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Everybody loves a hardcore Volkswagen Golf, and the latest is designed to seek blood at one of the most demanding racetracks in the world: the Nürburgring. Volkswagen has revealed a show car previewing its radical new racer that will race at the 2027 24 Hours of Nürburgring, and the interesting thing about this car is that, like the Golf R you and I can buy and drive, this will send its power to all four wheels. To help achieve that goal and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the R brand, the Volkswagen R division is teaming up with Max Kruse Racing, helping reinforce the idea that 'R' is derived from 'racing.' VW Keeping Golf R 24H Powertrain Under Wraps Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Golf R 24H, as it's officially known, takes over from the Golf GTI Clubsport, which took part in endurance racing for the last three years. Clubsport was an ideal name since the GTI Clubsport S smashed the lap record for front-wheel-drive production cars at the Nürburgring in 2016, but the memory of that has long faded, and the Honda Civic Type R is the current FWD king of the 'Ring. The vehicle in these images is just a show car meant to whet our appetites, with Head of Volkswagen R Reinhold Ivenz saying, "Even though we don't want to reveal much about the technology yet, fans of the 24h Nürburgring can look forward to the most spectacular Golf R to date." So what do we know? Related: Volkswagen Golf Goes Full Hybrid—And You Don’t Need to Plug It In Well, like all racing cars, aerodynamics and mechanical grip are equally important to a powerful but reliable powertrain, and this show car has a gargantuan front splitter complemented by dive planes/canards on the front end. The widened body, with vents above and behind the front wheels, enables a wider track and the fitment of seriously meaty rubber. This widebody treatment continues in the sills, where a single exhaust outlet on the right-hand side of the vehicle lets the engine breathe, and into the rear wings, which also have vented arches. More bodywork extends out of the rear fenders to direct the airflow, working in tandem with a huge top-hung rear wing extending out of the rear windshield area and a massive diffuser under the bumper. The question is, does this herald anything viable for mainstream production? What We Know About the Golf R's Future Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Volkswagen had at one point intended for the R division to go all-electric, but such statements have been retracted, with VW saying both GTI and R performance badges will stay gas-powered into the next decade. There have also been reports from the U.K. that the 2027 Golf R will get the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine from the Audi RS 3 as an ultimate send-off for the eighth generation of the hatchback, but given Volkswagen's emissions concerns, that may not be feasible. Then again, such a product would have little trouble meeting regulations in America. Whatever happens, the ninth-generation Golf is already in development and should bring back styling cues from the mid-2000s. Hopefully, that Golf is popular enough to warrant hardcore variants with more than just a minor horsepower bump, gloss black accents, and an Akrapovič exhaust. Volkswagen Volkswagen View the full article

Trouble Before TakeoffJust as Audi looks to strengthen its U.S. lineup with the first-ever Q9, the Trump administration has threatened to raise tariffs on imported vehicles from 15% to 25%. According to Reuters, Audi said the policy change would place a “significant burden” on its U.S. operations, especially since the Q9 is built at its Bratislava plant in ⁠Slovakia. The Q9 is an upcoming full-size luxury crossover that would indirectly take over the outgoing A8’s role as Audi’s flagship model. Its larger size is aimed at meeting U.S. demand for bigger vehicles while taking on rivals such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. The problem is that both competitors are built in the U.S., shielding them from the import tariffs the upcoming Q9 could face. SH Proshots/Autoblog Audi’s Localization ProblemAudi has long been in talks with parent company Volkswagen about possible U.S. production. Previous reports suggested the Q4 e-tron could be built at VW’s plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, while the upcoming Scout plant in South Carolina was also considered. So far, neither plan has materialized, and Audi noted that its U.S. lineup would continue to face challenges without some form of support. “Without political support in the form of subsidies, tariff reductions, or similar measures, it will be difficult,” said Audi finance chief Juergen Rittersberger. Considering the current circumstances, it may be high time for Audi to come up with solutions. In 2025, the German luxury brand delivered 164,942 vehicles in the U.S., a 16% decline from the previous year. Meanwhile, BMW sold 388,897 vehicles, while Mercedes-Benz was not far behind at roughly 304,000 vehicles, excluding vans. SH Proshots/Autoblog The Clock Is TickingWhile the Q5 – which is built in Mexico – will likely remain Audi’s volume seller, the addition of the Q9 could bring more attention to the brand. There was even a trademark filing for an SQ9, which could point to a performance version of the model and potentially attract enthusiasts. Audi has not disclosed the exact arrival date for the Q9 this year, though it would mark the nameplate’s debut before sales begin in other global markets. As big of a deal as that may be, the company still appears to have more work to do behind the scenes, especially with higher tariffs looming. CarPix View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The BMW Group has just released its quarterly statement, reflecting the company’s global performance over the first three months of 2026. Some aspects of it come as little surprise, such as a 20.1% overall decline in EV sales relative to 2025. This trend has been mirrored by many other automakers. BMW’s overall sales also declined, with nearly all models selling fewer units than a year ago. However, the X3 jumped out as a bright spot for the automaker, with an overall increase in sales and a surprising percentage of those being for the new, fully electric iX3. Let’s take a deeper dive into the numbers. X3 Lineup Puts in Strong Showing BMW In Q1 2026, BMW sold 496,006 vehicles globally, excluding sales of Mini and Rolls-Royce. Sales of all models were down besides the Z4 (+4.9%) and X3/X4 (+8.9%). BMW groups similar models together, so X3 and X4 sales are reported as a combined figure. However, it’s well-known that the X3 is the more popular vehicle, so it will have accounted for the majority of the 77,500 units sold between the two. BMW But what’s even more interesting is the fact that over half of all current orders for the X3 are for the new, all-electric iX3. They may share the ‘X3’ badge, but these are two vastly different vehicles. The newer iX3 was the first EV from BMW’s Neue Klasse lineup and introduced a new design language and control interface for the brand. The fact that orders for this model already exceed those of the normal X3 is significant. The X3 has been one of the company’s most popular individual models for years now, but there are signs that its electric sibling could overtake it globally. The iX3 has not yet arrived in the U.S., so once sales begin here, expect this EV’s strong start to be further bolstered. In the U.S. specifically, BMW sold 17,767 X3s in Q1, so it will be fascinating to see how those numbers will be impacted by the arrival of the iX3 later this year. Related: BMW Had a Great 2025 by Breaking Yet Another US Sales Record Larger Electrified BMW SUVs See Steep Declines 2026 BMW iX BMW View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The iX3 may be off to a great start, but the same can’t be said for the brand’s larger electrified SUVs. The company sold 6,319 iX models in Q1, a year-over-year drop of 20.3%; it doesn’t help that the iX will be discontinued in the USA. The XM plug-in hybrid has never sold as strongly as expected, despite being the brand’s SUV performance flagship. Only 1,458 of these were sold in Q1, down by 17.6%. At a starting price of around $60,000, the new iX3 is far cheaper than both these options, which broadens its appeal considerably. Elsewhere in BMW’s lineup, the 3 Series and 4 Series accounted for the most sales at 103,814 units, but this was down by 11.8%. They were followed by the X1/X2 SUVs on 101,831 combined units, down by 4.4%. Overall, BMW sold 4.6% fewer vehicles over this period than it did last year. The U.S. market was slightly more resilient, with a 3.9% drop in sales. Related: BMW Hits 2-Million EV Milestone, But Later Than Planned What It Means BMW The X3 has often been the best-selling global model for BMW over the last few years. The fact that BMW is presently receiving more orders for the iX3 than the normal X3 is massive, and underscores how pivotal the first Neue Klasse model is for the brand. If the EV market once again stabilizes after a chaotic few months—which is expected as high gas prices motivate more people to switch to electric propulsion—the iX3 could become one of BMW’s most significant cars in the second half of this decade. View the full article

"New Tahoe Leaks" Yet another GM vehicle issue has surfaced. After purchasing a brand-new Chevrolet Tahoe from the dealership, this owner experienced a unique feature: water cooling for the dashboard and infotainment system. Jokes aside, a video was posted on X, featuring a Tahoe leaking all over the dashboard and center console. The footage was captured on the owner's smartphone and shows a stream of water dripping from the headliner around the rear-view mirror while the car was driving down a residential street. It wasn't just a slow drip, but a steady stream of water. It is perhaps a little damaging to the Tahoe's reputation, being one of the more reliable SUVs on the market. This is a brand new Tahoe. They must have bought the zen version with the water feature meant to keep you from getting road rage. 😆 pic.twitter.com/ZX608jGeWH — Suzee Q (@SusieM414141) May 2, 2026 The Potential Cause The cause of the issue hasn't been identified yet, and based on the post, it's unclear whether the owner has been able to resolve it. We can infer that one of the weather strips in the sunroof or perhaps the roof's drainage system may be compromised. Since it is a brand-new car, it's likely a quality-control issue, manufacturing defect, or improper assembly. It turns out, the poster, Suzee Q, attracted other commenters to share their thoughts. Another commenter shared his Hummer EV leaking from the roof, with the issue traced back to the T-tops. Another commenter also cited the Blazer, which happened three weeks after purchase. The most likely cause is perhaps that the drainage tube wasn't connected or got disconnected. Modern SUVs have tubes that run down to the wheels to ensure rainwater is evacuated. Either that, or the water seals were improperly installed, causing water to leak through the roof and slosh about in the headliner. Chevrolet Making Light of the Situation While many people may start shaking their heads in disbelief, or scratching their scalps trying to get the issue fixed, other commenters asked if "the added waterfall feature extra?" Others were cursing Chevrolet, while others still were quick to share their experiences. Another commenter who experienced a similar issue had to return to the dealer three times before the issue was fully resolved. Another, still, stated that they bought a GMC Denali instead. In related news, earlier this year, GM issued a recall of several of its SUVs due to a transmission issue, with the Tahoe among the models affected. While that affects 43,000 vehicles, the water leak seems to be a relatively isolated case. Chevrolet View the full article

These days, there are countless restomods out there that seem to be more of a reflection of the builders' vision than an enhancement of that of the original designer, and plenty of them are far removed from the cars upon which they are based. But Dutch outfit Autoforma has done something completely different with its new, one-off Audi TT restomod. Instead of modernizing the Mk. 1 TT with LED lighting, a big infotainment screen, and a five-cylinder turbocharged engine, Autoforma has restored the TT to its original form, adding only the subtlest of tweaks while staying true to the Audi TTS concept that first appeared in 1995. Autoforma Brings Concept Car Looks to the Real World Autoforma View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article When the production TT launched in 1998, it had a slightly fussier design than the original concept, and as slight as those changes were, Autoforma's take on the roadster effectively undoes all of them, creating a cleaner, purer expression of the Bauhaus-inspired two-door. At the front, the lower intake grilles are narrower and more square, and in the middle of the vehicle, the fabric soft top has been deleted, replaced instead by a composite panel that sits flush with the rear deck. Further back, the spoiler that was added to the TT shortly after launch has been removed. Audi added this aero device as part of a recall to help improve the handling, as early TTs suffered from severe high-speed instability and rear-end lift, typically inducing liftoff oversteer at speeds above 80 mph. Autoforma has not alluded to the aerodynamics of the rounder design, but we assume the owner won't be driving this one-off too often or too quickly. Autoforma View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Elsewhere, the suspension has been lowered, and though the wheels are stock, the track has been widened, so handling should be improved, at least at lower speeds. New vents on the front fenders hide the turn signal indicators behind fine mesh, but on one side of the vehicle, this area is usually occupied by the windshield washer fluid reservoir, so the tank has been relocated to the already small trunk. The side skirts have also gained subtle intake elements adorned with torx screws, and smaller, motorsport-inspired wing mirrors now reside on the A-pillars instead of the doors. While some might dislike the exposed hardware, the interior of this generation of Audi products had plenty of similar industrial design elements, like the gas filler cap, interior air vents, the ring on the steering wheel, and the gear lever base and knob. Baseball Glove Interior Was a TT Highlight Autoforma View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article When the TT was on sale, it was available with a baseball glove-inspired upholstery option, and this restomod has a similar theme, complemented by a wood-rimmed steering wheel and a wooden gear knob. Little else has changed, but that's what the commissioning owner wanted. That owner is Dutch eyewear and interior designer Jos Baijens, who was one of the first people in Holland to own a TT in 1998, and he is said to have helped co-design the end result. Another interesting tidbit is that the standard TT used for comparison in these images is owned by car designer Niels van Roij, whose company owns Autoforma. He's been responsible for stunning sooting brakes like the Rolls-Royce Wraith-based Silver Spectre. Related: Audi's Next RS Model Is Doing Things Differently It's wild to think that the TT, one of the most futuristic and snazzy designs of the turn of the millennium, is now old enough to become a restomod appreciated for its simple aesthetics. In its heyday, it was sometimes derided as too soft and too chic, and then it was so popular that nobody batted an eyelid seeing one on the road anymore. Audi tried to recapture that magic with the second- and third-generation TTs, but in hindsight, the original is the only version truly worthy of being called "iconic." As demand for small coupes fell, the TT was killed off after the 2023 model year. Will the production version of the Concept C, a vehicle that will effectively sit between the discontinued R8 and TT, garner similar praise? We'll know eventually; production is scheduled for next year. Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma Autoforma View the full article

Recovery PainsOn the one hand, Nissan's outlook appears more positive. There's a slew of all-new models coming in, and the company is doing all it can to regain its mojo. It's safe to say that the U.S market is very excited for the return of the Xterra and several more truck-based models. Over in Japan, the reboot of the Skyline is still stirring up a good amount of buzz. Let's not forget the all-new Rogue that's already been revealed, and Europe can look forward to the redesigned Juke. But with recovery comes pain and sacrifices, and Nissan isn't spared from that. The company had previously announced job cuts and cost-saving measures, and it has reached a point where it has sold and leased its global headquarters in Yokohama. While its future does look brighter than it did a year or two before, Nissan still has to tighten its belt to invest in the future. Leroy Marion/Autoblog Streamlining European OperationsAs reported by Reuters, Nissan is trimming its operations in Europe. It's part of the company's restructuring efforts that kicked off in late 2024. In this case, the Sunderland assembly plant in England will be consolidated from two lines to just one, and about 900 jobs across the continent will be slashed. Per a company statement, "We have been taking decisive actions to ⁠enhance performance and create a leaner, more resilient business that adapts quickly to market changes." The Sunderland plant currently builds the Qashqai, Juke, and Leaf for the European market, and is Nissan's sole production facility on the continent. There are, however, parts manufacturing plants in Spain. As for layoffs, there will be none for plant personnel. Reuters reports that the cuts will be for 'white-collar and warehouse roles.' The news agency mentions that about 500 of the redundancies will be in the Spanish operations. Nissan Talks with China's CheryNissan has been in talks with Chinese automaker Chery regarding manufacturing. Earlier this year, Nissan agreed to sell its manufacturing facility in South Africa to Chery. Chery also acquired another former Nissan vehicle assembly plant in Spain to circumvent tariffs being imposed on imports and establish a greater presence in Europe. More recently, there has also been the possibility of a partnership between the Chinese company and the Japanese to maximize the use of the Sunderland plant. That said, nothing has been set in stone just yet, and The Financial Times said that Nissan is open to other car companies using its second assembly line in England. Nissan View the full article

Chrysler revealed a heavily restyled version of the Pacifica minivan earlier this year, but there was one problem: pricing. Not only was the base trim significantly more expensive than rivals like the Kia Carnival, but most of the popular mid-range trims were also pricier than equivalent rival models. Chrysler has wasted no time in responding to the criticism as the 2027 Pacifica begins shipping to dealers, with price decreases simultaneously announced for five trims. Here’s a look at how much you’ll pay for what was the best-selling minivan in the country last year. Cheaper Pacifica Pricing Stellantis First, we’ll start with the bad news. The base Pacifica LX with front-wheel drive still starts at $41,495, excluding a destination charge of $1,995. This model effectively replaces the outgoing Voyager, but still looks expensive next to the cheapest Kia Carnival ($37,390). The news is better from there, though. Here’s a look at original 2027 pricing alongside the new price cuts. Trim Original Price Price Decrease New MSRP LX FWD $41,495 N/A $41,495  Select FWD $44,545 $1,000 $43,545  Select AWD $47,890 $1,350 $46,540 Limited FWD $49,705 $1,710 $47,995 Limited AWD $53,050 $2,060 $50,990  Pinnacle FWD $54,910 N/A $54,910  Pinnacle AWD $58,255 $350 $57,905  The well-equipped Limited with all-wheel drive receives the largest price cut, at $2,060. Together with the Select, these are two of the most popular trims, so Chrysler has applied the price cuts where they matter most. “When we revealed the newly refreshed Pacifica at the New York International  Auto show last month, we said we were going to continue to push boundaries and do the unexpected,” said Matt McAlear, Chrysler CEO. “This new lower pricing strategy is just the start as we continue to find ways to make it easier for customers to make the Pacifica a trusted member of their families.”  Chrysler has also dropped the cost of the optional Safety Sphere package from $1,715 to $1,320. Available on Limited models, this package adds features like a 360-degree surround-view camera, front/rear parking assistance with stop, and Turn Signal-activated Blind-spot View. Familiar Powertrain and Flexible Seating 2027 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle featuring Uconnect Theater Group Stellantis View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article All Chrysler Pacifica variants have the same 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine that produces 287 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The previous plug-in hybrid version of the minivan has been discontinued, so if you want a more efficient minivan, consider a Toyota Sienna. The Pacifica can seat up to eight occupants on Select trims, but most offer seating for seven. All variants get Chrysler’s clever Stow ‘n Go seating system, allowing the second- and third-row seats to quickly be folded into the floor when you need to transport larger, bulkier items. The Pinnacle trim is by far the most luxurious, with a new Blue Agave Nappa leather interior with copper accents lifting the ambiance. What It Means Stellantis Chrysler needs the 2027 Pacifica to perform as well as the outgoing model. It’s the company’s sole offering in the United States, so the initially high pricing risked losing customers to rival brands, especially since minivans have seen an increase in sales over the last year or so. The bigger concern is Chrysler’s overall future, as it was conspicuously not mentioned as one of the priority brands for Stellantis in a recent report. There’s still no sign of any new Chrysler models, raising fears that the refreshed Pacifica could be the last gasp from a once-treasured American auto company. View the full article

AMG's Course CorrectionFor years, AMG became known as the car company that made wheeled equivalents of sledgehammers. Back then, its cars were loud, brash, and unashamedly unruly. Forget lap times, AMG was about roasting tires and hooliganism, a stark contrast to its rivals. More recently, however, AMG had toned down a fair bit. Sure, the cars made the power, but we have to admit that the flair and the magic that defined it took a back seat. That was further emphasized by C63 with its four-cylinder plug-in hybrid arrangement, and it failed to resonate with buyers. Thankfully, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are taking corrective measures, at least in the powertrain department. Earlier this year, Mercedes-Benz said it would fit inline-sixes into its compact models. Now, AMG promises the return of more V8s. The AMG Boss Confirmed itIn a sit-down with Car, the CEO of Mercedes-AMG, Michael Schiebe, confirmed that the company will roll out new combustion-powered models and promised to be 'more AMG than ever before.' And yes, folks, the V8 comeback has been confirmed by the executive. "At the end of the year, you’ll see the V8 coming back to AMG. We will launch it again with SUVs, but other cars will get it too," said Schiebe to Car. It's likely that AMG will work its magic on the flat-plane crank V8 that was recently introduced in the new S-Class, and we expect great things from that. SH Proshots/Autoblog What Cars Will Get the V8?For now, the executive isn't saying what specific models will get the new AMG-tuned V8 engines. Given that SUVs will get it first, there's a good chance that the facelifted versions of the GLE 63 and GLS 63 might be the first beneficiaries of that flat-plane crank V8. As for the other cars, we're keeping our fingers crossed that V8 power will return to the E-Class and revive the E63 nameplate. Currently, the E-Class is not available with an eight-cylinder engine, and it would be great if it returned. At the same time, we're hoping we get a V8 in the C-Class once more. Besides, the company promised that it wants to be 'more AMG than ever before.' Car also hinted that AMG will make special models unique to the brand. Of course, there's the SL and GT, but there may be more on the way. One model we can confirm is the more hardcore version of the CLE that will be the second vehicle in the company to wear the Mythos badge. We're hoping for more, of course, and we saw it's a step in the right direction for the sport-luxury brand. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

It's tough not to associate news about Volkswagen and emissions with the Dieselgate scandal, but on the latest occasion, the automaker may be in trouble with the authorities for reasons that are not its own making, at least not directly. As reported by Motor1, Volkswagen could be forced to pay as much as $1.75 billion in fines because its EVs haven't been as popular as necessary for the automaker to meet overall emissions targets, and that leaves VW in a serious predicament. It needs to sell EVs to bring down fleet emissions levels and avoid hefty fines, but it also needs to sell its more profitable combustion-powered vehicles to make money. The more of the latter that leave dealer floors, the more CO₂ emissions levels continue to rise, and as a result, the more VW may have to pay. VW Needs to Sell More EVs Than There Are Buyers Volkswagen Volkswagen Group Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer Arno Antlitz said during the automaker's first-quarter earnings call that the conglomerate could have to pay up to €1.5 billion (or roughly $1.75 billion at current exchange rates) for exceeding emissions targets during 2025-2027, despite the impending arrival of the recently revealed ID. Polo and a smaller, more affordable EV due next year. "€300 million–€400 million, €400 million–€500 million CO₂ cost per year. Basically, almost €1.5 billion for the three-year period," said Antliz. Volkswagen says its current-generation EVs generate up to 30 percent less profit than gas cars, and the difference is not likely to be made up until the Scalable Systems Platform launches later in the decade. The Volkswagen Group says it would need to sell more electric cars than the natural demand in Europe is, and with constant pressure from Chinese automakers offering remarkably good alternatives, it's doubtful that a sudden increase in EV interest would make enough of a difference, unlikely as that may be. Still, Europeans' appetite for EVs is steadily growing, with demand up 11.5 percent compared to Q1 2025. What does all this mean for American cars? How VW's EU Emissions Issue Could Impact America Volkswagen For the time being and the foreseeable future, there's unlikely to be any discernible difference in how Volkswagen operates in America, but that may change. With VW Group set to pay up to half a billion euros in fines over just three years, the precipitous situation of the automaking group following its disastrous attempt at beating rivals to EV supremacy with its Cariad division, recent production cuts, and now the possibility of introducing Chinese-made EVs in Europe, things are not looking good. This kind of strife may lead to cost cuts and price hikes, and these could further impact VW's reputation, which is already far from the heights of the Ferdinand Piëch-led glory days. But if the ninth-generation Golf is as promising as it sounds, and if both combustion-powered and all-electric arrivals are desirable, VW may be able to stomach the costly fines without impacting the end products negatively and come out on the other side of the decade ready to be a global force once more. View the full article

NASCAR has taken action against Ryan Preece following the incident between him and Ty Gibbs on Sunday in the Cup Series race at Texas Motor Speedway. Preece, the driver of the No. 60 RFK Racing Ford, was issued a $50,000 fine and the deduction of 25 driver points under Sections 4.3 and 4.4.A in the NASCAR Rule Book, which detail ‘wrecking or spinning another vehicle, whether or not that ...Keep readingView the full article

The BMW Group has reached a major production milestone for fully electric vehicles. At the company’s Plant Dingolfing in Germany, the two-millionth EV has just rolled off the production line. That vehicle is a BMW i5 M60 xDrive sedan finished in Tansanit Blue, and this milestone EV is now on its way to a customer in Spain. It’s a remarkable achievement for the German marque, but BMW actually reached this target a little later than expected. BMW’s EV Journey Started Slowly BMW The first mass-produced EV from BMW was the oddball i3 hatchback, which first went into production in 2013. Also available with a range-extender version with a gas engine, the i3 was very much a product of its time, with experimental styling that had little in common with regular BMWs. Since then, BMW’s global electric lineup has grown to include zero-emission versions of popular models like the X3 and 5 Series. Unlike the first i3, they look nearly identical to equivalent gas-powered BMW models. At Plant Dingolfing, series production of EVs began in 2021 with the midsize iX. Today, the i5 sedan, i5 touring, and i7 are built here, too. BMW is also set to begin EV production in the U.S. later in 2026. It’s not clear which models will go into production At the South Carolina plant, but the upcoming iX5 is a strong candidate. Two-Millionth EV Came Later Than Expected BMW Back in 2021, the BMW Group celebrated the delivery of its one-millionth electrified vehicle with the iX. At that time, there was much greater optimism about the rise of EVs, so BMW made some ambitious projections for its next EV milestone. “By 2025, the BMW Group will have delivered around two million fully-electric vehicles to customers,” said Pieter Nota at the time, then-member of the Board of Management of BMW AG. As we now know, that never materialized, with BMW only hitting that target almost halfway through 2026. The rate of EV growth has slowed since then, particularly over the last year or so. In Q1 2026, iX sales in the U.S. declined by 50.7% year-over-year, and most other manufacturers have seen similar declines, not helped by the implications of tariffs and the removal of the federal tax credit for EVs. Related: BMW’s Oldest Factory Will Build Only Electric Cars What It Means BMW Despite reaching the two-million mark later than anticipated, BMW is one of the only legacy luxury brands to do so. It has handled the electric transition better than rivals like Mercedes-Benz, which has struggled with an unloved styling direction and confusing naming strategy for its EVs. The most significant BMW EV yet—the iX3, the first of the Neue Klasse BMWs—has achieved strong sales in overseas markets, suggesting that BMW could hit 3 million EV sales in the not-too-distant future. View the full article

While mainstream automakers like Toyota and Nissan often feature in recall reports, whether for unusable seats in the Sienna minivan or battery fire risks in the all-electric Leaf, issues like these are not limited to cars. Motorcycle brands face similar challenges, and that now includes Harley-Davidson. The American manufacturer is recalling more than 88,000 motorcycles in the United States due to a defect that could pose a serious risk to riders. Breather Port Defect Explained Harley-Davidson According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 88,039 motorcycles from the 2024 to 2026 model years are included in the recall. The problem originates in the airbox backplate, where a breather port may become blocked by residual material left over during production. If that passage is restricted, pressure can build inside the engine’s crankcase. In certain situations, removing the dipstick without first easing that pressure may cause oil to be expelled from the fill opening, potentially injuring riders. At the time of writing this article, Harley-Davidson has identified one incident that could be connected to this fault. Affected Models And Warning Signs Harley-Davidson The recall covers a broad mix of nine different models, including the Breakout, Road Glide, Street Glide, and Fat Boy, produced between October 2023 and February 11, 2026. Motorcycles built after that date were checked under a revised inspection process to ensure the issue was addressed at the factory. These models are: FXBR, FLTRXL, FLTRX, FLTRT, FLHXU, FLHXL, FLHX, FLHLT, and FLFB. Riders may notice several warning signs if their bike is affected, although the defect is estimated to impact only 0.4% of units. Possible indicators include smoke from the exhaust, higher than normal oil consumption, or a breather hose that has come loose. Another clear sign is a release of pressure when removing the dipstick. Recall Timeline And Dealer Fix Harley-Davidson Harley-Davidson began notifying dealers at the end of April, with owner notifications scheduled between May 11 and May 20. VIN lookup tools are already live, allowing owners to confirm whether their motorcycle is part of the recall. If your Harley is part of the recall, a dealer will inspect the breather port and carry out repairs if required, with most cases not needing new components. View the full article

One of the hottest rivalries in the U.S. car market has just gotten hotter as Ford claims its Bronco has outsold the Jeep Wrangler—America’s top-selling off-road SUV—in April 2026. In its April 2026 sales report, Ford noted that Bronco sales were up nearly 19% year-over-year to 17,073 units; the Bronco was also up 2.7% year-to-date with 48,270 sales in the first four months of the year. In April alone, Ford said the Bronco outsold the Jeep Wrangler by its largest margin since the return of the sixth-generation model in 2021, according to The Detroit News. Since Jeep’s parent company Stellantis does not report monthly sales, we can only assume Ford took it upon itself to count the Jeep Wrangler’s April sales in order to reach this conclusion. The First Time the Reborn Bronco Has Outsold the Wrangler Cole Attisha Using Gemini 3 Pro and Adobe Lightroom If it’s true, it’s a great moment for the Bronco, which had never outsold the Wrangler since Ford brought the iconic nameplate back in 2020. Now, it’s worth noting that in the first quarter alone, Jeep moved 44,461 Wranglers (up 17% versus Q1 2025), while Ford sold 31,197 Broncos (down 4.3% compared to Q1 2025). The Wrangler likely kept the lead in the first four months of the year, since Ford sold a total of 48,270 units during the period and Jeep had already sold 44,461 units in the first three months alone. Had the Bronco outsold the Wrangler through April, we’re pretty sure Ford would have boasted about that. Still, if the Ford Bronco manages to keep this momentum and outsell the Wrangler in the coming quarters, it may finally beat its nemesis this year—especially since an update is coming for the 2027 model year. The Bronco saw its best-ever year in 2025 with a total of 146,007 sales, up over 30% on the previous year. That wasn’t enough to beat the Wrangler, which racked up over 167,000 sales, but Ford did claim the Bronco beat its arch-rival in retail sales. “Bronco at retail continues to be the best seller in its segment,” a Ford spokesperson told The Drive at the time. The most logical conclusion is that Ford should step up its fleet sales efforts if it wants the Bronco to top the off-road SUV sales charts. Fleet sales are where the Jeep Wrangler is thriving, so going after that is a no-brainer. Ford Sales Down 14.4% in April Ford The Bronco was one of Ford’s few performers in April as the automaker saw U.S. sales drop 14.4% from the same month last year to 178,667 vehicles. The company cited the discontinuation of the Escape, the end of federal plug-in vehicle incentives, and decreased truck inventory due to an aluminum shortage as the main factors causing the decline. The Mustang grew 18%, leading non-premium sports cars, according to Ford. The Transit van rose 22%, the Explorer midsize SUV rose 1%, and the Lincoln Nautilus rose 7.7%. Pretty much all other Ford nameplates lost sales in April, including F-Series trucks (-15%), Ranger (-25%), Maverick (-30%), Expedition (-39%), Mustang Mach-E (-8.8%), Bronco Sport (-11.5%) and the outgoing Escape (-61%). While the Ford brand declined 14% overall, Lincoln lost 21.4% of sales, with the outgoing Corsair (-40.1%), Navigator (-41.7%) and Aviator (-26.5%) all seeing significant declines. View the full article

The Revuelto EvolvesWith the Lamborghini Revuelto now about three years into its lifecycle, it seems about time for new variants to emerge, with an SV reportedly next in line. In a video shared by Varryx, what appears to be a Revuelto SV was spotted testing at Imola Circuit in Italy, suggesting its arrival may be near. Changes to this Revuelto prototype are still hard to pin down, especially since it wears red camouflage with a warning label that reads “Attenzione: Macchina Veloce,” or “Attention: Fast Car” in English. That is the same covering seen on a Revuelto prototype testing at the Nürburgring in Germany last month. Automakers can also still make final changes to vehicles under development, but one major clue that this could be the SV is the addition of what appears to be a fixed rear wing. That sets it apart from the standard Revuelto, which uses an active rear spoiler instead. Built for the TrackA rear wing would add downforce at the back, helping keep the rear wheels planted and improving cornering speed. That’s why track testing is important, as it helps ensure the vehicle is more performance-focused than the standard model. In the SV variant of the Revuelto’s predecessor, the Aventador, Lamborghini reduced weight with carbon fiber, so a similar approach could be expected for the Revuelto SV as well. A more extreme SVJ variant could also be in the pipeline, as seen in the Aventador, but for now, the focus remains on the SV. Reports suggest the Revuelto SV could make around 1,200 horsepower from the same 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12 paired with three electric motors. That would be roughly 200 horsepower more than the standard model. Some even speculate that the powertrain could be revised to produce as much as 1,400 horsepower. For reference, Lamborghini’s most powerful factory-built model is the Fenomeno, which makes around 1,065 horsepower. Varryx/YouTube What Else Is ComingSpeaking of the Fenomeno, a Few-Off model based on the Revuelto, Lamborghini could reportedly unveil a Fenomeno Roadster sometime this year, potentially beating the Revuelto to an open-top version. A new Urus Performante is also expected, and that speculation was further fueled by a camouflaged test mule running alongside the Revuelto SV at the same track. As for the Revuelto SV, reports suggest it could debut at Monterey Car Week in California in August 2026. Varryx/YouTube View the full article

Almost 60 years This Shelby owner is one loyal fellow. From buying this Shelby Mustang GT350 from the dealer, all the way until today, he tells us a story of man and machine, an unfathomable love and loyalty throughout the years, and proof of just how long a car can last you if taken care of and given that extra bit of love. Heart and Horsepower interviewed Mike "Big Foot" Russell, the one and only owner of this 1967 Shelby GT350. His ownership proves that ownership can span decades, generations, and countless miles. What's most impressive about his experience is that his car isn't kept in a vacuum-sealed garage. It's not a project, nor is it a restored piece of American automotive history; it is an all-original, unrestored, and driven vehicle that's stood the test of time (save for one or two things). Heart and Horsepower The Beginning: June 15, 1967 This GT350 came into Russell's ownership nearly 60 years ago, and was bought right after he graduated from Air Force pilot training. There was a program that allowed him to make his purchase back then. The history of the Shelby GT350 is rooted in Ford's push to go racing back in the 60s. Without a doubt, the effort did make an impact on Russell, who quoted Lee Iacoca in the interview: "Race on Sunday, sell on Monday." Iacoca's pitch to Henry Ford II led to the integral partnership with Shelby American, which birthed the Le Mans-winning Ford GT40, the GT program for the Mustang, and the rest, as they say, is history. Heart and Horsepower Undoubtedly a Shelby Shelby American went racing, and that also affected Russell. "Everybody in the world can buy a Corvette; not many people can handle a Shelby." While modern Shelby GTs can make upwards of 700 horsepower, the 1960s weren't as fast. Russell's GT350 was making "modern" levels of horsepower back then. On its own, the GT350 would make around 306 horsepower with Shelby American's touch. However, this particular Shelby GT350 has the factory supercharger installed, and it is one of only 40 known 350s to come with it. The addition of a supercharger brought his Shelby up to 390 horsepower, but he claims a dyno tune netted him 410 horsepower. This cements the fact that even back then, Shelbys were crazy. Carroll Shelby would be proud to know that his signature is affixed to this GT350's dashboard. This isn't a museum piece, nor is it a garage decoration; it's a real driver's car. With 92,500 miles and counting, Russell's GT350 boasts one of the highest mileages we've seen from a car of this vintage and pedigree. Heart and Horsepower Signed by Carroll Shelby Himself Now, all of that performance would mean nothing if it wasn't wrung out from time to time, right? That's exactly why Russell continues to drive the car today, not just on the road, but also during track days. Yes, sir, this pony doesn't stay in the stable. It's a perfect example of what a Shelby should be. In fact, 25,000 of the miles were put into this car within the first year. Two years into ownership, the GT350 served as Russell's wedding car with his one and only wife of 58 years. His ownership spanned the entire length of his marriage and his kids' lives. In 2003, Carroll Shelby, who was already in poor health, battling heart problems throughout the remainder of his life, was at the same event that Russell was with his GT350. After "twisting a few arms," Russell eventually got Shelby to sign his car. Heart and Horsepower The Future Russell has no plans to sell this GT350, and he still plans to drive it. He would like it to stay in the family; however, he's been toying with the idea of selling the car to a museum after his death. For the future, Russell feels honored to be considered worthy of being approached by a museum and to park his car right next to Shelby's original 289 Cobra. I highly recommend watching the whole video to get the full story from his interview. It's a great watch, and one that is sure to tug at your heartstrings ever so slightly. View the full article

Euro StangThe 1960s were the era of the muscle car, started and brought to international acclaim by the first-generation Ford Mustang. At first, the Mustang dominated the American landscape, selling quicker than anything ever, which then drew interest from foreign markets. Back then, it wasn't as easy as it is now to just send a model to another market; supply was tighter, and there was more competition. In Europe, Ford wanted to sell the Mustang because it was winning races there, but something prevented it, leading to a very rare model. Bring-a-Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Ford T5 CoupeWhen the first-generation Mustang debuted in 1966, despite low demand in Europe, Ford sold the Mustang in France, the UK, and Germany. The last country on that list is the reason this is not a Mustang. German truck maker Krupp owned the Mustang trademark in Germany and wasn't about to let up when it came to allowing Ford to use it. This led Ford to rename it T5 in Germany and remove the Mustang badges from the car. We don't think this would have affected sales too much, since the T5 is unmistakably a Mustang without being called one; it has the same design and still retains the galloping horse logo. One rare and very well-restored example is up for auction on Bring-a-Trailer, a black-on-tan combination with just about 29,000 miles on the clock. According to the listing, this car is believed to be the last T5 coupe produced and is the only one finished in black from the factory. Powering this car is the legendary K-code 289ci V8, which makes 271 hp and is mated to a 4-speed manual transmission. Another unique feature for the T5 Coupe is the speedometer; since the United States and Germany use different measurement systems, this car has a special speedometer that now indicates metric measurements. Bring-a-Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Coming HomeThis car was imported to the United States in 1981 and restored in 2007 by The Mustang Shop in Arizona. It then changed hands to its current owner in 2010, and in 2023, the car underwent an extensive service. The carburetor and radiator were rebuilt, then just last March 2026, the brakes were overhauled and valve cover gaskets replaced. Bidding ends in two days, and the current price is just $29,750, which isn't bad for something this interesting and well preserved. Bring-a-Trailer View the full article

Not Your Usual Garage GuestJay Leno has long featured all kinds of incredible cars, from classics like the recently showcased 1930 Packard 734 Speedster to one-off builds. But his latest feature is not exactly an everyday sight. Leno welcomed General Motors President Mark Reuss and Cadillac’s Formula 1 car, which should be the most expensive Cadillac in the garage, with F1 cars costing tens of millions of dollars. The two kicked things off with perhaps the most obvious question: why not Corvette? After all, GM already offers a customer racing program with the Corvette Z06 GT3.R, which competes in major series such as the World Endurance Championship (WEC). But Reuss noted that Cadillac is in the middle of a renaissance, and the brand’s link to innovation fits F1, often called the pinnacle of motorsports. A Steep Learning CurveAs one of F1’s newest entrants, Reuss acknowledged the challenge of building a car from the ground up. The sport also introduced new engine regulations in 2026 with a heavier focus on electrification. While GM has plenty of experience in that space through EVs such as the Cadillac Celestiq and Chevrolet Silverado EV, F1 presents a far deeper and more specialized challenge – especially against legacy teams like Ferrari and McLaren. For now, Cadillac relies on Ferrari power units while GM develops its own. That makes the timing interesting, especially with reports that V8 engines could return to the sport around 2030 or 2031. Aside from brand exposure, Cadillac can use racing data to help develop its road cars. In fact, the luxury marque recently unveiled the CT5-V Blackwing F1 Collector Series, the most powerful Blackwing yet at 685 horsepower and limited to just 26 units. It will be interesting to see what future Cadillac projects F1 could inspire, especially with cars like the Mercedes-AMG One, which uses an F1-derived engine, dominating the performance world. Jay Leno's Garage/YouTube Experience Shapes the CarOf course, Reuss did not spill everything. When the talk turned to engine complexity, aerodynamics, and weight, some details stayed off the table, because in F1, giving too much away can give rivals an edge. The Cadillac F1 team currently fields Valtteri Bottas and Sergio Perez. While both have often been seen as number-two drivers throughout their careers, they bring valuable veteran experience – something a young team needs for consistent, reliable feedback. Through the first four races of the 2026 season, however, Cadillac has yet to score its first point. But expectations are likely modest in its debut season, and Jay Leno may have summed it up best for American fans, seeing the brand on the grid. “So proud as an American to see an American team. I really get that pride. It’s really exciting to see,” Leno said. Jay Leno's Garage/YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Joe Gibbs Racing is asking the Western District of North Carolina and the Judge (Susan C. Rodriguez) overseeing the case to allow an amended refiling of its lawsuit against Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports. This second proposed amended lawsuit now claims that the success Spire has obtained this season in the NASCAR Cup Series is a result of hiring Gabehart as ‘Chief Motorsports ...Keep readingView the full article

In addition to his full-time NASCAR Cup Series schedule, Carson Hocevar will also chase points in the FloRaing Night in America Dirt Late Model championship this summer. The FNIA series is a star-studded midweek Super Late Model championship that avoids conflicts with both the World of Outlaws and Lucas Oil Dirt late Model Series for 11 races at 10 venues to air on streaming platform ...Keep readingView the full article

Josh Williams was initially slated to drive the No. 92 DGM Racing Chevrolet in this weekend's NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS) race at Watkins Glen International. Williams has been driving the car in every NASCAR O'Reilly race this year (but DNQed at COTA and Phoenix), and sits 28th in the standings. However, DGM announced on Tuesday that Williams will not be driving the car at ...Keep readingView the full article

The electric vehicle revolution was supposed to conquer the elements; instead, the elements conquered it. The industry has spent billions optimizing aerodynamics and fast-charging curves, but the latest data from the AAA exposes a significant problem: electric and hybrid vehicles are still fundamentally failing the temperature test. General Motors AAA Temperature StudyIn an expansive May 2026 study, AAA engineers strapped modern electrified powertrains to climate-controlled dynamometers - simply put, automotive treadmills operating in extreme temperatures ranging from 20°F to 95°F. The results shatter the narrative of consistent range and robust drivetrains. While automakers have successfully engineered a defense against summer heat by using advanced liquid cooling and heat pumps, the cold weather penalty remains significant. When the mercury drops to 20°F, electric vehicles lose an agonizing 39 percent of their driving range and suffer a 35.6 percent collapse in overall efficiency. For the everyday commuter, this is not merely a logistical headache; it is a direct financial penalty. AAA calculates that winter EV operating costs surge by $32.11 per 1,000 miles when charging at home. If a driver is forced into the wild to rely on public charging infrastructure, that cold-weather penalty skyrockets to an extra $76.93 per 1,000 miles. General Motors Hybrids are not immune to the freeze. Vehicles utilizing internal combustion engines alongside battery packs saw fuel economy plummet by 22.8 percent at 20°F, adding an extra $28.44 per 1,000 miles to the operational burn rate. However, because hybrids can harvest engine heat to warm the cabin, their drop in efficiency remains far less catastrophic than their fully electric counterparts. Does the EV Buyer Care?According to AAA's accompanying survey data, 35 percent of prospective buyers are currently pivoting toward hybrid platforms. If you live in a region that regularly sees winter weather, the EPA-estimated range is hugely inaccurate. Until industrial battery chemistry can robustly withstand the elements, buying a modern BEV means accepting that nearly 40 percent of your range—and a larger chunk of your wallet—will simply vanish into the cold. View the full article

Turning Up the Volume AgainAfter Formula 1 switched to hybridized V6 engines in 2014, fans complained about the loss of the thrilling sound produced by the old V8s. With all the talk around sustainability and emissions, engines with more cylinders seemed unlikely to return to the grid. But that could change, as Reuters reported that FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem said a switch back to V8s is expected by the end of the decade. The return to V8s would likely be made possible by sustainable fuel, one of the main targets of the 2026 engine regulations. But according to Ben Sulayem, electrification would play a smaller role, marking a major contrast with the current hybrid system, which delivers a near 50-50 split between the combustion engine and the motor-generator unit, or MGU-K. Formula 1 The Path Back to V8sThe next regulation cycle is currently set to run until 2031, which could mark the return of V8s to Formula 1. However, the FIA president said that if a supermajority – four of the six manufacturers – votes in favor, the switch could happen a year earlier, in 2030. “It's coming. At the end of the day, it's a matter of time,” he said. For American fans, this could be an interesting development, especially with General Motors, through Cadillac, now part of Formula 1 as the 11th team. It is safe to say V8s are GM’s wheelhouse, with that configuration powering some of the company’s most iconic performance nameplates, including the Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro. Ford is also back in the sport, though only as a technical partner of Red Bull Racing. Cadillac currently uses a Ferrari powertrain, but it will eventually develop its own. Other power-unit manufacturers include Audi, Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, and Honda. Formula 1 More Than Lap TimesOutside of motorsports, a switch back to V8s could also help participating automakers further develop V8 technology for road-going models. After all, beyond the glory of podiums, automakers have long used racing to gather data from tracks around the world and apply those insights to improve the cars they sell in the market. For instance, the Mercedes-AMG One uses a 1.6-liter V6 hybrid engine directly derived from F1. That likely helped the hypercar secure the fastest lap time for production cars at the Nürburgring in Germany, widely considered one of the ultimate proving grounds. The Ferrari 296 GTB also shows how the Prancing Horse brand has brought V6 hybrid performance into a road-going supercar. As such, if a switch to V8s does happen at the end of the decade, it would also be interesting to see what types of new road-car projects it could inspire. Formula 1 View the full article

EV Profits Still Playing Catch-UpIt’s no secret that automakers are barely making a profit on electric vehicles, with Ford even ending production of the all-electric F-150 Lightning. But they still have to build them for a range of reasons, including regulatory requirements. At Volkswagen, the company admitted that there is no profit margin parity between EVs and combustion cars – at least not until the next-gen SSP architecture arrives. According to Automotive News, Volkswagen’s EV models deliver only 70% to 80% of the margins of comparable combustion models. Hypothetically, if a gas-powered T-Cross generated $10,000 in profit, a comparable EV on the current MEB platform would make around $7,500. The Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), which has been delayed from its original 2026 target, is seen as the key to closing that margin gap, though it reportedly will not arrive before the end of the decade. Volkswagen The Cost Problem Behind the PlugSome of the factors behind Volkswagen’s lower profits on current EV models include high production costs. At the same time, European Union emissions rules are adding pressure, with penalties reportedly expected to amount to 400 million to 500 million euros annually ($467 million to $584 million at current exchange rates) from 2025 through 2027. These factors force Volkswagen to make trade-offs between EV volumes and CO2 fines, according to Volkswagen Group CFO Arno Antlitz. In addition, while the German marque is showing positive signs in the European EV market, it is struggling elsewhere, notably in the U.S. In the first quarter of 2026, the company’s U.S. EV sales dropped 80% compared with the same period last year, while sales in China plunged 64%. Currently, the ID.4 and ID. Buzz are the only models sold stateside, with the latter even skipping the 2026 model year reportedly to prepare for a “MY27 transition.” Volkswagen VW’s Next Big BetOnce the SSP arrives, it will replace current platforms such as MEB, MEB Plus, and PPE, the latter of which is used by high-end models like the Porsche Macan. The platform will also be integrated with Rivian’s electronic architecture for more advanced onboard software capabilities. For now, Volkswagen will try to boost profits by selling affordable EVs in Europe, including the ID. Polo, which starts at 24,995 euros, or approximately $29,000. None of VW’s new small, affordable EVs are expected to arrive in the U.S., given the market’s preference for larger vehicles, so American buyers will have to make do with the ID.4, which starts at $45,095, excluding destination fees, as the company continues to navigate tariffs. Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ram Doubles Down on Active Aero for PickupsLast year, Ram quietly introduced a truck bed cover designed to improve aerodynamics. At first, it seemed like one of those clever ideas that rarely make it past the drawing board. But it seems like the automaker is quite serious about it. Ram has filed a new patent, and this version looks more refined than before. Spotted first by CarBuzz, the application was filed with the USPTO in October 2024 under patent number 20260116479 (you can look it up yourself) and published last week. Clearly, Ram is still working on the concept instead of letting it fade away. USPTO A More Complex Take on the Same IdeaThe first version was a straightforward adjustable bed cover, but his new patent takes things up a notch. From the diagrams and descriptions, the setup now includes linkages, arms, and a frame that lets the cover tilt up behind the cab. Rather than lying flat like a typical tonneau, the cover can be tilted up. It acts more like a ramp, channeling air from the cab over the bed. The idea is to reduce the turbulence that usually forms in an open pickup bed, which adds drag. What’s interesting is how the mechanism actually works this time. The cover uses several slats, much like a roll-up tonneau, but they’re mounted on a movable frame. Side linkages and supports handle the shifting, so the cover can go from flat to angled as needed. Compared to the first patent, this setup is less of a bolt-on accessory and more of an active system. It shows Ram is taking active aerodynamics seriously, not just tweaking what’s already out there. USPTO Still a Long Way From Your DrivewayThere’s a real-world benefit here, at least in theory. A tilting tonneau that smooths airflow could improve fuel economy or add a bit more range to electric trucks. That matters more as pickups go electric or have some form of electrification like the upcoming range-extended Ram 1500 REV, since drag becomes a bigger deal at highway speeds. But like most patents, this doesn’t guarantee we’ll see it on the road. Automakers often file for ideas that never make it to production, whether because of cost, complexity, or not enough real-world payoff. Still, the fact that Ram keeps refining the idea means it’s not off the table yet. Maybe it becomes a production feature or maybe just an accessory. Or maybe it will fade away. For now, it’s proof that even the basics of a pickup bed are still up for reinvention. USPTO View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

And the Survey Says... Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will continue to be offered in the Cadillac Lyriq, despite GM's push to remove the features from its cars in the near future. This includes wired and wireless iterations of the popular smartphone pairing software. According to GM Authority's sources, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are often cited as "must-haves" in vehicle infotainment systems. Considering the backlash the brand faced in 2023, when it first announced its decision to phase out third-party smartphone mirroring in favor of its Google-Built-In infotainment ecosystem, this is good news for shoppers still considering the 2027 Cadillac Lyriq. Kristen Brown What's the Catch? Well, that means that the Cadillac Lyriq will stand as an outlier in the GM lineup. The all-electric crossover will allegedly be the last GM EV standing with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The decision was made in contrast to GM's broader push for its new infotainment ecosystem. Earlier this year, models like the GMCHummer EV dropped the feature entirely, introducing a new infotainment experience. Weirder still is that the tried-and-tested smartphone pairing features are also disappearing from the Chevrolet lineup, with GM Authority reporting that the Chevrolet Silverado EV's top-spec trim doesn't support either Apple or Android pairing; however, the base models remain compatible. With that being said, the consumer vote is winning at least for the Lyriq, but for how long? Considering that the Cadillac Lyriq is a high-end EV, the fact that GM is bending a little to the consumer vote doesn't mean that it's going to roll back its decision, at least not yet. That may not last for long as the brand has grand plans to offer a "better" infotainment and ownership experience. The move is in consideration of new driver assistance features that will be integrated with navigation and will be fully independent of smartphones. Cadillac Why is the Lyriq an Exception? Looking at Cadillac's lineup, the Lyriq is a critical model for the brand's push towards electric vehicles. The mid-size Luxury SUV starts at over $58,000, putting it in contention with other luxury vehicles, all of which offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. It's in a very popular segment now, which means that it may actually hurt the brand if it didn't have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Brands like Tesla, on the other hand, seem to be doing fine without it, but brands like Lucid are installing these pairing systems and calling it an upgrade. Another question is, "Is there something that GM sees that we don't?" Considering how smartphone pairing is simply a handshake between your smartphone and your infotainment screen, it doesn't leave much room for you to access the rest of the car. If you use the system, you can display a map, an app, or play a song; however, to access a setting or two, you'll have to exit it and go into the vehicle's settings, and when it comes to EVs, a lot of stuff tends to be buried behind glass. Tesla's a prime example, opting for native apps over smartphone pairing, but that might not be everyone's cup of tea to begin with anyway. For right now, however, people are still voting in favor of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Why reinvent the wheel, right? Although considering the state of the auto industry now, even the wheel isn't exempt from reinvention. The 2027 Cadillac Lyriq will still have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for now, but for how long? Cadillac View the full article