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Xiaomi Partners with the Nurburgring
Andrew Evans
May 09, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Gran Turismo 7’s latest update leaks out early
Alpine boss Oakes resigned following brother’s arrest
DS builds armored DS N°8 for French President
First ever AI-generated multiplayer game demo, trained on GT4
Max Verstappen tests a Ferrari at the Nurburgring
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Xiaomi Automobile has established a significant partnership with Nurburgring, after gaining recognition when its SU7 achieved a record lap time for four-door vehicles and subsequent inclusion in a specialized testing group. The collaboration allows Xiaomi to enhance its electric vehicle development and visibility, with its branding prominently featured throughout the circuit including a renaming of the GP circuit’s Turn 12.
DS Automobiles has introduced a unique armored vehicle designed specifically for the French President, featuring distinctive design elements and luxurious materials. The interior boasts an elegant combination of blue leather and straw marquetry, while the exterior showcases a striking Sapphire Blue finish with nods to French national colors.
The European Union has extended the deadline for automakers to comply with emissions targets, allowing them until 2027 to meet the new fleet-wide average CO₂ emissions requirements. This change comes amidst ongoing stringent regulations, with significant financial implications for manufacturers who fail to balance high-emission vehicles with a sufficient mix of electric and hybrid models.
A new trade agreement between the UK and the US has been established, allowing for a reduced tariff of 10 percent on the first 100,000 British cars exported to America annually, though exceeding this limit could trigger a return to the original 25 percent tariff. While this arrangement offers some relief to UK car manufacturers, it imposes a cap on potential growth, as last year's exports nearly reached the set limit, leaving little room for expansion without incurring higher tariffs.
Toyota anticipates a significant decline in profits due to US tariffs and currency fluctuations, projecting a nearly 35% drop in net profit for the fiscal year ending March 2026. Despite these challenges, the automaker expects an increase in North American sales and may redirect some vehicles intended for the US to other markets.
The US Patent and Trademark Office has declined Tesla's request to secure the trademark for the name Robotaxi, citing that the term has been used generically for over a decade. Despite this setback, Tesla is moving forward with its autonomous ride-hailing initiative, set to begin trials in Austin, Texas, using Model Y vehicles before transitioning to a new model expected to launch in 2026.
The AM Rina, a new speedster inspired by 1960s design, has been unveiled by the Italian manufacturer Automobili Mignatta, sporting a sleek carbon fiber body and a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine. This limited-production vehicle features a lightweight construction, hydraulic power steering, and a manual transmission, promising an engaging driving experience with numerous customization options available for its exclusive clientele.
Range Rover is set to introduce its inaugural electric SUV later this year, with plans for additional models, including a smaller and potentially more affordable Velar EV featuring a significant design overhaul. This new Velar will use a cutting-edge 800V platform and aims to distinguish itself from existing models while offering advanced technology and premium materials in its interior.
MOTORSPORT
In the latest twist in the Alpine saga, it’s emerged that team principal Oliver Oakes stepped down from his role shortly after his brother, William, was arrested in connection with a criminal investigation in England. While Oliver described his departure as a personal choice, Flavio Briatore emphasized that it was not linked to any internal disagreements regarding the team's direction or driver lineup.
Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has been seen conducting tests in a Ferrari 296 GT3 at the Nürburgring Nordschleife during the NLS season's third round. Driving under the alias 'Franz Hermann', he is participating in the test alongside Chris Lulham, a driver from his racing team, although Emil Frey Racing is not competing in the current event.
Dan Towriss, CEO of TWG Motorsports, acknowledges the significant challenges ahead for Cadillac as it prepares to enter Formula 1 in 2026, but expresses confidence in the team's potential to resonate with fans due to the brand's strong American heritage. After a lengthy approval process, the team recently revealed its branding at the Miami Grand Prix, marking a pivotal moment in its journey to establish itself on the F1 grid.
Carlos Sainz has highlighted the numerous adjustments F1 drivers face when transitioning to new teams, noting that Lewis Hamilton is currently grappling with the intricacies of Ferrari's engine braking system. As Hamilton adapts from years with Mercedes, Sainz emphasizes the significant variations in car setups and driving techniques that can impact performance, illustrating the challenges of mastering a different vehicle.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull's motorsport advisor, has cautioned that abandoning their pursuit of both Formula 1 championships this season would be a serious mistake. Despite facing challenges with car performance and driver consistency, he believes there is still a viable path to victory if the team remains committed.
Mercedes has provided an update regarding George Russell's health following his performance at the Miami Grand Prix, where he secured third place despite experiencing discomfort during the race. After a thorough evaluation by medical personnel, the team confirmed that Russell has fully recovered, attributing his earlier issues to the challenging conditions and physical demands of the track.
Sergio Perez is reportedly in discussions with the Alpine F1 team regarding a potential seat for the 2026 season, following his departure from Red Bull at the end of last year. As he considers a return to racing amid upcoming regulatory changes, Perez is also a candidate for Cadillac, which is set to join the grid next year, but Alpine may offer a more competitive opportunity in the interim.
James Vowles, the principal of the Williams team, clarified the miscommunication that led to Carlos Sainz's frustrated radio messages following the Miami Grand Prix, where he believed teammate Alexander Albon had overtaken him contrary to team orders. Vowles acknowledged that the team’s instructions regarding Albon's overheating car were not clearly conveyed, resulting in confusion that he is committed to resolving to prevent similar issues in the future.
Antonio Fuoco set the fastest time during the final practice for the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, clocking in at 2m00.596s in the No. 50 AF Corse Ferrari 499P, despite encountering issues early in the session. The Jota Cadillacs secured the second and third positions, while the leading LMGT3 driver was Simon Mann in the No. 21 Vista AF Corse Ferrari 296, who recorded a time of 2m17.831s.
FUN STUFF
A scheduling oversight has inadvertently disclosed details about the Gran Turismo 7 1.59 update, set to launch on May 15, which will introduce four new vehicles. Among these additions is the Ferrari 812 Superfast, alongside the C5 Corvette, a Suzuki Carry KC kei truck, and a fifth-generation Honda CR-V, although the update notably lacks any new track announcements.
Enigma Labs has launched Multiverse, an innovative AI-driven multiplayer game developed using footage from Gran Turismo 4, which allows players to collaboratively interact within a dynamically generated environment. This project not only showcases a novel approach to AI-generated gaming but also provides an open-source platform for others to explore the potential of real-time, shared virtual experiences.
As the weekend approaches, a new arcade game titled Electric Racer Tokyo allows players to engage in a nostalgic racing experience featuring Nissan's electric vehicles, all within their web browsers. Set against the backdrop of the upcoming Formula E event in Tokyo, this game offers simple controls and a competitive global leaderboard, inviting users to test their skills as they navigate a 2D rendition of the race car.
The recently disclosed driver ratings for the F1 25 video game have sparked discussions, particularly regarding Kimi Antonelli's unexpected low ranking despite his impressive real-world achievements as a rookie. The ratings, which are derived from various performance metrics and expert opinions, have raised eyebrows, especially since they place Antonelli below drivers with less favorable track records.
A 1962 Corvette that’s been part of a collection since 1985 is now available for sale in Miami, reportedly in good condition due to its 40 years off the road. Currently listed without a reserve price, the car sports the 327ci engine, paired with a 4-speed transmission, and is in mostly functional order with just the wipers and radio noted as not working.
The 2005 RUF Rt12, a highly exclusive model with only 13 units produced and based on the 997-generation Porsche 911, features an array of performance enhancements, including a powerful twin-turbocharged engine and a distinctive wide-body design. Currently available for auction, this striking vehicle with a vibrant Blood Orange exterior and meticulously crafted interior, has a unique history, having traveled from Texas to Japan, then to Canada, and back to the US.
With the discontinuation of the Audi R8, prices for all variants of this iconic sports car are expected to rise, particularly for limited editions. Currently available is a rare first-generation R8 GT Spyder, one of only 33 right-hand drive models, which boasts low mileage and numerous performance enhancements over the standard version.
Carlos Kuceja, 28, faces serious legal repercussions after discarding a live grenade during a police chase in Berkeley, California, which began when officers attempted to stop a stolen vehicle. Following his arrest, authorities found no additional explosives at his residence, but the incident prompted an evacuation of nearby areas while an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team secured the grenade.
An audit has uncovered that 568 vehicles valued at approximately $5 million are missing from the Hall Street impound lot in St. Louis, MO, alongside nearly $86,000 in cash, raising significant concerns about management practices. The report highlights that nearly one-third of the tow records were either inaccurate or incomplete, prompting city officials to escalate the matter to federal authorities for further investigation.
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