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You Can Own F1's Most Controversial Safety Car
Andrew Evans
February 19, 2026
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Audi reveals its first hot PHEV: the new RS5
Vettel and Verstappen teaming up for Le Mans?
iRacing Arcade comes to PC at last on March 3
Volkswagen revives W12 Golf for 50th anniversary
New Adelaide Street Circuit replaces Phillip Island for MotoGP
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
Audi has revealed its new RS5 as the brand's inaugural performance vehicle equipped with a plug-in hybrid system. Succeeding the RS4 under the brand’s new naming system, the RS5 features a revamped twin-turbo V6 engine paired with an electric motor, achieving a combined output of 630hp, while adhering to stricter emissions standards.
Volkswagen has brought back its extraordinary W12 Golf, originally created in 2007, to commemorate the GTI’s 50th anniversary. This one-off model incorporates components from various high-performance vehicles, including a Lamborghini Gallardo rear axle and an Audi RS4 braking system, as well as a mid-mounted Bentley W12 engine delivering 641hp to the rear wheels.
Polestar is accelerating its growth strategy with plans to introduce four new electric vehicle models within three years, although only one is confirmed for the US market. The CEO has announced that the forthcoming Polestar 4 wagon will definitely be available in North America, featuring a design that incorporates elements of a station wagon and enhanced cargo capacity.
Rivian has released a software update for its R1 electric vehicles that enhances performance features and introduces a new Apple Watch app, allowing drivers to control their vehicles without needing a physical key or smartphone. The update also expands Sport Mode and Launch Mode to more models, improves cold-weather battery management, and adds a new suspension setting for easier entry and exit.
The future of manual transmissions in BMW's lineup appears uncertain, with the imminent discontinuation of the Z4 M40i and the potential for the next M3 to offer only automatic options. While the manual remains popular among enthusiasts the company's leadership cites performance and efficiency limitations as key reasons for moving away from traditional gearboxes, suggesting that the M2 and M4 may be among the last models to feature this option.
In 2025, the insurance sector faced significant challenges as repairable collision claims for electric vehicles surged by 14% in the US and 24% in Canada, despite a slowdown in EV sales due to expiring government incentives. The complexity of repairing these vehicles has added to the financial strain on the industry, while the total loss values for EVs decreased by 6% in the US and 13% in Canada.
Tesla has avoided a potential 30-day suspension of its sales and manufacturing operations in California by agreeing to cease using the term "Autopilot" in its promotional materials, following a lengthy legal dispute regarding the clarity of its driver-assistance system marketing. This resolution permits the company to continue its operations in the state while acknowledging a prior ruling that deemed its branding practices misleading.
Octopus, the largest energy provider in the UK, has introduced an automated billing system for employers to manage the costs associated with charging electric vehicles at home during business trips, regardless of whether they are Octopus customers. This initiative aims to simplify the reimbursement process for drivers by allowing them to indicate the purpose of their charging, with costs automatically credited back to their accounts and billed to their fleet managers.
MOTORSPORT
Sebastian Vettel has hinted at a potential future collaboration with Max Verstappen for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, expressing that they have discussed the idea when the right opportunity arises. Verstappen echoed this sentiment, noting the importance of racing with a competitive team and suggesting that they may find a suitable time to race together, especially with the longevity of drivers like Fernando Alonso.
In 2027, Adelaide will replace Phillip Island as the venue for the Australian Grand Prix of MotoGP, marking a significant shift in the event's location. The new street circuit, which will feature a 4.195km layout with 18 corners, is set to be the first fully urban track in MotoGP history and follows some of the route of the former F1 circuit.
Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, downplayed the controversy surrounding the Formula 1 compression ratio adjustments, suggesting that the uproar is exaggerated and not worth further conflict. As the 2026 regulations introduce significant changes to power units, including a reduction in the compression ratio, discussions are ongoing among manufacturers about how to measure it, with potential adjustments expected before the summer break.
Red Bull and Racing Bulls have confirmed an extension to their partnership with Visa, which will enhance its involvement since the 2024 season where it became a title sponsor for the latter team. The agreement will also support the F1 Academy and various promotional events across several US cities.
A red flag was raised again during the final pre-season test in Bahrain after an Aston Martin experienced issues for the second day in a row. Fernando Alonso, who was conducting a race simulation, encountered a mechanical failure after completing 40 laps in the first session and 28 laps in the second, highlighting ongoing challenges with the team's performance and reliability.
McLaren's team principal, Andrea Stella, expressed worries about the new manual turbo spooling process for Formula 1 cars set for 2026, advocating for extended start procedure times to ensure drivers can properly prepare. Following discussions at the F1 Commission meeting in Bahrain, the FIA tested a longer start interval, which resulted in a successful practice start, and plans to continue this trial during the upcoming race days before finalizing the procedure for the season opener in Australia.
Toto Wolff, the head of Mercedes, has firmly dismissed allegations that his team may be using unapproved fuel as the season begins, expressing frustration over the ongoing rumors. He clarified that the fuel being tested is expected to receive official approval soon and noted that the recent controversies regarding compression ratios are exaggerated and ultimately inconsequential to their performance.
Alpine has unveiled the new design for its A424 Hypercar ahead of its last season in the FIA World Endurance Championship, confirming Jules Gounon and Charles Milesi as part of its driver team. The manufacturer, which plans to exit the WEC after this year, has made minor aerodynamic adjustments to the A424 to address issues stemming from its previous low-drag design, and recently completed a successful test at Portimao.
CURIOSITIES
An Aston Martin Vantage which performed as a Formula 1 safety car is currently listed for sale at £599,990 in a classified listing in the UK. This specific vehicle, known as 'SC02', attended 34 races from 2021 to 2023 under driver Bernd Maylander, and played a notable role during the contentious 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Initially planned for a December launch on PC, iRacing Arcade has been rescheduled for release on March 3, with console players expected to gain access later in the summer. Developed by Original Fire Studios, the title offers an affordable entry point at $24.99 and features a career mode that challenges players with realistic racing dynamics while allowing them to build their own racing facilities.
In 2024, thefts of catalytic converters surged, with over 14,000 reported incidents, prompting the introduction of the Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act (PART Act) aimed at curbing these crimes through measures like VIN stamping and increased penalties. While experts view the PART Act as a crucial advancement, they emphasize that vehicle owners should remain vigilant and adopt additional protective strategies.
Amazon aims to integrate 100,000 Rivian electric delivery vans into its logistics network by 2030, having already increased its fleet to over 30,000 units as of late 2024. The company is also enhancing its infrastructure by installing thousands of EV chargers across its facilities to support this transition to electric vehicles.
A tragic collision on Northbound Interstate 25 near Pueblo, Colorado, resulted in five fatalities and 29 injuries after 36 vehicles were caught in a sudden dust storm that significantly reduced visibility. Governor Jared Polis commented on the importance of safety during adverse weather conditions, as high wind warnings remain in effect, and the incident highlights the increasing frequency of such hazardous driving situations.
Seventeen environmental organizations have initiated legal action against the EPA, arguing that the agency's recent regulatory changes threaten air quality and climate science while projecting a $1.4 trillion increase in energy expenses for Americans. The lawsuit contends that the EPA's decision to exclude greenhouse gases from regulation contradicts established law and scientific consensus, potentially leading to significant public health and environmental repercussions.
The California Highway Patrol issued a warning about the impact of cold temperatures on electric vehicle battery performance following an incident where a Rivian R1S lost power in snowy Truckee. In their social media post, they advised drivers to ensure their vehicle's charge is adequate for winter conditions and included a lighthearted commentary on recent weather-related driving mishaps.
Legislators in Massachusetts are advocating for the introduction of automated traffic enforcement systems, arguing that these cameras could enhance road safety by reducing accidents. However, concerns regarding privacy and potential misuse of data persist, prompting discussions about the need for stringent regulations to govern their implementation.
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!