Street News Anchor

Volvo is inching closer to the launch of the EX60, and alongside the rollout of the new electric SUV, the Swedish automaker has been making the media rounds. In an interview with Motor1, Volvo’s Chief Commercial Officer, Eric Severinson, shared the company’s stance on subscription-based car features. Severinson criticized the idea of charging monthly fees for basic functions like heated seats, saying luxury brands "shouldn’t nickel-and-dime customers" after they have already spent tens of thousands on a premium vehicle. Why Carmakers Love Subscriptions Volvo Money makes the world go around, and the autosphere is no exception. Subscription services have become increasingly common as automakers look for new ways to generate recurring revenue beyond traditional vehicle sales. In fact, GM thinks subscription services could eventually generate more revenue than selling cars. BMW faced heavy criticism after introducing heated seat subscriptions back in 2022, but have since admitted it was a mistake. From the manufacturers’ perspective, these systems allow for a more streamlined production process, since every vehicle could leave the factory with the same hardware installed. Subscriptions would essentially serve as a paywall to unlock features already installed on your car. Volvo Draws The Line Volvo Volvo believes there is a major difference between premium software services and features that are already installed in the car. Severinson explained that charging extra for basic functions does not align with the experience buyers expect from a luxury automaker. However, he noted that subscriptions can still make sense for larger digital ecosystems such as advanced driver-assistance systems or software features, like Volvo’s upcoming Google Gemini-integrated infotainment. A Different Kind Of Luxury Brand Volvo While Volvo competes directly with brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, buyers seem to gravitate toward German luxury brands, making it harder for Volvo to compete. The company’s EV lineup now includes the compact EX30, the flagship EX90, and the upcoming EX60, which is expected to rival models like the iX3 and GLC EQ. Volvo’s CEO has also signaled openness to building Chinese-developed EVs in the US, with help from their parent company Geely. Not only could this make electric vehicles more affordable, but combined with its public criticism of subscription features, Volvo would earn the public's favor. View the full article

Epitome of DesireFerrari has always been the definitive bedroom poster car for generations of petrolheads; it has become the most recognizable brand in high-performance cars. One thing the Prancing Horse brand understands is that not only do the cars have to perform well, but also evoke emotions, and that stems from good car design. Over the years, the brand has worked with notable Italian designers like Pininfarina, Bertone, and many more. It has also built up its own in-house design capabilities, and one self-made design has just nabbed a prestigious award. Ferrari View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Nostalgic Design The Red Dot design award is widely regarded as the most prestigious awarding body for automotive design. For 2026, the winner of the Best of the Best in the Product Design categoryis none other than the Ferrari SC40. The SC40 is a limited one-off by the Ferrari Special Projects Programme. This special service offered by Ferrari gives a very special new owner a truly bespoke experience, with a whole, singular model designed and built just for them. It was designed in-house by the Ferrari Design Studio under the stewardship of Flavio Manzoni. It was conceived as a pure, uncompromising Berlinetta, which means "little saloon." The design philosophy draws inspiration from the iconic F40 but adds elements that Ferrari's designers describe as "muscular squared volumes." It pays tribute to the F40 without being a literal representation; it even draws inspiration from industrial design, using precise geometry. Some key elements are the long, low nose, a short rear overhang, and a high fixed rear wing. It is painted in a bespoke color called Bianco SC40, and inside it uses a lot of carbon-kevlar materials matched by Alcantara. Since the base car is a 296 GTB, it uses the same engine, which produces a total power output of 819 hp with the help of a hybrid system. Ferrari View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Multiple WinnersThis year marked the 72nd Red Dot Awards, and Ferrari marked the occasion not just with the overall win of the SC40 but also with other special cars from the stable taking home awards. These cars are the Ferrari Amalfi, 849 Testarossa, 849 Testarossa Spider, 296 Speciale, and 296 Speciale A. Over the past 12 years, Ferrari has bagged 35 Red Dot awards, an achievement unmatched by any other automaker since the Red Dot awards were established in 1955. Ferrari View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The grid is set for Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International. Defending winner Shane van Gisbergen earned pole position -- his first at the Glen but fifth at the Cup level. The impressive qualifying effort also comes on the Kiwi's 37th birthday! Spire Motorsports' Michael McDowell will start from the outside of the front row, a full 0.259s off of SVG's fast lap of ...Keep readingView the full article

Tariff Fight ContinuesOne of the latest developments in the Trump administration’s tariff push is the possibility of raising import duties on European cars from 15% to 25%, a move that could severely affect brands without U.S. manufacturing, including Audi. But while tariff debates continue, a federal trade court has blocked the administration’s new 10% global tariffs, ruling them unlawful, according to Automotive News. For context, the new tariffs do not apply to imported cars and auto parts, which are already subject to separate duties under Section 232. The fresh 10% tariffs, imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, were introduced in February 2026 after the Supreme Court ruled the administration’s International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)-based tariffs illegal. For now, the court’s block applies only to the two companies that sued and the state of Washington. SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg via Getty Images The Legal ProblemThe court stated that the administration exceeded the authority granted under Section 122 in imposing the 10% global tariffs, as the provision is intended for temporary emergency measures tied to a serious “balance-of-payments deficit,” not general trade deficits. Under this provision, import duties can only be raised to 15% and may remain in effect for only 150 days unless extended by Congress. While this may not directly affect the car industry, the ruling could help reduce the risk of additional blanket tariffs being piled on top of existing automotive duties. Several brands, including Hyundai, have also expressed concerns over the challenges posed by tariffs, which may not immediately affect customers but could have long-term consequences for automakers. GM Canada Billions in RefundsStill, U.S. automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are reportedly set to receive around $2.3 billion in tariff refunds, which are specifically tied to the overturned IEEPA tariffs. Across multiple industries, importers could reportedly receive almost $170 billion in refunds. While the refund process is reportedly beginning to “heat up,” automakers that import vehicles into the U.S. will still have to navigate Section 232 tariffs. Those duties have also added pressure on brands to build more vehicles stateside, but setting up U.S. manufacturing is costly, time-consuming, and risky given how quickly tariff policies can change after elections or court rulings. For now, some automakers may simply have to absorb the hit. MICHAEL MACOR/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images View the full article

Geely Already Has One Big Advantage in the U.S.While U.S. politicians continue to push back against Chinese automakers entering the U.S. market, a new CNBC report says Geely Holding may already be the best-positioned Chinese carmaker to break into the U.S. market. Unlike rivals still trying to establish a foothold, Geely already has strong operational ties in the United States through familiar brands such as Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. Industry analysts interviewed by CNBC pointed out that Geely effectively “already sells cars in America” through its ownership stakes and partnerships. Geely Holding owns nearly 79% of Volvo Cars, controls 51% of Lotus, and maintains major influence over Polestar. Those relationships give the Chinese automaker something competitors like BYD or Nio still lack in the U.S.: factories, dealer networks, supply chains, and brand recognition already operating on American soil. Volvo’s South Carolina Plant Could Be the KeyOne of the biggest assets in Geely’s corner is Volvo’s manufacturing plant in Charleston, South Carolina. The facility is currently operating well below its annual capacity of roughly 150,000 units. Volvo executives have already hinted they would be open to producing additional vehicles there, including potentially models tied to Geely’s broader portfolio. Volvo reportedly wants to significantly expand its American manufacturing footprint as it aims for 200,000 annual U.S. sales. The company is also preparing to build more hybrid SUVs locally. That opens the door for Geely-backed brands to potentially sidestep steep import tariffs by producing vehicles inside the United States instead of shipping them directly from China. Autoblog / Leroy Marion Zeekr May Be the Brand Americans See FirstAmong Geely’s growing portfolio of automotive brands, analysts believe Zeekr is the most likely to officially enter the U.S. market. Positioned as a premium, performance-focused EV brand beneath Volvo, Zeekr has already started establishing a quiet presence in America through its partnership with autonomous driving company Waymo. Waymo has deployed Zeekr-based autonomous vans in San Francisco as part of its robotaxi operations. Executives from Zeekr have also publicly expressed interest in entering the American market. Analysts believe the brand’s upscale positioning, advanced EV technology, and Geely’s existing infrastructure could make it the easiest Chinese automotive brand for American buyers to accept. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Chinese Automakers Are Growing Too Big to IgnoreAcross all its brands, Geely reportedly sold nearly 1 million vehicles in the first quarter of 2026 alone, according to the report. Analysts say the company has also gained valuable international experience by aggressively expanding across Europe, giving it a better understanding of operating outside China compared to many of its domestic rivals. At the same time, American consumers may be more open to Chinese vehicles than politicians expect. An earlier report found that a large percentage of U.S. buyers would consider buying a Chinese car. Among younger buyers, that number reportedly climbs close to 70%, signaling a potentially huge opportunity if regulatory barriers ease in the future. Autoblog / Leroy Marion Political Resistance Remains a Massive ObstacleDespite Geely’s positioning, entering the American market won’t be easy. Chinese EVs currently face a 100% U.S. tariff, with additional duties potentially pushing costs even higher. The federal government has also moved aggressively against Chinese connected-car technology over cybersecurity concerns. Still, some American leaders have shown openness toward Chinese automakers manufacturing vehicles domestically. Donald Trump recently said he would welcome Chinese companies building factories in the U.S. if they hire American workers and invest locally. That approach could ultimately become the path forward not just for Geely, but for the entire next wave of Chinese automakers hoping to enter the American market. Leroy Marion / Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

An Icon That Could've Been Replaced in the '60sMuch has been said about the Volkswagen Beetle and its long and illustrious history. Anyone somewhat knowledgeable about automotive history would know that the Beetle story dates back to the Second World War. If it weren't for British Major Ivan, who spotted a Type 1 prototype amidst the rubble of the Volkswagen plant, the entire German automotive industry probably wouldn't have become the powerhouse it eventually became. The Type 1 would eventually be named Käfer, the German word for Beetle, and it became its official name by the late '60s. However, there were already plans to build a successor long before that, and had any of those been approved, we probably wouldn't be writing this story in the first place. Exotic Car Trader The First AttemptsAs early as the '50s, Volkswagen had been building prototypes for the Type 1 replacement. One of the earliest examples was the EA 47-12 from 1955, transforming the insect-shaped car into a more formal sedan that looked contemporary. That same year, there was the EA 48, which looked rather like the love child of a Porsche 356 and a panel van. Another interesting prototype was the EA 97, and if it looks familiar, that one ended up being the 1961 Type 3 and not as a direct replacement for the Beetle. Then there was the EA 142 that subsequently became the Type 4, again, not a Beetle replacement. But around the mid-'60s, there were two proposals that would eventually change the brand's trajectory. These were the EA 266 and EA 267, and both have amazing backstories, particularly the earlier model. Volkswagen The EA 266Quick fun fact: the reason why VW has EA in its product codes is that it stands for Entwicklungsauftrag, meaning development assignment. VW attaches that to engine codes these days, but back then, it was assigned to prototypes. So, in this case, EA 266 stands for development assignment 266. EA 266 was awarded to Porsche by the then CEO, Dr. Kurt Lotz. The brief was simple, on paper at least. EA 266 had to be "sporty, comfortable, safe to drive, spacious, and compact." With that in mind, Porsche opted to go for a mid-engined layout, likely for packaging reasons and, well, the 'sporty' part of the brief. The project was led by the then development chief, Ferdinand Piëch. Yes, that Ferdinand Piëch. Volkswagen Clever for its EraThe resulting prototype, shown in 1969, featured a flat-4 engine under the rear seats, providing a sizable cargo area for a small vehicle. Interestingly, it was water-cooled, breaking away from the company's usual air-cooled engines. The 1.6-liter engine made, give or take, about 100 hp, which was unheard of from such a small engine back in the day. For reference, the Beetle made about half as much as the EA 266. As for the suspension, it was independent at the front and rear. It had struts up front and a semi-trailing arm arrangement at the back, which would've made for some pretty sporty handling back in the day. Indeed, according to Volkswagen, "its roadholding left most sports cars in the dust." This flyweight subcompact weighed under 1,750 lbs and had a claimed speed of 116 mph. It's safe to say that Porsche nailed the 'it must be sporty' part of Volkswagen's instructions. Volkswagen A Couple of IssuesUnfortunately, that mid-engined layout would cause some problems. The engine hung low, constantly putting it at risk of catastrophic damage if its belly scraped against anything. Placement of the intake manifold and radiator was compromised at best, and accessibility to the engine for maintenance work was, to put it lightly, difficult. Then there was the matter of refinement. It inevitably got hot inside, particularly for rear occupants, and there was a fair amount of noise seeping into the cabin. As for handling, it was fine (and fun) for the more experienced helmsman, but it was potentially scary for the average person who just wants to use it to go to the shops. Given more time, one could say that Porsche could've ironed out all those kinks, but it wasn't meant to be. The development of the EA 266 had proved expensive, and there was a change of the guard at Volkswagen's offices. A new CEO had stepped in, and Rudolf Leiding terminated the project on the grounds of cost and complexity. Volkswagen A Different DirectionWith the EA 266 project axed, VW went with the direction set by the EA 276. It was, at the time, a massive departure from the brand's usual models, as it was front-engined, front-wheel-drive, and came with a water-cooled inline-four engine. If that formula sounds familiar, it would form the basis of EA 337, the prototype of the car we all know as the Golf. As for the EA 266, of the 50 prototypes that were made, only two remain. It's certainly an interesting footnote in VW's history, and had that been chosen over the Golf, the company would look very different today. After all, a full range of vehicles had been planned for it had been approved, one that included sedans, sports cars, and even a minivan. Perhaps in a parallel universe where the EA 266 became the Golf, VW would be the purveyor of mid-engined vehicles worldwide. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. Still, its chief developer, Ferdinand Piëch, would come back much, much stronger after that. We all know what kind of cars resulted under his stewardship of the brand. As they say, the rest is history. Volkswagen Volkswagen View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

“Honestly, a bit surprised.” Ryan Preece was very measured on Saturday morning when discussing the penalty levied against him this week by NASCAR for the incident involving him and Ty Gibbs last Sunday at Texas Motor Speedway. Gibbs crashed on Lap 101 and NASCAR deduced intent based on radio communication that indicated Preece could retaliate in some form for a previous incident ...Keep readingView the full article

Porsche Hits ResetGive Porsche credit for trying to branch out into adjacent ventures. But with shifting market conditions, including U.S. tariffs and slowing sales in China, the German marque wants to refocus on its “core business.” That shift is so significant that the company is cutting several subsidiaries, affecting more than 500 employees. This strategic realignment became apparent after Porsche agreed to sell its stakes in the Bugatti Rimac and the Rimac Group. Now, the automaker is discontinuing three subsidiaries: Cellforce Group GmbH, Porsche eBike Performance GmbH, and Cetitec GmbH. “We must refocus on our core business. This is the indispensable foundation for a successful strategic realignment. This forces us to make painful cuts – including our subsidiaries,” said Dr. Michael Leiters, chairman of the executive board of Porsche. Porsche Pulling the PlugCellforce Group is a battery cell manufacturer that later shifted toward becoming an independent R&D unit for Porsche as EV demand slowed in markets such as the U.S. and China. However, the venture is no longer seen as having a viable long-term business case, leading to its discontinuation. Meanwhile, Porsche eBike Performance, as the name suggests, develops high-performance e-bike drive systems. But shifting conditions in the e-bike market have also brought that venture to an end. As for Cetitec, it develops specialized data communication software not only for Porsche, but also for the broader Volkswagen Group, Porsche’s parent company, which owns brands such as Audi and Lamborghini. Much like the other two subsidiaries, Porsche said changing market conditions and shifting development priorities made the venture no longer sustainable. Porsche The Heart of PorschePorsche did not elaborate on what it means by “core business,” but it likely refers to its main carmaking operations. That could mean funneling more resources into vehicle development, including long-standing nameplates like the 911, which is now available with a hybrid system called the T-Hybrid. The automaker is also expanding its EV lineup, with the Cayenne Electric set to begin deliveries in the U.S. in late summer 2026. Conditions could become even more challenging now that the Trump administration is threatening to raise tariffs on imported cars from Europe from 15% to 25%. Porsche does not have a manufacturing plant in the U.S.; most of its models are produced in Germany, while the Cayenne is assembled in Slovakia. Against that backdrop, the company's decision to streamline parts of the business looks easier to understand. Porsche View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

One of the best decisions Japanese automakers ever made was to create North American branches, and they have traditionally been a reliable source of cash for these companies when things in the rest of the world are challenging, but Toyota North America has posted a $1.21 billion loss for the 2025 fiscal year. After a $681.4 million profit the year before, what is the cause of this decline? There are several: Trump tariffs, investing in EVs, and the war in Iran. However, new CEO and former CFO Kenta Kon has a plan to right the ship. More Hybrids, a Revised Lineup, and Shared Costs for Toyota Toyota To improve operating profits, which have already fallen and are set to decline another 20 percent to $18.79 billion, Kon wants to review the Toyota model range, reports Automotive News, not only in terms of which nameplates are being produced, but also how many thereof. "As we pursue the multipathway, that naturally increases the number of models, and that means an increase in the number of parts and specifications, which makes things more complex for customers," said Kon. "If we can review that complexity, it would have a major impact." In other words, while Toyota still wants to produce all-electric, mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen-powered, and combustion vehicles, it can't afford to overcommit to vehicles that occupy small niches and have a low forecast for near-term growth. Related: Toyota Vs. Honda Reliability: One Clear Winner Chief Financial Officer Yoichi Miyazaki admitted that "[Toyota's] business in America is very challenging," and the numbers show it, with the automaker accumulating an $8.64 billion tariff bill each fiscal year. While Toyota could bear the brunt of this burden in the previous fiscal year, it now intends to work with its suppliers to share the strain. Efficiency will be key for Toyota after it announced a $1 billion investment in its Kentucky and Indiana assembly plants, which will both be responsible for a trio of new EVs - the first of which will be the now electric-only Highlander - and increased output of the gas-powered Grand Highlander three-row SUV. Toyota Is Cautious But Optimistic Toyota While the likes of Nissan have already had to trim the workforce and scale back production, Kon believes that Toyota does not need to be aggressive and reactive in its cost-cutting. "We do not have to apply the brakes on our growth strategy despite the environment," said Kon. "We will remove waste one by one and restructure the business." Caution is arguably the best attitude to take right now, with Toyota reporting that the conflict in Iran is likely to result in a $4.2 billion earnings hit for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027, and if it continues, disrupted shipments could nearly halve the automaker's annual exports to the Middle East, some 500,000 to 600,000 vehicles. If things stabilize, Toyota should be able to improve on its actual net income of around $24.11 billion, which is slightly better than the $23.49 billion that was previously forecast. View the full article

An 800 Horsepower Upgrade A Chinese source, Car News China, reported online chatter about the next Zeekr 001 FR. For context, "FR" is Zeekr's performance brand, similar to what M is to BMW and what AMG means to Mercedes-Benz. The sub-brand is going to come out of hiding soon, but our initial findings didn't reveal too much. Until we found this: whispers of a new performance EV from Zeekr featuring more than 2,000 horsepower. The info comes from Chinese car bloggers: MetaAuto and Hanlu on Baidu. If the rumors are true, we might be looking at one of the fastest production Chinese EVs ever. Zeekr More Performance The current 001 FR hails from 2023. At the time, the EV horsepower war was just kicking off. Only a few EVs had over 1,000 horsepower on the market, and Zeekr gave us up to 1,300 horsepower from the first 001 FR. Now, rumors point to a power figure of over 2,000 horsepower, along with several enhancements. Rumors also suggest that Zeekr is revising the body of the car, along with the brakes and tires, in order to "safely" handle that monumental figure. Even as an older performance model, the Zeekr 001 FR was already able to accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in about 2.02 seconds, and you can get that level of performance for just $107,000 in China. Now, there's Zeekr may be able to break the two-second barrier with its newest performance EV. Zeekr More Features? Apart from its high power, the Zeekr 001 FR also features a quad-motor setup that allows it to take full advantage of torque vectoring for improved handling. There is also a "Räikkönen Mode" designed to provide a Kimi-approved driving experience. There is also an overclocking mode that increases power output slightly. We can also infer that the 2026 Zeekr 001 FR will get a battery and charging standard upgrade. Currently, it has a 100 kWh battery pack that's running the show, but as power outputs increase, we might see a larger pack installed. On top of that, current model charging standards are at 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes, but it's likely that the Geely group will allow Zeekr to take its megawatt charging standard and run with it in the new 001 FR. Geely Group Why Though? There may be an actual war going on in the world, but in the auto industry, automakers are engaged in a horsepower war of their own. Heck, even for normal grocery getters and electric soccer mom cars, we're seeing over 400, 500, or even 600 horsepower in EV crossovers and SUVs. Check out what GWM is doing with their all-electric tank that makes close to 900 horsepower. Even popular electronics manufacturers like Xiaomi are throwing their hats in the ring with the SU7, which makes up to 1,500 horsepower. Even Zeekr's more "normal" cars, like the flagship Zeekr 7X, are making over 600 horsepower. It makes for a great headline, but you eventually have to ask, "What for?" Zeekr View the full article

Missing PartsSomething many automakers are doing these days is adding a list of features that make their cars stand out. To keep production easy and costs low, most of these features are simple interior or exterior bits, such as badges, lights, and, in more recent times, illuminated badging and emblems. When it comes to some of these unique features, brands offer them as optional extras, meaning buyers really want them and expect them on their brand-new car. The problem is that, somewhere along the way, the optional features don't arrive as intended, which is exactly what has happened with a number of 2026 Traverse SUVs. Chevrolet Illuminated EmblemGM Authority released a report stating that some cars have been delivered without an optional extra. It seems that limited units of the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse are missing the optional illuminated grille emblem. According to the service bulletin, “certain vehicles listed above may have been delivered without the customer-ordered Front Grille Illuminated Emblem.” This prompted GM to instruct each dealership to first check whether a car is part of the advisory in the brand's Global Warranty Management database before performing any repairs. This service campaign will remain active until May 31, 2026. To rectify the lack of the emblem, GM's dealerships will install the missing part for those who still want it, and for those who don't, will issue a $500 reimbursement check. If the owner chooses reimbursement, the dealership will need to verify the ownership documents before issuing the payment. The verification process has three essential items: a letter provided by GM, vehicle registration, and either a driver’s license/state ID. When it comes to company-owned cars, proof of automotive insurance is needed. Chevrolet Optional Extra CostGM's iconic bowtie logo is something brand loyalists and fans are proud of, which is why it makes sense that GM would offer an illuminated option for its cars. Available as a dealer option for the 2026 Chevy Traverse, it will set people back $525 and is part of the more expensive illumination package, which costs $625. Should any affected vehicles remain unsold, GM has requested that dealers hold them until repairs are complete. Chevrolet View the full article

During Friday's NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Watkins Glen International, two late-race leaders were penalized for going early and mashing the gas before reaching the restart zone. The first was Ross Chastain, who led 19 laps before penalized with just ten laps to go. Two restarts later with five laps to go, it was Gio Ruggiero, who was even closer to the line and was getting pushed ...Keep readingView the full article

The BYD Datang, or Great Tang, offers 5-minute flash-charging, long-range powertrains, three rows of seating, and up to 784 hp. With prices starting at $36,700, it's easy to see how BYD managed to gather over 100,000 bookings for the Datang only two weeks after its unveiling at the Beijing Motor Show. The Datang is effectively offering Maybach-level presence for mid-trim Honda Pilot money. BYD Under the SkinAt over 207 inches long, the Datang is a massive three-row behemoth, physically overshadowing competitors like the Kia EV9. But it’s the tech under the skin that should have engineering teams in Dearborn and Stuttgart sweating. BYD claims a staggering 590 miles (950 km) on the CLTC cycle. Even when you account for the optimism of Chinese testing standards, you’re looking at a real-world range that comfortably eclipses almost everything currently on American roads. As for charging, thanks to the new Blade Battery 2.0, the Datang features "Flash Charging" capable of adding significant range in just 5 minutes. BYD The Datang isn't just big, it's quick. The dual-motor flagship variant pumps out 784 hp (585 kW). That isn't just "family SUV" fast; that is supercar fast. Inside, the Datang is a masterclass in the "more is more" philosophy. Aside from the palatial lounge-like seating arrangement, the dashboard is a glass-covered command center with three integrated screens, plus a massive entertainment display that drops from the roof for rear passengers. It even sports a roof-mounted Lidar system for BYD’s "God’s Eye" ADAS, offering high-speed Navigation on Autopilot (NOA). BYD Datang for Uncle Sam?While BYD is making aggressive moves into markets like Canada—where tariffs were recently slashed—the U.S. remains a fortress. Between trade barriers and the complexities of exchange rate parity (which some analysts argue puts the "true" economic value closer to $75,000), the Datang is a forbidden fruit for American buyers for now. Will the Datang eventually force its way into the North American market? Only time—and trade policy—will tell. View the full article

Selling an Experience, Not Four WheelersMitsubishi was once a major Japanese player in the U.S., selling more than 340,000 vehicles in 2002 with models like the Lancer and Eclipse. Since then, the brand has declined significantly and now hovers around the 100,000-sales mark. Moving forward, the automaker wants to revitalize its U.S. operations through its “Momentum 2030” plan, one part of which involves building dealerships that do not actually sell cars. As counterintuitive as it may sound, this new concept, called the Gallery dealership, aims to strengthen Mitsubishi’s branding through a more modern approach. It will be staffed by knowledgeable personnel who will guide visitors through the brand, including its in-car technology and history. The concept could also bring back casual dealership visits, especially since these locations are planned for high-traffic retail areas. Mitsubishi Before Crossovers Took OverGiven Mitsubishi’s current strategy of prioritizing affordable, mass-market models like the Eclipse Cross, younger buyers may not be aware of the brand’s championship-winning rally history, when it once went head-to-head with Subaru. Mitsubishi also offered several performance-oriented models that aligned it closely with the tuner culture that thrived in the 2000s, alongside cars like the Toyota Supra Mk4 and Nissan Silvia. As such, the Gallery dealership model appears to be a viable strategy to help bring interest back to the brand. The first location will open in Antioch, Tennessee, with its grand opening scheduled for July 2026. Once operational, the concept is expected to inspire other dealer partners to build their own Gallery dealerships as well. “From the outset, we wanted to create a high-touch, low-pressure way for shoppers to discover our brand and to learn more about what we stand for, the philosophy behind our engineering, and the vehicles we sell,” said Mark Chaffin, president and CEO at Mitsubishi Motors North America. Cole Attisha Browse Here, Buy ThereWhile the upcoming Gallery dealership itself will not sell cars, it will still connect visitors to dealer partner City Auto’s inventory. Prospective buyers can complete the purchase at City Auto’s main store, located only 20 minutes away. In addition to the Gallery dealership concept, the “Momentum 2030” plan aims to expand Mitsubishi’s electrified lineup in the U.S. One upcoming addition is a new EV based on the Nissan Leaf, which is expected to arrive in summer 2026. Mitsubishi has also hinted that the Lancer Evolution dream is not dead, a development that could excite long-time fans of the brand. Mitsubishi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The company that has made a name for itself in the automotive space by reinventing and toughening the spirit of the original Land Rover Defender, INEOS, wants to expand its menu beyond the Grenadier SUV and Quartermaster pickup to a range of smaller, lighter, and cheaper 4x4 off-roaders. And they will be cheaper, not just because they'll be manufactured in the U.S., but also because INEOS won't be repeating the costly ground-up creation of the Grenadier (which may get a V8 variant). One might assume that INEOS plans to use the same architecture, but that's not the case. After the delayed Fusilier range-extender (EREV) arrives, now expected in 2028, the company will start work on two new products, both of which will be smaller. Why the apparent change of heart about U.S. production? INEOS Isn't Building a Shorter Grenadier, But Something Different INEOS Now that INEOS counts America as its biggest customer base at 65 percent, despite the impact of tariffs that rose from 2.5 to 15 percent in 2025, every decision it makes must take into account the current geopolitical state of affairs. Therefore, building in the U.S. makes the most sense, and instead of starting something completely new, INEOS is being "extremely agile," as company CEO Lynn Calder told Autocar. "We're not building any other cars from the ground up, like we have with the Grenadier," she said, adding, "We don't plan to change the wheelbase of the Grenadier or do a huge amount more work on the Grenadier platform. So you won't see a short-wheelbase Grenadier, but you will see a smaller 4x4." INEOS Will Borrow Technology from Established OEMs, But Which? INEOS The CEO also said the company's focus is now on technology sharing, adding that once the company figures out exactly how to make the most of components (potentially including powertrains) that others have already perfected, "[INEOS] will be able to bring more models to market in shorter order." With the brand having reportedly spoken with China's Chery to borrow a range-extender platform from iCar/iCaur, but refusing to comment on the talks, INEOS is clearly weighing several options. We can only imagine how delicate the situation is for such a relatively small producer, which has the capacity for 30,000 vehicles a year but is still far from reaching that limit at its French plant. Still, as noted earlier, INEOS is on something of a roll in America currently, and if it gets its new vehicles produced here before the end of 2030 at the right price and with the right performance, it could avoid the current "chicken tax," grow exponentially, and eventually have the freedom to build even better off-roaders, and who knows, maybe something else, too. View the full article

Home of the TruckAmerica is a truck nation. Despite all the trends and factors that have shifted mobility for everyone, the USA loves its pickups. To properly compete in that segment, it not only needs to perform well but also to maintain a steady supply. Unfortunately, for one of the biggest players in the pickup scene, supply hasn't been easy, as production has been slowed by an issue with a supplier. Ford's struggle with F-150 production is due to a supplier issue, giving GM a chance to make up ground and capitalize on it. Kyle Edward GM Wants More TrucksIn a report by Automotive News, General Motors wants to boost its pickup inventory to catch up on demand and take advantage of Ford's current production slowdown. According to automotive analyst David Whitson, GM's desire to fill its inventory is a prudent move, since supply isn't meeting demand just yet, but he confirms that GM can rise to the occasion when Ford can't. Paul Jacobson, CFO of GM, said they fell 9% in pickup supply in Q1 compared to the same period last year. While it seems small, it's still notable since most automakers experienced a pre-tariffs sales boost in Q1 of 2025. Jacobson echoes the general consensus that leaner inventory restricted sales, prompting them to boost production of key models while keeping a watchful eye on demand as the year progresses. GM says the lower inventory was due to factory downtime to accommodate production of the next-generation heavy-duty truck and a strong sales finish in 2025. With the factory retooling nearly complete, GM expects production and inventory to improve this quarter. They are also reallocating trucks meant for the Middle East market back into the U.S. GM Canada Getting Market ShareGM's production boost plan, as mentioned, is also one way for them to take some market share away from the leading F-150, with Ford struggling to keep up with demand as supply has dropped by 40% since a fire at their supplier, Novelis, disrupted production. It is expected that not only GM will benefit from this, but Ram is also looking to take advantage since they haven't had any issues with production and inventory supply thus far. View the full article

America’s 250th AnniversaryAmerica’s 250th birthday isn’t just a calendar event – it’s already showing up in showrooms. Stellantis has been busy with special editions from Dodge, Jeep, and Ram, but Chrysler was the odd one out. That changes with the 2027 Pacifica America250 (A250) package. The A250 package lands on the updated 2027 Pacifica Select. It’s Chrysler’s way of joining Stellantis’ partnership with the America250 group. Only 2,100 will be built for US buyers, so this family hauler earns a rare badge. Chrysler Patriotic Details Inside and OutYou get three color choices: Red Hot, Bright White, and Hydro Blue. No surprise there, given the theme. Chrysler didn’t stop at paint, either. There are US flag decals, America250 badges on the doors and liftgate, and star graphics running down the sides and front. Beyond the stickers and badges, the Pacifica A250 rides on 20-inch Foreshadow wheels, fully painted, with blacked-out trim on the grille, roof rack, badges, and rear. The result is a mix of patriotic tribute and blackout package – an unusual combo, but it works. Inside, Chrysler went further than just swapping out seat covers. Black leather seats get Ruby Red stitching in all three rows. Up front, blue accents peek through the perforated leather. The front seatbacks wear embossed American flags, and the red, silver, and blue stitching even shows up on the steering wheel and trim. There’s more: dark ruby seat belts, Liquid Titanium bezels, an America250 splash screen on the gauges, and even a special keychain. If you want to skip the decals, Chrysler will let you delete them and give you a $495 credit. Chrysler Pricing and AvailabilityYou can order the Pacifica A250 now, with deliveries set for this summer. The package adds $2,995 to the Pacifica Select. That puts the starting price at $46,540 for front-wheel drive, or $49,535 if you want all-wheel drive, before taxes and fees. The Pacifica now joins the Stellantis America250 lineup, alongside Jeep, Ram, and Dodge’s anniversary models. Stellantis is also bringing back 0% APR deals for the occasion. Chrysler View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Watkins Glen was a big day for Kaulig Racing's new NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series team, functioning as the anchor organization for Ram in its long-awaited return go the sport. Before Friday, Kaulig's fleet of five Ram 1500s had just five top tens total this year, with a best finish of seventh. Well, at Watkins Glen International on Friday, Kaulig put three trucks inside the top ten in a ...Keep readingView the full article

Shane Van Gisbergen finished second to Tyler Reddick in the first road course race of the NASCAR Cup Series season at Circuit of the Americas but also had to work way harder for it than any of his five wins in 2025. To wit, the three-time Supercars champion turned Cup Series contender isn’t sure he is automatically this favorite for this weekend at Watkins Glen either. His road course prowess ...Keep readingView the full article

Geely Is Betting Big on HybridsThe mood inside China’s auto industry has changed fast. A few years ago, every conversation was about fully electric vehicles and who could build the next Tesla rival. Now, after slowing EV demand in several markets and growing concerns around charging infrastructure, brands like Geely are starting to revisit the same formula that turned Toyota into a global powerhouse. Hybrid technology is back at the center of the conversation. During my time in China, testing several Geely models, executives repeatedly pointed to hybrids as the realistic middle ground between gasoline and full electrification. Geely Auto International vice president Alex Gu even claimed the company’s incoming i-HEV system improves on Toyota’s long-established hybrid formula by offering better acceleration and smarter integration. Unlike Geely’s existing EM-i plug-in hybrid setup, the new i-HEV system is a traditional self-charging hybrid that never needs to be plugged in. The setup combines a highly efficient gasoline engine with dual electric motors and an 11-in-1 electric drive unit producing up to 308 hp. Behind the wheel, the emphasis felt less like an economy car and more like a proper performance-oriented hybrid. Geely says the system will soon arrive in the Monjaro SUV, Starray SUV, and Emgrand sedan, all of which are expected to play a major role in the company’s international growth plans. Leroy Marion / Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article One of the Most Efficient Hybrid Engines EverThe technical details behind the new i-HEV system are genuinely impressive. At the core sits a gasoline engine with a claimed 48.4 percent thermal efficiency figure, placing it among the most efficient combustion engines currently in production. Geely achieved this using Miller-cycle combustion, 500-bar fuel injection, friction reduction measures, and a very high 15.5:1 compression ratio. Engineers I spoke to in China stressed that efficiency was only part of the mission because the company also wanted these hybrids to feel genuinely engaging to drive. That explains the inclusion of both a P1 generator motor and a P3 drive motor. The gasoline engine can generate electricity while the traction motor powers the wheels independently, resulting in smoother acceleration and stronger response than many traditional hybrids currently on sale. The headline figure grabbing attention is a reported 105 mpg fuel consumption result achieved during a fuel economy test using an Emgrand i-HEV. Even if official numbers settle closer to 75 mpg, Geely would still undercut several Toyota hybrids on paper while giving buyers the feeling of driving a proper gasoline-powered car instead of a purely efficiency-focused appliance. Leroy Marion / Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article No Longer Stripped-Out Budget CarsThe bigger question after driving these cars in China is simple. When are we finally getting them on our side of the pond? Chinese automakers are no longer building stripped-out budget transportation. Many of these new hybrids feel refined, quiet, and surprisingly premium inside. If the Geely Preface i-HEV is any indication, the gap between Chinese brands and established global automakers is shrinking much faster than many expected. More importantly, Geely appears serious about challenging Toyota directly in the hybrid space rather than simply competing on price alone. That conversation becomes even more interesting when you consider Geely’s close relationship with Volvo Cars. Volvo’s CEO recently suggested the company is open to building more affordable Chinese-developed vehicles for global markets, opening the door for Geely-developed hybrid technology to spread far beyond China. After spending time around these vehicles firsthand, it is clear that Geely is no longer chasing Toyota. It genuinely believes it can beat Toyota at its own game. If these efficiency claims hold up in real-world testing, we cannot wait to see these hybrids finally reach our shores. Leroy Marion / Autoblog View the full article

The Four-In-One Cargo Cover Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article When you open the liftgate in a 2026 Subaru Outback, you may be surprised to find a cargo cover that is unlike others you've seen most SUVs, crossovers, hatchbacks, or wagons. It's not a fixed piece of injection-molded plastic or a rollable unit, but rather a soft fabric one made from 100% recycled material. This design is superior because it's lightweight, machine washable, and can be bunched up for easy storage, unlike those cumbersome traditional cargo covers. It also has three other built-in functions. The Outback has hooks on the side of its cargo area, which work in conjunction with loops on the cargo cover to enable a hammock mode to cradle small objects, a partition mode for pets, and a step cover to protect the bumper. It even has a built in zipper to hide objects in hammock mode and to make it easier to store when not installed. Autoblog spoke with Nikkie Riedel, Subaru National Owner Loyalty Training Manager and former Carline Planning Manager for the 2026 Outback. Riedel helped develop the cargo cover and other clever features in the new Outback. "We did a ton of research with customers; we had surveys and focus group," she explained. "We also have a program called 'Subiecrew' with dedicated owners who love to advocate for our brand." Real-World Owners, Real Uses Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Riedel and her team asked members of the Subiecrew how they use their vehicles to get ideas on how to design the Outback's cargo cover. "We reached out to them and said, 'take some pictures, show us what your car looks like, how you're using it day to day. Don't clean it up. We don't want PR shots,'" she joked. "That gave us a lot of direction on how people were using their vehicles; designs they configured in their own way with milk crates (for example) to build out what they want their cargo area to look like." "We identified use cases that we were seeing most commonly with our owners," Riedel told us. "There used to be a stowable in the Outback for that, but we were find that owners weren't really using it that way. Sometimes they're taking it out, putting it in the garage, and forgetting to put it back. Or you buy a TV and don't want to throw anything on top of it." Through a combination of owner feedback and internal discussions, the Outback's cargo cover functions came together. Hammock Mode Chase Bierenkoven Of the cargo cover's four configurations, hammock mode might be the most clever. It allows owners to have small items hanging above the floor so they don't roll around or get dirty while driving. "Concealed storage is always something we want to make an opportunity for; separating things you don't want to get muddy was a big use case we were seeing," Riedel described. "And then grocery [there 's] shopping; you've got your milk, your eggs, your potato chips. It's always a question of where do those go so they don't get crushed. We were seeing a lot of Outback owners had gear they were keeping in their car: rock climbing and hiking every weekend. They want it in the car all the time but they don't want it rattling and rolling around," she detailed. "So hammock mode gets it up out of the way so they can use their cargo area day-to-day. It's all concealed, nobody can see your expensive climbing ropes; it's all out of the way." Subaru even added a zipper so the cargo cover doubles as a tote bag if you want to bring items from the cargo into your house. Of Course, It's Pet Friendly Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article In addition to the useful functions for humans, of course Subaru added functionality that makes the cargo cover perfect for dogs as well. By clipping the cover to the edge of the cargo area, it forms a partition that stops dogs from jumping out of the car when you open the liftgate. When you arrive, you can undo the top hooks to drape the cover over the bumper, protecting it from being scratched by your dog's claws. "Tailgating is huge; people live out of the backs of their Outbacks, Reidel said. They're using it when they're camping, they're using it when they're getting ski boots on and off, they're at soccer games." Taking a page from Jeep, there are even a few Easter eggs in the trunk, showing how much cargo you can fit in the Outback if you want to take a road trip with your dog. More To Come? Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog For now, the 2026 Outback is the only Subaru model to have the four-in-one cargo cover. Putting it other vehicles would likely require changes to the cargo area during a facelift or full model update to integrate hooks and magnets for the cover. Reidel left the door open for future models like the Crosstrek and Forester to get their own versions of the Outback's cargo cover, telling Autoblog, "anything is possible if we see that's what the customer is looking for." She even expressed that Subaru could add new configurations, driven by how customers use the existing cover in ways the automaker did not even consider. "I'm really curious to see what our owners do with it. We added a lot of hooks to the side. How are they going to reconfigure things? We just keep influencing each other until we get to a really cool place," Reidel expressed. "Those hook points, the possibilities are endless. As soon as we launch a car, we are working on improvements for the next iteration." View the full article

If you own a combustion-powered Mercedes-Benz from the 2024-2026 model years, your car may be under recall, says the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, because the screen behind your steering wheel might go blank. There's no doubt that modern instrument cluster displays can perform far more tasks and with greater efficiency than the basic gauges we once glanced at to get a rough idea of how the car was doing, but when traditional dials or digital readouts stop working, the result is much the same: driving blind and slightly distracted. Happily, and unlike when something went wrong with old-school clusters, none of the 144,049 vehicles named in the recall have to install a new piece of hardware or visit a dealer to fix the issue. Mercedes Names Six Different Coupes, Convertibles, Sedans, and Crossovers Mercedes-AMG The new recall impacts various individual models across the 2024-2026 model years, with certain AMG GT (192 platform), C-Class (206 platform), E-Class (214 platform), SL (232 platform), CLE (236 platform), and GLC (254 platform) vehicles potentially having faulty software of the infotainment control unit, which may result in "an increased number of system resets as part of an intended fallback behavior." The above models include their respective Benz, AMG, and Maybach variants, but if you'd like to see the full list, rather than checking your VIN on nhtsa.gov, that's included at the bottom of this article. You'd probably notice the issue soon enough, though; during these resets, the driver display may briefly stop showing certain information, which the NHTSA recall report describes as a condition that could increase the risk of a crash because the driver loses access to the full picture. Related: Hate Big Screens? Mercedes-Benz Has Bad News The problem started in August last year, when Mercedes began rolling out new software meant to "improve overall system robustness." But in December, Mercedes started getting a lot of complaints from Korea and started a recall there, and although Mercedes had already begun rolling out an over-the-air (OTA) update to address the issue in the U.S. by last month, the NHTSA explained that other automakers who had experienced similar display problems had initiated recalls. Mercedes estimates that 62 percent of potentially affected vehicles have already been updated, but a recall should help get the word out to more owners and speed up the rollout before there are any crashes related to this problem. Mercedes Is Rolling Out an OTA to Numerous Cars Kyle Edward Dealers have been notified of the recall today, May 8, and owners will be notified by June 26. Until then, these are the specific models and years named in the new Mercedes recall: 2025-2026 Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC2025 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E 4MATIC+2026 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance 4MATIC+2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC2026 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC Cabriolet2024-2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+2025 Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 4MATIC+ Cabriolet2026 Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+2026 Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+ Wagon2025 Mercedes-AMG E 53 4MATIC+2025-2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC 432025 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 Coupe2025-2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E 4MATIC+2025-2026 Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S E 4MATIC+ Coupe2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 432026 Mercedes-AMG SL 432026 Mercedes-AMG SL 55 4MATIC+2026 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC+2026 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E Performance 4MATIC+2025-2026 Mercedes-Benz C 3002025-2026 Mercedes-Benz C 300 4MATIC2024-2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC2024-2026 Mercedes-Benz CLE 300 4MATIC Cabriolet2024-2026 CLE 450 4MATIC2024-2026 CLE 450 4MATIC Cabriolet2025-2026 Mercedes-Benz E 3502024-2026 Mercedes-Benz E 350 4MATIC2024-2026 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC2024-2026 Mercedes-Benz E 450 4MATIC All-Terrain2025-2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 3002025-2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC2025-2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC Coupe2025-2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC 350 E 4MATIC2026 Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 4MATIC+View the full article

A powerful Pacific storm is set to slam Southwest Alaska this weekend with hurricane-force wind gusts, heavy snow, and freezing rain through Sunday morning, according to NWS Anchorage. The agency issued overlapping High Wind Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories today, Friday May 8, 2026, with officials explicitly warning of slick roads and difficult travel. Peak Driving Danger WindowThe most dangerous window runs late Saturday night through Sunday morning, when 90 mph gusts in the Alaska Peninsula channels overlap with active snow and freezing rain on local roads, creating compound traction and stability risks for anyone out driving. What to ExpectWind gusts: 90 mph in the Alaska Peninsula channels, 80 mph in the Eastern Aleutians and Pribilof Islands, 75 mph along the Kuskokwim Delta CoastSnow totals: 9 to 13 inches in the Lower Kuskokwim Valley; 8 to 12 inches across Bristol Bay north of King SalmonMixed precipitation: Freezing rain and snow along the Kuskokwim Delta CoastNWS Anchorage flagged the wind forecast with "high confidence," while the snow and freezing rain advisories carry slightly less certainty but cover the same active window. Road ConditionsBethel's roughly 22 miles of paved roads, the King Salmon to Naknek spur, and Unalaska's local grid all face gusts the NWS classifies as hurricane-force at 75 mph and above, with the agency noting that "moving automobiles can be pushed off the roadways" at those speeds. Drivers should monitor Alaska 511 for state-maintained route updates and treat exposed coastal segments as live wind-tunnel zones until the system clears. Severe Storm Driving TipsHurricane-force gusts demand a different posture than routine winter driving. Slow well below the posted limit, keep both hands at the 9 and 3 wheel positions, and anticipate lateral pushes from crosswinds when transitioning from sheltered terrain to open coastline. Triple your normal following distance, and give high-profile vehicles like semis a wide berth since they catch wind like sails. For the snow and ice piece, tire and vehicle setup matter. Autoblog's roundup of the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving and our guide to best practices in snow, ice, and rain cover the fundamentals. Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) tires are the minimum for ice-adjacent conditions, with tread depth at 4/32 inch or deeper. Add 1 to 2 PSI for every 10 degree temperature drop, triple your stopping distance on packed snow, and never use cruise control on ice. Pack a winter emergency kit per NWS winter weather safety guidance, including traction aids, water, layered clothing, and a charged power bank. TimingThe High Wind Warnings and Winter Weather Advisories run through Sunday morning, with peak impacts late Saturday into early Sunday. Conditions ease Sunday afternoon as the system tracks east, though residual gusts and refreezing surfaces could linger into Monday across coastal zones. Forecasters are already eyeing the next Pacific frontal system stacking up behind this one. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

Making his 67th career start, Kaden Honeycutt is finally a winner in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series. He passed Connor Zilisch in overtime, hanging on to take the checkered flag for Tricon Garage. He also swept the day, earning a victory in the ARCA Menards Series race just hours earlier. "It's amazing," said an emotional Honeycutt. "Thank you Toyota, this whole No. 11 crew ... everyone ...Keep readingView the full article

Drivers across a five-state stretch of the Plains and Gulf Coast face an active severe thunderstorm threat today, Friday May 8, 2026, with golf ball hail, 60 mph wind gusts, and embedded supercell structure already producing warnings from northeastern Oklahoma down through coastal Louisiana and Alabama. The Storm Prediction Center flagged the corridor in its Day 1 outlook this morning, with NWS Norman, NWS Tulsa, and NWS Mobile pushing operational warnings through the afternoon. Peak Driving Danger WindowThe most hazardous window runs from late afternoon through the overnight hours along I-35 from Ponca City south to the DFW Metroplex, where a developing storm complex is expected to reach Red River counties after 10 PM CDT with damaging straight-line winds and large hail. What to ExpectHail size: Golf ball (1.75 inches) confirmed in Osage County, Oklahoma; quarter size more common across the broader threat area.Wind gusts: 60 mph radar-indicated, with isolated higher gusts possible in stronger cells.Worst corridors: I-44 through northeastern Oklahoma, I-35 Ponca City to DFW, I-65 Mobile to Saraland, I-10 New Orleans east, I-49 central Louisiana.State count: Oklahoma, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama, with southeast Kansas and the Ozarks in the broader risk zone.Storm mode: Discrete cells transitioning to organized clusters by evening.The setup pairs a southeastward-moving cold front with low-level Gulf moisture, anchored by a developing surface low over northwest Texas that is sharpening the dryline through the afternoon. Road ConditionsHail bigger than 1.5 inches will dent body panels and crack windshields on any vehicle caught in the open. Wind gusts near 60 mph approach the threshold where empty box trailers and tall SUVs start losing lateral stability in crosswind gusts, particularly on exposed bridge spans. Real-time conditions for Oklahoma's I-35 and I-44 corridors are tracked at OKDOT's traffic map, and Texas drivers should check TxDOT's DriveTexas portal before any evening trip into the Red River area. Autoblog's guide to hydroplaning prevention covers the fundamentals worth refreshing before heading out. Severe Storm Driving TipsIf you can avoid the highway after 4 PM CDT today, do it. If you can't, the standard severe-weather playbook applies. Pull off at exits, not on shoulders, since 60 mph gusts plus poor rear visibility from chase traffic make shoulder stops dangerous. Keep stopping distance at three times the dry-pavement standard on wet roadway, and watch tread depth: 4/32 of an inch is the practical wet-grip threshold, below which hydroplaning risk rises sharply. Autoblog's severe weather driving practices and tire tread depth guide cover the basics, and the NWS severe weather safety page outlines what to do if your vehicle is in the path of a tornado warning. TimingThe current threat window runs through Friday night, with the OK-to-DFW complex expected in Red River counties after 10 PM CDT and persistence into early Saturday morning across the ArkLaTex and lower Mississippi Valley. NWS Houston has flagged a Marginal Risk for all of southeast Texas on Saturday as the boundary stalls. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article