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

• Rare 1994 Toyota Supra auctioned

• Button, Bamber, and Bourdais team up for WEC

• Mad, homebuilt, mid-engined Viper

• Mazda and Toyota developing new shared sports car

• Veloce first Extreme H entry

...and more!

INDUSTRY NEWS

The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has established itself as a formidable contender in the hypercar arena by setting five new production car lap records across various iconic American tracks. Despite being driven by GM's own engineering team rather than professional racing drivers, the ZR1 outperformed the previous record holders at Road America, Road Atlanta, Watkins Glen, and two layouts at VIR, with impressive times eclipsing those of the McLaren Senna and Porsche 911 GT2 RS. [The Autopian]

Toyota Gazoo Racing is developing a new supercar, possibly to be named the Lexus LFR, and expecting to start production this summer. The car bears strong resemblence to the Toyota GR GT3 concept from 2022 but sporting more Lexus-like design elements, and with a rumored 900hp, twin-turbo V8 engine combined with a hybrid system, could succeed the LFA. [Carscoops]

Alpine's A110 R Ultime is a significant step above the A110 R, with increased performance that the brand estimates will shave 20 seconds off its Nurburgring lap. Although no official figures are available, Alpine projects a 7:15 lap time for the car - which will be limited to 110 units at $290k apiece - courtesy of an overhaul of almost every mechanical component and a new aerodynamics package, but even if verified the time is slower than that of the much cheaper Porsche Cayman 718 GT4 RS. [Carscoops]

Mazda is reportedly set to develop a new sports car featuring an inline six-cylinder petrol engine, moving away from its traditional rotary design. This shift comes amid a strengthened partnership with Toyota, which may facilitate the development of both brands' upcoming performance vehicles as Toyota eyes a replacement for the Supra. [Drive]

While the White House aims to foster a business-friendly environment, its recent tariff announcements have created uncertainty and disruption for the automotive sector. Executives at companies like Ford and General Motors emphasize that the volatility in trade policies undermines long-term planning and investment, potentially jeopardizing the industry's stability and growth. [InsideEVs]

Automakers are also currently navigating a precarious situation as they face potential cuts to the EV tax credit, which could significantly impact their investments and job creation in the sector. In response, industry leaders are advocating for a gradual phasing out of incentives to mitigate financial losses and maintain competitiveness in the evolving electric vehicle landscape. [InsideEVs]

Porsche is reportedly set to reintroduce the rally-inspired 992 Dakar model in 2026, featuring a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.6-liter engine with electric assistance for enhanced performance and efficiency. The previous version was limited to 2,500 units, and the new iteration is expected to have a similar production cap along with a price tag that could approach $250,000, reflecting its exclusive nature and advanced technology. [Carscoops]

A recent study on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) highlights the distinction between safety-enhancing and comfort-enhancing technologies, revealing that the latter, such as adaptive cruise control, may actually lead to increased crash rates. The findings suggest that while systems designed for comfort can distract drivers, those focused on safety, like lane keeping assist and automatic emergency braking, demonstrate a more significant reduction in crash occurrences. [The Autopian]

MOTORSPORT

Jenson Button will compete alongside Sebastien Bourdais and Earl Bamber in the #38 Cadillac for the 2025 WEC season, forming an experienced trio with significant accolades that include a combined total of 333 Grands Prix and multiple endurance racing victories. Despite being a relatively older squad, Button remains optimistic about their potential, emphasizing that motivation and fitness are crucial for continued success in racing. [The Race]

Lamborghini Squadra Corse will participate in the IMSA Sanctioned Test at Sebring International Raceway with the SC63, despite earlier concerns about its commitment following a disappointing performance at the Daytona 24 Hours. The updated entry list confirms that Romain Grosjean and Andrea Caldarelli will drive the No. 63 car, which is part of a larger field of 40 vehicles at the event. [RACER]

Sergio Perez is reportedly in discussions with the Cadillac F1 team as it prepares for a potential entry into the sport in 2026. Cadillac has yet to receive official approval from Formula One Management and the FIA, but the American outfit is actively pursuing its plans and sees the experienced driver as a strong candidate for their lineup. [RacingNews365]

The Qiddiya City Speed Park, set to replace the Jeddah Corniche Circuit as the home of F1 in Saudi Arabia, is attracting attention with its unique design and innovative spectator experience, as construction moves forward. Located 45km from Riyadh, this motorsports facility aims to transform the landscape of racing in Saudi Arabia while integrating with other significant projects in Qiddiya City, with a projected 2027 completion date. [Autosport]

McLaren has announced a contract extension for aerodynamics chief Peter Prodromou, underscoring the team's strategic shift following a significant restructuring of its technical department. This move reflects a broader commitment to enhancing performance as McLaren prepares for the 2025 season, aiming for both drivers' and constructors' championships amidst a competitive landscape. [Motorsport​.com]

The Formula E team Cupra Kiro has welcomed British actor Idris Elba as a new investor, enhancing its ownership structure after a recent acquisition by The Forest Road Company. With a vision focused on innovation and sustainability, the team aims to establish itself as a significant contender in the motorsport arena, supported by a diverse group of prominent investors. [RACER]

Veloce has publicly declared its plans to participate in the FIA Extreme H World Cup, marking a significant step as the first team to confirm entry into this hydrogen-powered racing series set to launch this year. Having previously competed in Extreme E, where they achieved notable success, Veloce aims to leverage this new platform to further promote sustainable solutions and environmental awareness in motorsport. [RACER]

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem emphasized the need for enhanced international collaboration to improve cross-border travel and transport safety. He urged delegates to prioritize the swift implementation of the ITC 2030 Strategy, highlighting the importance of transforming agreements into tangible actions for sustainable mobility. [FIA Press Releases]

Red Bull Racing has secured a multi-year partnership with cybersecurity company 1Password, marking the firm's inaugural collaboration in Formula 1. The 1Password branding will be prominently displayed on the new RB21 car and will also extend to the Red Bull Formula 1 Academy, despite interest from rival teams like McLaren and Mercedes. [RacingNews365]

FUN STUFF

A rare, unmodified example of the 1994 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo is being auctioned in the UK, distinguished by its low mileage - with only 24,433 miles on the odometer - and pristine condition. The A80-generation Supra was a focus for tuners, with many big-power builds and body kits, so this car represents a unique opportunity for collectors, who desire preservation rather thatn customization. [Car Throttle]

A creative individual in Las Vegas has taken home-build automotive modification to new heights with a number of unique vehicles that include a mid-engined Viper. Known only as “Duncan”, the habitual tinkerer has also combined a vintage Postal Jeep with a Jeep Grand Cherokee, and built a custom Hummer H3, as well as the supercar made from a wrecked Viper and custom chassis and body. [The Autopian]

Online lender LendingTree has revealed that Tesla drivers may be among the least responsible on U.S. roads, as they topped the list for the highest number of insurance claims related to speeding, DUIs, and accidents. The study raises questions about whether this trend is due to a misplaced confidence in their vehicles' safety features or other factors influencing driver behavior. [Jalopnik]

The classic NA Miata has undergone an electric transformation by Electrogenic, offering a bespoke conversion that combines a 160hp motor with the model's lightweight charm. Although the conversion adds some weight, the driving experience remains engaging, with three modes to cater to different preferences, proving that this beloved sports car can thrive in an electric format without losing its essence. [InsideEVs]

Japanese enthusiasts are known for their dedication to reviving race cars for street use, exemplified by Syuichi Kinoshita's unique Lamborghini Diablo GT2, the only road-legal version of its kind. After a decade-long restoration, Kinoshita-san transformed this rare competition vehicle into a manageable yet exhilarating ride, demonstrating the blend of racing heritage and everyday practicality. [Speedhunters]

Renault is embracing its heritage with the introduction of 'The Originals Renault la Collection', a new program aimed at supporting owners of classic Renault vehicles through innovative services and access to spare parts. Initially available in France, this initiative not only offers free repair manuals but also aims to expand internationally, catering to the needs of enthusiasts while reinforcing the brand's commitment to its automotive legacy. [PistonHeads​.com]

Subaru has reintroduced its Gelande Taxi service at Naeba Ski Resort, allowing skiers and snowboarders to be driven to the slopes in their vehicles, showcasing the brand's all-wheel-drive capabilities. The event also celebrated 50 years of Subaru's partnership with the Japan Ski Federation, featuring a display of classic wagons and appearances by notable athletes, including Olympic medalists. [Japanese Nostalgic Car]

A restored and re-engineered Range Rover is available for sale in the UK, with the popular classic model updated throughout, to blend its iconic design with enhanced performance and comfort. Rebuilt by Range Rover specialists Twenty Ten Engineering in Surrey, this late-model, first-generation LSE sports a 4.8-liter V8, reworked gearbox, brakes, and suspension, and a refreshed interior which includes tan leather Recaro seats. [PistonHeads​.com]

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