Latest news with #HermannTilke
Time Out
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Time Out
There's a new F1-grade race circuit in Johor Bahru with a professional karting course and off-road track
Motorsport fans, start your engines as a brand-new racing circuit is opening just 30 minutes from the Singapore-Malaysian Tuas checkpoint. The Sunway Circuit Iskandar Puteri is JB's latest motorsport destination, built to world-class standards with ambitions to host major international racing events. The circuit is designed by renowned circuit architect Hermann Tilke, who is the same mastermind behind several iconic Formula 1 tracks. The main circuit stretches 4.5km, and adheres to the stringent FIA Grade 1 and FIM Grade A specifications. This means it's capable of accommodating the fastest and most prestigious races such as Formula 1 and MotoGP. Unlike Singapore's Marina Bay Street Circuit, which is constructed and dismantled each year for the Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Sunway Circuit's track is a permanent fixture. Aside from the main track, Sunway Circuit Iskandar Puteri will also feature a 1.5km professional karting circuit, a hill climbing course, a 4×4 off-road adventure zone, and an advanced driving course for high-performance training and road safety education. Other facilities include international-standard pit buildings, paddocks, garages, media centres and VIP hospitality suites. The main circuit is already in place, with the entire facility slated for completion by the end of 2025.
The Drive
6 days ago
- Automotive
- The Drive
Judge Orders Tesla to Buy Back Model S Plaid Over Track Braking Failure
The latest car news, reviews, and features. A Tesla Model S Plaid owner took the electric automaker to court and won after his EV cooked its brakes on the first turn of a track day. He sued Tesla for misleading advertising as it marketed the car specifically for track use, though in his experience, that was far from the case. The judge has even ordered Tesla to buy back the 1,020-horsepower sedan as a result. The ruling was issued in Oslo District Court, citing violation of Norway's Consumer Protection Act. Vilhelm Dybwad, the Model S Plaid owner who initiated the suit against Tesla, reached out to The Drive about his misfortune. 'The stock brakes are horrible, inadequate, and downright dangerous for any type of track driving,' he wrote in an email. 'We got the error message that the bakes were too hot while under braking for the first corner (after the warmup lap) at Rudskogen Motorcenter.' That circuit is a serious one, designed by F1 track specialist Hermann Tilke. At a touch over two miles, the main course features 14 turns with long, high-speed straights and roughly 140 feet of elevation change. Turn One, where Dybwad's Model S Plaid brakes overheated, is a slightly uphill lefthander that requires heavy stoppage before rolling into Turn Two. Just after that is a half-circle that leads to another straight where high-powered cars hit triple-digit speeds. What I'm getting at is: Even if the Tesla's brakes hung on through the first corner, they wouldn't have long to recover before another high-intensity event that could spell disaster. That's Turn One on the far righthand side, following the long start/finish straight. Rudskogen Dybwad belongs to a car enthusiast organization in Norway called Amcar. The club's technical committee prepared a statement regarding his EV's failure and provided witness accounts as well as independent testing to prove the Model S Plaid didn't work as advertised. When they put an experienced track driver in a similar but different Plaid at Rudskogen, it also malfunctioned after making the first turn. This evidence held up in court, leading legal officials to observe Tesla's marketing materials. The district court agreed that Tesla advertised the Model S Plaid as being track capable, even showing it on a race circuit in several videos while claiming it can 'continuously lap the track without performance degradation.' Tesla supposedly argued that Dybwad could have optioned his car with carbon ceramic brakes, which perform far better in high-heat situations, though those weren't offered until 10 months after he purchased it. Normally, this is where The Drive would reach out to the automaker's PR department for a comment, but Tesla doesn't have one of those. Having determined the issue was significant enough to fall under the Consumer Protection Act, the court ordered Tesla to pay Dybwad the equivalent of $122,972 USD plus interest, as well as his legal costs totaling $26,869 USD. This effectively canceled his purchase of the car. Tesla can appeal the decision, but as Dybwad's legal representation told Nettavisen , they aren't worried. Dybwad and his Model S Plaid. Amcar Got a tip or question for the author? Contact them directly: caleb@
Style Blueprint
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Style Blueprint
The Coolest Experiences in the South for Car Enthusiasts
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit The South's connection to car culture runs deep, rooted in moonshine runners, early stock car racing, and a long tradition of craftsmanship and speed. Today, that legacy lives on through historic speedways, scenic drives once used for bootlegging routes, and museums that preserve the South's automotive past. Here are some standout experiences every car enthusiast should have on their radar. Hands-On Driving Experiences Porsche Experience Center – Atlanta, GA Located at One Porsche Drive, the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta offers an engaging mix of performance and hospitality. Visitors can drive on two technical tracks, try out the advanced Simulator Lab, explore the Heritage Gallery, and enjoy dining at Restaurant 356. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply enjoy driving, this destination delivers a memorable experience both on and off the track. Interested in a racing license? Check out their Track Experience in Birmingham! BMW Performance Driving School – Greer, SC Next to BMW's largest U.S. manufacturing plant, the BMW Performance Driving School provides tailored driving programs ranging from half-day clinics to multi-day immersive M School courses. Guided by professional instructors, participants learn high-performance driving skills, precision handling, and vehicle control behind the wheel of BMW vehicles. Pin Atlanta Motorsports Park – Dawsonville, GA Designed by Formula 1 architect Hermann Tilke, Atlanta Motorsports Park features a two-mile FIA-certified road course with 16 turns and notable elevation changes. Through Xtreme Xperience, drivers can take three to four laps in exotic cars such as Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, and Corvettes, supported by safety briefings and professional instructors. It's an accessible option for both first-time track drivers and seasoned car enthusiasts. Pin Ford Performance Racing School – Charlotte, NC Located at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, the Ford Performance Racing School offers on-track driving instruction with factory-prepped vehicles like the Mustang Dark Horse, GT, and F-150 Raptor. Programs range from half-day Mustang Experiences to multi-day courses focused on advanced driving techniques and vehicle dynamics. Small class sizes and expert coaching ensure a focused, skill-building environment. Motorsports Events & Famous Tracks Barber Motorsports Park – Birmingham, AL Located just outside Birmingham, Barber Motorsports Park is a thoughtfully designed racing facility known for its 2.38-mile, 17-turn road course and wide range of year-round events. The park regularly hosts high-profile races like the Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, MotoAmerica, and SRO GT, as well as regional track days and driving experiences. On-site, you'll also find the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum — home to the largest motorcycle collection in the world. Pin Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, GA Just an hour north of Atlanta, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta is known for its 2.54-mile, 12-turn track and wooded surroundings. The venue hosts a mix of professional and grassroots events throughout the year, including Petit Le Mans, MotoAmerica, and various driver schools. Spectator amenities include general admission viewing areas, camping, and hospitality options, making it an easy and enjoyable visit for both casual fans and enthusiasts. Charlotte Motor Speedway – Concord, NC Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of the most recognized names in American racing. The complex includes a superspeedway, road course, dragway, and dirt track — all located just outside of Charlotte. Alongside marquee events like the Coca‑Cola 600 and Bank of America ROVAL™ 400, the speedway also hosts NHRA drag races, motorsports festivals, and the NASCAR Racing Experience. Year-round offerings, including behind-the-scenes tours and youth programs, make it a versatile destination for everyone. Pin Talladega Superspeedway – Talladega, AL Known for its towering grandstands and lightning-fast action, Talladega Superspeedway is the largest and fastest oval track in NASCAR. The 2.66-mile tri-oval hosts some of the sport's most dramatic moments — complete with high banks and wild pack racing. Pin Bristol Motor Speedway – Bristol, TN Nicknamed 'The Last Great Colosseum,' this high-banked half-mile delivers some of the most intense short-track racing in the world. With seating for more than 150,000 fans and a stadium-like atmosphere, Bristol Motor Speedway is famous for its night races, rivalries, and thunderous energy. Daytona International Speedway – Daytona Beach, FL The birthplace of NASCAR and home to the iconic Daytona 500, this Florida landmark is as legendary as the drivers who've raced it. Daytona International Speedway features a 2.5-mile tri-oval, fan-friendly facilities, and a packed calendar of high-octane events. Tours of the track and the Motorsports Hall of Fame make it a year-round destination Nashville Superspeedway – Lebanon, TN Located just outside of Music City, Nashville Superspeedway is a rising star in the NASCAR world. After a decade-long hiatus, the 1.33-mile concrete oval roared back to life with the return of the Cup Series. It now draws race fans with modern amenities, exciting on-track action, and easy access to downtown Nashville for post-race fun. Museums & Auto History Lane Motor Museum – Nashville, TN Located in a historic brick-and-maple bakery, Lane Motor Museum displays a diverse collection of mostly European vehicles, including microcars, amphibious models, and military machines. Around 150 vehicles are on view daily, with regular demonstrations and occasional behind-the-scenes tours offering deeper insight into automotive design and history. It's only a 1o minute drive from some of the best restaurants, music venues, and hotels in downtown Nashville, making it a great weekend trip! Pin International Motorsports Hall of Fame – Talladega, AL Adjacent to Talladega Superspeedway, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame honors key figures in racing history. Exhibits spotlight more than 140 inductees, including legendary drivers and influential contributors, through memorabilia and vehicles that trace motorsports' evolution across disciplines. Open daily, it's a meaningful stop for racing fans. National Corvette Museum – Bowling Green, KY What began as a tribute to a single sports car has grown into a must-visit destination for auto enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. This museum celebrates the full story of the Corvette — from its 1950s debut to cutting-edge modern models. With rare prototypes, race cars, interactive displays, and even an exhibit dedicated to the famous 2014 sinkhole, the museum offers an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at this American icon. Pin Savoy Automobile Museum – Cartersville, GA Savoy Automobile Museum highlights the history and cultural impact of the automobile with a mix of classic American muscle cars and rare vintage models. The museum features rotating exhibits, educational programs, special events, and a well-curated gift shop, all within a thoughtfully designed architectural space. Stay a while, there's more to do in Cartersville than you think! Pin Car Shows Held October 5–12, 2025, Cruisin' The Coast transforms the Gulf Coast into 'America's Largest Block Party,' attracting over 8,000 classic, hot rod, and custom cars from all around. Throughout the week, attendees can enjoy cruise-ins along Highway 90, high-energy sock hops with live headline entertainment, swap meets, charity auctions, and more. With free access to most events across cities like Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis, this community-driven festival is a unique automotive experience. Pin Caffeine and Octane – Atlanta, GA Every first Sunday of the month, car enthusiasts flock to Town Center at Cobb in Kennesaw for Caffeine & Octane Atlanta, the nation's largest monthly 'all makes, all models' car show. Drawing over 2,500 vehicles and 30,000 fans rain or shine, the free event kicks off early — with show cars rolling in before sunrise — and features everything from classic cruisers and custom builds to exotics and modern metal. On May 1–3, 2026, this festival at the picturesque Lake Lanier Islands Resort in Buford, GA, is a celebration of automotive artistry and cultural heritage. Set against over 1,200 acres of scenic resort grounds, the festival will showcase a stunning collection of rare and classic automobiles alongside modern marvels, all meticulously judged in a Concours d'Elegance competition. Attendees can expect gourmet dining, live entertainment, and a refined atmosphere that invites car enthusiasts, families, and collectors. 3rd Annual Great Rocky Mountain Bronco Stampede – Pigeon Forge, TN This two-day indoor expo on August 15 and 16 at LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge celebrates Ford Bronco culture, bringing together enthusiasts, clubs, and a wide range of vendors showcasing the latest Bronco parts, accessories, and off‑road gear. Admission is $15 per adult, $5 for children 6–12, and free for those 5 and under; tickets are sold onsite only. Family-friendly and open to the public—no Bronco ownership required—this event promises high-energy, community-driven fun for fans of all ages. Impressive Drives & Scenic Routes Tail of the Dragon – NC/TN Border Tail of the Dragon features 318 curves in just 11 miles — an iconic drive beloved by sports car and motorcycle fans. Surrounded by dense forest and often free from commercial traffic, the Tail offers an adrenaline-pumping drive paired with dramatic scenery. There are no intersections or driveways to interrupt the rhythm — just pure, uninterrupted pavement. Cherohala Skyway – TN to NC The Cherohala Skyway, stretching 43 miles between Tellico Plains, TN and Robbinsville, NC, is a dream drive for car enthusiasts who appreciate both performance and scenery. Often paired with the nearby Tail of the Dragon, the Skyway offers a completely different kind of thrill: high-speed sweepers, smooth pavement, and long, flowing curves through the heart of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. The road climbs over 5,000 feet, delivering crisp mountain air and panoramic views that rival anything in the Smokies. It's less technical than the Tail of the Dragon but more open and fluid — perfect for drivers who want to stretch the legs of a GT car, a sports sedan, or a motorcycle built for comfort and cornering. Natchez Trace Parkway – TN to MS The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a smooth, scenic escape steeped in history and Southern charm. Spanning 444 miles through Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, this federally protected two-lane road is a favorite for those seeking a relaxed, uninterrupted cruise — with no commercial traffic, billboards, or stoplights. The gentle curves and rolling hills make it ideal for classic cars, vintage cruisers, and comfortable grand tourers. Time to hit the road! ********** To stay up to date on events going on in the South, subscribe to StyleBlueprint! About the Author Elizabeth Master
The South African
03-07-2025
- Automotive
- The South African
Cape Town to submit bid to host next South African Grand Prix
The Mother City is fast-tracking its ambitions to bring Formula One racing back to South African soil for the first time since 1993, as Cape Town Grand Prix South Africa (CTGPSA) readies a final bid for submission to the national Bid Steering Committee. The proposed 5.7km street circuit would wind through the Green Point Sports and Tourism Precinct, showcasing Cape Town's most iconic landmarks – from Table Mountain and Robben Island to the V&A Waterfront and Cape Town Stadium. Dubbed the 'African Riviera', the route aims to rival the glamour of Monaco and Singapore, but with a uniquely South African identity. 'There's nothing CTGPSA is more sure of than knowing that our concept makes sense,' the group said in a recent statement. CTGPSA has been developing its vision since 2007, working alongside famed F1 circuit designer Hermann Tilke and securing support from Western Cape officials. Their credibility was bolstered by a successful Formula E demonstration in 2018, run along the same proposed route. The Cape Town bid gained significant momentum after Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, officially opened a nationwide bidding process in December 2024. McKenzie has acknowledged the Cape Town bid's national importance and taken a personal interest in reviewing the project. But Cape Town isn't the only contender. Kyalami, the historic circuit in Gauteng that hosted 21 Grands Prix between 1967 and 1993, is making a strong return with an FIA Grade 1 upgrade proposal already accepted. Its recent renovations and motorsport legacy make it a powerful competitor. Hosting a Formula One Grand Prix would represent a historic return of F1 to Africa, offering massive economic and tourism potential. Cape Town's scenic appeal and international tourism infrastructure could give it the edge with global audiences and F1 stakeholders, who have long eyed a return to the continent. No final decision has been made. Minister McKenzie has emphasised that all bids must be globally competitive, credible, and capable of meeting FIA and Formula One Management (FOM) standards. Still, for millions of motorsport fans, the dream of seeing the world's fastest cars race past the Atlantic Ocean is no longer just fantasy – it's on the verge of becoming a reality. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
New York Times
28-06-2025
- Automotive
- New York Times
F1 Austrian GP live updates: Follow latest from qualifying and FP3 at the Red Bull Ring today
Those who want to step back from the corporate labelling might like a little history lesson here. This former airfield was soon remodelled into a racing track, hosting its first action as the Osterreichring in 1969 and holding its first grand prix a year later. After decade-long absence following numerous crashes and a Hermann Tilke redesign, the A1 ring was back on the calendar from 1997. Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz then bought the track in 2004 after another impending absence from the calendar — and the renamed Red Bull Ring has been an F1 mainstay since 2014. In that 11-race run, Red Bull (well, Max Verstappen) has won the Austrian Grand Prix four times. There were also two Styrian Grands Prix held at the circuit in 2020 and 2021 — named after the province in Austria — as F1 looked to work around the COVID pandemic. Verstappen also won one of those. The track is relatively short, comes with just 10 corners (if you're generous to the kink labelled Turn 2) and plenty of gradient changes, both uphill and down. Only Spa-Francorchamps has a greater elevation change through a lap. The highlight is Turn 9, also known as Rindt, as the cars tear through the high-speed right hander in the midst of a roaring trip downhill. Here are the key circuit facts: Circuit length: 4.326 km (2.688 miles) (2.688 miles) Laps: 71 Lap record: 1:05.619 (Carlos Sainz, 2020) (Carlos Sainz, 2020) First GP: 1970 You can take a trip around the delights of the Red Bull Ring with Madeline Coleman 's circuit breakdown, which is linked below. GO FURTHER Austrian GP track breakdown: F1's mountain sprint at the mighty Red Bull Ring
