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Saving Aston Martin by selling less: the crazy bet of the man who already saved Bentley and now aims to produce the world’s best luxury sports cars

The British luxury brand Aston Martin is going through a pivotal period in its history. Again.

Known for its tumultuous past and recurring financial difficulties, the manufacturer has given itself 12 to 18 months to turn things around. In charge? Adrian Hallmark, former head of Bentley, who managed to get that brand back on the path to profitability. His approach for Aston Martin isn’t based on chasing volume, but on repositioning around value and exclusivity.

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What’s the plan to make Aston Martin profitable?

For Adrian Hallmark, producing more doesn’t necessarily mean earning more. Unlike other manufacturers who rely on high volumes to recoup their investments, he believes the secret lies in the perceived value of each car. He cites Ferrari as an example, a brand that built its empire by deliberately limiting production to maintain exclusivity and very high margins. Aston Martin, which currently produces about 7,000 cars per year, isn’t necessarily looking to double that number. The goal is to optimize the cost structure and improve productivity, rather than flooding dealerships with excess models. That’s where the “selling less” in the title of this article comes from. According to Hallmark, Aston Martin can become a prosperous company without reaching 13,000 units per year, by adjusting its lineup and sales strategy.

2024 Vantage - © Aston Martin
2024 Vantage – © Aston Martin

Fewer new models, more variations

Aston Martin has recently launched four new models in 18 months, a brisk pace that temporarily slowed the company’s production. Hallmark wants to change this approach by taking inspiration from Porsche and its 911 lineup, which is based on a proven technical platform offered in several versions: Carrera, Carrera S, Carrera 4, 911 GTS, Targa, GT3, GT3 RS, Turbo—there are countless variations of the 911. Rather than investing heavily in developing new platforms, Aston Martin will build on derivatives of existing models. For example, the Valhalla, the mid-engine hybrid hypercar, is expected to have at least two new variants. Following market logic, one could be a convertible version, while the other would be an ultra-limited special edition aimed at wealthy collectors and track day enthusiasts.

This approach would allow the brand to offer novelty without the exorbitant costs associated with completely developing a new model. Hallmark explains that modifying an existing car requires far fewer new parts than a 100% new model, thus reducing industrial constraints and financial risks.

More powerful than an F1 car, Aston Martin unveils the first rear-engine supercar in its history: the Valhalla

Aston Martin listens to its customers

Another very important point is the ability of the British brand to listen to its customers and fans. Recently, they announced that they want to continue producing V12 engines, at least until 2030. Manual gearboxes are also highly appreciated by Hallmark, who intends to keep them in the lineup for as long as possible. By choosing to preserve these valuable attributes, Aston Martin shows that beyond the race for innovation and modernity, it will continue to promote its passion and authenticity for as long as possible. And that’s great news for fans who are tired of the over-modernization of sports cars.

The harsh law of the luxury automotive market

The current economic climate could well help Aston Martin in its transition. According to Hallmark, the number of potential customers for luxury cars has never been higher. Over the past twenty years, the population of ultra-rich individuals has exploded, and their wealth has quadrupled. In other words, there are more customers than ever who can afford an Aston Martin, whether it’s the Vanquish, the DBX, DB12, or the Valhalla. By focusing on more exclusive and customizable models, the brand hopes to attract clientele looking for unique cars rather than mass-produced ones. And the advantage is that buying an Aston Martin seems much less complicated than buying a Ferrari, where the Italian brand filters its customers and suffers from delays that send used market prices soaring…

This article explores Aston Martin’s new strategy under Adrian Hallmark’s leadership, which bets on more exclusive and profitable models rather than mass production. By reducing the number of new models and focusing on variations, the brand hopes to attract a wealthy clientele and secure its future.

Images: © Aston Martin

Discover how this French Formula 1 driver ruined a wedding right in the middle of the ceremony to launch his film career

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Formula 1 drivers are used to being in the Netflix spotlight, but not necessarily for acting in films!

Yet, Esteban Ocon has quietly made his cinema debut, and it wasn’t in the highly anticipated film “F1” with Brad Pitt, but in a French comedy streaming on Netflix. A brief cameo, but one that certainly amused fans.

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A F1 driver in a Netflix film?

In “Lune de miel avec ma mère” (“Honeymoon with my mother“), Esteban Ocon plays Damien, a character who bears an uncanny resemblance to him. It’s a French film inspired by another Spanish film, which is also available on Netflix. The story revolves around Lucas, a man abandoned on his wedding day by his fiancée, who leaves him for a certain Damien… a Formula 1 driver for Alpine. Sound familiar? In one memorable scene, the soon-to-be bride escapes during the ceremony to join Ocon, who is waiting for her outside the town hall in an Alpine A110. A nice nod for a driver who represented the French team for several seasons before joining Haas in 2025. Although his role is brief, Ocon shows plenty of humor. When Élodie, the runaway fiancée, tells her ex that she is now with an F1 driver, he is completely shocked, convinced that his rival was… a mechanic. Ocon then delivers a sarcastic “Ouch, tough luck for him,” a line that shows he handled his camera debut quite well.

This American billionaire owns the ONLY example of this legendary Ferrari among his collection of 22 supercars valued at over 30 million dollars

A cameo that intrigues Formula 1 fans

Esteban Ocon’s unexpected cameo surprised many, especially since it was revealed only a few days before the film’s release. Netflix France teased his appearance via an Instagram story, later confirmed by Ocon himself: “Yes, that was me,” he said, without giving too many details about the opportunity. This appearance is particularly surprising because of its timing. Ocon had just changed teams, leaving Alpine for Haas. Seeing him play an Alpine driver, even though he has moved on, is unexpected, and one might imagine that his new team might have preferred to avoid this nod to his former outfit. Moreover, the film takes some liberties with Formula 1. A scene meant to take place in Monaco was actually shot at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, a detail that won’t escape keen fans. And in the story, Ocon and his new partner are about to head to the Miami Grand Prix, even though the actual F1 calendar would likely not schedule these races back-to-back.

Esteban Ocon - © Netflix
Esteban Ocon – © Netflix

Esteban Ocon: A future in cinema?

While this cameo remains a small part of his career, Esteban Ocon might have developed a taste for cinema. His role in “Lune de miel avec ma mère” comes just before the release of the blockbuster “F1,” in which he shares the screen with Brad Pitt. This time, he isn’t playing a fictional character—he is playing himself in a scene where he crashes into Brad Pitt’s character on the Abu Dhabi circuit. With this double appearance on the big screen in 2025, Ocon joins the short list of drivers who have tried their hand at cinema. Although he may not yet have the charisma of Lewis Hamilton or the media ease of Daniel Ricciardo, his natural presence in front of the camera could open new doors for him.

This article explores Esteban Ocon’s unexpected cameo in a Netflix French film, where he plays an Alpine F1 Team driver in the midst of a romantic plot. A fun appearance that comes at the moment he switches to Haas, and that precedes his role in the film “F1” with Brad Pitt. It raises the question of whether cinema could become a new avenue for the French driver.

Images: © Alpine F1 Team / © Netflix

The main flaw of electric cars is FINALLY going to be fixed thanks to this discovery that will enable the creation of much more durable batteries.

Revolutionary discovery unveils future of electric vehicle batteries: longer life on the horizon.

Electric vehicles (EVs) and consumer electronics might soon enjoy a significant leap in battery life thanks to groundbreaking research conducted at the University of Texas at Dallas. Scientists have pinpointed the primary cause of degradation in lithium nickel oxide (LiNiO₂) batteries, setting the stage for innovations that could extend battery longevity and performance across a spectrum of devices.

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The challenge of lithium nickel oxide

For years, LiNiO₂ has been recognized as a promising cathode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its high capacity and energy density. Originally discovered in the 1950s, its potential was not fully acknowledged until much later. Despite its advantages, the adoption of LiNiO₂ in commercial applications has been limited. The material suffers from rapid degradation during charge cycles, particularly under high voltage conditions, which leads to capacity fading, structural instability, and a shortened lifespan.

Your diesel car will soon be a power plant on wheels! This invention aims to fix a major problem with combustion engines: the 75% energy loss

Breakthrough via computational modeling

The team at UT Dallas employed advanced computational modeling techniques to delve into the atomic-level interactions within LiNiO₂ during battery operation. Their research uncovered that specific chemical reactions involving oxygen atoms cause significant structural instability and material breakdown. This revelation is a major advancement in understanding why LiNiO₂ batteries have failed to meet longevity expectations.

Innovating stability with structural reinforcements

Based on their findings, the researchers propose a novel approach to enhance the stability of LiNiO₂. By introducing a specific type of positively charged ion (cation) into the cathode structure, they can create ‘pillars’ within the material. These pillars act as reinforcements, preventing the cathode from cracking and degrading over time. This solution could dramatically increase the material’s durability and its practical application in high-energy-density batteries.

Implications for the future of battery technology

This research is part of a broader initiative called BEACONS, launched in 2023, which focuses on pioneering new battery technologies and manufacturing processes. The initiative not only aims to enhance the performance of batteries but also to ensure the availability of critical raw materials and to foster a skilled workforce in the battery manufacturing sector.

Scaling up: From lab to market

Matthew Bergschneider, the study’s lead author and a doctoral student, is currently setting up a robotics-based laboratory designed to prototype these enhanced batteries. Initial small-scale production will gradually expand, aiming to manufacture hundreds of batteries weekly. This step is crucial for moving from laboratory discoveries to commercial applications, promising to revolutionize battery manufacturing and deployment, especially in the EV industry.

Paving the way for durable, high-performance batteries

The insights gained from the UT Dallas research are vital for overcoming longstanding barriers in lithium-ion battery technology. By addressing the degradation issues of LiNiO₂, the team has laid the groundwork for developing batteries that not only last longer but also perform better. This advancement is expected to have significant impacts on the consumer electronics market and the burgeoning electric vehicle industry, where battery life and reliability are paramount.

180 mph on a wet track? A safety level this high has never been achieved before, thanks to this French invention

This transformative research heralds a new era in battery technology, promising to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of energy storage across multiple platforms. As the team moves forward with their innovations, the potential for longer-lasting, more reliable batteries becomes increasingly tangible, marking a significant milestone in the quest for sustainable and efficient energy solutions.

Source: https://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.202403837

This British luxury brand is aiming to produce the most beautiful SUVs—and it’s betting $81.2 million on its paint finish to make it happen

Jaguar Land Rover is about to take a major turning point in its strategy by investing heavily in its painting infrastructure.

Faced with the growing demand for customized vehicles, the British automaker is injecting $81.2 million into expanding its facilities in the United Kingdom and Slovakia. This move is driven by a dual goal: to meet the expectations of increasingly demanding customers while reducing the environmental impact of one of the most energy-intensive processes in the automotive industry. But what exactly is behind this announcement?

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Jaguar Land Rover bets on customization

For several years now, personalization has become a key criterion for high-end car buyers—whether it’s Tailor Made at Ferrari, McLaren Special Operations, or Mulliner at Bentley. For the Jaguar Land Rover group, this trend is especially evident on the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models, where the demand for custom colors has doubled since 2022. In response to this enthusiasm, the automaker has decided to significantly increase its capacity to produce special paints, notably through its SV Bespoke program, which allows customers to choose exclusive shades, sometimes even matching a yacht or a private jet. After all, why not?

The Castle Bromwich center in the UK will become the new epicenter of customization operations, with a budget of $59.2 million dedicated to modernizing its paint booths. New technologies will be deployed there to ensure better energy efficiency while improving the precision and quality of finishes.

Only 5 in the world! No SUV from this famous luxury brand has ever commanded such a high price and such exclusivity

A commitment to carbon neutrality

Automotive painting is one of the most polluting processes in the industry. About 80% of the operational emissions from automotive plants come from these workshops, mainly due to the thermal treatments required to fix paints and clear coats. Jaguar Land Rover aims to reduce this impact by investing in cutting-edge technologies and gradually adopting electric solutions to replace gas-powered ovens. The Nitra plant in Slovakia, where the Defender and Discovery models are assembled, will soon host a fully electric paint line—a first for the group. This $12.4 million investment will expand the range of custom colors available for these models while reducing energy consumption. The long-term goal is to gradually eliminate the emissions associated with painting, an essential step in the brand’s carbon neutrality strategy.

Range Rover SV Bespoke Collins Edition - © Land Rover
Range Rover SV Bespoke Collins Edition – © Land Rover

What does this massive investment mean?

With this investment, Jaguar Land Rover confirms its intent to position itself in the ultra-custom luxury segment. The SV Bespoke models, which feature the most exclusive finishes, are already highly sought after by the wealthiest customers. A Range Rover SV with custom paint costs on average $87,400 more than a standard model, bringing its total price to around $252,300. Moreover, the expansion of painting infrastructure is not limited to the most exclusive models. Jaguar Land Rover plans to offer extended customization options across its entire range, appealing to a broader audience while maintaining its high-end image.

This article explores Jaguar Land Rover’s strategic $81.2 million investment to expand its painting workshops to meet the growing demand for personalization. This project aims to offer more options to customers while reducing the environmental impact of production, illustrating the group’s ambition to combine luxury and sustainability.

Source & image: Jaguar Land Rover

If no country reacts, this Korean automaker will become the leader in Electric Vehicles thanks to a world-first: solid-state battery production

Hyundai is about to take a key step in the race for solid-state batteries, a major challenge for the future of electric vehicles.

While automakers have been exploring this technology for years—considered the holy grail of EV—the Korean brand now seems closer than ever to a real turning point. In March, it will launch an experimental production line in South Korea, with the aim of presenting a functional prototype as early as this year.

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A decisive step in solid-state battery development

The development of solid-state batteries isn’t new, but bringing them into production remains a colossal technical and industrial challenge. Hyundai has decided to accelerate the process by opening a dedicated research center in Uiwang, South Korea. This facility will host a pilot line to test the manufacturing of these next-generation batteries. This announcement is significant. The Korean brand is betting on this technology to gain an edge over its competitors and improve its current electric models. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries offer higher energy density, which translates into greater range without increasing vehicle weight. This is a major advantage at a time when range remains a crucial factor for many buyers.

For now, Hyundai does not plan for large-scale production. The goal of this experimental phase is to optimize the technology and overcome the final obstacles before considering mass commercialization. However, a functional prototype should be presented as early as this year—a crucial step to validate the project’s viability.

This American billionaire owns the ONLY example of this legendary Ferrari among his collection of 22 supercars valued at over 30 million dollars

More efficient and safer batteries

Hyundai is investing heavily in this technology because solid-state batteries have the potential to overcome the main limitations of today’s electric vehicles. Their design, which eliminates the liquid electrolyte, makes them less flammable, significantly reducing the risk of fire in an accident. This enhanced safety could reassure some consumers who are still skeptical about electric cars. Another major advantage is faster charging. These new batteries should save precious time by offering charging times much shorter than those of current batteries—an essential point for drivers used to the speed of a fuel fill-up.

Finally, Hyundai claims that this technology will offer greater durability than lithium-ion batteries, which gradually lose efficiency after several charge cycles. With increased longevity, electric vehicles could maintain their performance for longer—a compelling argument to convince buyers.

Finally, Hyundai claims that this technology will offer greater durability than lithium-ion batteries - © Hyundai
Finally, Hyundai claims that this technology will offer greater durability than lithium-ion batteries – © Hyundai

A full-scale test before mass production

Hyundai’s ambition in this project is also supported by strategic investments and solid partnerships. The manufacturer has notably strengthened its ties with Factorial Energy, a company specializing in solid-state battery development. It is also collaborating with other major players in the industry, such as Mercedes and Stellantis, who also see this technology as the future of electric mobility.To prove that these batteries are ready for production EV, Hyundai plans to test a prototype before the end of the year. This model won’t be for sale but will be used to evaluate real-world performance and refine the technology before a wider rollout.

If the results are promising, Hyundai could accelerate its timeline and consider mass production by 2030. In the meantime, the manufacturer continues to invest and fine-tune its production processes to be ready when the technology matures.

What could be worse than wrecking your $450,000 Ferrari? He thought the worst was behind him, but this American received a catastrophic order

This article explores Hyundai’s ambition to become a leader in solid-state batteries through an experimental production line and a prototype scheduled for this year. If this technology lives up to its promises, it could revolutionize electromobility by offering longer range, faster charging, and enhanced safety.

Images: © Hyundai

It was supposed to be the global champion of the automotive industry, but while the merger between these two Asian car giants won’t happen, all is not lost

Auto giants call off merger: what’s next for Nissan and Honda?

In a significant shift in the automotive landscape, Nissan and Honda have halted merger discussions. The decision reflects strategic reevaluations by both companies as they navigate a rapidly changing market, focusing on future collaborations without consolidating.

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Industry shockwaves: The end of Nissan-Honda merger talks

Nissan and Honda have officially ceased their merger talks, a development that has stirred the auto industry. The discussions, which had the potential to reshape the market, were terminated due to differing visions for the structure of the combined entity. Honda proposed making Nissan a subsidiary, whereas Nissan favored a new joint holding entity as outlined in their initial agreement last December. This divergence in corporate strategies led both companies to pursue separate paths while maintaining a strategic partnership.

The $350 million invested by Rolls-Royce to prepare its second 100% electric model may not be enough

Strategic shifts in an evolving market

The automotive market is undergoing rapid transformations, particularly with the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Both Honda and Nissan have recognized the need for agile decision-making and swift execution of strategies in this volatile environment. Their decision to end merger talks and instead focus on other potential alliances is aimed at better positioning each company in the electrification era. Nissan has reportedly started exploring other alliances, including a potential collaboration with Foxconn, which had shown interest in working with Nissan the previous year.

The Foxconn factor

Foxconn, known primarily as a major manufacturer for Apple’s iPhone, has made significant strides in the EV sector with its own EV platform and the introduction of its automotive brand, Foxtron. Nissan’s board members are reportedly considering a partnership with Foxconn after a previous offer triggered a short-lived but intense negotiation phase with Honda. This partnership could leverage Foxconn’s technological expertise and manufacturing capacity to boost Nissan’s presence in the EV market.

Nissan’s restructuring and financial challenges

Nissan, often viewed as a company in need of restructuring, has seen its sales dwindle to just over three million vehicles annually, a number insufficient for profitability based on its own technologies and platforms. The company’s long-standing alliance with Renault has been deemed ineffective, with Renault planning to sell its 36% stake in Nissan to fund its own ventures into electric mobility and software-defined vehicles. These financial and strategic missteps have compelled Honda to propose a change in the merger terms, suggesting a parent-subsidiary relationship with Nissan as the subsidiary.

Continuing cooperation despite setbacks

Despite the end of merger talks, Nissan and Honda have agreed to continue their cooperation in developing software-defined electric vehicles. This partnership will focus on key technological areas like batteries and e-axles. The companies aim to leverage each other’s strengths to innovate and maximize value in the new era of intelligent and electrified vehicles. This collaboration is seen as a strategic move to enhance both companies’ standings in a competitive market.

Looking Ahead: new alliances and market adaptation

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Nissan and Honda’s decision to maintain a strategic partnership while seeking new alliances reflects a broader trend of adaptation and resilience. The potential collaboration with Foxconn, alongside ongoing cooperative efforts in EV technology, underscores a strategic pivot towards flexibility and innovation, positioning both Nissan and Honda to better navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing automotive sector.

Your diesel car will soon be a power plant on wheels! This invention aims to fix a major problem with combustion engines: the 75% energy loss

The terminated merger talks mark a critical juncture for both companies as they reassess their strategies to remain competitive and relevant in the shifting landscape of global automotive manufacturing.

What could be worse than wrecking your $450,000 Ferrari? He thought the worst was behind him, but this American received a catastrophic order

A severely damaged Ferrari F8 Spider was allowed to keep running despite its catastrophic condition

Los Angeles is known for its luxury cars, endless traffic jams, and surreal movie-like scenes. But what recently happened on Interstate 10 is beyond comprehension. And it wasn’t the driver’s choice… it was an order from law enforcement!

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A Ferrari F8 Spider crashes on the highway

It all began on February 2, 2025, around 5 a.m., on a stretch of Interstate 10 near Crenshaw Boulevard. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) was called to an accident involving a white Ferrari F8 Spider. At the scene, officers discovered the Italian supercar completely wrecked: the hood was lifted, the bumper was ripped off, the wheels were bent, the windshield was cracked, and the airbags had deployed. The driver, fortunately unharmed, explained that he lost control of his Ferrari while trying to avoid another vehicle. The result: a violent crash into the median barrier. Normally, an accident like this would end with an immediate tow, but the officers on site made a surprising decision…

Ferrari F8 Spider crashed on the highway
Ferrari F8 Spider crashed on the highway

The worst possible decision: driving a destroyed Ferrari

Faced with the rolling wreck, a CHP officer gave the driver an improbable instruction: start the car and drive it to the nearest exit. A surreal scene captured on video and shared on Instagram.

“Does it start? Then drive it to Crenshaw, I’ll follow you,” an officer was heard saying. The justification? According to law enforcement, the Ferrari was already too damaged to be salvageable, so further damaging it by driving didn’t really change much. A questionable logic, especially since the Italian supercar, with its scattered wheels and weakened structure, was far from safe to drive. Under the astonished eyes of motorists, the Ferrari limped along, emitting sounds of grinding metal…

Ferrari F8 Spider crashed on the highway
Ferrari F8 Spider crashed on the highway

An uncertain future for this Ferrari (and its owner)

Even though the car is still running, its future is more than compromised. The F8 Spider, with its 720-horsepower twin-turbo V8, is a formidable machine on the track… but after such a crash, it is unlikely that it will ever regain its original performance. $450,000 wasted! Insurance experts might well declare it a total loss if components such as the chassis, suspension, or brakes are too severely damaged. Even if some parts (bumpers, wheels, lights) can be replaced, the bill is likely to be astronomical. And even if it can still run, nothing indicates that the engine wasn’t damaged in the impact. As for the driver, he might not get off so lightly. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, he could face fines for dangerous driving, or even have his license suspended. For now, the police have not confirmed whether any charges will be filed.

This American billionaire owns the ONLY example of this legendary Ferrari among his collection of 22 supercars valued at over 30 million dollars

This article explores the incredible scene of a damaged Ferrari F8 Spider that continues to run under the watchful eyes of Los Angeles police. Between a questionable decision by law enforcement, impressive damage, and an uncertain future for this supercar, this incident will remain one of the strangest of the year on California roads.

Images: © ANGNews on Instagram

He saves millions on his Supercar purchase and ends up with a one-of-a-kind model in his country

This collector saved a fortune on his McLaren 765LT, but not in the way you might think.

When you buy a supercar, it’s not just about performance or showing off. It’s also about customization. And sometimes, knowing where to spend (or not spend) your money can make all the difference. That’s exactly what a car enthusiast based in Hanoi, Vietnam did—he managed to save billions of dongs on his McLaren 765LT by making smart choices on options.

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A McLaren 765LT at a reduced price?

The McLaren 765LT purchased by this collector isn’t like any other model. Painted in Paris Blue—a shade developed by McLaren Special Operations (MSO), the brand’s high-end customization department—it’s the only one of its color in the country. A rarity that has caught the attention of enthusiasts and stands in stark contrast to the majority of 765LTs, which are often delivered in orange, McLaren’s historic color.

But the story doesn’t end there. Before coming into the hands of its current owner, the supercar went through several twists. It was first seized by a bank in October 2023 due to unpaid debt. At that time, it belonged to someone else and was used as collateral for a loan. It wasn’t until the end of 2024 that it resurfaced, sporting a new registration in Hanoi.
The current owner reportedly spent about 25 billion dongs (nearly $980,000) to acquire it. An impressive sum, although it’s not uncommon to see prices in this range when the cars are configured by MSO.

McLaren 765LT MSO painted in Paris Blue - © FBVN
McLaren 765LT MSO painted in Paris Blue – © FBVN

Strategic choices on options

Where this collector played it smart was in not opting for certain options that McLaren charges a king’s ransom for, choosing instead to make some modifications after the purchase. Take, for example, the carbon pack—a flagship option at McLaren. Many exterior elements of the 765LT, such as the air intakes, the front splitter, or the diffuser, are available in carbon fiber directly from the factory… but at an exorbitant price. The complete option is listed at 1.4 billion dongs (about $60,000). Rather than pay this astronomical sum, the owner chose to add these parts later through a service provider, at a significantly lower cost, estimated at 100 million dongs (around $4,000). The story doesn’t say, however, whether this “cheap” carbon is as good as what McLaren produces, given that they have decades of Formula 1 experience.

This American billionaire owns the ONLY example of this legendary Ferrari among his collection of 22 supercars valued at over 30 million dollars

A brand new exhaust system

Another area where he saved money was the exhaust. The standard model of the 765LT is already high-performing, but the previous owner had invested 250 million dongs to replace the original exhaust with a heat-resistant version signed by Novitec. This was paired with a carbon hood to accentuate the aggressive look. Thanks to this modification, the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 of the 765LT produces an even raspier, punchier sound. After all, McLaren is known for producing beautiful sounds from its twin-turbo V8, whereas its Italian rival produces engines that are more “understated.”

McLaren 765LT MSO painted in Paris Blue - © FBVN
McLaren 765LT MSO painted in Paris Blue – © FBVN

An interior blending sportiness with limited comfort

Inside, the McLaren 765LT features a sober and aggressive finish. Black Alcantara is used as the primary material, with touches of orange to highlight the lines and a matte carbon finish on the center console and dashboard. The overall look is decidedly sporty, yet minimalist. The carbon fiber Racing seats, designed to maximize support during fast driving, are a key feature of the cockpit. They are the same as those in the McLaren Senna, but they have one major drawback: they are not electrically adjustable, which can make long trips particularly tiring. A limitation that reminds you this supercar is designed primarily for track performance, not everyday comfort.

With its 755 horsepower and 799 Nm of torque, the McLaren 765LT makes no compromises on power. Capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds, it rivals some of the most extreme hypercars on the market. Its top speed reaches 205 mph—enough to satisfy thrill-seekers.

The carbon fiber Racing seats - © McLaren
The carbon fiber Racing seats – © McLaren

This article explores how a collector from Hanoi managed to optimize his budget to customize his McLaren 765LT while saving several billion dongs. By avoiding some overly expensive factory options and favoring post-purchase modifications, he succeeded in obtaining a unique supercar without blowing his budget. An intelligent approach that could inspire other enthusiasts around the world.

Images:  © McLaren / © FBVN

180 mph on a wet track? A safety level this high has never been achieved before, thanks to this French invention

Race drivers know it well: driving in the rain is tough—no matter what car you’re in.

Porsche understood this and partnered with Michelin to develop tires specifically designed for wet conditions. The goal? To give 911 GT3 RS owners the chance to extend their trackday season and improve handling on wet roads. So, are these tires the new secret weapon for track enthusiasts?

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Michelin Pilot Sport S 5: Designed for wet tracks

Behind these Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires is genuine development work carried out jointly by Porsche and Michelin since 2022. The idea was simple: create tires that maximize grip and deliver more predictable performance in the rain, without compromising the driving feel so dear to GT3 RS owners. The secret to this performance? A richer silica blend, which provides optimal grip even at low temperatures (between 39 and 59°F). The tires have a tread depth of 7.4 mm and feature four large central grooves designed to efficiently evacuate water and reduce aquaplaning. As a result, a GT3 RS equipped with these new tires can tackle wet corners with greater confidence while remaining much faster than models fitted with the traditional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2, which are designed mainly for dry conditions.

On the Michelin Development Circuit, a 1.67 mi track, GT3 RS cars fitted with the Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 recorded lap times that were 10 seconds faster than with the old tires. That’s huge, especially on such a short circuit—a significant gap that could convince GT3 RS owners to invest in a second set of tires to maximize their track time.

This $900,000 Supercar is reviving the luxury of this European country on the brink, but one condition is still necessary for it to hit our roads

An offering that complements an already extensive lineup

Porsche already offers several tire options for the new GT3 RS, depending on driving conditions. In addition to these new Michelin tires, the lineup includes:

  • The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R: ultra high-performance on dry roads but much more sensitive to adverse weather conditions.
  • Michelin winter tires: an option for those using their GT3 RS in cold weather, though not really suited for track days.

With the introduction of the Pilot Sport S 5, Porsche is expanding its options by offering an ideal compromise between performance and versatility. And it’s not the only supplier offering solutions for track enthusiasts: Pirelli markets its P Zero Trofeo RS, while Goodyear has developed its own specific tires, the Eagle F1 SuperSport R and RS. What really sets Porsche apart is that these Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 tires are exclusive to Porsche Centers, ensuring that owners get them installed by the brand’s expert technicians.

Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 – Porsche GT3 RS
Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 – Porsche GT3 RS

An announcement that delights track enthusiasts

This innovation is, above all, a response to the demands of Porsche customers. Andreas Preuninger, GT models director at Porsche, confirmed this approach by stating, “We are responding to the demands of our most discerning customers, who want to drive on the track for longer periods, especially in the spring and fall. These tires significantly extend the usability window of the 911 GT3 RS.” Since trackdays are often weather-dependent, these new tires could appeal to those who don’t want their day ruined by a sudden downpour. Although Porsche has not yet announced the price or exact availability of these tires, one thing is certain: they could well become a must-have for all 911 GT3 RS enthusiasts eager to drive, regardless of the conditions.

Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 – Porsche GT3 RS
Michelin Pilot Sport S 5 – Porsche GT3 RS

This article explores the new range of Michelin tires developed for the Porsche 911 GT3 RS, optimized for rainy conditions. By improving grip and stability in the rain, these tires offer an ideal solution for extending the trackday season. In this way, Porsche continues to expand the possibilities for its performance-driven customers, no matter the weather.

This American billionaire owns the ONLY example of this legendary Ferrari among his collection of 22 supercars valued at over 30 million dollars

Images: © Michelin

AI in F1 soon? It would be historic, but one final obstacle remains—even with the millions of euros this company is willing to spend

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According to a rumor, Oracle, one of the biggest sponsors in Formula 1, is blocking a $5 million sponsorship deal with Red Bull Racing.

When technology and Formula 1 come together, it often results in spectacular alliances. But this time, it’s a behind-the-scenes battle making headlines. Red Bull Racing, the team of world champion Max Verstappen, saw a potential sponsorship deal with an AI company fall through. The reason? The intervention of its main sponsor, Oracle.

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An AI Sponsor in Formula 1?

Perplexity, a startup specializing in research powered by artificial intelligence, was in advanced talks to become a sponsor of Red Bull Racing. The deal, estimated at $5 million per year, seemed on the verge of being signed. The company wanted to boost its visibility by partnering with one of the most prestigious teams on the Formula 1 grid. But things did not go as planned. Oracle, the main sponsor of Red Bull Racing since 2022 with a contract valued at $300 million over five years, has a say in the team’s new partnerships. And it appears that the deal with Perplexity did not meet the technological giant’s approval.

Perplexity, a startup specializing in research powered by artificial intelligence, was in advanced talks to become a sponsor of Red Bull Racing.
Perplexity, a startup specializing in research powered by artificial intelligence, was in advanced talks to become a sponsor of Red Bull Racing.

Conflicting interests in the background

Why did Oracle veto the deal? Two main reasons explain this decision. First, Oracle and Perplexity are in direct competition for the acquisition of TikTok. The highly coveted video-sharing platform is the subject of multiple offers, and Perplexity’s presence on Red Bull’s race cars could have created a conflict of interest. Second, Oracle is a major supporter of the Stargate project, a colossal $500 billion initiative aimed at building data centers for OpenAI. And OpenAI is in direct competition with Perplexity in the field of artificial intelligence. Supporting a competitor of its own strategic partners was clearly not an option for Oracle.

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Implications for Formula 1 and tech sponsors

This situation highlights the growing influence of technology companies in Formula 1. Partnerships like Google’s with McLaren or CrowdStrike’s with Mercedes show that technology is becoming increasingly present in the paddocks. Perplexity’s aborted attempt with Red Bull Racing would have been one of the first major sponsorship deals for this young startup, founded less than three years ago and already valued at $9 billion. Although neither Red Bull Racing, Oracle, nor Perplexity have publicly commented on the matter, it raises questions about how sponsors can influence the strategic decisions of F1 teams. For Red Bull, it’s a delicate balance: attracting new sponsors while respecting the interests of its current partners.

This article explores Perplexity’s attempt to sponsor Red Bull Racing, thwarted by Oracle for strategic reasons. This situation illustrates the growing impact of technology companies in Formula 1 and the complex challenges of sponsorships in a sport where competition often goes beyond the track. Between commercial alliances and technological rivalries, F1 is more than ever a playground for industry giants.

Image: © Red Bull Content pool

Source: The Verge