“No interview” and “no plan” to recruit Christian Horner. That’s the categorical statement from Dan Towriss, CEO of the Cadillac Formula 1 team, who firmly denied the rumors circulating on social media. These speculations linked the former Red Bull Racing boss to the new American structure following his tumultuous dismissal last month.

An official denial at the press conference

Speaking at a press conference announcing the team’s first drivers, Sergio Perez and Valtteri Bottas, Dan Towriss wanted to put an end to all speculation. “There has been no interview with Christian Horner, and there is no plan to do so,” he stated. “I want to officially put an end to this rumor. Our support, trust, and approval go entirely to [our current team principal] Graeme Lowdon.”

The shadow of the scandal and perception in the paddock

While opinions on Christian Horner vary in the Formula 1 paddock, the general perception is that he has become persona non grata in the boardrooms of many manufacturers. This status stems directly from the 2024 Google Drive scandal and the controversial handling of the inappropriate behavior allegations by Red Bull. Many believe the matter was mishandled and that it illustrates how the powerful often manage to avoid the consequences of their actions.

A question of morality in F1 recruitment?

The question arises as to whether this scandal, or another factor, will prevent Christian Horner from finding employment in Formula 1 again. The history of motorsport shows a certain short-term amnesia, as evidenced by Flavio Briatore’s return after a race-fixing scandal. Perhaps morality simply isn’t a decisive criterion in the hiring decisions of some teams. Regardless, the Cadillac management does not appear interested in the services of the former Red Bull director.

Sergio Perez makes a return to Formula 1 with Cadillac after a somewhat tense separation with Red Bull Racing last year. He will be joined by Valtteri Bottas, who will leave his role at Mercedes at the end of this season. Both veteran drivers have been hired on equal terms and with multi-year contracts, confirmed Dan Towriss, the team’s CEO.

An official announcement awaited

Towriss was accompanied by General Motors President Mark Reuss for the press conference announcing the team’s first drivers. They did not disclose the specifics of the contracts regarding their duration or compensation. This announcement confirms rumors that had been circulating since the team’s creation, rumors that had intensified in recent weeks.

A rigorous selection process

“This is a significant moment for us that required a lot of effort to get here,” said Towriss. “There was a lot of speculation, but after a thorough review process led by our team principal Graeme Lowdon, I am happy to confirm the signing of Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez for the inaugural season of the Cadillac Formula 1 Team in 2026.”

Experience and leadership prioritized

The team has bet on the experience and leadership of both drivers rather than on young talents. Their technical acumen and feedback will be crucial for the development of the car under the new 2026 regulations.

A crucial synergy for development

Mark Reuss emphasized the importance of this relationship between the drivers and the technical team. “The drivers’ feedback will be decisive in Cadillac’s history. It’s a winning combination.” The development of GM’s own power unit is reportedly still on track for the end of the decade.

An exciting internal duel in prospect

An internal duel for the lead driver status is expected between Perez and Bottas. Both have played supporting roles against superstar teammates: Bottas behind Lewis Hamilton and Perez behind Max Verstappen. Bottas boasts stronger statistics with 10 wins and 67 podiums, compared to 6 wins and 39 podiums for Perez.

In March 2026, two Cadillacs powered by Ferrari will make their debut at Albert Park, marking the arrival of a new competitor for both teams and drivers.

A jury has imposed a $243 million fine on Tesla in the case related to the fatal 2019 Model S accident, which was equipped with Autopilot. This decision comes after the manufacturer rejected a settlement proposal of $60 million, revealed in a court fee request.

Today’s Automotive News

Ongoing Test: The 2025 Ford Mustang GTD

The journalist is currently behind the wheel of the 2025 Ford Mustang GTD, although driving impressions cannot yet be shared.

Audi Unveils the Q3 Sportback

Audi has introduced the Q3 Sportback, a version with a sporty look and redesigned roofline, positioning itself as a less practical but more stylish alternative to the standard Q3.

Genesis GV60 Magma: Rivalry Through Software

The head of Genesis, Hyundai’s luxury division, announced that the GV60 Magma will compete with BMW M and Mercedes-AMG by standing out through its software, not just its hardware.

Conflict in California Over Direct Sales

The California New Car Dealers Association has filed a lawsuit against American Honda and Sony Mobility. The dispute concerns the attempt to sell the Afeela electric car directly to consumers, bypassing the Honda and Acura dealership network.

Auction of a Mercedes-Benz Owned by Senna

The Mercedes-Benz 190 E 2.3-16 owned by Formula 1 legend Ayrton Senna will be auctioned in November by RM Sotheby’s. Its estimated value is between 255,000 and 290,000 euros.

A turbocharged Porsche 911 prototype has been spotted at the Nürburgring, raising questions about its identity. Is it the future GT3 RS, forced to abandon its naturally aspirated engine to comply with Euro 7 standards, or the long-awaited return of the legendary GT2? The clues are piling up.

A Discreet Presence but Notable Modifications

Externally, the prototype is almost indistinguishable from a current 911 GT3. However, a keen eye will notice subtle but significant changes at the rear. The body panel located just below the taillights and above the license plate area is carefully camouflaged, likely to conceal new air intakes. The rear diffuser has also been reworked, now featuring four vertical blades on each side of the two central exhaust outlets, compared to three previously. Two additional exhaust outlets pointing towards the ground complete this revised setup.

The Revealing Sound of Turbocharging

The most convincing evidence lies not in appearance, but in sound. A video captured at the iconic circuit reveals the characteristic noise of a forced-induction engine, an unmistakable “whoosh” that contrasts sharply with the high-pitched scream of the current GT3’s naturally aspirated six-cylinder. This sound betrays the presence of at least one turbo, confirming that this test mule hides a radically different powertrain.

Scenario 1: The End of an Era for the GT3 RS

The first scenario is that of a 992.2 GT3 RS forced to adopt turbocharging to meet future Euro 7 anti-pollution standards. This transition would mark the end of the naturally aspirated engine and its 9,000 rpm redline, a sacred characteristic for purists. A pragmatic evolution but one that would represent a true revolution in the GT3 series’ DNA.

Scenario 2: The Triumphant Return of the GT2

The other hypothesis, far more exciting for some, is the return of the 911 GT2. Unlike the GT3, turbocharging is in the GT2’s DNA. Absent from the 992 generation, the last GT2 RS ended production in 2020. Based on the same flat-six engine block, a new GT2 could easily surpass the 690 horsepower of its predecessor. Rumors even suggest the addition of hybridization derived from endurance racing, promising stratospheric performance.

Conclusion: An Unbearable Wait

One thing is certain: Porsche is developing a new supercharged 911 with extreme performance. The question remains whether it will wear the GT3 RS badge, marking a historic break, or that of the GT2, for a spectacular comeback. The answer will only come with time, fueling enthusiasts’ speculations.

Gordon Murray created a sensation at Pebble Beach this year by unveiling the S1 LM, an obvious tribute to the legendary McLaren F1. As the creator of the original, it makes sense that Murray, at the helm of his own company GMA, would design a spiritual successor with the T.50, a three-seater V12 hypercar. But this raises a question: does McLaren, still active in the supercar world, perceive GMA as a threat?

McLaren Sees GMA as a Tribute, Not Competition

According to Nick Collins, the CEO of McLaren, the answer is no. When asked by The Drive during Monterey Car Week, he compares the work of Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) to that of Singer with the Porsche 911: a celebration of the past, not an appropriation of McLaren’s heritage.

“Gordon is a great guy,” said Collins. “We spend a lot of time with him. We have a lot of affection for Gordon and what his team is accomplishing, and we love the fact that they are celebrating McLaren’s heritage. It shows how strong our heritage is.”

A Valuable Heritage but Focused on the Future

While heritage is crucial for supercar manufacturers, McLaren has a more recent road history than its rivals. The F1, its first production model in 1992, remains a milestone. Collins, however, does not feel threatened by GMA’s recent creations.

He explains: “Part of the heritage is very relevant to some people, but for other, younger consumers around the world, it doesn’t mean much. The [Lamborghini] Countach means something to those of us who had a poster of it on our bedroom wall. Maybe it means nothing to a 20-year-old in China today, right? So I’m not intimidated by it at all.”

The W1, McLaren’s New Technological Pinnacle

For Collins, McLaren’s philosophy is not to dwell on the past but to push technological boundaries. The F1 was the pinnacle of technology at its launch, just as the P1 was in its time. The next halo hypercar, the W1, will follow the same logic.

“What is the W1 going to be? It will be the pinnacle of technology at its launch. Every car has set a new standard.”

Developing a hybrid power output of 1,275 horsepower, the W1 relies on blistering acceleration and aerodynamics generating up to 1,000 kg of downforce. While its top speed is limited to 349 km/h (compared to 391 km/h for the F1), it embodies McLaren’s forward-looking vision.

A Unique Heritage That Defines the Future

Collins concludes: “Why do people still love the F1? For good reason, it was and remains the fastest naturally aspirated road car, but it redefined the landscape. The P1 did exactly the same thing, and the W1 will do the same. Our heritage is ours, undeniably ours and no one else’s. Our heritage helps define our future.”

Charging your EV in 2025 is a bit less of a hassle. Despite very real economic headwinds and the withdrawal of NEVI federal funding, the U.S. public charging network is showing signs of improvement, particularly in terms of reliability. According to the latest J.D. Power report, this progress is largely attributable to Tesla.

Progress in Reliability Despite an Overall Decline in Satisfaction

Overall user satisfaction, however, recorded a drop of 10 points. The main customer complaints in 2025 concerned the cost of charging and problems encountered during the payment process. However, one positive point stands out: users report a notable improvement in the reliability of charging stations, with fewer charging failures upon arrival at a station.

The Ecosystem Mobilizes Without Federal Funding

“In the absence of NEVI funding, the industry is seeing a concerted effort from various EV ecosystem stakeholders—particularly automakers and charging networks—to improve the public charging experience for customers,” said Brent Gruber, EV expert at J.D. Power.

He adds: “With or without federal funding, the NEVI guidelines have made their mark by establishing a guide for industry success. Although overall satisfaction scores are down this year, our data shows a clear improvement in the reliability and success of public charging.”

Tesla, Still the Benchmark, But the Competition is Catching Up

Tesla’s Supercharger network remains the absolute benchmark for the fast-charging experience in the United States, with a satisfaction score of 709. Its advantage stems less from technological superiority than from having been built for a single brand, ensuring homogeneity and simplicity.

Notably, networks operated by non-Tesla automakers (such as Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, and Ford) collectively achieved an identical score of 709. The report highlights that although their coverage is still limited, their early performance indicates that they are successfully applying lessons learned from the Tesla ecosystem.

Multi-Brand Networks Lagging Behind

Conversely, charging networks intended to be used by all EV brands are consistently the lowest rated. Blink ranks dead last, behind EVgo and Electrify America, whether for DC fast charging (DCFC) or Level 2 charging.

Lamborghini is concealing a confidential prototype, a true “automotive sculpture” that would serve as a roadmap for the brand’s future design language. This revelation comes from Mitja Borkert, Lamborghini’s head of design, during the Monterey Car Week.

The Fenomeno: A Glimpse of Lamborghini’s Future

Presented at The Quail, the Fenomeno is currently the manufacturer’s most powerful road car with its 1,065 horsepower, resulting from the combination of a naturally aspirated V12 and three electric motors. Although celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Centro Stile and produced in only 29 units, its angular and aggressive design actually draws its roots from a much more secret project.

The Mystery Sculpture: The Inspiring Origin

Borkert revealed that the Fenomeno is based on the design principles of an internal and unprecedented “sculpture,” developed after Stephan Winkelmann’s return to lead the company at the end of 2020. Unlike the Terzo Millennio concept (2017), which inspired the future Temerario (replacement for the Huracán), this physical model has never been unveiled to the public.

An Ever-Evolving Design Language

However, the designer tempered expectations by refusing to establish this prototype as a new aesthetic dogma. For him, Lamborghini’s identity lies in surprise and perpetual questioning. The design language can thus become sharper, softer, or completely unpredictable.

The Well-Kept Secret of Sant’Agata

“It is not yet shared,” Borkert stated about this concept. “It is not yet decided if and how we want to show this design sculpture. Perhaps we can show it in the future, but it is now a new starting point.”

The Importance of the Unexpected at Lamborghini

This philosophy of secrecy and constant innovation is at the heart of Lamborghini’s DNA, a tradition dating back to the era of the Miura and the Countach. While Porsche has opened its archives with its “Unseen” initiative, Lamborghini prefers to keep its cards hidden to continually surprise and push the boundaries of automotive design.

Here is the 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport from The Drive, our test vehicle for the next eight months. By next March, I’ll be driving this big orange SUV every time I leave my house. That means a lot of miles: school runs, errands, road trips, towing, camping, off-road adventures, and even trips to the groomer for my dog. Summer heat, rain, snow… I’ll face it all with this vehicle.

Why is a long-term test more relevant?

The majority of reviews, including here at The Drive, are based on short-term impressions. We rarely have the opportunity to live with a new car for more than a week. Yet, many details, small but important for the ownership experience, are often overlooked. An eight-month test will allow me to cover a wider variety of topics, such as dashboard creaks after three months or real towing capabilities.

Focus on technology and the daily experience

Today’s new cars are packed with technology. From ADAS systems to subscription apps controlling remote start or locking, I will monitor and test all of this closely. My goal is to provide you with a complete, honest, and unfiltered view of what owning a new-generation Honda Passport is like.

Introducing the 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport

All-new for 2026, the Honda Passport sports a muscular and angular silhouette, enhanced by the rugged Trailsport trim. Under the hood is a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 producing 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The i-VTM4 system, although it lacks a low-range transfer case, is very effective, as I experienced with the Pilot Trailsport. Equipped with 31-inch General Grabber tires, this five-passenger family SUV is ready for adventure.

Our model is the Trailsport Elite trim, the top of the line, with a price of $54,335. Its vibrant orange hue and brown perforated leather interior certainly stand out.

Do you have specific questions? Feel free to leave a comment or send me an email at jerry@thedrive.com.

Secret Shared: The Ford Mustang GTD Gave Its Wing to the Mustang GT3. The traditional motorsport adage, “race on Sunday, sell on Monday,” has been reversed by Ford. For once, it’s the road car that inspired the race car, and not the other way around. The innovative aerodynamics of the Mustang GT3 are actually a direct legacy from the Mustang GTD, its road-legal sibling.

An Aerodynamic Shift

During the development of the Mustang GT3, the team initially considered a conventional rear wing, mounted on the trunk. But the arrival of the GTD project, a road-going version of the track monster, changed everything. Anthony Colard, Design Manager, and Greg Goodall, Chief Program Engineer, revealed that the design of the swan-neck wing, attached to the C-pillars, was born for the road car.

The Genesis of an Innovation

The idea emerged six months after the start of the GTD’s development. A designer proposed this specific mounting, a solution that was both aesthetic and ingenious. By attaching the wing to the already reinforced C-pillars, the team solved a major technical challenge: managing significant downforce loads without overstressing the trunk.

A Functional and Aesthetic Decision

Once validated on the GTD, the team quickly realized that this solution would also be perfect for the GT3. The decision was made to harmonize the two models. This choice wasn’t just stylistic; it proved to be remarkably functional. It notably paved the way for the much simpler integration of active aerodynamics.

The Advent of Active Aero

Active aerodynamics wasn’t part of the GTD’s initial program. However, the mounting on the C-pillars, a fixed structure, facilitated the routing of the cables and lines necessary for the active system. This innovation was crucial for performance, allowing the Mustang GTD to lap the Nürburgring in under 7 minutes, with a record time of 6:52.072.

As Greg Goodall pointed out, without active aero, breaking the 7-minute barrier would have been “tighter.” This unique technology transfer, from road to track, was therefore a decisive vector of performance and innovation for Ford Performance.

Mercedes-AMG GT XX has just shattered 25 world records for electric vehicles on the Nardò track in Italy. The prototype maintained an average speed of 300 km/h for nearly 7 consecutive days, stopping only to recharge its batteries, demonstrating exceptional endurance and technology.

Record-breaking performance

The most remarkable feat is the 24-hour distance record. Mercedes-AMG reclaimed its title from the Xpeng P7 by covering 5,480 km in a single day, which is 1,518 km more than the previous record. However, the ultimate goal was symbolic: to complete the equivalent of a trip around the world (40,075 km) in record time. The mission was accomplished in 7 days, 13 hours, and 24 minutes, before pushing further to 40,234 km.

An elite team of drivers for an extreme challenge

To maintain an average speed of 300 km/h, Mercedes assembled a team of 17 professional drivers, including F1 driver George Russell and rising star Doriane Pin. Each driver took turns in two-hour shifts, a duration necessary due to the intense concentration and physical effort required at such high speeds.

A technological showcase for electric powertrains

This marathon had a purpose: to test in real-world conditions the axial flux motors and direct battery cooling system developed for future Mercedes-AMG electric vehicles. With a power output of 1,360 hp, the GT XX prototype also validated new compact gearboxes and electronically controlled aerodynamic wings. This demonstration of pure endurance, following in the footsteps of the Vision EQXX’s achievements, proves that high-performance electric vehicles are already a reality.