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McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Tyler Rampersaud – October 27, 2026

KTM Reveals New X-BOW GT-XA For America

KTM X-BOW has spent nearly 20 years creating ultra-lightweight racing and road supercars, combining robust power with precise engineering, and just as much weight as is necessary. The Austrian manufacturer has brought its GT models stateside for racing, but the domestic market has yet to see a roadgoing KTM X-BOW until now. Thanks to a partnership with Carbon Yard, KTM X-BOW has announced the new GT-XA, a variant of the supercar that is made to be road-going in the United States. Racing is the origin of KTM X-BOW, and the new GT-XA supercar promises to bring the racing-bred DNA of the car to roads in the States, including its iconic carbon fiber monocoque, aggressive aerodynamics, and a 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine from Audi. The GT-XA features a “Jetfighter Canopy,” forgoing doors for an electric canopy that closes over the driver, not only contributing visual drama and occasion, but also contributing to a stronger carbon fiber structure for the vehicle. Meanwhile, the five-cylinder engine is mated with a dual-clutch transmission, delivering an exceptional power-to-weight ratio for driving that is both thrilling and precise. Each example of the new KTM X-BOW GT-XA is set to be built in Graz, Austria, with bespoke configuration available for each owner. An initial run of just 30 examples is planned, including visits to the home of KTM X-BOW in Austria, driving experiences at Red Bull Ring, and more. <- Gallery -> Exclusively set for the American market, buyers can secure one of the 30 allocations for the new KTM X-BOW GT-XA with a fully refundable $50,000 reservation. Pending street-legal approval, the full price of the GT-XA is slated to be $490,000 or under, and buyers will be able to choose a production number. Deliveries are planned for 2027, bringing KTM X-BOW’s racing-bred thrill to American roads for the first time. View All Exotic Cars For Sale Image Source: KTM X-BOW

By duPont REGISTRY – October 27, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Group Announces Strategic Investment from Cardinale Family Office

duPont REGISTRY Group (“DRG”), the leading AI-powered, digitally enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, today announced a strategic investment from the Cardinale Family Office. This strategic investment underscores the group’s commitment to cultivating a seamless and reliable ecosystem where enthusiasts and collectors can effortlessly buy, finance, sell and immerse themselves in their passion for automobiles. DRG believes this move is a testament to the exceptional value of DRG’s global client and collector car database and the robust appeal of the group’s renowned brand whose reputation as a trusted source for luxury and exotic vehicles spans over 40 years. “As a car collector and enthusiast, my family and I always believed duPont REGISTRY is the most trusted brand in the luxury and exotic car industry,” said James Cardinale-McKinnon, Trustee and President of Rally Point East and Superior Motors North Fork. “What Antoine and his team built using technology, proprietary data and AI transforms how clients transact, finance and engage with luxury and exotic cars.” “We are excited and proud to add James and his family as investors. James’ passion and knowledge will be a great addition to our existing group of incredible investors,” said Antoine Tessier, CEO of duPont REGISTRY Group. About duPont REGISTRY Group duPont REGISTRY Group (DRG) is the leading AI-powered, digitally enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, encompassing its content, community and commerce. Using data insights and advanced technology to build a seamless and scalable digital marketplace, DRG facilitates engagement of enthusiasts and collectors within the luxury automotive world, listing 279,000 cars with a total listing value of $33 billion as of June 30, 2026. Its integrated ecosystem unites premium content, a seamless digital platform and more than 120 immersive events that attract nearly 120,000 attendees globally. By combining cutting-edge technology with vast vehicle access, DRG aims to redefine how enthusiasts connect and transact. For more than 40 years, DRG has been a trusted source. About Rally Point East Located in the heart of the Hamptons, Rally Point East is an exclusive, private members’ club built around a shared passion for automotive culture, offering a curated environment for collectors to store vehicles, socialize, and attend premier lifestyle events. Media Contact ICR for duPont REGISTRY Group duPont@icrinc.com

By Khris Bharath – October 04, 2026

McLaren Senna Leads Weekly Results as Carrera GT Nears Close and Rimac Nevera Debuts on duPont REGISTRY Live

As September comes to a close, 16 cars closed this past week on duPont REGISTRY Live, including one Flash Sale and three results above $600,000. A McLaren, two Ferraris, and two Porsches provided the headline results. The spectacular and highly diverse Hale Collection, made up of everything from vintage automobiles like a 1931 Ford Model A and classics to modern exotics, concluded 9 of its consignments, with the collection’s first-gen Ford GT claiming the platform's highest result for the model. Looking ahead, 17 cars are currently open for bidding, and Guard’s Porsche Carrera GT, currently leading, is entering its final 48 hours; the platform's first Rimac Nevera has just opened with a Koenigsegg Regera, also making its brand debut on dR Live for the Swedish marque, set to join the docket soon. Lots Closed: Highlights Leading the results this week is a 2019 McLaren Senna finished in Factory MSO Blue Carbon with contrasting silver highlights and only 826 miles, which hammered at $2,703,750 including buyer's premium. Featuring over $170,000 in MSO options, including MSO Bespoke Blue, which on its own cost $108,786, the Senna delivered one of the week's standout results on dR Live. Against an original window sticker of $1,130,621, the result represents a 139.14% increase from new and sits 7.06% above the model's current duPont REGISTRY Index (dRi) value of $2,525,456. #347 of the 500 examples hand-assembled in Woking, England, this unique specification combines three attributes associated with top-tier Senna valuations: ultra-low mileage, an MSO exposed-carbon finish, and documented U.S. delivery. A Rosso Corsa 2009 Ferrari 430 Scuderia coupe with VIP Book hammered at $702,450*. Values of standard Scuderia coupes have been on the uptick, with several examples on dR Live closing over $700k. The rarer 16M variant, limited to just 499 units worldwide, has been clearing close to $1 million across multiple auction platforms. Back in August, a 16M Spider achieved $994,350* on dR Live. While the Scuderia was only offered with the F1-transmission, factory manual-equipped variants remain the scarcest configuration within the 430 range, and that hierarchy continues to remain a key parameter driving values. A PTS Bahama Yellow 2024 Porsche 992 GT3 RS Weissach with just 91 miles hammered at $564,900*, a substantial premium over its original sticker price of $320,110, consistent with where delivery-mileage, well-specified 992 GT3 RS examples have been trading in 2026. While the Weissach Package cost $33,520, notably, the PTS color on its own was $20,960. Representing the air-cooled era, a 1979 Porsche 911 SC in Mocha Brown from the Hale Collection hammered at $93,450*. The Hale Collection concluded 9 of its consignments, led by a single-owner 2006 Ford GT with 3,915 miles hammered at $672,000*, landing within range of recent results witnessed at Mecum Nashville and Bring a Trailer. The result for this Tungsten Gray example also surpasses the $612,150* achieved for the 1-of-2 Speed Yellow Stripe Delete example to become the highest Gen-1 Ford GT on the platform. The 2017 Dodge Viper ACR Extreme with 1,368 miles hammered at $449,400*, close to the $500,000-plus territory where sub-1,000-mile ACR Extremes have been trading in 2026, with mileage being one of the primary differentiating factors. Onto the classics and the 1965 Kirkham AC Cobra 289 FIA hammered at $108,675*, the 1967 Sunbeam Tiger at $105,000*, the 1966 C2 Corvette frame-off at $87,150*, the 1997 BMW M3 Sedan at $67,200*, the 1931 Ford Model A, dR Live’s first ever vintage car, at $53,025*, and the 1973 Triumph GT-6 Mark III at $22,895* completed the collection's closed results. Separately, a 2025 Cadillac Escalade V ESV hammered at $147,525*in this week’s 1-hour dR Drop. Upcoming Lots: Highlights <- Gallery -> All eyes are now on the single-owner Guards Red 2005 Porsche Carrera GT with 5,600 miles and its evocative V10 engine, currently bid to $3,000,000, leading the current docket and entering its final day. The 1,900+ horsepower 2024 Rimac Nevera specified by the Hamilton Collection is bid to $851,000 with 5 days remaining. As the platform's first Rimac consignment, this astonishingly quick all-electric hypercar marks a significant moment for electrified performance on dR Live. Staying with the hypercars we spotlighted in our limited-run supercars preview, a Bianco Avus 2017 Ferrari F12 TDF Atelier with roughly 1,600 miles is bid to $1,101,000 with 4 days remaining. Other Ferraris currently open for bidding include a 2008 Ferrari 430 Scuderia in Nero with Alcantara upholstery and factory stripe is at $449,888 with 2 days remaining. A Rosso Scuderia 2004 Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale with full PPF is at $383,888 with 4 days remaining. A Rosso Corsa 2005 Ferrari F430 Spider with 5,461 miles and a VIP Book is at $99,999 with 2 days remaining, while a 2003 Ferrari 360 Spider with the highly desirable factory gated manual and Daytona seats is just listed at $11,500 with 9 days left. A 1990 Ferrari 348 TS Targa also with a factory gated manual, featured on our recent feature about Ferrari's mid-engine evolution, is at $55,500 with 2 days remaining. On to more analog heavyweights, and a Giallo Orion 2006 Lamborghini Murciélago upgraded with the desirable gated manual transmission by EAG was just listed with 10 days remaining, while a 2008 Porsche 911 Turbo Cab with a six-speed manual, currently bid to $104,500, closing in two days. A 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG finished in Alubeam Silver s with just 196 miles, and the iconic gullwing door is just listed at $215,000 with 10 days remaining. From GM, a 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 with 2,800 miles from a single owner is at $95,000, while a 2026 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing with the 6-speed manual and Deep Ocean Package is at $104,000 with 4 days remaining. The final Hale Collection consignments, all classics, remain open: the Twin Paxton Supercharged 1966 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 at $51,000 with 4 days remaining, the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air in India Ivory and Harvest Gold at $37,000 with 3 days remaining, and the 1978 Triumph Spitfire 1500 with a removable hardtop at $3,500 with 2 days left, wrapping up our highlights. View All Lots on duPont REGISTRY Live If you're interested in financing any other exotic car, be sure to get pre-qualified. *** A 5% Buyer's Premium applies to all lots. A hammered result confirms that an auction has ended and does not represent a completed transaction. All sales are subject to duPont REGISTRY Live's 14-Day Return Policy and standard purchase and sale terms.

By Michael Van Runkle – October 02, 2026

Rolls-Royce Opens World’s First “Black Badge Lounge” in Beverly Hills

Just off Rodeo Drive, in the heart of Beverly Hills last night, Rolls-Royce held an exclusive opening for a new dealership featuring the world’s first “Black Badge Lounge.” The Great Gatsby-themed soiree within a tastefully updated studio featured live music, flapper dancers, champagne towers, and Dalmore 17 scotch whisky cocktails, giving loyal customers and media a chance to experience the showroom floor, visit the speakeasy in the rear, and then venture upstairs to the “Black Badge Atelier” that offers a private escape for speccing highly personalized Rolls-Royce motorcars. The crisp white walls with contrasting vertical bars so reminiscent of Rolls-Royce’s iconic front grilles perfectly mirrored a 1925 Phantom “Round Door” that the nearby Petersen Automotive Museum kindly contributed to the evening’s festivities. This first-generation Phantom received custom coachwork in 1934 from Jonckheere, in Belgium, and retrospectively represents the first iteration of the Black Badge ethos that Rolls-Royce brought to life officially in 2016. Parked diagonally across the showroom floor, a Spectre Series II embodied the very opposite end of the spectrum, with a fully electric powertrain that proves exactly how well prodigious silent power matches the modern luxury experience – especially in Black Badge form. “Black Badge has always been about a different side of Rolls-Royce,” Director of Sales & Brand Julian Jenkins told duPont REGISTRY. “One that is bolder, more contemporary, and a little unexpected. After ten years, it felt like the right moment to give that spirit a home of its own.” The new Beverly Hills dealership will operate as part of the broader O’Gara Coachgroup, at the heart of Los Angeleno car culture with showrooms full of McLaren, Bugatti, Koenigsegg, Pininfarina, Aston Martin, Lamborghini, and Rimac nearby. Tom O’Gara himself greeted customers and friends at the opening, before handing the microphone over to a jazz ensemble. As the music played, guests circled through the Black Badge Lounge to an outdoor area where a team of torcedores hand-rolled cigars. Upstairs in the Atelier, out of sight from the main floor and bar, a private experience for speccing and customizing Rolls-Royces hinted at the nearly countless options available for sumptuous leathers, plush high-pile carpets, contrast stitching threads, and more – all rendered digitally in real time on a large screen to complete the immersive experience. “The Atelier lets people step into the Black Badge world, more than just seeing it in a motorcar,” Jenkins continued. “It doesn’t feel like a conventional showroom, it’s a more relaxed, considered environment in which clients may spend time, explore ideas, and begin to imagine something entirely their own. Of course, we are consistently seeing ever greater interest in personalization and one-off creations, and the Atelier offers a more engaging and inspiring way for clients to begin that commissioning journey.” The new dealership drew a healthy showing from across the broader Los Angeles cityscape, especially the next generation of luxury consumers emerging out of the tech industry, social media, and creative fields. As the initial introduction for new customers, or reestablishing a familiar foundation for existing owners, the world’s first Black Badge Lounge aims to create a level of direct engagement that sets the proper tone for ownership of the world’s finest motorcars. IMAGES COURTESY OF ROLLS-ROYCE MOTOR CARS & MICHAEL ROACH

By duPont REGISTRY – September 28, 2026

Learning How To Race With Skip Barber

Located directly in the middle of the Sunshine State, Sebring, Florida, is a charming town on a lake, but to the automotive world, Sebring is home to one of the world’s most respected and historic racing venues. Originally an airfield, Sebring International Raceway is known for its bumpy concrete surface that still uses World War II-era landing strips, which is why Sebring has been, for decades, a challenging and renowned venue for racers of all calibers. Its most well-known event is the 12 Hours of Sebring, which is a staple on the annual sports car racing calendar. We had to be at Sebring early on a Monday morning, arriving at the circuit just after sunrise, with dew still on the grass. We were there for a one-day Skip Barber Racing School, one of many that the school hosts across the country. While we were there for only one day, many of our classmates were only at the beginning of their racing journeys, as the Monday we were there was only the start of a three-day program that dives even deeper into motorsport driving technique. Our day started with a classroom session, and our instructor was a legend with decades of experience in racing and educating drivers: Terry Earwood. His own motorsport career is full of accolades, including being inducted into multiple halls of fame and having several endurance and drag racing titles.Teaching a curriculum that has been perfected across decades and was originally taught for the Georgia State Police, Earwood’s instruction breaks driving down to its most basic physical principles. We learned how weight distribution, grip limits, contact patches, and throttle/brake application each affected the car. The goal was for us to translate those concepts into confidently maneuvering our cars around the track. The cars we would be driving on-track are modified fifth-generation Ford Mustang GT coupes, but first, we got behind the wheel of road-legal sedans. While not nearly as brawny as a sports car, or the Formula 4 cars some of the other students would be driving, our midsize sedans were meant for a cone course. Helping us test the limits of grip, throttle, and braking for corners, one cone, located at the inside of a turn, was affectionately nicknamed “Muffy” by Earwood. Our goal was to make sure we carried as much speed as we could through the turn, while getting the car as close to Muffy as possible. Another exercise saw us driving a Toyota Camry with one odd wheel around a drift circle. That wheel had a plastic disc around the tire, which helped the tail loosen to simulate sudden oversteer. In case it happened on the track, this experience would help us mitigate the situation.Once everyone became more comfortable with the fundamentals, using their eyes to look through the corner, smoothly applying throttle at the apex, and knowing how to safely recover from understeer, it was time to suit up and head out to the track. A quick walkthrough on the fifth-generation Mustang gave everyone a small taste of what to expect when taking off from pit lane, including a full breakdown of all the performance and safety upgrades and a hands-on demonstration of the four-point harness system. The Mustangs have been retrofitted and upgraded by Skip Barber’s team to now include suspension components from Eibach, a Kooks Headers and Exhaust system, an engine tune courtesy of HP Tuners, an upgraded transmission from TREMEC, and the latest BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A tires fitted underneath it all.Our group included everyone from complete beginners to experienced weekend track drivers, but the instructors made patience and safety the priority, ensuring everyone felt confident and comfortable before firing up the engines. As the first groups headed out, we climbed into the pace cars with our instructors, who guided us through the circuit corner by corner, explaining the ideal racing line and where to brake, turn in, and get back on the throttle. It not only served as a demonstration, but also a testament to the skills of our instructors as they outpaced lightweight open-wheel cars and larger V8s with expert cornering and pedal management alone. Finally, it was our turn to climb into the driver's seat, and to be honest, I felt a little overwhelmed trying to remember everything we'd learned throughout the day. As we started our inaugural lap of the already-legendary Sebring International Raceway, everything became calmer and clearer, following the pace car at a manageable speed and distance, talking myself through each turn with the confidence instilled by Terry’s classroom talk and the exercises earlier that morning. Before we knew it, Tyler and I were lapping Sebring like pros, downshifting through the corners, racing down the straights, and passing by each other like it was a 12-hour endurance race.With some time to decompress and debrief before our second session, we caught up with Terry to talk through our experiences so far and where we could improve behind the wheel. By the time we headed back out, everything felt much more natural. The second 30-minute session gave us the confidence to focus on cleaning up our mistakes, carrying more speed through corners, and gradually shaving time off each lap. Only spending the day with the group, Skip Barber Racing surprised us with an extra third track session while the rest of the class was being briefed on their upcoming days. Needless to say, it was the perfect ending to the day, spending our final moments at Sebring International Raceway chasing the sunset and shifting gears. Before setting off on our drive back to Saint Petersburg, FL, Terry presented the two of us with our official Skip Barber Racing School Certificate of Graduation, along with a gift bag from the school sponsors. It also gave us the time to really thank Terry and the entire team for their hospitality, knowledge, and patience throughout the day. Having started as two students with little to no track time experience, Skip Barber Racing School gave us the tools and confidence to take to any track. 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By Jordan Aquistapace – September 04, 2026

Titanium Takes Center Stage for Bvlgari’s at Geneva Watch Days

Geneva Watch Days has once again proved why it remains one of the most anticipated weeks on the watch calendar, with independent watchmakers and major brands bringing out months, sometimes years, of work and offering a look at where the industry is heading next. From motorsport-inspired skeletons to complex commemorative tourbillons, this year’s releases have covered just about every corner of modern watchmaking. Bvlgari is adding its own chapter to the mix with three new creations that have one very specific thing in common: titanium. The lightweight metal has long had a place in watchmaking, particularly in pieces where performance and everyday comfort take center stage. Bvlgari, however, is approaching it from a few different angles. The Octo Finissimo Dual Time x Vianney Halter combines Bvlgari’s in-house expertise with the mechanical creativity of the independent watchmaker, marking the first time the two have collaborated directly on a movement. The Octo Finissimo Dazzle takes a more artistic route, using laser engraving to transform the titanium case into an almost hypnotic optical illusion. Then there’s the Bvlgari Titanio, which brings the material into the Aluminium collection for a lighter, more everyday take. Three watches, three very different personalities, and a pretty good demonstration of just how much can be done with a material that’s usually looked at simply for being light. Octo Finissimo Dual Time × Vianney Halter Bvlgari is venturing into new territory with the Octo Finissimo Dual Time × Vianney Halter, marking the first time an independent watchmaker has collaborated directly with the collection. The pairing brings together the Octo Finissimo’s Italian design DNA with Halter’s retro-futuristic approach to watchmaking. The collaboration comes in two limited editions: 30 pieces in brushed titanium and just 15 in polished satin pink gold. Both feature the Octo Finissimo’s 40.5mm case and ultra-thin proportions while introducing four individual opaline dials, blue hands, a red arrow seconds hand, and Halter’s signature on the rotor. Behind it all is Bvlgari’s new BVF 200 automatic movement with a micro-rotor, 60-hour power reserve, and dedicated modules for GMT, date, and day/night indications. It’s an impressive amount of mechanical work packed into one watch. Octo Finissimo Dazzle The Octo Finissimo has never been shy about pushing the boundaries of what a watch can look like, but the new Octo Finissimo Dazzle takes that idea to a whole new level. Crafted from a 40mm titanium case, the watch is covered in a geometric pattern designed to play games with your eyes, essentially camouflaging the silhouette that makes the Octo Finissimo so recognizable. At certain angles, the case, dial, and integrated bracelet almost seem to disappear into one continuous pattern. The inspiration comes from an unlikely place: automotive camouflage. Just as manufacturers use fragmented patterns to disguise a prototype during testing, Bvlgari uses laser engraving to disrupt the Octo Finissimo’s styling. The pattern is etched directly into the titanium using a technique mastered in-house, something too difficult to do by hand. It’s an interesting twist on the idea of dial legibility, too. Instead of making the time easier to read, the Dazzle deliberately lets the design completely take over. Titanio Bvlgari is giving its Aluminium collection a new direction with the Titanio, trading aluminum for grade 5 titanium while keeping the combination of rubber and the collection’s Italian design intact. It’s familiar at first glance, but noticeably more contemporary on the wrist. The new Titanio comes in two versions, a GMT and a Chronograph. The 40 mm GMT keeps things clean and understated, with a black-and-gray dial, 24-hour display, and Bvlgari’s automatic B192 movement offering 50 hours of power reserve. The 41 mm Chronograph takes a slightly sportier approach, pairing its brushed titanium case with a redesigned chronograph layout and tachymetric scale, powered by the automatic B381 calibre. Together, the two watches show how much room there is to evolve the Aluminium formula without losing what made it work in the first place. Source: BVLGARI

By Tyler Rampersaud – September 04, 2026

Jensen Unveils New Track-Only GTX Prototype

Jensen has been teasing its return to the automotive landscape for some time now, reviving its legendary Interceptor nameplate with a new lineup of grand tourers that modernize the original’s iconic silhouette and performance character. Recently, the Interceptor GTX name was confirmed by the brand, and the car bearing that name has now been revealed. It’s a track-only prototype that previews the future Jensen lineup of road-going grand tourers, and it features a front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, and immense power, the same formula that made Jensen’s original vehicles cherished. The new Interceptor GTX, described as an “enhanced prototype,” features a 960-horsepower V8 engine, a handcrafted aluminum body whose silhouette echoes the original Interceptor, several carbon fiber aerodynamic components, a six-speed sequential transmission, and several other motorsport-ready features and components. The new Jensen Interceptor GTX is, according to the manufacturer, a statement of intent, as well as an engineering and development template for future Jensen models, including other Interceptor variants like the GTR, a street-legal version of the GTX, and the GT, which will be optimized for grand touring. A clean-sheet design that pays homage to the original Interceptor and its legacy, the new Jensen Interceptor GTX features several components that are production-ready, showcasing an engineering and manufacturing capability from Jensen that is ready to enter the highly competitive performance car arena. <- Gallery -> About the new Interceptor GTX, Jensen International Managing Director, David Duerden, commented, “We chose to begin with the track-focused GTX because it is the clearest first expression of the new Jensen programme. It allows us to prove the engineering, design direction and specialist supplier base behind the car, while giving prospective customers something tangible and fully functional to experience. The road-going models that will follow have been conceived as part of the same development path. The GTX is the first physical variant of that programme, not a separate exercise. Around 80 per cent of its exterior form, including key body panels and associated tooling, is intended to carry through to the eventual road-going car range.” With its first prototype showcasing impressive track-only performance, the new Jensen Interceptor GTX is a dramatic first act of the upcoming revival of the iconic marque. View All Jensen Interceptor For Sale Image Source: Jensen International

By duPont REGISTRY – August 27, 2026

duPont REGISTRY Group Announces Strategic Investment from the Family Office of Technology Executive Sureel Choksi

MIAMI, FL – August 26, 2026 – duPont REGISTRY Group (“dRG”), the premier, AI-powered, digitally-enabled platform for the high-end automotive lifestyle, today announced a significant strategic investment from the family office of technology executive Sureel Choksi, President and CEO of Vantage Data Centers and passionate race car driver and car collector. This strategic investment reinforces dRG's standing as the premier entity in the luxury automotive sector. It underscores the group’s commitment to cultivating a seamless and reliable ecosystem where enthusiasts and collectors can effortlessly buy, sell and immerse themselves in their passion for automobiles. This move is a testament to the exceptional value of dRG’s global client and collector car database and the robust appeal of the group’s renowned brands whose reputation as a trusted source for luxury and exotic vehicles spans over 40 years. “I am very impressed with how Antoine and his team utilize technology, proprietary data and AI to transform how clients transact and engage with luxury and exotic cars,” said Mr. Choksi. “dRG has a strong foundation and market position, with exciting growth opportunities ahead.” “Sureel’s investment continues to validate that we’ve built a durable business with significant runway ahead,” said Antoine Tessier, CEO of duPont REGISTRY Group (dRG). “His experience operating at scale, managing complex global platforms and thinking strategically about data and capital deployment brings a perspective that will sharpen our focus as we continue to scale the technology and infrastructure that enables us to continue expanding dRG’s reach.” About duPont REGISTRY Group duPont REGISTRY Group (dRG) is the world’s premier luxury automotive platform, encapsulating the culture, community and commerce of the high-end automotive lifestyle, with an ecosystem uniting premium content, an integrated platform and immersive experiences, including more than 120 events globally that gather close to 120,000 attendees. By combining cutting-edge technology with unparalleled vehicle access, dRG is redefining how enthusiasts connect and transact. For more than 40 years, dRG has served as a trusted source for the vibrant global community of collectors and enthusiasts looking to buy and sell luxury vehicles. Using data insights and advanced technology to build a seamless and scalable digital marketplace, dRG facilitates billions of dollars in transactions and redefines how enthusiasts and collectors engage within the luxury automotive world. Media Contact ICR for duPont REGISTRY Group: duPont@icrinc.com

By Charles Bradley – August 16, 2026

Revealed: The Billionaire Who Bought Ferrari Luce “Chassis 0” For $40 Million

The self-made American billionaire who bought a Ferrari Daytona SP3 ‘Tailor Made’ for $26 million last year is the same investing legend who purchased Ferrari Luce’s Chassis 0 at RM Sotheby's Monterey Auction for $40 million on Saturday night, immediately making it the most expensive contemporary car ever auctioned. Herbert ‘Herbie’ Wertheim, whose life story reads like an American epic, won the auction for the first production example of Maranello's first electric grand tourer. Known to friends as “Dr. Herbie,” Wertheim – who always wears a bright-red fedora – is an optometrist, inventor, and investing legend estimated to be worth up to $5 billion, depending on his charitable donations. Renowned for making shrewd investments and his generous philanthropy, his record-breaking bid will go to the Ferrari Foundation, funding education and rebuilding projects. The Luce carries a base price of roughly $640,000. Chassis 0 is the first production unit off the line, distinguished by a dedicated plaque identifying its position in the production run. It was offered as lot 345, without reserve, and RM Sotheby's waived the buyer's premium on the lot. Every dollar of the sale benefited the Ferrari Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity that supports educational initiatives. The car carries a set of Tailor-Made specifications developed through Ferrari's design studio. The exterior is finished in a Madreperla semi-gloss paint mixed specifically for this car, with an iridescent effect that shifts from green to violet depending on the light. The interior uses Le Mans metallic leather in Perla with Grigio Corvara secondary trim, paired with dedicated wheels and bespoke brake calipers. The Ferrari badge is set against an optical white background. The Luce has been Ferrari's most debated launch in years since it broke cover as the brand's first EV, and this sale is the first major public price signal tied to the model. The result is roughly 36 times the pre-sale estimate. Delivery is scheduled for the first quarter of 2027, after the car returns to Maranello, Italy. Wertheim made the headlines at Car Week last year, when he paid $26 million for the Daytona SP3. Part of Ferrari’s exclusive Icona Series, the SP3 was limited to 599 examples worldwide, but this one-off ‘Tailor Made’ commission stunned the automotive world – chassis ‘599+1,’ finished in a striking two-tone carbon-fiber and Giallo Modena livery. Who is “Dr. Herbie” Wertheim? Born in Philadelphia at the end of the Great Depression, Wertheim ran away from home as a teenager, working odd jobs like picking oranges in Florida and even living with Seminole Indians in the Everglades. At 16, he stood before a judge on truancy charges and was given a choice: State reformatory or military service. He chose the U.S. Navy at 17, a decision that reshaped his life. While serving in naval aviation during the Cold War, Wertheim began investing. His first stock purchase, Lear Jet, came from his Navy stipend, and he went on to meet aviation pioneer Bill Lear in person. That early exposure to technology and industry ignited a lifelong passion. After the Navy, Wertheim studied physics and chemistry, worked as a NASA engineer at Cape Canaveral, and eventually earned a scholarship to study optometry. In 1969, he invented an eyeglass tint for plastic lenses that filtered harmful UV rays, helping prevent cataracts. By 1970, he founded Brain Power Inc. (BPI), which went on to hold more than 100 patents and copyrights in optical technology. A Billionaire Who Played the Long Game Unlike Silicon Valley moguls or Wall Street icons, Wertheim’s fortune didn’t come from a single IPO windfall. Instead, he built it patiently through decades of disciplined investing. He bought and held shares of companies like Apple, Microsoft, GE, Google, BP, and Bank of America long before they became household names, according to Forbes. His single greatest investment remains Heico, an aerospace parts manufacturer. Wertheim purchased a stake in 1992, worth about $5 million at the time. Today, his position exceeds $800 million, making him Heico’s largest individual shareholder. A Life of Luxury, Purpose, and Giving Wertheim’s portfolio afforded him an enviable lifestyle, and he has been described as one of the most successful individual investors of his generation. Yet his wealth is balanced by philanthropy. Having donated more than $100 million to Florida’s public universities, Wertheim also signed Bill Gates and Warren Buffett’s ‘Giving Pledge’, committing to donate at least half his fortune – most of it toward education. Like his stock portfolio, the Ferrari is built on the principle that some creations – whether a transformative technology or a bespoke supercar – transcend market cycles. For collectors, it is yet another reminder that at Monterey Car Week, history isn’t just celebrated – it’s bought and can be driven. View All Ferraris for Sale Images by duPont REGISTRY, Ferrari S.P.A

By Charles Bradley – August 14, 2026

Bruce Meyer’s Ferrari Testarossa Claims Best of Show at The Quail by The Peninsula

Few names carry more weight in the collector-car world than Bruce Meyer. A longtime advocate for automotive preservation, concours excellence and car culture, Meyer has spent decades shaping the hobby through his stewardship of historically significant automobiles. Now, one of the crown jewels from his collection has earned one of Monterey Car Week’s highest honors. At the 23rd annual edition of The Quail by The Peninsula, A Motorsports Gathering, Meyer’s remarkable 1957 Ferrari 625/250 Testarossa was awarded Best of Show, rising above a curated field of more than 200 automobiles to claim the event’s most prestigious distinction. The victory adds another chapter to Meyer’s celebrated collecting legacy while highlighting the enduring appeal of one of Ferrari’s most historically significant competition cars. Selected for its exceptional design, craftsmanship and historical significance, the Ferrari was inducted into the prestigious Rolex Circle of Champions, a tradition reserved for vehicles representing the pinnacle of automotive achievement. As part of the honor, Meyer received a specially engraved Oyster Perpetual Datejust 36 presented by Luca Bernasconi, president and CEO of Rolex USA. For collectors, concours judges and enthusiasts alike, the award reflects more than the quality of a single automobile. It underscores Meyer’s longstanding reputation as one of the most influential figures in the collector-car community, a passion that was also celebrated this year through The Bruce Meyer Collection, one of five featured classes at the event. A Ferrari Defined by Racing Provenance The winning Ferrari possesses a history as compelling as its appearance. Originally commissioned by famed Southern California Ferrari distributor and racer John von Neumann, the Scaglietti-bodied competition car established an impressive racing record during the 1957 season, collecting 11 victories. The car later received a 3.0-liter Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa V12, a transformation that helped contribute to a continued string of victories as a privateer racer. Its unique specification, combined with exceptional racing provenance and rarity, made it a standout among the world-class automobiles assembled on the fairways of The Quail Golf Club. Those qualities also embody the values celebrated by The Quail by The Peninsula: heritage, innovation, craftsmanship and the artistry of the automobile. Celebrating a Legendary Collector Meyer’s influence on the automotive world extends well beyond the cars he owns – six of which were on display at The Quail's greens (above). Widely regarded as one of the hobby’s most respected collectors and ambassadors, he has helped elevate appreciation for significant automobiles across generations of enthusiasts. His commitment to preservation, education and automotive culture has made him one of the most recognizable figures in the collector-car landscape. “I’ve never really looked at cars through the lens of value,” Meyer told duPont REGISTRY of his unique collection. “I consider myself more of an enthusiast than a collector. I’ve been buying cars for 50 years. I didn’t wake up one day and decide I wanted all the ‘right’ Ferraris. That's just not how I approached it. “For me, it's always been about the history and what excites me personally. If you walk through my garage, there's no common theme. It’s just a collection of things that spoke to me at a particular moment – cars that won races I cared about, cars with stories I loved. I’m interested in the history, the people, the stories, and what a particular car represents.” His impact was formally recognized at this year’s event through The Bruce Meyer Collection, a featured class showcasing the passion and vision that have defined his decades-long involvement in the automotive community. The inclusion of the class reinforced Meyer’s standing as a collector whose influence extends far beyond any individual vehicle. His collection has long been associated with historically important automobiles that tell broader stories about innovation, motorsport and design. With his Ferrari earning Best of Show, Meyer’s presence was felt across multiple facets of the event. A Showcase of Automotive Excellence The Quail by The Peninsula once again served as one of Monterey Car Week’s premier destinations for collectors, manufacturers and enthusiasts. More than 200 vehicles gathered on the show field, representing a carefully curated mix of automotive history, contemporary innovation and world-class design. The event also featured 22 vehicle debuts from OEMs and specialty manufacturers from around the globe. “The Quail By The Peninsula, A Motorsports Gathering embodies our approach to elevated hospitality, creating an experience where exceptional automobiles, thoughtful details and a shared passion for motoring come together in a truly distinctive setting,” said Benjamin Vuchot, CEO of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, Limited. “As The Quail continues to evolve, so does the remarkable field of vehicles and classes we welcome each year. What remains at the heart of the event, however, is an authentic celebration of motorsports, one that honors the heritage and craftsmanship of the classics while embracing the innovation, design and performance shaping its future.” The event’s combination of luxury hospitality, significant automobiles and carefully curated experiences has helped cement its status as one of the most sought-after invitations of Monterey Car Week. Celebrating Automotive Heritage This year’s featured classes highlighted a broad spectrum of automotive culture and achievement. The 100th Anniversary of Route 66 celebrated one of America’s most iconic highways and its enduring influence on car culture. The Lamborghini Diablo class brought together 30 examples of one of the marque’s defining supercars, while The Legacy of Japanese GTs honored the craftsmanship and performance heritage of Japan’s most influential grand touring machines. The event also featured a dedicated Ferrari F40 class celebrating one of Ferrari’s most revered modern supercars. Together with The Bruce Meyer Collection, the classes reflected the diversity of interests that continue to drive the collector-car market, from American automotive heritage to European supercars and Japanese performance icons. Throughout the day, attendees experienced the atmosphere that has become synonymous with The Quail by The Peninsula. A particularly memorable moment occurred when vehicles from the Legacy of Japanese GTs, Ferrari F40, Lamborghini Diablo and Custom Coachwork classes participated in a synchronized engine roar, creating a dramatic celebration of automotive passion across the show field. Distinguished Award Winners In addition to Best of Show, several other distinguished vehicles received honors. The Spirit of The Quail Award went to a 1965 Porsche 911 owned by Marc Davidian (above). The Hagerty Drivers Foundation Award was presented to a 1962 Lincoln Continental owned by Richard Plavetich and Susan Denton. The Magneto Editor’s Choice Award was awarded to a 1994 Lamborghini Diablo VT JOTA from the Caretakers Collection (below). While each winner represented a different chapter of automotive history, it was Meyer’s Ferrari that ultimately captured the event’s highest honor. For a collector whose influence has helped shape the modern collector-car landscape, the recognition felt particularly fitting. In a field filled with extraordinary automobiles, the 1957 Ferrari 625/250 Testarossa stood above them all – an achievement that reinforces both the car’s significance and Bruce Meyer’s place among the most respected custodians of automotive history. Photos courtesy of Kahn Media, Charles Bradley

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