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RZ, Meet Your Bigger BrotherWhile Toyota isn't exactly going all in on electric vehicles, it's still churning these out from time to time. That said, its luxury division has only one EV offering: the RZ. Well, that changes today as Lexus has just introduced the TZ, a larger, three-row battery-powered crossover. In many ways, it complements the fuel-fed TX and serves as an option for Lexus loyalists who have been wishing for a larger EV crossover from the company. At the same time, the TZ has two main competitors it has set its sights on: the Cadillac Vistiq and the Volvo EX90. Lexus 2027 Lexus TZ: The BasicsTo oversimplify the TZ, it's the luxury version of the new-generation Highlander, itself going EV-only, leaving hybrid powertrains to the larger Grand Highlander. At the same time, it shares the same platform as the Subaru Getaway, which was revealed at the New York Auto Show. For dimensions, the TZ measures 200.8 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 67.1 inches tall, and rides on a lengthy 120.1-inch wheelbase. It's over an inch longer than the Highlander EV, and ever so slightly lower, although width and wheelbase are exactly the same. Behind the third-row seats, Lexus claims a cargo capacity of 13.8 cu. ft. As for powertrain options, there are two battery sizes available. In this case, there's a choice between 76.96 kWh and 95.82 kWh. It's still unclear whether two power output options will be offered. The company did reveal that the model it presented makes 402 hp and it lays it down via a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. The estimated range is rated at 300 miles. Lexus What Else Does it Offer?Lexus says the TZ is built around its Driving Lounge Concept. In other words, there are acres of space, soothing earth tones in the cabin, and heaps of comfort. The brand is quite proud of using bamboo for its interior trim and of its panoramic sunroof, which stretches all the way to the third row to let even more light into the cabin. What Lexus showed was a six-seater version with the middle row consisting of captain's chairs. It's possible that a seven-seater might be offered for lower trims. Also thrown in as standard is Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, which comes with the usual array of advanced driver assists, plus emergency steering assist, intersection turn assist, and a degree of semi-autonomous driving capabilities. As for infotainment, it features the brand's latest software, which also includes 5G connectivity. Improvements include more personalization, EV charge management options, and enhanced processing power. Lexus Other HighlightsOne of the interesting options for the TZ is four-wheel steering. It can turn the rear wheels by up to 4 degrees, and changes angle depending on speed. Another worthwhile option is the power captain's chairs that also include ventilation. Additional entertainment features are also available, including SiriusXM with 360L and integrated Spotify streaming. The TZ can also pipe in sounds if things get a little too silent inside. Dubbed Active Sound Control, it can channel 'musical chord sequences' or even the V10 wail from the LFA...in a family crossover. This luxury EV also goes beyond the usual drive modes by coming with what's called Rear Comfort Mode. In essence, it puts the accelerator on a more relaxed setting, and the electronically-controlled dampers work overtime to keep those seated at the back as detached from any road harshness as possible. Pricing has yet to be revealed, and so too are the trims. We'll know the full story once Lexus publishes these, and the 2027 will reach showrooms by late 2026. Lexus View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Rivian R2 has the potential to become an even bigger thing for the company than everyone expected. It goes without saying that the midsize electric SUV will target a much larger demographic than the existing high-end R1S and R1T, but it looks like the growth potential of the R2 will be even more significant. That’s because Rivian is reportedly developing additional variants of the R2 that it hasn’t disclosed previously. While Rivian recently began volume production of the R2 at its Illinois plant, CEO RJ Scaringe told Reuters the new Georgia plant is being built to support multiple versions of the R2 platform, allowing flexibility as the EV maker ramps up production. Rivian R2 Pickup and R2X Performance Model Not Ruled Out Rivian While Scaringe did not get into details, he did suggest R2 versions may include pickup or performance models. "There are other variants of R2, which we haven't shown,” Scaringe said in an interview with the news agency when asked about a pickup variant of the R2. “What we're building in Georgia allows for different variations,” he added. Rivian previously said the R2 midsize platform would also underpin a smaller R3 crossover and the R3X performance variant further down the line, but it looks like an R2X performance model is also in the cards. "So clearly there could be an R2X," Scaringe said. "There's going to be combinations. I want to be careful not to announce the program.” While that’s great news, Rivian needs to nail the R2 rollout first, as deliveries of the new model are expected to start around June. In March, the company has announced various trims of the R2 SUV, including a $58,000 R2 Performance Launch Edition model, a $53,990 R2 Premium trim coming before the end of the year, and the $48,490 R2 Standard arriving in the first half of 2027. Mind you, the long-awaited $45,000 entry-level R2 trim will become available by late 2027. Expected to offer over 275 miles of range, the base Rivian R2 is likely to significantly expand the company’s customer base. The R2 Is Expected to Boost Rivian Deliveries by 53% This Year Rivian Rivian expects deliveries to jump 53% this year driven by the launch of the R2. Assuming a smooth production ramp and steady demand, the company expects to deliver roughly 22,000-23,000 R2s, contributing to a significant increase in Rivian’s EV market share. Initially, the R2 is being built at the existing plant in Normal, Illinois. But the midsize electric SUV will also be built at the new factory in Georgia, which is expected to start production in 2028; the smaller R3 and R3X will also be made at the site. Rivian has been awarded a $4.5 billion loan from the Department of Energy to build the plant, and the company will begin to access the loan next year. Initially, the loan was supposed to amount to $6.57 billion, but on April 30 Rivian announced that it renegotiated the terms in order to draw on the loan sooner and have greater initial production. As a result, the Georgia plant is now projected to have an annual output of 300,000 vehicles given the uncertain demand for all-electric vehicles, down from an initial projected capacity of 400,000. Rivian’s new factory will also build the 10,000 autonomous R2 robotaxis contracted by Uber as part of a $1.25 billion deal. Rivian View the full article

The Fight Over Driving DataThe court has ruled that the lawsuit against General Motors over alleged data privacy violations involving OnStar can proceed. Car Complaints reported that about 30 class actions were consolidated into a single lawsuit, though some claims were dismissed. For context, GM is being sued for allegedly collecting vehicle and driver data through OnStar and selling it to third parties, including insurance companies. OnStar is a connected service that provides functions such as smartphone controls and vehicle diagnostics, which came free with every vehicle purchase in 2015. The issue, according to the plaintiffs, is that GM failed to adequately disclose that part of the subscription involved gathering driver data. Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images Driving Data Has ValueSome of that data reportedly includes instances of “hard braking, hard acceleration, driving without a seat belt, driving over 80 miles per hour, and late-night driving.” Insurance companies could use this information to increase rates or deny coverage based on a car owner’s driving behavior. There is also the cybersecurity concern, especially if that data is hacked and leaked. In response, General Motors argued that vehicle owners consented to data collection by using OnStar, and that the terms of service still applied even if customers did not read them. Moreover, the Michigan-based automaker claimed it did not violate privacy because OnStar subscribers were driving in public rather than “in seclusion.” Nonetheless, the court reportedly allowed more than 40 claims against GM to proceed, including allegations involving the Stored Communications Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and Federal Wiretap Act. Chevrolet The Tradeoff of Modern TechnologyThis case is similar to a lawsuit against Toyota, in which a 2021 RAV4 owner accused the Japanese automaker of selling driver data to third-party companies through Connected Services, which works much like OnStar. The issue raises broader privacy concerns, especially as more vehicles rely on data to enable smart features such as advanced driver-assistance systems, which use cameras and sensors to detect potential hazards. Perhaps the dispute could force automakers to be clearer about consent, especially as connected-car features are undeniably useful in making car ownership more convenient. In fact, OnStar’s top bundle includes Super Cruise, which allows GM vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe to use hands-free driver assistance technology that can help reduce driver fatigue. But for interested customers, it is worth noting that the Federal Trade Commission has already finalized an order banning GM and OnStar from sharing geolocation and driver behavior data with consumer reporting agencies for five years. It also requires the company to provide greater transparency to customers. Buick View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The FR Sub-Brand Zeekr, a brand under the Geely group, wants to take a stab at the performance EV market, aiming to challenge Porsche. The FR sub-brand is similar to BMW's M, Mercedes' AMG, and Toyota's GR divisions. putting performance at the forefront of the driving experience of its products. The Geely group's portfolio of EVs and concepts is already quite impressive. In recent news, the Lynk and Co Time To Shine concept showed the world what a performance EV from the Geely group could look like. On top of that, not only does the group hold the current record for fastest charging at the time of writing, but it also has a lineup of electric vehicles that are insanely quick on their own, like the Zeekr 7X, which already has over 600 horsepower at its highest trim level. Zeekr High Performance is key Mars Chen, Zeekr's vice president, told members of the Australian motoring media that "for the Zeekr brand, we need to move upwards. How do we go up? In two directions, performance and super luxury." Chen continued by saying, "For further information, I’m really sorry I cannot share with you. But I want you to note: the ambition is always there," and that ambition is "to be a comprehensive carmaker. But after the 'One Geely' strategy, we need to aim at Porsche... focus on the real premium luxury segment." Currently, Geely's Zeekr may offer some of the most technologically advanced cars on the market today; however, Chen stated, "We (Zeekr) are not a luxury brand yet, we are humble." “But we are also confident. We do have luxury products in-house, but to be a better accepted luxury brand, you need to prove yourself. We cannot call ourselves a successful brand yet,” Chen stated. Zeekr Zeekr FR v Porsche? Here we have another performance brand. It's similar to what M means to BMW, AMG to Mercedes, GR to Toyota, and Nismo to Nissan, among many other sub-brands. Now, even if you've followed Chinese brands closely in the past two years (maybe in hopes of one day owning one), you might know about Zeekr, but not FR. Turns out, the sub-brand has been quiet for the last three years, with the last car launch happening in 2023: The Zeekr 001 FR. The 001 is already a well-specced car on its own, but after Zeekr slapped on the FR brand on the model name, it went up to a whole other level of crazy. It boasts 1,247 horsepower, a 0 to 62 mph time of about 2.02 seconds (with rollout subtracted), a 0 to 100 mph time of under 6.29 seconds (6.29 seconds 0 to 200 kph), and a top speed of 174 miles per hour. It has 944 lb-ft of torque, and former F1 World Champion Kimi Räikkönen is blessing the car with a co-developed driving mode that'll boost power to up to 1,300 horsepower. While the brand has been quiet for a time, we might see it again very soon. There are rumors of a more powerful and even more exciting 001 FR model coming soon as well. Zeekr View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Going for AlternativesThe conflict in the Middle East has definitely been the biggest catalyst for change in automotive buying habits. What used to be a fairly evenly distributed industry in terms of buyer preference has seemingly shifted over the past few months. Data now shows that buyers are choosing hybrids as the primary option when considering new car purchases. So much has been sold so far that inventory across the United States has dipped as demand for hybrids and EVs surges. Honda Demand = SalesAccording to a report by Automotive News, new-car inventory for May has fallen to just 2.85 million units. The surge in fuel prices has driven customers to seek out electrified vehicles such as hybrids and electric cars. Data analytics firm Catalyst IQ's numbers show that the latest total light-vehicle inventory dropped 2.7% from the start of April, and the previous 80 days of supply have fallen to just 76 days this May. Hybrids account for only 1 of 5 vehicles marketed for sale, yet according to the data, they are the fastest-selling type of car right now. On average, hybrids spent only 59 days on car lots, compared to 75 days for gasoline-powered cars and 114 days for EVs. Small and medium-sized sedans had the tightest days' supply, according to the data, with a big dip in inventory for larger pickups. What is usually a well-stocked segment due to its popularity is now lower than small, medium, and full-sized SUVs. Hybrid FutureHybrids have steadily risen in demand over the years, but the recent rise in fuel prices has increased demand even more this year. Hyundai and Kia have gone on to say that demand has risen by 57.8% year-on-year, which is also bolstering a bigger share of the market. Hybrids now account for 16.3% compared to EVs 8.6%, 8.6%. Some EV owners have also jumped ship to hybrids. Leading the charge seems to be Toyota with the RAV4, which accounts for half of all new hybrid registrations in the U.S. Following Toyota are Honda, Hyundai, and Kia, which are benefiting from the new demand surge. Hyundai View the full article

Volkswagen Group has increased its stake in Rivian Automotive to 15.9%, becoming its largest shareholder ahead of Amazon, which had been the top investor in the EV maker ever since its 2021 IPO. According to an SEC filing, Volkswagen’s US subsidiary has purchased 62.9 million new shares on April 30 at $15.90 per share, spending a total of approximately $1 billion in the process. You may be aware that Volkswagen Group is not doing great at the moment, and in light of that, the investment may seem out of place, but the fact is the German carmaker was bound by the terms of its joint venture with Rivian to make the investment. VW Group Coughs Up a Further $1 Billion to Buy Rivian Shares R More specifically, the $1 billion share purchase is the latest step under the $5.8 billion investment commitment by 2027 signed by Rivian and VW Group in November 2024. According to the terms of the deal, VW’s investment is structured in $1 billion increments, each triggered by the Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies joint venture hitting specific milestones. In this case, Electrek reports that the milestone was the completion of winter testing of the joint venture’s production-intent zonal architecture for first-generation software-defined vehicles, including the ID.Every1 (shown below). Since prototype vehicles from the Volkswagen, Audi and Scout Motors brands all passed the validation, VW had to purchase more Rivian stock. Volkswagen Group So far, VW Group has spent roughly $3.3 billion of its $5.8 billion commitment to Rivian. If it commits to the full $5.8 billion, VW’s stake in Rivian could go well above 20% by 2027. By that point, it will be interesting to see how VW and Rivian’s relationship will evolve seeing as they may have conflicting interests in the U.S. market—the Scout Motors brand is a direct competitor for Rivian. VW’s recent share purchase has relegated Amazon to second place among the largest investors with around 11.8% of the expanded share count; while the tech giant hasn’t sold a single Rivian share, its stake has been diluted from roughly 20% at the IPO. Amazon currently owns 158.4 million Rivian shares. Why the Rivian and Volkswagen Group Technologies Joint Venture Matters Jason Meshnick VW formed the joint venture with Rivian to gain access to the EV maker’s software to use in its global vehicles—much like its agreement with Xpeng is focused on the Chinese market. Following the failure of VW’s Cariad in-house division to develop reliable EV software, VW has had to postpone the launch of its next-generation Scalable Systems Platform (SSP) several times. VW’s SSP unified EV architecture is expected to replace the existing MEB and PPE platforms. It will underpin a wide variety of models, from small cars like the future Golf EV to large SUVs, flagship VW and Audi sedans, and luxury sports cars from the Porsche brand. The first VW vehicles featuring the Rivian-developed software and electrical architecture are expected to launch next year, starting with the €20,000 ID. Every1 electric city car. View the full article

In 1935, a car called the Auto Union Lucca screamed down a stretch of Italian autostrada near the Tuscan city of Lucca and hit 203 mph. Driver Hans Stuck set a new record for the fastest car on a public road, and the machine that made it possible promptly disappeared into history. Both Lucca Silver Arrow prototypes that were ever built raced at the AVUS Ring in May 1935, failed to finish, and were eventually lost altogether. For nearly 90 years, Audi — the company that grew directly from Auto Union's roots — had nothing to show for it. That gap has now been filled. Audi Tradition recently unveiled a complete, hand-crafted recreation of the Lucca, built over three years by British specialists Crosthwaite & Gardiner, and unveiled it in the very Italian town that gave the car its name. Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Sixteen Cylinders, No SynchromeshThe recreation is powered by a mid-mounted 6.0-litre supercharged V16 motor, driving the rear wheels through a five-speed, non-synchronised manual gearbox. It’s the kind of setup that demands full commitment from the driver, with no synchromesh to smooth out clumsy shifts. The bodywork is hand-beaten aluminium, keeping weight down to around 2,116 pounds in the spirit of the original. Crosthwaite & Gardiner have built the same engine configuration for other Auto Union recreations, where it produces around 520 horsepower on 50 percent methanol. Audi View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Road to AudiTo understand why this car matters so much to Audi, you have to go back to 1932. Germany was deep in the Great Depression, and four automakers — Audi, DKW, Horch, and Wanderer — were all losing money. They merged in 1932 to form Auto Union AG, immediately becoming Germany's second-largest car manufacturer. Each brand kept its name and its market segment, but engineering resources were pooled under one roof. The four interlocking rings that symbolised their union are still on every Audi today. After World War II, the company rebuilt itself in Ingolstadt, Bavaria, eventually being taken over by Volkswagen in 1964 and formally reborn as Audi in 1968. Audi The Race For The Fastest Car in The WorldThe Lucca wasn't built purely for sport. It was built to win a propaganda battle. Mercedes-Benz had set a public road speed record in Hungary in late 1934, and Auto Union needed it back. The two German manufacturers spent the mid-1930s locked in a ferocious rivalry — not just on the Grand Prix circuit but in annual "record weeks" on newly built autobahn stretches, each trying to outrun the other. Stuck's 203 mph run in 1935 was the opening shot. The duel escalated rapidly, with Caracciola and Bernd Rosemeyer trading records at over 250 mph before Rosemeyer was killed in a crash in 1938. Audi Auto Union's public road record eventually fell as speeds climbed through the late 1930s. Today, the outright world land speed record stands at 763 mph, set by the jet-powered ThrustSSC in 1997. The Lucca's rebuilt recreation will make its dynamic debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed this July, ninety years after the original blazed the way. View the full article

After hearing arguments from all parties during a telephonic hearing on Tuesday afternoon, the judge overseeing the Joe Gibbs Racing v Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports lawsuits has scheduled the trial to take place in January. This is later than the November timeframe requested by the plaintiffs and earlier than the May timeline requested by the defendants. From the order: “The ...Keep readingView the full article

Relying on Hydraulic Brake Systems Since Time ImmemorialBraking systems have stuck to the same playbook for a very long time. Step on the pedal, hydraulic fluid travels through lines, pressure builds, and the calipers bite down on the rotors. It doesn’t matter if you’re driving a city hatchback, a big SUV, or a supercar – the basics haven’t really changed. Braking tech has definitely moved forward – drums gave way to discs, ABS and brake force distribution arrived, and now we have regenerative braking and stability systems. But underneath all that, cars still depend on hydraulics to actually bring things to a halt. That could finally be changing. Brembo just confirmed that its Sensify intelligent braking system is now in large-scale production. It’s one of the strongest signals yet that fully by-wire brakes are about to go mainstream. A Brake System Without Hydraulic FluidBrembo says Sensify uses a fluid-free setup, ditching the usual hydraulic circuits and central actuators. Instead, each wheel gets its own electronic brain, so braking force is managed by software, not just hardware. Put simply, pressing the brake pedal doesn’t push fluid through lines anymore. Instead, your input is read electronically and each wheel gets its own dose of braking force. That means much finer control. Brembo claims the system can constantly adjust braking force based on road conditions, how the car is moving, and how much grip you have. Brembo also sees Sensify as a big step toward software-defined cars. New EVs and next-gen vehicles are built around central software, where updates and even driving feel can change with a download. Sensify fits right in, especially for advanced driver aids and future self-driving tech. Interestingly, Brembo said that Sensify will be standard on every car in this unnamed production run. So this isn’t just a one-off supercar experiment – we’re talking real volume, with contracts for hundreds of thousands of units each year already in place. Brembo So Which Automaker Is Using It?That’s the big question. Brembo just calls the customer a “leading global vehicle manufacturer” and won’t say which one. Some brands have played with steer-by-wire and brake-by-wire in concept cars, especially among premium EVs. But rolling out a fully fluid-free brake system in mass production is a much bigger leap, especially since brakes are so crucial for safety and driver trust. This could be one of those changes that quietly reshapes the industry over the next decade. Most drivers won’t notice if their car uses hydraulics or electronics to stop – just like nobody thinks about throttle cables or old-school handbrakes anymore. But underneath, it’s another step toward cars becoming software-driven machines instead of purely mechanical ones. If Sensify really works as smoothly as Brembo says, old-school hydraulic brakes might soon start to feel outdated. View the full article

Extreme sports legend Travis Pastrana is getting back behind the wheel of a NASCAR Craftsman Truck alter this month, joining forces with Kaulig Racing to pilot the No. 25 Ram 1500 at Charlotte Motor Speedway. “I love racing and competing at everything, and NASCAR is one of the biggest and most competitive stages on earth,” said Pastrana. “Having the opportunity to hop in the No. 25 Ram ...Keep readingView the full article

The racing at Watkins Glen International will look a bit different this weekend, as NASCAR introduces some new track limits. No longer will we see the entire field driving off into the Turn 1 runoff on starts/restarts, as NASCAR has made some significant changes there and to the exit of the Carousel. They're essentially building a new wall via tire packs to keep the racing line closer to the ...Keep readingView the full article

Elon Musk says his company's misleadingly named Full Self-Driving (Supervised) suite of driver aids only needs cameras to work properly, not radar sensors, a stance that many disagree with. But as straightforward as cameras may be, Tesla has made an error with one of its simplest, triggering a recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Like many other vehicles over the past year, every Tesla model except the Cybertruck has been recalled because of a glitch in their software that stops the rearview camera from operating for up to 11 seconds—longer than most backup maneuvers last. As a result, as many as 218,868 vehicles face an increased risk of a crash. Tesla Recalls Older Versions of Every Model Before the Cybertruck Tesla View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Cybertruck entered production in November 2023, and it's unaffected by this recall, but several other vehicles produced before then have been named: 2017, 2021-2023 Tesla Model 32021-2023 Tesla Model S2021-2023 Tesla Model X2020-2023 Tesla Model YAccording to the NHTSA recall report, affected vehicles have hardware version 3 and operating software version 2026.8.6. A certain configuration of this software could prevent camera streams from being sent to the Media Control Unit (MCU) for up to 11 seconds. In plain English, their rearview camera imagery may be delayed when the vehicles are placed in reverse, making them noncompliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard #111 for rear visibility. Of course, drivers could wait the 11 seconds for the image to appear, but time is money, and people try to avoid wasting either, so most will rely on their mirrors and looking over their shoulders until the issue is resolved. Related: Tesla Rolls Out 5 Super Model Y Lease Deals This May The problem was first brought to the attention of Tesla Firmware Engineering teams on April 10 of this year, and they reacted by stopping the deployment of firmware version 2026.8.6 to vehicles. The following day, an update (2026.8.6.1) was sent to some affected vehicles over the air. Over the course of the rest of April, Tesla analyzed data to determine which vehicles may still be suffering from the issue, deciding to issue a recall on April 27. As of May 1, Tesla is aware of 27 warranty claims and two field reports that may be related to the issue, but no collisions, fatalities, or injuries have been reported as a result of this problem. How Tesla Is Fixing Faulty Rearview Cameras Tesla Tesla began fixing the issue via over-the-air software updates on April 11, and it believes that more than 99.92 percent of the affected vehicles have already been updated with the remedy firmware. However, the planned remedy notification for owners will only take place on July 3, for some reason. Although the faulty software is relatively new and was released this year, it doesn't affect newer Tesla vehicles because the problem has only been found in vehicles with hardware version 3, which Tesla stopped producing on January 3, 2024. If your Tesla is still being glitchy when selecting reverse, check that all updates have been installed; a visit to a Tesla store shouldn't be necessary. View the full article

Rivian Thinks BiggerRivian clearly has its sights set on the Tesla Model Y with the upcoming R2, and the company is strengthening that push with an expanded charging network. The added charging infrastructure should help support the R2, which is expected to become the brand’s volume seller, whereas the R1 lineup targets a more niche demographic. Competing against the Model Y is a tall task, given that it has been the best-selling EV in the U.S. for years, and by a wide margin. As such, every advantage matters for Rivian, with the Rivian Adventure Network (RAN) not only supporting the brand’s own lineup but also the broader EV industry, as it is designed to work with all compatible EVs. Expanding the EcosystemIn a press release, Rivian said the RAN is currently compatible with CCS1 ports, while Tesla-developed NACS connectors – the standard several U.S. brands, including Toyota, have adopted – are now being added. The newest chargers are also taller and feature longer cables, making them easier to use with different charging-port locations. For added convenience, users do not need to download an app to pay for charging, as the chargers are equipped with tap-to-pay terminals. Like the Tesla Supercharger network, the RAN should help make the switch to a Rivian EV easier by addressing so-called range anxiety through its growing nationwide network. The company also said it maintained a 98% uptime across the network in 2025 and plans to continue prioritizing reliability in the coming years. Rivian Where the Fight Gets RealThe Rivian R2 will first take on the segment with its top-of-the-line Performance trim, which matches the Tesla Model Y Performance at around $57,000. It comes with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 656 horsepower, along with a preliminary EPA-estimated range of 330 miles. More affordable trims are expected to follow by 2027. While the stage is set for the R2, it will not be all smooth sailing. Rivian recently had its federal loan reduced by $2 billion, cutting it to $4.5 billion. The funding is intended for the construction of Rivian’s Georgia plant, which is being developed to support R2 production – a crucial step given that the model is expected to become the brand’s mainstream offering. The new plant is also expected to produce an even more affordable model called the R3. Rivian View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

General Motors is spending fortunes on new Gen 6 V8 engines for trucks, and a new teaser shared to social media by Chevrolet Performance may be our first look at what the automaker is planning. The teaser, captioned "Something BIG is coming..." shows a close-up of a pushrod V8 engine in a bay, and it looks like a production engine, not a concept. We see the intake manifold, painted in black with white stripes and a white Bowtie logo, and though we can't be certain, the packaging of components like hoses and so forth seems to indicate this engine is in the front end of a truck. Could this be a supercharged V8 for a Ford Raptor R and Ram TRX rival, giving the Corvette Grand Sport's 6.7-liter naturally aspirated V8 a sibling? Several Theories About Chevy's New V8 Emerge Chevrolet Performance/Instagram The comments on the Instagram post offer theories like a supercharged Silverado, specifically a 2027 ZR2 model, and some think this engine could also be used in a new Camaro ZL1 and the second-generation Cadillac CT5 Blackwing. Recent reports indicate the Camaro will return on the Alpha platform for 2027, so this seems feasible. The new engine might also find its way to the next Escalade-V, suggest some enthusiasts, while others think a new Impala SS could be a good application for the supercharged motor. Our money is on a super truck, and there's surely a market for something like that with a Bowtie badge on the front after Hennessey revealed the Goliath 700 ZR2, a 700-horsepower supercharged Silverado. Related: Watch as Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X Beats McLaren Senna Again While Setting Two New Lap Records Whether Chevy's factory effort will have that kind of output or more remains to be seen, but with the Ram TRX Bloodshot Night Edition delivering 777 ponies and the Ford Raptor R 720 hp, we expect at least 700 hp. Of course, a true rival to these extreme pickups would need more than just a beefy engine, with upgraded suspension, wheels, and tires necessary for conquering off-road trails at speed. Whatever Chevy has planned, things look promising, and we don't doubt that the Gen 6 V8 engines will see multiple applications. Big Engines Are Not Taboo, and GM is Capitalizing With the Trump administration heavily relaxing Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards, V8 engines with huge displacements are likely to become more prevalent once again. It's not just here that V8 engines are beloved, either. Even Formula One, which made a big push toward sustainability with its latest regulations, is now considering bringing V8s back with minimal electrification. Cadillac competes in the pinnacle of single-seater motorsport, and with Chevrolet Performance teasing this big new engine, all of General Motors' brands could soon take advantage, giving customers what they want. Hopefully, Chevy will provide more information soon; the metadata on the Instagram image indicates a reveal happens this month. View the full article

Chinese EV Dominance in the UKThe biggest electric vehicle brand in the UK right now is not Tesla, Ford, or even Mini. It is a Chinese automaker BYD. According to new SMMT registration data, BYD sold 12,754 fully electric vehicles in the UK between January and April 2026. That gives the brand more than 7% of the country’s EV market, enough to overtake long-established rivals including Tesla, Kia, BMW, and Volkswagen. The achievement becomes even more impressive once you consider that BYD models do not qualify for the UK government’s Electric Car Grant. Despite missing out on incentives aimed at lowering EV ownership costs, private buyers are still snapping them up in huge numbers. It shows how much value-conscious buyers are responding to BYD’s formula of affordable pricing, long range, and generous technology. While American consumers are still waiting for access to cheaper Chinese EVs, the UK market is already embracing them in a major way. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Ford Warned Everyone About China—Now It’s Happening Across the PondExecutives at Ford Motor Company have repeatedly warned that Chinese automakers could disrupt the global auto industry if they gain traction outside China. The latest UK sales figures suggest those concerns are becoming a reality. BYD’s momentum is not just coming from fully electric vehicles either. Its growing range of DM-i plug-in hybrids is also helping the company expand rapidly across the market. Combined sales of BYD’s EVs and plug-in hybrids reached 26,396 units in the UK so far this year. That translates to a 9.5% market share in the broader new energy vehicle category. Models such as the Seal U, Seal 6, and Sealion 5 are already contributing heavily to those numbers, with more products arriving soon. BYD says the UK EV market itself grew 22% year over year, but the company’s growth has outpaced the market dramatically. The company is also pushing advanced energy technologies, including vehicle-to-grid systems, utility-scale storage, and its upcoming Flash Charging system that promises a 10 to 97% charge in just nine minutes. BYD Not Just a Cheap EV AnymoreInterestingly, BYD’s dominance overseas comes at a time when the company has experienced softer sales growth in China. Domestic demand has cooled in recent months, but exports continue to surge as international buyers warm up to Chinese brands. The UK is becoming one of the clearest examples of that trend. Buyers are no longer treating brands like BYD as bargain-bin alternatives. Increasingly, they are becoming aspirational first-choice purchases. That shift becomes obvious when you look beyond mainstream EVs. BYD’s luxury and performance sub-brands are already commanding serious attention globally, including the Yangwang U9 hypercar, which recently sold for a staggering price. Ironically, BYD’s biggest issue right now may not be competition. It may simply be building enough cars fast enough to satisfy demand. For countries like the Philippines and even the United States, widespread adoption of these vehicles still feels distant. But if the UK is any indication, Chinese EV brands are no longer coming. They are already here. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog View the full article

High-Speed Off-RoadingThe Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is the Korean marque’s most off-road-oriented SUV to date, but it doesn’t stick to the usual ladder-frame recipe you’d find in a Toyota Land Cruiser or Ford Bronco. Instead, Hyundai is betting on its monocoque platform to deliver a different kind of advantage on gravel roads. Rather than chasing low-speed rock crawling, Hyundai tuned the Palisade XRT Pro for high-speed gravel runs. That’s where the unibody setup comes into its own, feeling more planted and responsive than the heavier, old-school ladder-frame SUVs. Hyundai’s N performance team also had a hand in shaping how the XRT Pro drives. It’s a far cry from the Ioniq 6 N, but some of that focus on driver engagement and chassis feel made its way into this family SUV. Hyundai "A Little Bit of N About It"Speaking to Carsales, Hyundai Australia product planning and development manager Tim Rodgers explained that the company intentionally leaned into the Palisade’s monocoque's strengths. “XRT Pro is a very different formula, but funnily enough, when we get to the actual product and the qualities it delivers, and the experience it delivers, it’s actually got a little bit of N about it,” Rodgers told the publication. Rodgers pointed out that while the XRT Pro can tackle some classic off-road challenges, Hyundai built it for the kind of driving most owners actually do – long stretches on gravel and fast dirt roads, not just crawling over rocks or fording rivers. Hyundai The Limits of a Monocoque Off-Roader Still ExistThe debate between monocoque and ladder-frame isn’t going anywhere. Unibody SUVs like the Palisade usually ride better on pavement and feel more stable at speed on loose surfaces, but they can’t quite match the brute strength of ladder-frame trucks when the going gets truly rough or when heavy towing is involved. That’s where the Palisade XRT Pro will eventually meet its limits. It’s quick and comfortable on rough roads, but if you’re after the kind of durability you’d expect from a Land Cruiser deep in the wilderness, a body-on-frame SUV is still the safer bet. However, Hyundai’s approach makes sense for how most people use their SUVs. The reality is, most adventure vehicles spend more time eating up highway miles and cruising gravel than scaling boulders. For that, a lighter, more car-like platform could actually be the smarter everyday choice. Hyundai View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The first of the Neue Klasse generation of next-generation vehicles is the BMW iX3, and BMW USA has finally revealed pricing for the U.S. market, making the Porsche Macan EV look overpriced on the way. For the record, the Macan EV claims up to 315 miles of range, and the luxury electric crossover has a base MSRP of $80,300. But with the iX3 50 xDrive, you'll pay less and go further, with its MSRP starting at $61,500 (plus $1,350 for destination and handling), and its official EPA range estimated at an impressive 434 miles. And if that doesn't seem like enough range, real-world testing suggests it could go much further. Is BMW underestimating range in the same way it underquotes horsepower figures? Maybe, maybe not, but either way, the new iX3 is looking like a seriously compelling choice. 2027 BMW iX3 Configurator Is Now Live BMW The configurator for the new BMW iX3 is live as of today, and interested customer can reserve their crossover through the website with a $1,000 deposit, with deliveries set to begin in late September. Naturally, the wheel options you choose will affect the overall range, but you get all the range and all 463 horsepower/476 lb-ft as standard. Here's what to expect: Wheel & Tire Package MPG3 combined Range (miles) 20” Summer Tires (No-cost option) 118 434 20” All-Season Tires (Standard) 102 383 21” Summer Tires 105 398 21” All-Season Tires 105 399 22” Summer Tires 104 392 With a maximum charging rate of 400 kW, the iX3 can add an estimated 185 miles of range in 10 minutes or charge from 10-80 percent in 21 minutes, when using an 800-volt DC charging station. As standard, the iX3 comes with an NACS port, so replenishing the battery at a Tesla Supercharger doesn't require a special adapter. What else comes standard for your $62,850 (including destination)? Related: The Next BMW X7 Could Look Like a Bigger 7 Series The BMW Panoramic Vision setup with a "free-cut" central infotainment touchscreen is included, as is perforated Veganza imitation leather upholstery in your choice of one of four themes: Black Contemporary Interior Design, Digital White Contemporary Interior Design, Castanea Contemporary Interior Design, or Agave Green Contemporary Interior Design. You also get 20-inch Aero Bicolor 1046 wheels with all-season tires, though, as noted in the table above, summer rubber that maximizes range comes at no cost. Other standard equipment includes ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Driving Assistant Plus suite of driver aids with active blind-spot detection, lane-keep assist, forward collision mitigation, active cruise control with a steering assistant, and active park distance control with side protection. You also get Digital Key Plus, which lets you give others control of the vehicle via a smartphone app without needing to give them the physical key. Numerous Options on Offer for 2027 BMW iX3 BMW BMW offers several upgrades if you're willing to spend a little extra, including the Comfort Package for $1,500. This gives the electric SUV a heated steering wheel and multifunction seats, as well as a panoramic glass sunroof with glazing. If you don't want the glass roof, BMW will delete it and give you $750 back, which could go towards the Driving Assistance Professional Package ($2,500). This unlocks a Highway & Commuting Assistant, Traffic Jam Assistant, and Active Lane Change with Eye Activation. Alternatively, you can spend $2,500 on the M Sport Package, adding a Sport steering wheel (or an M steering wheel for an extra $150) and 20-inch M Aero V-Spoke Bicolor 1047M wheels on summer tires. In fact, this package offers five different wheel styles, each with their own pricing. The M Sport Package also gives you subtle M Sport upgrades inside and out, while the $4,000 M Sport Professional Package adds the M Sport upgrades plus BMW Iconic Glow exterior lighting, M Sport brakes with red or blue calipers, and an M steering wheel. Leather upholstery, heated rear seats, a trailer hitch, and a Harman Kardon sound system are also available. Related: BMW iX3 Becomes X3’s Biggest Rival as Orders Surge In terms of paint options, you can have Alpine White at no cost or Black Sapphire Metallic, Brooklyn Grey Metallic, Space Silver Metallic, Vegas Red Metallic, Polarized Grey Metallic, Ocean Wave Blue Metallic, or Eucalyptus Green Metallic for $650. Alternatively, Frozen (matte) Space Silver Metallic costs $3,600. We built the most expensive iX3 possible and, without adding additional maintenance plans or charging adapters, came out with a total of $84,350. In other words, for less than five grand more than the cheapest Porsche Macan EV, you can have a fully kitted iX3. That's not bad value. You can give the configurator a whirl here. Earl Lee/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

2023 NASCAR Cup Series champion Ryan Blaney will continue to drive the No. 12 Team Penske Ford after signing a multi-year contract extension. Menards will remain as a partner as part of the new agreement “Ryan Blaney has developed into one of the elite drivers in the NASCAR Cup Series, and the success he’s achieved speaks for itself,” said team owner Roger Penske. “I’m confident Ryan ...Keep readingView the full article

Dearborn desperately hoped that the worst of the 2026 market correction was already priced into their first-quarter earnings, but it wasn't. According to the latest April 2026 data, Ford is staring down a widening rift within its portfolio. The gas-burning Mustang is currently amongst the very few models that Ford sells in the US, which is showing growth for the business, while its ambitious EV and high-tech plays are hitting a massive wall. Ford Mustang MuscleGroup sales for Ford and Lincoln combined plummeted 14.4 percent in April, dragging an already difficult year further into the red. While niche wins like the Bronco (up 18.6 percent), and the Transit van (up 22 percent) provide some cover, the core pillars of Ford's "Model e" future are looking shaky. The internal combustion Mustang continues to almost singlehandedly keep the lights on in Dearborn. While the rest of the automaker’s portfolio stalls out, the traditional pony car surged an impressive 18.4 percent in April, moving 5,830 units. Zoom out, and the trajectory is even more aggressive. Year-to-date, gas Mustang sales have skyrocketed 39.2 percent, totaling nearly 20,000 deliveries through the end of the month. However, while the gas Mustang thrives, its electric namesake, the Mustang Mach-E, is having a year to forget. Deliveries of the electric crossover have collapsed by 50 percent year-to-date, moving just 7,270 units compared to over 14,000 during the same period last year. Ford Electrifying ErrorsThis isn't just a Mach-E problem; it's an electrification problem across the board for Ford. Total sales for electrified vehicles—a category that includes both pure EVs and hybrids—fell by 31.1 percent in April. Even the usually reliable internal combustion SUVs and trucks weren't immune, with truck sales sliding 12.1 percent and SUVs dropping 10.9 percent for the year. Due to supply chain fractures, the F-Series recorded a 14.7 percent drop in April, a direct casualty of the ongoing aluminum bottlenecks triggered by the 2025 Novelis plant fire. Over at the luxury arm, Lincoln is in freefall, with the freshly redesigned Navigator suffering a catastrophic 41.7 percent sales collapse. Supply chain woes aside, American consumers still seem to want a fire-breathing Ford Mustang; electric powertrains don't seem to blend well with the Blue Oval in the minds of consumers. The Mustang continues to be the attainable halo car that Ford needs to navigate these rough EV waters, and if Ford intends to comfortably survive this 2026 sales slump, they need to start listening to the math. View the full article

Tariff WoesTariffs on automotive products have become a major factor in recent times, with last year's major changes, and car prices in the United States have gone up. In neighboring countries, the trend has been to work with other nations to lower car prices. Canada recently struck a milestone deal with China that will allow it to benefit from lower tariffs, securing better prices for Chinese-made electric vehicles. Since the United States refuses to deal and allow Chinese manufacturers into the market, prices remain the same or higher. Xie Huanchi/Xinhua via Getty Images China Made TeslaOne example: the cheapest Tesla, the base Model 3 in Canada, is now priced at $29,000, compared to the U.S., where the equivalent car and spec are $37,000. That $8,000 difference comes from the fact that Canada now sources its Model 3's from China. The new trade deal between China and Canada will see the tariff drop to 6.1% from the previous 100% rate implemented in 2024. It also means that Canada will allow the importation and sales of 49,000 China-built EVs, which, as we all know, are affordable. Tesla is one of the first brands to take advantage of this new deal. The new base Model 3 is called the Premium RWD variant; it's sourced from Shanghai and has a total driving range of 288 miles and a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 seconds. Before this deal was finalized, the most affordable Tesla in Canada was the Long-range AWD, shipped from California, at $58,000. It may not be the same specs as the new base model, but in effect, Tesla Canada has halved the buy-in price of its most affordable unit because of this deal. Tesla EVs for Canola DealHow this deal came to fruition is simple economics: China needed help boosting its agricultural resources and selling its ever-expanding EV stocks, and Canada was all but willing to come to the table. In exchange for favorable rates on Chinese-made EVs, Canada will give them canola. It will be capped in the meantime at 49,000 cars per annum, but the quota is set to increase to 70,000 by 2030. This newfound openness is being taken seriously by Chinese manufacturers, with BYD, Chery, and Geely already investing heavily to launch their Canadian operations. Tesla View the full article

Mazda's aspirations to join the Germans in the upper executive ranks do not seem to be working out. Mazda sold just 31,128 vehicles in the United States last month, a steep 17.3 percent drop compared to April of last year. Year-to-date, Mazda is down 15.1 percent, sitting at a disappointing 125,601 units sold. Mazda's MX-5 remains the only standout performer from their portfolio. Mazda The Story from the NumbersThese numbers deliver a harsh reality check to Mazda, not only from the perspective of not being able to make a mark in the $45,000-$60,000 segment, but also of the demands of its loyal consumer base. Enthusiasts still clearly demand light, rear-drive, and affordable sports cars. Mazda's post-war roots, remember, lie in lightweight and well-engineered cars. The biggest losses are coming directly from the exact models built to elevate the brand's status. Mazda’s premium, high-margin, rear-drive-biased crossovers are sitting on dealer lots. The flagship CX-90 saw its sales plunge 39.2 percent in April. The slightly smaller, two-row CX-70 did even worse, dropping an agonizing 42.6 percent. When consumers are shopping in the $40,000 - $60,000 segment, they are shopping for cars from manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Acura, and Cadillac - the data shows that customers are walking away from the Mazdas. Mazda The entry-level and mid-tier SUVs are struggling to find traction as well. The compact CX-30 fell 35 percent, and the typically reliable CX-5 dropped 18.9 percent. The CX-50 offered a rare bright spot. It posted a 5.8 percent gain for the month, largely driven by the newly introduced hybrid powertrain. The Mazda3 hatchback managed to stay perfectly flat. The Lesson for MazdaThere is a not-so-strange twist in the data, maybe even entirely predictable. Mazda’s most traditional, analog product is surging. Sales of the MX-5 Miata jumped a massive 60 percent in April. The soft-top version gained 44.8 percent, and the hardtop RF model spiked 81 percent. It is a low-volume sports car, but the growth shows that buyers still want exactly what made Mazda famous in the first place: lightweight, affordable, driver-focused cars. Drew Phillips If Mazda's top brass are paying attention, they need to listen to their consumer base - they still want Mazdas that do not stray from their ethos. Not heavy, bulky, and expensive family wagons; instead, give us light, reliable, and soulful cars that won't break the bank. View the full article

The New Border RunThe ongoing conflict in Iran has had a massive toll on car owners, as gas prices have soared so high that more Americans have even started carpooling again. Another development is that drivers from California are crossing into Arizona to save on fuel, with a report by Inside Edition showing they save more than $3 per gallon on the detour. In Needles, California, a Mobil gas station was selling gas for $7.49 as of the report’s posting. That’s a huge contrast compared to a station in Arizona’s Mojave Valley, where gas was significantly cheaper at $4.19. The two stations are only about a mile and a half apart, which would take about two to three minutes at 35 mph. That sounds like an even more practical trade-off as modern cars become more fuel-efficient, with the average vehicle in the U.S. getting around 27 mpg and models like the Honda Civic exceeding 35 mpg. Why the Gap ExistsThe main culprit behind this juxtaposition is the gas tax, especially given California’s favorable stance on electric-vehicle adoption. The report stated that California imposes the highest state gas tax in the U.S. at approximately 70 cents per gallon, compared to 18 cents in Arizona. In addition, California also requires a cleaner-burning fuel blend that adds costs, which may be good for the environment, but not necessarily for drivers’ pockets. The steep gas tax adds to the cost pressure behind California’s EV push. There is also a broader policy that bans the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035, though the current administration has since challenged the rule and even filed a lawsuit against the state. Photo by Grace Cary on Getty Images Fuel Prices Changing the MarketWith California continuing to push for EV adoption, situations like drivers crossing into another state just for a fill-up could become more common, potentially affecting businesses that rely on gas-powered cars in the long term. Ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz could also keep pressure on fuel supplies and leave gas prices elevated. Beyond the pump, inflated gas prices have helped boost the EV market, with Hyundai, which sells EVs like the Ioniq 5, reportedly recording 40% growth in U.S. EV sales between February and March 2026. In the used-car market, iSeeCars recently released a study suggesting that more buyers are choosing EVs and hybrids, with the Tesla Model X ranking as the fastest-selling used car, followed by the Lexus RX 350h and Honda Civic Hybrid. Photo by Brandon Bell on Getty Images View the full article

Most people buying a Chevrolet Trax or Trailblazer at their local dealership probably never think about where it came from. The answer is, and has been for a few years, South Korea. GM Korea has now surpassed two million units of current-generation subcompact crossovers built, a milestone the company reached just six years after the first models rolled off the line in 2020. The figure covers the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer, along with their Buick siblings, the Envista and Encore GX, all riding on GM's VSS-F platform. For a subsidiary that has produced 13.4 million vehicles total since 2002, reaching two million on just two model families is a striking concentration of output. Cole Attisha View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Why Korea Became the Crossover CapitalGM Korea took on the entire process from design through to production for what insiders call the "K-compact SUV." The results speak for themselves. In the United States alone, these two models sold over 422,000 units last year, capturing roughly 43 percent of their segment. The Trax has been South Korea's single most exported vehicle for three consecutive years running and is now closing in on one million cumulative units on its own. The Trailblazer, which has been shipping globally since 2019, crossed 830,000 accumulated overseas sales before the Trax even launched. A Hub Under Pressure, Still DeliveringThe milestone lands at an interesting moment. GM has instructed its Korean operations to run at full capacity this year, targeting 500,000 vehicles, even as import tariff uncertainty has complicated the economics of Korean-built cars entering the American market. The fact that GM is pushing output higher rather than pulling back signals genuine confidence in the operation. Two million subcompact crossovers from a foreign subsidiary is the kind of success that rarely makes headlines but shapes what ends up in showrooms. View the full article

Iran Conflict Is Now Making Cars More Expensive TooThe Iran conflict is now hitting the auto industry far beyond fuel prices. According to a report from Nikkei Asia, aluminum prices in Japan have jumped more than 20 percent since late February amid major disruptions to supply chains across the Middle East. The Strait of Hormuz remains heavily affected, making exports difficult, while some regional smelters have reportedly suffered damage during attacks. That matters because aluminum is everywhere in modern cars. Wheels, body panels, and especially EVs rely heavily on the lightweight metal to improve efficiency and range. Secondary aluminum alloys used in engine components are also reaching record highs. If the disruptions continue, analysts believe automakers may soon pass those higher costs directly to buyers starting next year. BMW Your Next Car Might Cost More Because Of Plastic And SteelPlastics are getting hammered, too. Major suppliers in Japan have raised prices for polyethylene and polypropylene by roughly 30 percent as oil-linked feedstock costs continue climbing. These materials are essential for dashboards, trims, bumpers, and countless other parts found in modern vehicles. Many suppliers reportedly accepted the increases immediately just to secure enough inventory. Rubber and steel prices are rising simultaneously. Tire manufacturers are already preparing for higher prices for synthetic and natural rubber, while steelmakers like Nippon Steel and JFE Steel announced price hikes of around 10 percent beginning this month. Higher electricity, labor, and shipping costs are adding even more pressure. Industry analysts warn that if shortages persist, vehicle prices could rise by as much as $600 to $1,000 per vehicle. Getty Images Even EVs Are No Longer Safe From The Oil CrisisEven if tensions in the Middle East ease soon, experts say it could take months before shipping routes and energy markets fully stabilize again. The current spike in material prices is already creating fears of long-term supply shortages across the industry. In a worst-case scenario, some economists warn production itself could slow down if automakers cannot secure enough raw materials. Ironically, rising gas prices are helping EV demand rebound as buyers look for cheaper alternatives to fuel. But EVs rely heavily on aluminum, plastics, and other lightweight materials that are now becoming more expensive. If this trend continues, even electric cars could soon see higher sticker prices. What started as a fuel crisis is quickly becoming a full-scale manufacturing problem for the global auto industry. Tesla View the full article

GM’s Transmission Troubles ContinueGM’s 10-speed automatic transmission just can’t catch a break. Back in February, the company widened an earlier recall to cover thousands more trucks and SUVs, all because of a fault that could lock up the rear wheels on the move. It’s another headache for a gearbox that’s already drawn years of complaints from owners. Now there’s a new class-action lawsuit in California. The claim? That GM kept selling vehicles with these transmissions even though it already knew about the problems. GMC What the Lawsuit ClaimsFiled in the Northern District of California, the class-action lawsuit comes from a group of owners who say GM broke state and federal consumer protection laws by not telling buyers and lessees about the transmission issues. The complaint covers a range of Chevrolet, GMC, and Cadillac models with the 10-speed auto. Owners say the gearbox can hesitate, slam into gear, or act up without warning. The suit points out that GM has already issued service bulletins and recalls for this transmission, but the plaintiffs say those fixes didn’t solve the bigger design problem. Instead, they argue GM kept selling these vehicles while buyers stayed in the dark about the risks and possible repair bills. Right now, the lawsuit covers California owners and lessees, but these cases sometimes grow if more people step forward. What Happens NextSo far, GM hasn’t commented on the lawsuit. The case is still in its early stages, and it could be months before a judge decides whether it moves forward as a class action. The plaintiffs want GM to pay for repairs and other losses, and they’re also pushing for changes in how GM markets or sells vehicles with this transmission. Stepping back, when a 10-speed works, it’s great. But when problems arise, repairs get expensive fast, and owners lose trust. It’s also worth watching how Ford handles this (or if there's an oncoming lawsuit waiting), since it co-developed the transmission with GM. Chevrolet View the full article