Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:

• Toyota invests $44M in rocket business

• Fanatec exits GT World Challenge title sponsorship

• Donut Motor: 856hp, 88lb

• New Tesla Model Y images leaked

• Ferrari EV's fake exhaust noise revealed

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

Chinese brand XPeng has launched the world's first modular flying car, with the Aero HT Land Aircraft Carrier comprising a two-seat electric vertical take-off aircraft and a six-wheeled mothership vehicle. The combined price in the Chinese market is approximately 2 million RMB (£220,000), and XPeng has received over 3,000 expressions of interest from private customers. [AutoExpress​.co​.uk]

Porsche has continued filling out the updated 911 line-up with the middle-of-the-range Carrera S, which features increased power and handling at a significantly higher price. The 2025 Carrera S, positioned between the base Carrera and GTS, is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo engine that produces 353kW and 530Nm, alongside various performance and design updates. [Drive]

The overhauled Tesla Model Y has dropped its camouflage in a series of new images circulated on social media ahead of its imminent launch. The updated electric SUV is expected to feature a radically different design, improved aerodynamics for enhanced range, and upgrades to usability and quality. [Autocar]

Donut Lab's new electric motor has a better power-to-weight ratio than Koenigsegg's Dark Matter motor and is fully integrated into the wheel. The Donut Motor produces 856 horsepower and can generate up to 3,172 pound-feet of torque, making it a notable advancement in electric vehicle technology. [The Drive]

The next-generation 2026 Toyota HiLux has been caught testing for the first time in Thailand as a heavy facelift of the current model rather than an all-new design. The updates include a new front end and potential interior enhancements, but the carry-over platform may limit its competitiveness against newer rivals. [Drive]

The recent demise of the Peugeot 508 PSE has left the French firm without a performance-focused model in its line-up, but there is potential for a faster version of the next Peugeot 208 to emerge, as indicated by Stellantis UK's managing director. This new model could compete with upcoming performance vehicles from other brands, reflecting Peugeot's hot hatchback heritage. [AutoExpress​.co​.uk]

Chrysler has two new models in development based on its Halcyon concept, which includes a car and an SUV expected to launch as early as next year. The brand will also refresh the Pacifica for 2026, introducing a new exterior design and an improved hybrid system. [Motor1]

Porsche is giving the petrol-powered Cayenne another refresh to maintain its appeal alongside the upcoming all-electric fourth-generation model. The updated Cayenne will continue to offer the existing range of powertrains, including hybrid options, while adopting design cues from the facelifted 911. [AutoExpress​.co​.uk]

Genesis is introducing a Black trim package for its large and comfy G80 sedan in the 2025 model year, following similar updates on the GV80, GV80 Coupe, and G90. The package features black paint and darkened trim elements, including black wheels and a variety of interior finishes. [TheTruthAboutCars]

Audi bid adieu to convertibles by killing the droptop R8 and A5 in 2024, while VW will also discontinue the T-Roc Convertible by mid-2027 as part of a broader strategy to simplify its vehicle lineup. This shift includes the planned discontinuation of the Arteon Shooting Brake in 2026 and a significant reduction of its workforce in Germany. [Motor1]

Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna promised earlier this year that its EVs wouldn't be silent by developing unique "sound signatures" to maintain the brand's identity. A recent spy video offers a glimpse of the distinct combustion-like rumble from Ferrari's first electric test mule, which is set to debut later this year. [Motor1]

A judge has officially approved a settlement in a case brought by Tesla shareholders against board members who will now have to return stock, cash, and give up on stock options worth a total of nearly $1 billion. The settlement addresses claims of excessive compensation for board members between 2017 and 2020, without any admission of wrongdoing by Tesla or its board. [Electrek]

Electric vehicle makers in America face challenges as one of the largest battery manufacturers, CATL, has been placed on a Pentagon blacklist due to its ties with the Chinese military, raising concerns for automakers reliant on its products. [Jalopnik]

MOTORSPORT

The Belgian Grand Prix has secured a new contract that will keep it on the Formula 1 calendar for four out of six years from 2026-2031, marking the first deal of this type signed by F1 as it seeks to accommodate new events in an already crowded calendar. The historic Spa-Francorchamps circuit will host races in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031. [BBC Sport F1]

Fanatec appears to have ended its association with the SRO Motorsports group and its signature GT World Challenge series after being a title sponsor since 2021, with confirmation from SRO that a new title sponsor will be announced. The sim-racing equipment manufacturer had a difficult 2024, as parent brand Endor declared itself insolvent before being bought out by PC equipment maker Corsair. [GTPlanet]

Franco Colapinto has been linked with a role at the Alpine Formula 1 team for 2025, as he is considered a backup option if Jack Doohan does not perform well early in the season. Despite being contractually tied to Williams as a reserve driver, speculation about his potential move to Alpine has intensified due to ongoing discussions and the uncertainty surrounding Doohan's contract. [Autosport]

Liberty Media has announced the appointment of Derek Chang as its new president and CEO, following the departure of Greg Maffei. Chang, who brings extensive experience in sports broadcasting, will focus on the growth of Formula 1 and MotoGP while continuing to optimize the company's portfolio. [Autosport]

Ryo Hirakawa has joined Alpine as one of its two test and reserve drivers this year after previously serving as a development driver for McLaren. The team is also in discussions with Franco Colapinto regarding a potential role for the 2025 season. [BBC Sport F1]

FUN STUFF

Drivers who want to get into Ferrari ownership in the least expensive way possible should look into this ultra-rare FIAT. A one-of-200 2008 FIAT 500 Ferrari Dealer Edition, made as customer courtesy cars for Ferrari dealers, has become available at auction and the current bidding price undercuts the cheapest new Ferrari by more than £200,000. [Car Throttle]

At least three wildfires were raging across Greater Los Angeles as of Wednesday morning and firefighters are struggling to contain the blazes due to winds reaching 60 miles per hour. Police Academy series star Steve Guttenberg is among the volunteers who are working to clear abandoned cars to facilitate evacuations and allow fire trucks access to the affected areas. [Jalopnik]

Toyota has quietly been uploading unlisted three-hour-long videos of pure engine sounds to provide a unique auditory experience for automotive enthusiasts. The latest upload features a lengthy compilation of sounds from the Lexus LFA, including revs and idling, showcasing the engine's distinctive audio profile. [Car Throttle]

The 1996 Fiat Barchetta offers a unique alternative to the popular Mazda Miata for those seeking an affordable red convertible. Despite its front-wheel drive and limited horsepower, the Barchetta's distinctive design and rarity in the U.S. present an appealing option for enthusiasts, with this example currently bidding up to $2,500. [Jalopnik]

Charles Siperko of Maryland built a go-kart track in his backyard without permits, leading to fines and community backlash as he seeks to address local concerns and comply with regulations. The situation has escalated to a public hearing to discuss potential modifications to the track's location and usage. [The Autopian]

Harrop Engineering has developed a supercharger kit for the Suzuki Jimny to enhance its performance for off-road adventures. The upgrade increases the engine output to 134bhp and 110lb ft of torque, with snorkel-equipped versions achieving up to 142bhp. [Car Throttle]

Toyota is investing over $44 million into a Japanese rocket company called Interstellar Technologies to enter the mass-produced rocket business. The collaboration aims to leverage Toyota's manufacturing capabilities to enhance rocket production and meet future demands for orbital assets. [The Autopian]

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