited experience compared to his predecessor Sergio Perez, the team aims to adopt a more measured strategy, allowing him the necessary time to adapt alongside Verstappen, who seeks to secure his fifth consecutive championship.
Haas team principal Ayao Komatsu is optimistic that the issues with the team's bodywork will be resolved before the upcoming Australian Grand Prix, acknowledging that the 2025 design was overly ambitious. Despite setbacks during pre-season testing, including significant parts detaching from the cars, Komatsu believes the team can compete effectively against rivals like Williams and Alpine in the midfield.
Honda Racing Corporation is fully engaged in developing its new Formula 1 engine, aiming for readiness by the start of the 2026 season after transitioning from Red Bull Racing to a partnership with Aston Martin. HRC is focused on finalizing key components and coordinating closely with Aston to ensure compatibility, while also addressing workforce challenges following its previous split with Red Bull.
The organizers of the Las Vegas Grand Prix reported that the 2024 event generated nearly $934 million in revenue, with $45 million allocated for taxes, including $15.5 million earmarked for educational funding in Nevada. The race attracted significant tourism, with attendees spending an average of $2,400, and featured a global audience of 56.1 million viewers, while the newly announced Grand Prix Plaza aims to enhance fan engagement with interactive experiences starting March 29.
James Vowles has expressed his commitment to honoring the legacy of Sir Frank Williams, the late founder of the Williams racing team, as he takes on the role of team principal. Since his appointment, Vowles has focused on revitalizing the team's culture and performance, aiming to restore it to its former competitive stature in the sport.
NASCAR is currently defending its charter system against allegations from 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports, who have filed a lawsuit claiming antitrust violations related to the 2025 Charter Agreement. The league's lead counsel argues that while the charter system was initially requested by teams, it is not essential for NASCAR's operations, and the ongoing legal dispute threatens the future of this framework that aims to enhance financial stability for participating teams.
FUN STUFF
Three years have passed since the debut of Gran Turismo 7 on PlayStation platforms, prompting a retrospective on its evolution and updates over this period. The game has seen a mix of challenges and enhancements, including significant content additions and the introduction of new features, while also facing criticisms regarding the frequency of new tracks and the balance between fan expectations and delivered content.
A recent theft at ABT's headquarters resulted in the loss of parts valued at approximately €300,000 from seven of their modified vehicles. In response to the incident, which involved the deliberate disabling of power and lighting to facilitate the crime, the company is reviewing its security protocols while local authorities conduct their investigation.
A billionaire from Los Angeles, Michael Mente, is embroiled in a legal dispute after allegedly being defrauded in a $5.4 million hypercar purchase when the dealer he worked with turned out to be a con artist. The individual, who falsely represented himself as a French car dealer, is now linked to a criminal past involving identity theft and fraud, leading to Mente's lawsuit against him.
Alfa Romeo is rapidly evolving, focusing on its Junior and Tonale SUV models, while preparing to introduce an electric version of the Stelvio later this year, built on Stellantis' STLA Large platform. Additionally, the brand plans to launch an electric Giulia in 2026, marking a significant shift since the recent revival of the iconic model.
A unique 2018 Porsche 911 GT3, featuring an eye-catching hand-painted exterior, is currently available for purchase in the Netherlands, attracting attention from car enthusiasts. This model is equipped with a powerful 4.0-liter flat-six engine, delivering 500 horsepower and a range of desirable features, but it comes with a hefty price tag of €265,000, which is approximately $285,000.
"Pop Cross" is a captivating short documentary from July 1972 that showcases a grassroots rallycross event featuring Citroën vehicles in Argenton-sur-Creuse, France. The film highlights the spirited atmosphere of the competition, complete with a vibrant soundtrack and a diverse crowd, while offering a nostalgic glimpse into the unique and enduring world of local racing.
A kei truck has been ingeniously adapted to traverse abandoned railway tracks, showcasing its versatility beyond traditional uses. This innovative project, undertaken by Preston Summerrow, highlights his passion for automotive creativity as he transforms the compact vehicle into a unique rail explorer.
In March, Supercars.net explored the Pagani Museum and Factory in San Cesario sul Panaro, Italy, a location rich in automotive heritage. While the town may seem unassuming, it houses Horacio Pagani's remarkable 1/3 Zonda HP Barchetta and offers a glimpse into the brand's impressive lineup, though photography and discussions about ongoing customer projects were restricted during the visit.
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