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With the exception of a very reserved legalese declaration, Denny Hamlin has largely kept his feelings to himself regarding the Joe Gibbs Racing v Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports lawsuit. Those feelings were made way more explicit on Thursday evening. Earlier in the day, Spire Motorsports co-owner Jeff Dickerson appeared on the GluckCast weekly show and answered a very specific question ...Keep readingView the full article

Once again, Pres. Donald Trump is revising his tariff playbook, this time announcing he will increase tariffs on European auto imports to 25%, up from the 15% figure set in a trade deal the U.S. and EU reached last year. The move comes at a perilous time considering the economic challenges already posed by Trump’s war with Iran. And it could cost European automakers and suppliers hundreds of millions of dollars in additional tariffs each month, based on forecasts previously made by EU officials. The president accused the Europeans of “not complying” with terms of last year’s trade agreement. But EU officials previously said they expected the U.S. “to honor its commitments.” Volkswagen The Trade War Heats Up AgainAs far back as his first term in office, from January 2017 to January 2021, Trump frequently threatened to take steps to increase duties on, and even ban, European auto imports. He finally acted shortly after taking office for a second term last year. Last July, Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reached terms on a broad deal setting tariffs at 15% on most imports from the EU, including automobiles. But the so-called Turnberry Agreement – named after a Trump golf course in Scotland – has since come under review. Now, he said in a Truth Social post. "Based on the fact the European Union is not complying with our fully agreed to Trade Deal, next week I will be increasing Tariffs charged to the European Union for Cars and Trucks coming into the United States. The tariff,” he added, will be increased to 25%.” Kristen Brown A Big Hit to European BrandsThe impact of the planned tariff hike could be substantial, especially for German and British luxury brands. Tariffs are based on what are, effectively, wholesale prices. But that could still add up to several thousand dollars on a model like the Golf GTI, which starts at $34,590 before delivery fees. The increase could push into the tens of thousands of dollars on high-line models, like the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class which starts at $185,000, or a $242,700 Bentley Continental GT. Last September, EU officials estimated that the 15% figure set in the trade deal with the U.S. would save its manufacturers from 500 million to 600 million euros, or $585 million to $700 million, a month compared to the 27.5% tariff the White House originally set. That offers a sense of how much costs go up under Trump’s latest shift. European automakers like Mercedes, VW, BMW and Volvo do produce a number of vehicles in U.S. plants – but their costs could go up substantially, as well, if the revised tariffs broadly cover auto parts and components, as well as fully assembled vehicles. Most of the American-made models still use thousands of dollars of everything from anti-lock brake systems to powertrains supplied from the EU. Alicia Windzio/picture alliance via Getty Images A Deal is a DealThe European Union is America’s largest trade partner, accounting for a bilateral 1.7 trillion euros, or $2 trillion, in goods and services in 2024, according to European statistics organization Eurostat. EU Pres. Von der Leyden welcomed the deal after it was approved last year, but the European Commission spoke out after the U.S. Supreme Court subsequently weighed in, ruling Trump “lacked the legal authority to declare an economic emergency and charge tariffs on EU goods,” according to the AP. “A deal is a deal,” the European Commission responded in February 2026. In that statement, the commission said it “stands by its commitments (and) expects the U.S. to honor its commitments set out in the Joint Statement. In his Truth Social post, Trump did not offer any specific examples of where he felt the EU was not complying with last year’s trade deal. View the full article

Once again, Pres. Donald Trump is revising his tariff playbook, this time announcing he will increase tariffs on European auto imports to 25%, up from the 15% figure set in a trade deal the U.S. and EU reached last year. The move comes at a perilous time considering the economic challenges already posed by Trump’s war with Iran. And it could cost European automakers and suppliers hundreds of millions of dollars in additional tariffs each month, based on forecasts previously made by EU officials. The president accused the Europeans of “not complying” with terms of last year’s trade agreement. But EU officials previously said they expected the U.S. “to honor its commitments.” Volkswagen The Trade War Heats Up AgainAs far back as his first term in office, from January 2017 to January 2021, Trump frequently threatened to take steps to increase duties on, and even ban, European auto imports. He finally acted shortly after taking office for a second term last year. Last July, Trump and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reached terms on a broad deal setting tariffs at 15% on most imports from the EU, including automobiles. But the so-called Turnberry Agreement – named after a Trump golf course in Scotland – has since come under review. Now, he said in a Truth Social post. "Based on the fact the European Union is not complying with our fully agreed to Trade Deal, next week I will be increasing Tariffs charged to the European Union for Cars and Trucks coming into the United States. The tariff,” he added, will be increased to 25%.” Kristen Brown A Big Hit to European BrandsThe impact of the planned tariff hike could be substantial, especially for German and British luxury brands. Tariffs are based on what are, effectively, wholesale prices. But that could still add up to several thousand dollars on a model like the Golf GTI, which starts at $34,590 before delivery fees. The increase could push into the tens of thousands of dollars on high-line models, like the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class which starts at $185,000. Last September, EU officials estimated that the 15% figure set in the trade deal with the U.S. would save its manufacturers from 500 million to 600 million euros, or $585 million to $700 million, a month compared to the 27.5% tariff the White House originally set. That offers a sense of how much costs go up under Trump’s latest shift. European automakers like Mercedes, VW, BMW and Volvo do produce a number of vehicles in U.S. plants – but their costs could go up substantially, as well, if the revised tariffs broadly cover auto parts and components, as well as fully assembled vehicles. Most of the American-made models still use thousands of dollars of everything from anti-lock brake systems to powertrains supplied from the EU. Alicia Windzio/picture alliance via Getty Images A Deal is a DealThe European Union is America’s largest trade partner, accounting for a bilateral 1.7 trillion euros, or $2 trillion, in goods and services in 2024, according to European statistics organization Eurostat. EU Pres. Von der Leyden welcomed the deal after it was approved last year, but the European Commission spoke out after the U.S. Supreme Court subsequently weighed in, ruling Trump “lacked the legal authority to declare an economic emergency and charge tariffs on EU goods,” according to the AP. “A deal is a deal,” the European Commission responded in February 2026. In that statement, the commission said it “stands by its commitments (and) expects the U.S. to honor its commitments set out in the Joint Statement. In his Truth Social post, Trump did not offer any specific examples of where he felt the EU was not complying with last year’s trade deal. View the full article

Stellantis had a pretty rough year in 2025, posting a $26.3 billion net loss after writing down billions due to a strategic pivot away from aggressive EV targets, product plan restructuring costs, and slowing consumer demand. But there are encouraging signs for 2026, especially in North America. The company’s first-quarter 2026 financial results are in, and Stellantis’ U.S. unit is by far the main growth driver for the entire group. North America Unit Lifts Stellantis' Global Net Revenues and Profit Stellantis The company’s net revenues increased to €38.1 billion ($44.7 billion) worldwide, up 6% versus Q1 2025, supported by improved performance in North America, as well as gains in Enlarged Europe and Middle East & Africa. The company also posted a net profit of €377 million ($443 million), reflecting volume growth and stronger operating performance, according to a Stellantis press release. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa praised Ram and Jeep in the financial report, as these two brands were the automaker’s main growth drivers in North America, where its sales increased 6% compared to Q1 2025 while consolidated shipments rose 16.6% to 379,000 units. U.S. sales were up 4%, bucking a declining U.S. industry trend which was down 6% in the first quarter of the year, making Stellantis the fastest-growing automaker in the region. The company’s Canada and Mexico sales rose by 15% and 19%, respectively. Ram 1500 Hemi, Jeep Cherokee, Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Dodge Charger Sixpack Stellantis Stellantis’ U.S. market share rose to 8.1% driven by Ram, which was North America’s fastest-growing brand with U.S. sales increase of approximately 20% year-over-year—the highest since 2023. This was due to strong sales of Ram trucks, especially the 2026 Ram 1500 Hemi; sales of the Ram 1500 line were up 27% in Q1 2026 year-over-year while Ram Heavy Duty sales rose 21%. Jeep was also singled out in the report thanks to increased deliveries of the all-new 2026 Cherokee and refreshed Grand Wagoneer. Stellantis also noted that these models, along with the new gas-powered Dodge Charger Sixpack, are now available in dealer showrooms across the U.S. after their launches in late 2025. "As we initiate quarterly reporting, the first three months of 2026 reflect the early results of our actions to return Stellantis to sustainable, profitable growth,” said CEO Antonio Filosa. “The products we launched in 2025 have been well received and we’re confident that the 10 new vehicles planned for 2026 will build on this momentum.” Customers "Back at the Center of Everything We Do": Stellantis CEO Elisa Marchina/NurPhoto via Getty Images Filosa added that the company’s priority is “to put our customers back at the center of everything we do.” The executive noted that Stellantis will share more on this at its Investor Day on May 21 in Auburn Hills, Michigan, likely hinting at new product announcements. “And looking ahead for 2026, I’m very excited about the upcoming launches of the new Ram SRT TRX, the new Jeep Recon BEV, and our first range-extended, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer REV coming this year,” Filosa said on the Q1 2026 earnings call. He added that Stellantis North America order book remains strong, growing more than 20% year-over-year. Last week, Reuters reported on Stellantis plans to focus on Ram, Jeep, Peugeot, and Fiat going forward. The company will reportedly prioritize these four brands in terms of investments, with Ram and Jeep doing the heavy lifting in North America, while Peugeot and Fiat will do the same in Europe and Latin America. That may result in brands like Chrysler, Dodge, Citroën, Opel, Alfa Romeo and Maserati being relegated to the status of regional players and receiving less attention. Stellantis is expected to shine more light on the plan at the May 21 Investor Day event. View the full article

So, Who's at Fault?Over the past few years, autonomous driving vehicles have somewhat enjoyed a more lax treatment when it comes to following the rules of the road. In California, for example, there was a loophole that allowed autonomous cars to operate freely and without fault. To resolve that, California has just released new regulations that promise to be stricter for autonomous driving vehicles and their owners. So, who's at fault? The manufacturer, apparently. Hyundai New RulesPreviously, officers who would apprehend robotaxis for traffic violations would have to hold the person behind the wheel at the time liable for the violation. If there were no person sitting behind the wheel, there was no law/rule that empowered the officers to issue any ticket despite a violation having been committed. As spotted by Carscoops, a new law, Assembly Bill No. 1777, aims to fix that loophole. Now, the officers who want to go after a robotaxi can issue a notice of non-compliance, which effectively treats the manufacturer as the driver under the law, making it liable for the violation. To ensure proper tracking of violations, the law requires that the company report the citation within 72 hours, and, if the incident involves a collision or is more serious, within 24 hours. California's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can also impose stricter sanctions, such as capping a company's fleet or suspension of its permits, if its vehicles are serious repeat offenders. Getty Images Self-Driving TruckingPart of the new legislation also gives first responders more control over these autonomous driving taxis, following previous incidents in which these cars obstructed fire and rescue operations. Moving forward, the legislation requires cars to respond to commands from first responders during emergencies. One measure is through geofencing, where a command can be sent to direct robotaxis to avoid a certain area while operations are ongoing. Another huge part of the new legislation is that heavy-duty autonomous driving trucks are now allowed on the state's highways. The California DMV lifted the ban on vehicles weighing over 10,001 lbs and on medium-sized trucks weighing 14,001 lbs. However, these trucks must undergo 500,000 miles of testing with a human safety driver before moving to fully driverless operation. Tesla View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Sales LeaderYou don't need a rocket scientist to figure out the best-selling model in Porsche's lineup. For over a decade, the Macan has been Stuttgart's moneymaker, and has sat at the top of the company's sales charts since 2015. It has consistently sold over 80,000 units, taking up a good chunk of the company's total sales. Without it, Porsche probably wouldn't even sell 200,000 cars per year. Despite the arrival of the Macan EV, the first-generation model is still serving the brand, even 12 years after production began. In 2025, the millionth unit rolled out, and the nameplate achieved that far quicker than the Cayenne and 911. But now, the time has come for original Macan, as Porsche has a date for its retirement. Porsche So Long, First-Gen MacanAccording to a report from Automotive News, the final first-generation Macan will roll off the assembly line in the summer of 2026. That said, Porsche isn't winding down production; in fact, it will do the opposite. Sales are still strong for the gas-fed Macan, and the Porsche CFO Jochen Breckner has said "we produce as much as we can" in the final month. Breckner didn't specify an exact number of first-gen Macans to be built before production ends. However, the executive said that there might be challenges in making as many as possible. "Of course, our capacity is one factor there, but that's not limited. Supplier parts are the other issue," said Breckner. Porsche Filling the GapLast year, Porsche sold 84,328 Macans, but that's not the entire story. According to the company's own figures, over half of those were the EV model with 45,367 units. It's a good sign for the electric Macan, but the company risks losing a chunk of those once the supply of first-generation models dries up. The question now is whether Porsche can build enough of the gas-powered Macans to minimize that potential sales loss. Of course, there will be a second-generation ICE/hybrid Macan, but that's not due until 2028. It will be based on the current Audi Q5 and utilize Ingolstadt's Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture. There's expected to be more parts commonality between the two models in a bid to cut down costs and speed up development. Breckner did say it's the U.S. market that has the highest demand for fuel-fed Macans, so a good chunk will be headed stateside. He also added that sales of the first-gen Macan might spill over into 2027, which actually might be good news for those who can't wait for the 2028 model. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

Not Your Usual Amphibious ExperimentAmphibious vehicles have been around for a while, but most of them feel more like engineering projects than practical daily drivers. Not the modern ones, though. We’ve already seen BYD’s Yangwang U8 wade through surprisingly deep water, proving that a fully electric platform can be sealed and protected well enough to survive the elements. Another Chinese marque, Jetour (a brand under Chery Automobile), is now entering this space with the G700 Ark Edition, but with a different approach. Instead of going fully electric, the G700 keeps a traditional combustion engine as a range extender. Even so, it’s been shown to do more than just wade through water – it can supposedly move across the surface when the wheels are no longer touching the ground. Jetour How It Floats Without Falling ApartThe G700 Ark Edition uses a system that alters how the SUV operates in deep water. Rather than depending on the wheels for movement, the powertrain disconnects from the wheels and sends power to a separate fording setup. The Ark Edition comes with extra features to enable the vehicle to move through water: electric propellers. There’s also a gyroscopic stability system to keep the SUV balanced and heading where you want it to go. In effect, the G700 transforms from a car into a more controlled watercraft when afloat. To make this work, Jetour uses reinforced sealing throughout the G700. Key components are rated at IP68 for waterproofing, and the engine has its own protection against water entry. An integrated buoyancy and navigation system manages how the SUV floats and moves, so it doesn’t just drift aimlessly like most vehicles would in deep water. Jetour describes this as passive wading – where you simply hope not to stall – as opposed to active fording, where the SUV can keep its direction even when it’s fully floating. Of note, we’re still waiting for actual footage of the G700 Ark Edition, showing the claimed public fording test. We also don’t know for how long the G700 can “swim” through water when fully charged. What we have for now are images and not-so-technical information from the press release. Jetour A Gimmick, or Something More Useful?Most drivers won’t need amphibious capability every day, but Jetour sees it as an extra level of safety for extreme situations. The focus isn’t on turning SUVs into boats, but on helping drivers navigate flooded roads, river crossings, or remote areas where getting stuck could become a real problem. Beyond the amphibious system, the G700 is built as a capable off-roader. It uses a body-on-frame chassis, has triple differential locks, and reportedly makes up to 892 horsepower. Features like tank turn, crab-walk modes, and a 38.2-inch water wading capacity show that Jetour wants the G700 to stand up to established off-roaders, even without the amphibious features. Whether this technology becomes common or stays a niche feature will depend on how well it works in real-world use and how easy it is to own. If Jetour can deliver on both, it could set the G700 apart. Not in the US, though, as Chinese vehicles are still not eligible for a green card. Well, at least for now. Jetour View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Adding to the ongoing recall crisis of 2026, Volkswagen Group of America has issued a formal safety recall for 7,425 of its popular 2025 Audi Q5 and SQ5 crossovers. When a high-volume seller like the Q5 is involved, even a small defect percentage demands immediate attention, and this particular issue centers on a critical safety component: the front seat belt assemblies. What's WrongAccording to the defect report recently filed with the NHTSA (26V266), the seat-belt pretensioners for both the driver and front passenger seats may fail to maintain proper tension during an accident. The components, sourced from tier-one supplier Safety Autoparts Mexico, suffer from a manufacturing variance that allows for "gas blow by" at the sealing piston upon activation. In practice, if you are involved in a crash, the pretensioner's locking mechanism may suffer a thermally induced failure. This means the seat belt could allow excessive slack rather than locking - "tensioning" - the occupant firmly against the seat, substantially increasing the risk of injury when you need restraint the most. Audi The InvestigationAudi first caught wind of the irregularity during routine testing back in November 2025. What followed was a rigorous, months-long investigation involving extensive testing to isolate the root cause. Fortunately, Audi's proactive internal monitoring caught the issue before the public did; the automaker reports that there are currently no known crashes, injuries, or warranty claims associated with this defect in the wild. The supplier officially implemented a new, alternative ball-lock design on February 24, 2026, to correct the issue on the assembly line. The recall population specifically targets vehicles produced between July 10 and December 14, 2025. The breakdown of affected models is as follows: 2025 Audi Q5: 5,344 units2025 Audi Q5 Sportback: 769 units2025 Audi SQ5: 1,041 units2025 Audi SQ5 Sportback: 271 units Audi What To Do About ItTo remedy the situation, Audi dealers will replace one or both front seat belt assemblies entirely free of charge. Because all affected vehicles remain well within their New Vehicle Limited Warranty, no reimbursement program for prior out-of-pocket repairs is necessary. Dealer notifications are officially rolling out on May 1, 2026. Owners of the affected luxury crossovers can expect to receive their formal notification letters via mail on or before June 23, 2026. As always, owners can proactively check their VIN against the NHTSA database to confirm if their daily driver requires a trip to the service bay. View the full article

This is Not Your Typical Affordable Chinese CarFor years, coverage around Chinese automakers has centered on value. Brands built momentum by undercutting legacy players with aggressive pricing and solid tech. That narrative is now being challenged at the very top end. According to a report from CarNewsChina, BYD has sold its most expensive production vehicle ever at the Beijing Auto Show 2026. The Yangwang U9 Xtreme commanded a staggering $2.76 million per unit. The U9 Xtreme is a limited production model capped at 30 units globally. At least one unit was handed over on site by BYD chairman Wang Chuanfu, signaling confidence in both product and buyer demand. The transaction stands as the highest recorded at the event. It marks a decisive pivot from mass-market dominance to ultra-high-end ambition. The Yangwang U9 Is One of the Wildest Hypercars Ever BuiltThe U9 Xtreme backs up its price with serious hardware. It produces over 3,000 horsepower and runs on a 1200V architecture. It features BYD’s DiSus-X fully active suspension system, which allows the car to actively control body movement in real time. Reinforced carbon ceramic brakes handle the stopping duties. The package is engineered for extreme performance rather than grand touring comfort. On track, the numbers are just as aggressive. The U9 Xtreme recorded a 6:59.157 lap time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. That places it at the top of the production EV leaderboard. It has also set records across major Chinese circuits including Zhuzhou and Shanghai. Combined with prior reports of extreme top speed capability, the car is positioned as one of the fastest electric machines ever built. That Was QuickThe pricing alone forces a rethink of what Chinese automakers represent. For decades, Japanese and Korean brands followed a path from budget offerings to premium credibility. Chinese brands appear to be compressing that timeline dramatically. Vehicles like the U9 Xtreme show that engineering depth and brand ambition are now aligned at the highest level. There is also growing global curiosity. Enthusiasts have already explored ways to import the U9 Xtreme into markets like the United States. That said, regulatory and geopolitical barriers remain significant. Until those conditions shift, this hypercar will remain a rare sight outside select regions. For now, it stands as a statement piece that China is no longer just competing on price. It is competing at the very top. BYD View the full article

New Drip of DetailsThe Mitsubishi Pajero is one of those SUVs that keeps pulling us back in. Official news is scarce, but every so often, a fresh batch of updates drops all at once. Some weeks, there’s nothing. Then suddenly, we get a few new pieces to the puzzle, like leaks and sightings, among others. The latest info comes from Japan, courtesy ofBest Car, so it’s smart to stay a bit skeptical. Even so, it matches what Mitsubishi has been hinting at. The new Pajero is expected to launch with three grades, ranging from basic and rugged to something more upscale. That’s a clear sign Mitsubishi wants the Pajero to be more than just a nostalgia play. The automaker’s aiming to make it fit a wide range of buyers right from the start. MitsubishiMotorsTV/YouTube Three Grades, Wider MarketIf the report holds true, the entry-level Pajero should stick to what the nameplate stands for, such as unpainted bumpers, rugged trim, and a focus on durability rather than posh. Meanwhile, the higher trims should offer body-colored bumpers and a more refined overall vibe. It’s a small difference, but it draws a clear line between buyers who want a rugged toy and those who want something a bit more luxurious. This lines up with earlier talk that Mitsubishi has been benchmarking the Pajero against the Toyota Land Cruiser. That’s a big target, and offering several trims helps close the gap. There’s also been some hints from Mitsubishi’s leadership about keeping features like manual transmissions on the table, but it’s still anyone’s guess if those will make it to showrooms. A Bit of CautionAs for the timing, we can safely say that the wait is almost over. Most reports now point to a debut sometime this year, with Mitsubishi confirming that a “cross-country SUV” will be released by the end of the year. However, it’s still safe to be cautious with expectations at this point. No detail is official just yet, and the source’s track record is unfortunately hit-or-miss. Mitsubishi’s goal is clear, though, but details like trim levels and features could change before the Pajero actually arrives. We’re expecting to get our hands on one before the official launch, so keep us in your tabs. From our perspective, launching the Pajero with three distinct versions makes total sense. The name still means something, and giving it a range of personalities, especially that off-road-ready version, should help it stand out in a packed SUV field. The real question is how bold Mitsubishi will go, especially with global heavyweights like the Toyota Land Cruiser in the mix. Mitsubishi View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

More than $2 Billion in Refunds Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis will receive a tariff refund. Auto News reports that import tariff refunds for American automakers total around $2.3 billion. With this, we can expect these brands to have a bit more breathing room and a better financial outlook, given the current global landscape. The tariffs were deemed unconstitutional in February of this year, but the U.S. Supreme Court. The U.S. Government is set to return its collected tariffs to affected companies across the board, with the U.S. auto industry alone expected to receive up to $20 billion. In total, the U.S. Government is set to refund up to $170 Billion for the entire country. In a previous story, sources have stated that Trump Tariffs cost auto makers up to $35 billion since 2025. Ford Compounded Problems One of the biggest repayments in U.S. history is currently in the process of being reversed. Car brands that are in the U.S., such as Volkswagen, Hyundai, Kia, and more, have suffered losses due to this. Pair the tariffs with the rise in energy prices across the board, and profits tend to disappear overnight. Thankfully, the refund will alleviate some of the troubles associated with rising prices and inflation. The Ford Motor Company is set to receive $1.3 billion in refunds from the U.S. Government, while General Motors and Stellantis are expected to receive about $500 million each. It's not just a direct transfer, however. The Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) tool will be used by the U.S. Government to facilitate the refund process. Even with this tool in play, the refunds could be "get litigated for the next two years," as President Donald Trump stated after the tariffs were deemed "unconstitutional." Bill Pugliano/Getty Images Good News For Detroit General Motors has already raised its profit outlook for the year because of this development,Automotive News reported. Thanks to this, the company has potential upside in the near future. Meanwhile, Stellantis hasn't yet adjusted this year's financial forecasts, or possibly won't, citing that increased costs offset the tariff refund. Meanwhile, Ford and General Motors went on record stating that they don't know when the refunds will arrive. Perhaps within the next two years, maybe? The refund will cover payments made for importing parts that are not covered by the automotive tariff. There are other things, such as robotics and other manufacturing equipment, that the companies imported. According to the source, automakers still expect tariffs to burden their finances in 2026, still. For GM, it projects a burden of $2.5 to $ 3.5 billion; Ford expects $1 billion; and Stellantis expects $1.5 billion. Stellantis View the full article

A Shift in Strategy from Volvo LeadershipLast week, I asked Victor Yang, Vice President of Geely Holding Group, whether the company sees an advantage in leveraging its U.S. manufacturing footprint through Volvo Cars and Polestar plants in South Carolina. While he said there are no plans at the moment, the tone from the top is starting to change. In an interview with Business Insider, Håkan Samuelsson of Volvo Cars said the door is open to building Geely-based EVs in the U.S., citing available plant capacity. “We could discuss building cars in the plant, as we have capacity,” he stressed it depends on navigating strict U.S. regulations on Chinese tech. The move comes as Chinese automakers gain ground globally with aggressive pricing and advanced tech, putting increasing pressure on Western brands to stay competitive. Geely U.S. Manufacturing as a Strategic LeverVolvo’s U.S. manufacturing base, particularly its South Carolina facility, has become a critical node in its global supply chain. The plant currently builds models like the EX90 and vehicles for Polestar, serving both domestic and export markets. Utilizing this facility for Geely-developed vehicles could offer a workaround to steep tariffs that exceed 100% on Chinese imports. Geely’s portfolio extends far beyond budget EVs. The company produces hybrids capable of nearly 59 mpg and priced at around $16,000 in China. That kind of value proposition is precisely what the U.S. market lacks today. Still, political resistance remains strong. Ford CEO Jim Farley has openly opposed the entry of Chinese vehicles, citing risks to domestic manufacturing. Meanwhile, proposed legislation could outright ban Chinese cars from U.S. roads. Even if production shifts stateside, regulatory scrutiny over software and supply chains will remain a significant barrier. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Younger Buyers Are Open to Chinese BrandsConsumer sentiment may ultimately force a shift. A recent study found that 69% of Gen Z buyers are open to purchasing Chinese car brands, largely driven by affordability and perceived value. That is a critical data point as younger buyers begin shaping market demand. It feels less like a question of if and more of when. If Chinese-developed vehicles do arrive via localized production, pricing will be the defining factor. Tariffs, compliance costs, and political friction could erode their biggest advantage. The real test will be whether these cars can stay disruptive once they land on American soil. Geely View the full article

Software Is Now the ProductPerformance still counts, but these days, what really sets a car apart is the software running underneath. That’s the thinking behind software-defined vehicles – cars that keep changing and adding features long after you’ve bought them. That’s exactly where Hyundai Motor Group is headed with Pleos Connect. Instead of treating cars as finished products, they’re building a platform that lets vehicles keep getting better over time. Pleos Connect rolls out first in the Hyundai Grandeur in Korea, then heads to models like the Ioniq 3 in Europe. After that, expect it to show up in more and more Hyundai vehicles. By 2030, Hyundai wants Pleos Connect in about 20 million vehicles – yes, including Kia and Genesis. It’s set to become the digital backbone for the whole group. Hyundai A New Take on the In-Car ExperienceAt first glance, Pleos Connect seems like just another infotainment system. But it’s really about making all the new tech in cars easier to use. The setup uses two main screens: a big central display split into sections for driving info, apps, and shortcuts, plus a slimmer screen right in front of the driver for immediate basic information. Thankfully, Hyundai didn’t ditch physical controls as promised. You still get real buttons on the steering wheel and under the main screen. The interface feels familiar if you use a smartphone. You get split screens and floating info cards, and you can arrange apps however you like. Navigation isn’t stuck in one view, either – you can run it next to your music or other apps, with things like ETA popping up where you need them. Behind the scenes, Pleos Connect is set up for regular updates. Features, services, and even performance can all get better over time – so your car doesn’t feel outdated after a few years. Hyundai What is Gleo AI?The big leap is the AI layer, called Gleo AI. It’s more than just a voice assistant as it can actually understand what you’re asking, not just follow basic commands – a common feature among modern cars. You don’t have to memorize exact phrases. Gleo AI can understand what you mean, whether you ask for a nearby restaurant or for directions. It handles more than one request at a time and can handle things like climate and navigation without you having to spell them out. There’s also an app store built in, so you can add things like streaming or web browsing. Hyundai plans to keep adding more apps – entertainment, games, and tools for the car itself – so your vehicle becomes just another part of your digital world. Hyundai View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Kia EV6 Drops Nearly $6K as EV Price War Heats UpWith new car prices now averaging around $47,000, it is becoming harder for buyers to find genuinely affordable options. That is why fresh discounts in the EV space are getting attention. According to ordering guides obtained by CarsDirect, the 2026 Kia EV6 is receiving a significant price cut of nearly $6,000. The entry-level EV6 Light is now expected to start at just under $38,000, with some reports pointing to a closer to $37,000 price depending on configuration. This aggressive repositioning puts the EV6 firmly into the conversation for value-focused EV buyers. It also undercuts the base Tesla Model Y, which starts at $39,990 in rear-wheel-drive form. For a segment that has long struggled to break below the $40,000 barrier, this is a notable shift. Kia appears to be targeting buyers who were previously priced out of the EV market. Kia Deeper Cuts Across the Lineup but Rivals Still Compete on PriceThe price adjustments extend across the EV6 lineup. The Light Long Range drops by $5,000 to around $41,200, while the Wind trim sees a $5,500 reduction to roughly $44,800. GT-Line variants receive the largest cuts, with up to $5,900 shaved off depending on drivetrain. The high-performance Mack-Daddy, EV6 GT, is notably absent for 2026, as Kia has delayed the model until further notice. Even with these reductions, competitors still apply pressure. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 starts at about $35,000 in base form, making it nearly $3,000 cheaper than the EV6. The Ford Mustang Mach-E Select also edges in slightly lower at $37,795. The bigger twist comes from incentives. The 2025 EV6 currently carries up to $10,000 in rebates, which could make the outgoing model a better real-world deal than the newer one. Kia The Real Story Behind EV Pricing Right NowA broader trend is forming behind these price moves. EV demand has cooled slightly in key markets, and manufacturers are responding with pricing strategies that do not rely entirely on government incentives. This is creating a more competitive landscape, with sticker prices starting to reflect actual market conditions rather than projected growth. At the same time, fuel price volatility continues to influence buyer behavior. When gasoline prices rise, EV ownership becomes easier to justify on a cost basis. On paper, the 2026 Kia EV6 offers a lower entry price, stronger positioning, and a direct challenge to Tesla’s volume leader. In practice, the outcome will depend on incentives, dealer pricing, and how quickly rivals respond. View the full article

Nissan Backtracks On U.S. EV Push News of Nissan's EV push around the world is getting the industry buzzing. Despite struggles and restructuring, the Japanese brand was still able to launch new products, such as the improved Leafand a rumored Nismo version of the EV. Apart from that, the brand's also making a few moves around the performance car segment, fielding improvements to the Z and making a bit of noise for upcoming models like the next-generation GT-R and some murmurs about the Silvia. However, when it comes to pushing for EV manufacturing in the U.S., it looks like the Japanese automaker is scaling back. Nissan Motor Co. told its U.S. suppliers on April 30, 2026, that it's dropping its plans to build electric vehicles in Mississippi, Automotive News reports. Nissan Back to Gas The brand is going back to manufacturing good-old gasoline-powered trucks in its plant. The company plans to produce a range of truck-based models at its 4.7-million-square-foot assembly line in Canton, Mississippi. While it won't manufacture pure EVs in Mississippi anymore, Nissan is still planning to make electrified cars here, with the Xterra slated for U.S. production. The move comes in response to market and customer demands. While EVs are making headlines around the world, Nissan believes that market conditions, customer demand, and its strategic direction are more aligned with what the Xterra delivers: an affordable, electrified SUV. Apart from the planned revival of the Xterra, the Canton, Mississippi, plant also produces other Nissan models such as the Frontier pickup truck and the Altima sedan. Bloomberg/Getty Images $500,000 Plans Canceled Five years ago, in 2021, Nissan announced plans to invest in and retool its Canton plant to manufacture EVs. Batteries for Nissan and Infiniti vehicles were slated for manufacturing here. Nissan's goal was to sell 200,000 EVs in the U.S. by 2028; however, that may no longer be the case. The new direction will see the Canton, Mississippi, plant make a new body-on-frame platform, starting with the Xterra. Slated for debut in late 2028 for the U.S. market, the model will then be followed by a new three-row SUV, the New Nissan Frontier. The move isn't just strategic but also cost-effective for the brand, as both models will share the same underpinnings, along with at least five more models. Nissan's EV sales in the U.S. are less than optimal, prompting the brand to roll back several models and rethink its lineup. One casualty is the Nissan Ariya, which is set to be discontinued later this year. However, Nissan executives remain hopeful in the U.S., citing it as one of the keys to its recovery. The brand is targeting about 1,000,000 annual sales in North America by early 2031. Localized production is one key to helping the brand achieve its goals as we move into the latter half of this decade. Nissan Nissan's Not The Only One Other brands are also reeling back on their EV pushes. It's not just Nissan, but even some Chinese brands are dialing things back. Given that new Geely models are more efficient than ever, it stands to reason that there is at least some pushback from the market as the EV sector grows more aggressive by the day. On top of that, development for ICEs is still ongoing, albeit as assistants or partners to electric motors. Nissan will likely continue to push its electrified e-Power powertrains in the coming years, with perhaps less emphasis on EVs. Still, however, the brand was able to move forward with solid-state batteries recently, so we'll still see electric models from the brand in the future, don't worry. Autoya/YouTube View the full article

When Customization Goes All the WayBugatti’s Sur Mesure division takes customization to a level that goes far beyond the usual. This is the team behind the Hermès Chiron and the lavender W16 Mistral. If an owner has a specific vision, no matter how detailed or unusual, Sur Mesure is set up to make it happen. Its newest project, however, sticks to that approach but shifts from fashion to something more natural. Meet the W16 Mistral “Fly Bug” – the fourth in a series of insect-inspired builds, each one reimagining a different creature through Bugatti’s design language. It joins the Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse “Hellbug,” the Chiron “Hellbee,” and the Divo “Lady Bug,” all commissioned by the same undisclosed, deep-pocketed client. Inspired by the DragonflyThe “Fly Bug” isn’t just named after a dragonfly. Its design is built around the way a dragonfly looks and moves. The first thing you notice is the custom “Dragonfly Blue” paint. It shifts from blue to turquoise depending on the light, echoing the look of real insect wings. This isn’t just a paint color – it’s a layered finish that changes as you move around the car. The wheels are finished to match, which is more complicated than it sounds because of the different materials. Bugatti also carried over a pattern from earlier cars in the series. An ellipse motif runs along the body, starting out subtle and getting denser toward the back, then fading into the air intakes. Inside, the theme carries over. The cabin uses a custom mix of leather layered over Alcantara, set in a geometric pattern that matches the outside. The effect is three-dimensional, and the pattern runs across the door panels and armrests. Bugatti hadn’t tried that said technique before because shaping these materials over curves is a real challenge. Plus, look closer at the gear selector, and you’ll spot the “Dancing Elephant,” a reference to Rembrandt Bugatti’s sculptures. There’s also a new technical detail outside. For the first time, Bugatti integrated the Macaron emblem into a painted graphic. Getting the size and placement right while keeping the badge’s details sharp required more precision than usual paintwork. Bugatti Same Hardcore Hardware UnderneathUnderneath all the design work, the Mistral is unchanged. It still runs Bugatti’s 8.0-liter quad-turbo W16 with 1,600 metric horsepower, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch and all-wheel drive. In standard form, it’s already hit 282.05 mph. Bugatti is building just 99 Mistrals, each starting at about €5 million ($5.8 million) before any custom work. Builds like the “Fly Bug” cost much more, but Bugatti doesn’t share final prices for Sur Mesure projects. Bugatti View the 14 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Car Launches in a NutshellCar launches are as straightforward as it gets. The usual program flow starts with speeches from executives, a breakdown of highlights, and eventually, the reveal. From time to time, there are a few gimmicks, but it's really nothing out of the ordinary. We've covered loads of these over the years, and we already know what to expect. But for those who attended the Volkswagen ID. Polo's launch in Germany recently, we can say that those who were there witnessed something that has never happened during a world premiere. Nicola Hume/Instagram There Was Tiramisu InvolvedMotoring presenter Nicola Hume posted a bizarre incident on her Instagram during the ID. Polo launch event. It involved a man covered in tiramisu sitting in the small electric hatchback, making some form of content. It's probably one of the strangest sentences we've ever put together, and we're pretty sure that something like this has never happened before. At the end of the reel, Hume simply said, "I don't get it." Well, Nicola, neither do we. We probably won't have tiramisu for a while, either. If you're up for it, you can watch the entire thing unfold below. So Many QuestionsNow, we weren't there to see 'Tiramisu Man' prep himself for this, er, stunt, not that we'd actually want to witness such an event. Even so, there are so many questions racing through our minds right now, such as "what is the relevance of tiramisu and the ID. Polo," "did VW actually sign up for...this?" and, probably the most important question of all, "Why?" So far, VW hasn't commented on the matter, and it's still unclear if the company was actually in on the recent, er, performance art exhibition. We also can't help but feel that the interior has been ruined as well. Mind you, the cake-covered person sat in the base ID. Polo, meaning cloth seats. Whoever had to clean and detail the hapless little hatchback after the event probably wasn't very happy afterward. Volkswagen Anyway, Here are Some ID. Polo HighlightsThere are other interesting things about the ID. Polo, of course. For starters, it's the first of the new-generation VW EVs to follow a more familiar naming convention. Its interior design also reflects the company's new direction, with a simpler, easier-to-use interface and a look that's both familiar and forward-looking. It looks refreshingly normal. In Germany, the ID. Polo is available in three trims: Trend, Life, and Style. There are also three powertrain options and two battery sizes. Entry and mid-level models come with a 37 kWh battery, while the top-spec Style gets a 52 kWh pack. Range is rated at 204 miles and 282 miles, respectively. As for power, it's 114 hp, 133 hp, and 204 hp. There's no chance of it coming to the U.S, although the ID. Polo is a preview of things to come for future VW models. We can expect some elements of this small EV hatchback to be applied to the upcoming MK9 Golf, and so far, we like what we're seeing. Hopefully, there won't be any tiramisu-related incidents during that model's world premiere. Volkswagen View the full article

China spent the better part of a decade making the internal combustion engine look obsolete. Government subsidies, aggressive production targets, and a homegrown battery supply chain turned the country into the world's dominant EV force. China now commands roughly 70 percent of the global EV battery market. So, it’s more than a little surprising that two of its biggest automakers, Geely and Chery, are pouring serious money into making the gasoline engine smarter, cleaner, and more competitive than it has ever been. Both companies are betting that the internal combustion engine still has a decade or more of relevance left in global markets, and they want to own that space before anyone else does. Autoblog / Leroy Marion The Efficiency Race Nobody ExpectedThe numbers coming out of both companies right now are genuinely hard to believe. Geely recently achieved 48.41 percent thermal efficiency with its new i-HEV hybrid system, a figure independently verified by Guinness World Records, alongside a claimed fuel economy of 106 miles per gallon. For context, Toyota's latest Prius, considered one of the most efficient engines in the world, manages a theoretical 44 percent. Four percentage points may not sound dramatic, but in thermal efficiency terms, that gap is enormous. Chery is right behind them. Its latest Kunpeng Tianqing engine achieves a claimed peak thermal efficiency of 48.57 percent, reached through a proprietary technology it calls "Dual-Curve Triple Linkage," making it the highest recorded figure for a mass-produced internal combustion engine in publicly available data. Chery has gone further than just raw efficiency numbers, though. The company is actively arguing that gasoline vehicles need to stop being dumb. Using its Mars StarCore MIND integrated architecture, Chery has worked to bridge the perception, decision-making, and execution capabilities of fuel-powered vehicles, essentially giving ICE cars the kind of intelligence that was previously exclusive to EVs. Autoblog / Leroy Marion View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What This Means for the Rest of the WorldThe timing of this ICE resurgence is not accidental. As EV penetration in China's domestic market surpasses 50 percent, global data tells a different story: most of the world still drives on gasoline. Chinese automakers are building for that reality. Exports have become a lifeline for many Chinese brands as brutal domestic competition cuts margins at home. Highly efficient hybrids are a smarter export product than pure EVs in many markets. The US remains largely walled off. But that does not mean US consumers are insulated from what is happening. Geely has confirmed that its Zeekr and Lynk and Co brands could enter the US within the next three years, potentially produced at the Volvo factory in South Carolina, which is currently undergoing a $1.3 billion expansion. Meanwhile, Chinese automakers have rerouted strategies through local manufacturing in Europe and emerging markets. Lynk & Co. The deeper point is this: China did not abandon its EV ambitions. It is running both tracks simultaneously, pushing EVs abroad while quietly perfecting the combustion engine for the markets that are not ready to let it go. That dual strategy, backed by R&D firepower that Western manufacturers are struggling to match, is what makes the current moment genuinely significant. The internal combustion engine may not be coming back, but it isn’t finished either. China is just making sure it has a say in how the final chapter gets written. View the full article

PrestigeLincoln, for most, is an aspirational brand; it represents the very best of plush American automotive experience. Over the years, it's been a go-to for some of the American elite, especially with models like the Town Car and the enduring Navigator. One of those elites seems to have always preferred the Navigator; tennis legend Serena Williams is a fan and is getting a very special Navigator just for herself. One-Off Navigator Williams EditionLincoln has chosen to commemorate Serena's brand loyalty with a special one-off Navigator. According to the brand, the idea was to create an extension of her world, a calming space for her family while offering a sense of sanctuary and reflection. Lincoln Global Design Director Christine Park Cheng worked hand in hand with Serena to ensure the project reflected the very best of what Lincoln can do. Cheng said the project was initially challenging for her and her team, who aren't usually given the opportunity to design a car for a specific individual, let alone someone as iconic as Williams. She also stressed that the whole project hinges on translating Williams' personal style, accomplishments, and values into the car design. The car itself was customized at Galpin Lincoln in Los Angeles, a longtime partner for these types of projects. The project created some unique touches based on Williams' life, starting with the Serena Rose logo, which appears on the B-pillar and tailgate. Next up are the laser-engraved door sills with the saying "Keep Going," with each sill also featuring the birth years of Williams' husband and daughters. The tennis star wanted her interior to have a warm, cozy feel, prompting the creation of a unique colorway dubbed Clay Court, a blend of brown and beige tones. The exterior color is also a special hue called Perfect Rose, a mix of sunshine copper and a hint of pink that adds a sparkling effect. Lastly, incorporating Serena's favorite color, the team put hot pink inserts in the center compartment. Lincoln View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article Fit For OneWhile this treatment isn't available to the general public, Lincoln does offer the Black Label treatment. Black label refers to the brand's exclusive bespoke offering, which allows owners to customize certain design elements of their Lincolns. Black Label also offers exclusive membership perks, including pickup and delivery for your car, annual car detailing, and access to private dining experiences. Lincoln View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

General Motors has announced $830 million in investments at three key propulsion plants in Michigan and Ohio to support the launch of the company’s next-generation full-size trucks and SUVs. The $830 million investments also include some production work recently started at these sites. In addition to the investment in U.S. production, GM also said it is investing half a billion dollars in a Canadian plant that will make the next-generation small-block V8 engines for the automaker's upcoming full-size trucks and SUVs. $830 Million for Three U.S. Propulsion Plants General Motors The bulk of the U.S. investments—$300 million—will be allocated to Romulus Propulsion Systems in Michigan, to increase production of 10-speed automatic transmissions. The gearboxes are used in GM’s most popular products, including the next-generation full-size trucks and SUVs. The new investment adds to a previous one of $300 million the site received in late 2025 to support this work. The facility in Romulus, Michigan has approximately 1,000 employees. GM also said it is investing a further $40 million at Toledo Propulsion Systems in Ohio to support capacity increases in 10-speed transmissions for light-duty trucks. This is in addition to a previous $40 million investment announced to employees in March. The Toledo facility is a support plant for some of GM’s most high-demand products and employs around 1,650 people. In addition to the investments in the two propulsion plants, GM announced it is allocation $150 million to Saginaw Metal Casting Operations in Michigan to increase head casting volume for Gen 6 V8 engines that will be used by next-generation full-size pickup trucks and Corvettes. The combined $830 million investment in U.S. propulsion sites brings GM’s investments in domestic manufacturing to over $6 billion over the past 12 months. $506 Million to Build Gen 6 V8s at Canadian Plant GM Canada In a separate but related announcement, GM Canada said it is investing C$691 million ($506 million) in its St. Catharines Propulsion Plant to support production of the sixth-generation V8 engine for GM’s upcoming full-size trucks and SUVs. The investment will go toward funding new machinery, equipment and tooling, as well as significant facility renovations at the site. Equipment has already begun arriving at the site, which will continue to produce the Gen 5 V8 engine while preparing for the changeover. The investment makes St. Catharines the third GM propulsion plant to build Gen 6 engines alongside Tonawanda Propulsion Plant in Buffalo, New York, and Flint Engine Operations in Flint, Michigan. These three plants will enable GM to meet customer demand for the high-volume full-size pickups and SUVs in North America. The engines built at St. Catharines will mainly supply GM Canada’s Oshawa Assembly in Ontario, which will produce the automaker’s next generation of gas-powered full-size pickup trucks. The site is GM’s only North American plant building both light-duty and heavy-duty Chevrolet Silverado pickups on the same line. GM’s Gen 6 V8 engine is expected to deliver stronger performance than the current generation, thanks to new combustion and thermal management innovations. View the full article

Carson Hocevar enters Texas as NASCAR's newest winner, capturing his first career win at Talladega last weekend. Texas Motor Speedway will host all three national divisions this weekend, with the Cup, O'Reilly, and Craftsman Truck Series. Tyler Reddick continues to hold a commanding lead in the championship, 110 points clear of Denny Hamlin. Joey Logano is the defending winner at Texas -- ...Keep readingView the full article

Industry NerdsMcLaren's known as the "nerds" of the industry, and the company has always prided itself on its clinical, precise engineering approach to building dream machines and legendary race cars. This has translated into a long list of achievements for them, including notable wins and championships at Le Mans, the Indy 500, and Formula 1. They are now looking at expanding the business portfolio, not just into cars but into another form of sport altogether. McLaren Golf McLaren GolfBack in March, the automotive company announced that it would be venturing into launching McLaren Golf. During that time, it was unclear to what extent they would be doing golf products. While it's not unusual for car brands to venture into golf apparel and merchandise, McLaren, being who they are, had other things in mind. Officially launched recently, the McLaren Golf brand not only says it will launch merchandise related to golf, but it will also make its own set of golf clubs. Specifically, McLaren will be releasing Iron sets for both recreational and professional players. At the core of McLaren Golf is a question: If there were no constraints, no legacy processes, no material limitations, what could a golf club become? Answering that, they used their engineering capabilities to employ a process called Metal Injection Molding (MIM), which is rarely used because of its complexity and cost. MIM is used to give McLaren Golf the precision control over material composition, internal geometry, and mass distribution, something not possible with traditional club making tecniques. The brand will initially offer two iron club sets: the Series 1, their take on a modern tour blade iron for lower handicappers, and the Series 3, a distance-enhancing cavity-back club with more forgiveness. McLaren Golf Star PowerLaunching your own bespoke golf clubs and brand is one thing, but doing it with the help of a real PGA tour pro lends more credibility. McLaren Golf signed PGA Tour veteran and major winner Justin Rose as a brand ambassador. Rose was also integral in the development of the clubs themselves, having worked hand in hand since the beginning. Both the Series 1 and 3 iron sets will be available in North America, Europe, and South Korea starting April 30, 2026. Prices for the clubs start at $375 per club head. Additionally, North American players can order the clubs through mclarengolf.com. McLaren Golf View the full article

The automotive industry has quietly ushered in the era of the "beta-tester" consumer. Today, the rush to deploy highly digitized and experimental software-driven platforms has left buyers playing the role of corporate guinea pigs, and they pay for the privilege. The TeslaCybertruck stands tall when we discuss this. Affected by a list of mass recalls since its launch—ranging from separating wheel studs to detaching trim—the stainless-steel truck has consistently delivered disruptive aesthetics over baseline expectations. Now, the ownership duration before catastrophic failure is actively shrinking, dropping from months of initial ownership to the exact moment the tires leave the dealership pavement. Tesla The LawsuitAs reported by The Independent, on August 9, 2025, Mississippi resident Shane Bracko purchased a new Tesla Cybertruck from a Tennessee dealership, and the failure was all but instantaneous. As he drove off the lot, the dashboard lit up with a critical air suspension fault. A dealership representative dismissed the warning, calling it a minor software glitch that would reset automatically, thereby clearing Bracko to safely drive home. Four days later, the suspension began overheating, accompanied by a vibrating side mirror and detaching bed panels. This eventually culminated in a total steering system failure, causing the electric pickup to veer off the roadway and crash into a drainage ditch. Bracko’s lawsuit, recently removed to federal court, highlights the short journey of the Cybertruck from brand-new gizmo to stainless-steel worth its weight, hyperbole of course. The financial trap for the American motorist is devastating. According to the federal complaint, Bracko no longer possesses the wrecked vehicle, yet remains legally and financially liable to JPMorgan for the ongoing auto loan. Tesla What to Do?Regulators must catch up. Dealerships are actively downplaying warning lights as simple digital hiccups to finalize deliveries, immediately shifting the risk directly onto the customer the moment the contract is signed. When a brand-new vehicle flags a critical safety fault on the delivery ramp, no amount of assurance from a sales representative can override the underlying fault. The takeaway is simple: do not accept delivery of a broken machine. If the dashboard lights up before you reach the street, leave the keys on the desk, cancel your payments, and walk away. View the full article

Back to the 48When you live in Alaska, it's a totally different ballgame. Take, for instance, a Rivian owner who needs warranty work on his 2024 Rivian R1T. To make a warranty claim and to see it through, it used to be free with time and being the principal cost back then. However, some things happened that now necessitate thousands of dollars just to get the car towed to the nearest service center. The Drive picked up on this story, citing that an EV on a commercial barge caught fire while in transit, prompting them to limit or outright ban EVs. Because of the safety risk, it's become a logistical nightmare to ship over EVs from Alaska to the mainland or vice versa. Some ferries or barges will only take extremely limited quantities, causing lead times to stretch from a few weeks to months. According to the report, "the lead time for a slot is months, not weeks." Prices are also quite high for shipping, and it's causing Rivian and owners in the region a major headache. Rivian How Do Rivians Get Serviced In Alaska? Servicing in Alaska is currently handled by mobile technicians and authorized third-party providers. There is one major service center in the region, in Bellevue, Washington; however, Alaskan topography isn't exactly welcoming, especially if a car is inoperable and needs a tow. Depending on the problem, the cars will need to be shipped back to Seattle or to the Bellevue service center, where repairs or warranty work can be facilitated properly. If ever a vehicle fails to move under its own power, Rivian does offer complimentary emergency towing services, subject to asterisks that account for the vehicle's distance to the nearest authorized service center or a mutually agreed-upon location for warranty-related issues. The brand also covers repairs under its warranty policy, which states that Rivian will cover the repair costs if a vehicle becomes inoperable due to a failure. However, due to the exorbitant shipping costs, the company has pushed back but is allegedly working on another solution. Rivian The Logistical NightmareEVs and PHEVs are not allowed on barges that are not just bound for Central, Western, or Southeast Alaska, but also to Hawaii. Shipping companies are concerned about the energy density of lithium-ion battery packs in these vehicles. When EVs burn, they're difficult to extinguish and release toxic gases that could endanger the crew's health and safety. While a few EVs are okay, grow that number to a thousand, and you might have a big catastrophe on your hands. Such is the case with the cargo ship that necessitated the limitation. The said ship sank after thousands of EVs caught fire. Eventually, the ship sank, but the process took weeks. There are other stories that also involve cars and barges catching fire, like one in 2023, that involved 3,000 cars (25 of which were EVs) on a barge that caught fire. According to authorities, the fire "began near an electric car." New policies are treating EVs and PHEVs like hazardous materials, and thus are limiting or outright banning their entry on board barges and ships. With companies taking only a few, or none at all, this puts a heavy strain on EV shipments to the region and also on shipments outside. Rivian The Solution? TBDThe solution? Still to be determined. Rivian in Seattle is still trying to find a solution, with the owner of the R1T stating that he remains "optimistic" that the brand will help navigate the logistical nightmare unfolding. One solution is to go by land, but even that comes with its own set of costs and regulations. Transporting what is essentially treated as hazardous materials will come under fire from our neighbors from the north (poor choice of words, I'm sorry). According to the source's estimates, shipping an inoperable vehicle across Canada could cost well over $5,000. Ferries might be the next-best option for owners, but that will also cost an arm and a leg. The source also unearthed Reddit threads claiming that a one-way transport fee will set owners back $6,500 for a ferry ride. The logistical challenge is distance, policy, suppliers, and topography. Depending on where the vehicle is, getting it assessed is one thing, but getting it o a set of eyes that knows what to do is another. Then, if more serious work is required, it becomes a battle of capabilities. Does the vehicle need to go to the major service center, which is potentially super far away? Or does the vehicle need to head back all the way to Seattle because the local outfit doesn't have the tools to handle it? Prior to this, Rivian held the fort by shipping the cars by sea, avoiding land travel altogether. Now, the challenge is simply getting on the boat. Rivian View the full article

In addition to the ARCA Menards Series race on the same day, Dystany Spurlock is set to make her NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Watkins Glen International on May 8. She will drive the No. 69 Foxxtecca Toyota for MBM Motorsports/Garage 66. “I’m excited for Watkins Glen,” Spurlock said in a release from the team. “It’s been a while since I’ve raced on a road course, so ...Keep readingView the full article