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Our grandparents were sold cars that could be passed down generations; our cars are very different. The American automotive industry is grappling with a severe quality control collapse. The modern automobile has transitioned from a mechanical machine into a heavily networked, rolling software platform, meaning service requires specialists, and the right to repair is all but nullified. This is not unintentional, and most analysts saw this coming as a result of a larger trend - the increasing disposability of vehicles. In just the first quarter of 2026 alone, a historic 12.1 million vehicles have been recalled across the United States. This staggering volume is overwhelming dealership service departments and forcing millions of motorists to drive compromised vehicles. The crisis is heavily skewed by major domestic manufacturers, heavily impacting the consumer market with critical flaws in their best-selling units. Record High RecallsThis failure is not a sudden development. The groundwork for this crisis was laid as automakers aggressively pushed complex software architectures and scaled production to meet demand. The current wave of defects follows years of escalating hardware and software integration issues across the industry. For example, a software bug in Ford's integrated trailer module causes a total loss of trailer brake and turn signal functionality, prompting a staggering recall covering over 4.3 million trucks and SUVs. A.I The situation escalated dramatically following a barrage of high-profile federal directives. The NHTSA and Ford announced a massive recall affecting roughly 1.4 million F-150 pickups built between 2014 and 2017. The issue is a transmission glitch that causes unintended, sudden downshifts, which is a massive safety liability at highway speeds. Simultaneously, 235,000 Kia and Genesis vehicles were recalled over a critical fuel leak issue. This rapid succession of federal actions across major brands has thrust the industry’s manufacturing flaws into the national spotlight, exposing vulnerabilities in modern vehicle assembly. The (Failing) StrategyThis crisis is not a sudden manufacturing anomaly; it is the direct consequence of a deliberate, industry-wide cost-cutting movement to maximize profits and keep the boards of directors happy. Over the last decade, automakers prioritized scaling complex software architectures rather than traditional rigorous physical stress-testing to maximize profit margins. By consolidating critical vehicle functions—such as braking, steering, and engine management—into centralized, digitally controlled modules, manufacturers significantly reduced physical assembly costs and material expenditures, while also ensuring that the customers have no choice but to bring the cars back to the manufacturer for all service and repair work. Ford This strategy has effectively replaced mechanical durability with digital fragility. It created a framework of planned obsolescence, where the lifecycle of a vehicle is no longer dictated by the endurance of its engine block, but by the stability of its proprietary code. The volume of recalls marks the highest quarterly total in recent years, driven not by disparate mechanical wear but by highly concentrated, massive electronic campaigns. Ford alone accounted for 7.6 million units. A single electrical system failure—which caused a total loss of trailer brake functionality—forced the recall of over 4.3 million Ford trucks and SUVs simultaneously. The data definitively illustrates that isolated mechanical flaws have been entirely eclipsed by catastrophic software architecture failures across mass-market lineups. This digital vulnerability accelerates the obsolescence of modern vehicles and severely undermines the consumer's right to repair. Automakers actively encrypt their software architectures, locking out independent mechanics and third-party repair shops. When a centralized module fails, independent garages cannot access the proprietary code necessary to reset or patch the system. This effectively bricks otherwise mechanically sound vehicles, forcing owners into backlogged dealership service bays and rendering the traditional, affordable repair market obsolete. Ford So, What Do We Buy?It’s difficult to pick a manufacturer that’s doing a good job with quality these days. Even OEMs like Hyundai (Genesis & Kia), Toyota/Lexus, and Honda are struggling to avoid issues, but certainly are doing better than most other manufacturers in terms of quality control. If I could step out of my newsroom shoes and give you advice as objectively as possible, I would say buy something made before 2016, but if you absolutely must buy something new, base model variants with minimal electronics are the way to go. View the full article

Earlier this week, it was announced that Shane van Gisbergen planned to run the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Watkins Glen International, driving the No. 4 Niece Motorsports Chevrolet alongside Cup Series teammate Ross Chastain. On Thursday, Spire Motorsports announced that Connor Zilisch will also be running the event, driving the No. 71 Chevrolet for the team with sponsorship from ...Keep readingView the full article

Talladega Superspeedway is one of the most unpredictable races on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule, so it should be no surprise that a dozen different drivers have secured their first -- and in many cases only -- Cup win at the iconic track. It hasn't happened yet in the Next Gen era, but several drivers have been close to becoming the 13th first-time winner at Dega. Of the 41 drivers on the ...Keep readingView the full article

Grown Up ToysWe all know that sports cars are the very definition of grown-up toys. Our inner children are tickled and delighted by the prospect of owning and driving some of the world's best-performing cars. Porsche has always leaned into this mindset by offering very unique special editions that cater to your inner child. Its latest collaboration will see it work with Disney and take on the theme of real toys. 911 Toy Story EditionPorsche announced a partnership with Disney for the upcoming release of Toy Story 5 on June 19, 2026. This partnership will result in three special-edition Porsche 911s; each car will be themed after the movie's main characters, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, and Jessie. Porsche says each car will draw inspiration from the movie's plot, in which the toys navigate an increasingly digital world. The three bespoke models will mirror this by "blending timeless storytelling with modern innovation," and all of the cars will capture the very essence and personality of the characters they're based on. Bob Pauley, Pixar Production Designer, said that his time with the Porsche Sonderwunsch team was spent interpreting each character through the materials, color, and form of the special-edition 911s. He further explains that they made sure to stay true to the character without being literal. A special teaser video was also released (see above) as part of the collaboration's marketing, tying into the notion that toys can be handed over to the next generation, just as Porsche says is possible with its cars. All three 911s will be sold together, with the proceeds going to three different charitable causes that help children in need. Porsche/YouTube View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Porsche x Disney This isn't the first time Porsche and Disney have come together to bring a movie character to life. Fittingly, in 2022, they worked together to create a real-life road-going version of the beloved Cars movie character, Sally. In the movie, we know Sally takes the form of a Carrera 911, and it made perfect sense for an actual Sally Carrera to exist. The 2022 Sally Carrera project featured numerous easter eggs from the movie and included a custom color called "Sallybluemettalic" that captured the character's hue. It was sold in an auction for $3.6 Million, setting a record price for a new Porsche sold at auction. The proceeds of the sale went to Girls Inc. and USA for UNHCR to support young women and refugees from the war in Ukraine. View the full article

NASCAR is considering fielding electric cars in its second-tier O’Reilly Auto Parts Series to give it a better brand identity among the three existing ones (Cup Series, O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, and Craftsman Truck Series), NASCAR’s executive vice president John Probst told Sports Business Journal’s Adam Stern. "If you look at the brand identity of those three, the O'Reilly Series struggles a little bit just from the car perspective and you see it a lot because we refer to it often as whoever the entitlement sponsor is,” said Probst, who is also NASCAR’s chief racing development officer. The executive added that bringing EVs into the second-tier division would be part of a long-term vision for the sport’s evolution into the 2030s, which may also include experimenting with a hydrogen combustion engine in the next five years. Remember the EV Prototype NASCAR Built in 2024? Now It Wants to Race It NASCAR Now, you may be aware that NASCAR’s R&D unit built its first electric vehicle prototype in 2024, a crossover utility EV developed with help from ABB. Chevrolet and Ford have designed skins for the prototype since then, but the public’s reactions were mixed. Probst said NASCAR is evaluating the potential of one day using that EV in the O’Reilly Auto Parts series (formerly known as the Xfinity Series). “Long term, you see it as, we do have that CUV body that we developed for our electric vehicle. I’m not sitting here saying today we’re breaking news it’s going to CUV, but these are the things that are on the roadmap to consider, so you’d have a Truck, a CUV and a Cup, that’s three very different bodies that are relevant for our OEMs today to create that brand identity for each series,” Probst said. While the executive suggested the shift toward EVs would happen in the long term, his comments did not go down well with NASCAR’s hardcore fans. For them, NASCAR is all about V8 internal combustion engines, so the talk of stock car racing potentially going electric—even in a second-tier series—is a big no-go. Fans Are Fuming Over the Prospect of NASCAR Electric CUV RacingNothing shows how out of touch @NASCAR leadership is with the fans of their sport more than this. Best racing in all of the top 3 divisions and they want to change it. Typical. — Aaron Murphy (@adm_217) April 21, 2026 Probst received significant backlash for his comments, with fans voicing strong opposition to the idea of introducing crossover EVs into the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, which is currently dominated by V8 coupes and sedans. Many fans see the series as the sport’s most competitive and entertaining division. Adam Stern’s posts on X.com got flooded with comments from NASCAR fans who seriously disagree with the Probst’s EV plans. “Let’s not ruin the O’Reilly cars and add electric vehicles,” one fan wrote, while another one said this “would be disastrous for NASCAR.” “Ruin the best series you have. Good idea,” another fan said. "Nothing shows how out of touch NASCAR leadership is with the fans of their sport more than this. Best racing in all of the top 3 divisions and they want to change it. Typical," said another one. And most of the 400+ comments are in the same vein, if less courteous. Dale Earnhardt Jr Blasts NASCAR's EV Racing Plans But it’s not just fans who oppose the idea. Dale Earnhardt Jr, one of the legends of the sport, has warned NASCAR against electrification. “I would say that the O’Reilly Series has got a lot of good things going right now,” Earnhardt Jr said on the Dale Jr Download podcast as reported by Speedcafe. “Viewership is continuously on the rise and our cars we can all kind of relate to those cars when we look at them when we see them on the race track. Making a switch to anything unlike what we have would be a massive mistake and it would probably be the end of the rise.” Earnhardt Jr, who runs a multi-car team in the O’Reilly Series under the JR Motorsports banner, added that he would not be interested in competing anymore if NASCAR made the switch. “I’m certainly not interested in that car or that body or any of that,” he said. “Quit fiddling with everything and feeling like everything needs to be improved, fixed, changed. The series is doing really good. I don’t like the thought of the series changing vehicles and wouldn’t want to be… I don’t know how to say it, I’m just wouldn’t be interested in that.” View the full article

How Tesla Saved Hundreds of MillionsFor years, the world's richest man, Elon Musk, has been vocal about rejecting what he once called “shady” tax loopholes. Yet a recent Reuters investigation suggests that Tesla leveraged one of the oldest tricks in the multinational playbook: profit shifting. By routing roughly $18 billion in profits through subsidiaries in the Netherlands and Singapore, the automaker likely avoided at least $400 million in U.S. taxes. The mechanism is familiar to tax specialists. Tesla appears to have assigned intellectual property rights, think patents and proprietary tech, to offshore entities, allowing profits tied to those assets to be booked in low-tax jurisdictions. The Dutch unit, structured as a non-resident partnership with no employees, acted as a conduit, funneling earnings to a Singapore holding company that also paid no tax on the income. It’s all legal, and hardly unique, but it directly contrasts Musk’s public stance on tax avoidance. Photo by PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images Tariffs Push Production Home, No One Said Anything About ProfitsWhile rising tariffs and geopolitical pressure have nudged automakers to localize manufacturing, often at higher cost, Tesla’s strategy shows you don’t necessarily need to bring profits along for the ride. Even as much of its revenue base remained U.S.-centric, filings reveal that a disproportionate share of profits was recognized abroad. That imbalance is what enabled the tax savings in the first place. The numbers are striking. Tesla has historically reported far larger tax obligations overseas than in the United States, despite the latter accounting for roughly half its sales. Since 2003, foreign tax liabilities have totaled $6.4 billion, dwarfing its lone reported U.S. tax estimate of $48 million in 2023. The implication is clear: where profits are booked matters far more than where cars are sold, and Tesla optimized accordingly. The Savings Are Real—But So Is the Pressure Building Around TeslaFrom a balance-sheet perspective, shaving $400 million off a tax bill is a win. But the broader context is shifting. Tesla’s relationship with policymakers has grown more complicated, and scrutiny around corporate tax practices is only intensifying. Even if the offshore structure has already been scaled back, as hinted by a sharp increase in U.S.-reported profits in 2025, the reputational calculus is harder to unwind. There’s also a strategic undertone here. As margins tighten and political headwinds mount, Tesla will need to keep finding efficiencies wherever it can. Whether that means operational streamlining, pricing adjustments, or more aggressive financial engineering is an open question. What’s clear is that the era of easy wins, whether from subsidies, tax credits, or regulatory arbitrage, is fading. The next phase will demand a different kind of discipline, one that extends beyond clever accounting. Tesla View the full article

Rivian has begun mass producing its most awaited vehicle yet, the R2 midsize electric SUV that’s expected to take the EV maker to the next level. Despite damages caused by a tornado to the plant in Normal, Illinois earlier in the week, the company has started production of R2 SUVs destined for customers on April 22, noting that deliveries are set to follow later this spring. After building test prototypes and Manufacturing Validation Builds (MVBs), the factory has shifted to building R2 vehicles for clients. These first vehicles will undergo their final quality and validation checks internally before being shipped to Rivian service centers across the United States. A Historic Moment for Rivian That Can Shape Its Future“We are really excited to be producing R2 for our customers. The vehicle is incredible – it’s the result of all the hard work and dedication of the Rivian team. I can’t wait for customers to experience R2!” - @RJScaringe Read more: https://t.co/R5K09Eufut pic.twitter.com/jfb0IY4xfK — Rivian (@Rivian) April 22, 2026 “We are really excited to be producing R2 for our customers,” said Rivian Founder and CEO, RJ Scaringe. “The vehicle is incredible — it’s the result of all the hard work and dedication of the Rivian team. I can’t wait for customers to experience R2!” Reaching this important milestone means that the R2 manufacturing process has been verified and the plant can churn out customer vehicles. It has quite a big backlog, as Rivian reportedly received well over 200,000 reservations. Now, that doesn’t mean Rivian has got 200,000 orders in the bag; a reservation is made with a $100 refundable deposit, so it’s pretty easy for a customer to pull out. Rivian The company will have a more accurate picture of R2 demand starting in June, when customers will be invited to configure their R2 vehicles, according to Rivian CFO Claire McDonough’s comments to Reuters. The configurator will allow reservation holders to finalize their builds and commit to a firm order. Rivian says it is on track to start deliveries of R2 vehicles to customers later this spring, which likely means sometime in May. The production start of the R2 is a make or break moment for the company as a successful rollout of the R2, which competes with the Tesla Model Y among many other midsize EVs, can turn the brand from a maker of high-end lifestyle SUVs and pickups into a serious EV player. McDonough said that once R2 production reaches a higher run rate in 2027, it will cost the company less than half as much to build an R2 as the R1S. The savings will obviously help put Rivian on a firmer path to profit. The EV maker expects to deliver 22,000-23,000 R2s this year if demand remains steady and the production ramp goes as planned. Loaded Rivian R2 Performance Launch Edition Is the First Trim to Reach Customers Rivian Deliveries will start with the Rivian R2 Performance Launch Edition, a range-topping trim priced at $57,990 that features a dual-motor AWD powertrain rated at 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque. It uses a 87.9-kWh battery that enables an EPA-estimated 330-mile range. This launch model is capable of accelerating from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds and has a top speed limited to 110 mph. Rivian The R2 Performance Launch Edition is equipped as standard with a semi-active suspension, dynamic lighting, and rear drop glass, among other things. Launch Edition customers also get goodies like an exclusive exterior paint, a unique key fob, and a lifetime subscription to the Autonomy+ package for hands-free driving capabilities. Following the Launch Edition model, Rivian plans to start production of the $53,990 Premium trim before the end of the year, with the R2 Standard to follow in the first half of 2027 with a starting price of $48,490. The promised $45,000 R2 base model will be the last to arrive, sometime in late 2027. Rivian View the full article

EVs Get a Hybrid LifelineHorse Powertrain is making a bold play just as the industry starts hedging its EV bets, offering a pathway to convert electric platforms into hybrids. The concept centers on modularity, allowing automakers to integrate combustion engines into existing EV architectures without a ground-up redesign. It’s a strategy that could save billions in development costs while buying time as markets stabilize. Related: New Powertrain Turns EV Platforms Into Hybrids Without Redesign That paradigm underpins the debut of the Horse W30, the company’s first V6, and a clear signal of where it sees demand heading. This 3.0-liter unit is designed from the outset for hybrid applications, with flexible transverse and longitudinal mounting. It’s engineered to slot into a wide range of vehicles with minimal compromise, giving manufacturers a plug-and-play solution if they need to pivot quickly away from full electrification. Horse Powertrain View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Big Power, Smarter EfficiencyRather than chasing gains through larger batteries or more powerful motors, Horse is focusing on system-level efficiency. Advances in material science, including the use of higher-grade steels, are improving motor efficiency and reducing energy loss. The goal is to extract more performance from less hardware, keeping weight and cost in check. The W30 delivers on that brief. Weighing just 353 lbs, a full 22 lbs lighter than any comparable V6, it produces up to 536 hp and 516 lb ft of torque, revving to 8,000 rpm. Integrated exhaust manifolds and turbochargers mounted directly to the cylinder heads improve thermal management and throttle response. Paired with the 4LDHT hybrid transmission, the setup uses a P1 motor for charging and crank support, and a P3 motor for propulsion, balancing output and efficiency without inflating battery capacity. The Age of HybridsThe industry is in recalibration mode. EV adoption is still growing, but not at the pace many expected, and infrastructure remains uneven across key markets. That’s forcing automakers to rethink timelines, and hybrids are emerging as the most viable bridge between regulation, cost, and consumer demand. I'm excited for this engine, particularly that 8,000 RPM redline. From a buyer’s standpoint, the appeal hasn’t changed. Hybrids offer a strong range, quick refueling, and increasingly impressive efficiency without requiring lifestyle changes. Systems like the W30 raise the ceiling further, adding serious performance into the mix. With production slated for 2028, it’s a signal that hybrids are gearing up for a sustained new golden age. View the full article

The Autoblog spy photographers camped at the Nürburgring have spotted an extreme version of the Lamborghini Revuelto undergoing testing with more aero and some particularly sticky rubber. It's likely an SV or equivalent take on the V12 hybrid supercar, which already develops 1,001 horsepower from its 6.5-liter naturally aspirated combustion engine and trio of electric motors, and it's so wild that Lamborghini has put a warning label on it reading "Attenzione: Macchina Veloce," which translates to "Caution/Warning: Fast Machine/Car." How fast? That is yet to be determined, but reports vary, with some saying the hardcore Revuelto will make around 1,200 hp and others pegging it as high as 1,400 hp. Lamborghini Revuelto SV Gets Angrier Bodywork SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article At the front, the more extreme Revuelto variant dispenses with the open intakes below the headlights of the regular supercar, adding angular bodywork that calls to mind the Huracán STO and makes the car appear even more aggressive than usual. These slashes are connected to a deep chin spoiler that will increase downforce on the front axle, but the hood seems unchanged, perhaps indicating that this won't wear an SV badge; Lamborghini likes to change things up in the naming department. Add downforce at the front, and you need more at the back. The Revuelto SV duly obliges with a large wing, and it's unclear if this is attached to the same adaptive rear spoiler that the exiting Revuelto has or if it will be a permanently static fixture. Either way, the wing has holes through its outer elements to balance downforce and drag, and there are additional vents above the taillights, which sandwich a new exhaust system with four round tips in a hexagonal finisher. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Elsewhere, the side skirts and rear diffuser appear unchanged, but Lamborghini may introduce additional bodywork later. The wheels also appear to be nothing special, but unlike those of the regular Revuelto, which are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza Sport rubber, these don Bridgestone Potenza Race R rubber that is barely legal. The Aventador SVJ was a Nürburgring Nordschleife production car lap recordholder in 2018, setting a time of 6:44.97, and perhaps Sant'Agata wants the title back. To do so, it'll need to beat the Mercedes-AMG ONE, which set a time of 6:29.090. Whether Lambo shoots for the record or not, we expect revised suspension, lightweight wheels, and a relatively stripped interior. Revuelto SV Is One of Several New Lambos Coming This Year SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Last month, Lamborghini announced that it would reveal several new cars in 2026, and while the automaker was not specific about what to expect, it said that these new arrivals would appear at major car shows like the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Monterey Car Week, taking place in July and August, respectively. Rumors suggest that, along with this Revuelto SV, an open-top Fenomeno may be among the reveals scheduled for this year. We've also captured spy shots of a drop-top Temerario, and there have been unconfirmed reports of Revuelto S and Revuelto Roadster variants, too. The Urus SUV is also expected to gain a new Performante variant, so Lamborghini has lots in store for enthusiasts. And with this hardcore Revuelto wearing an attention-grabbing camouflage wrap, it's clear that the Italian automaker will be showing off at least some of what's it's been cooking soon. Related: This Is Your First Look at the Lamborghini Temerario Spyder View the full article

Volvo has officially started production of the new EX60, an electric SUV that will rival the BMW iX3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. This is a key product for Volvo, since the gas-powered XC60 became its best-selling car ever last year. Similar in size but with more advanced technologies, the company hopes the EX60 will achieve a similar level of success in the EV segment. Initial orders in Europe have been strong, which is why Volvo has already increased production plans for the SUV this year. EX60 Must Succeed in U.S. Volvo XC60 production Volvo View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article In the first quarter of 2026, Volvo sales dropped by 32% in the U.S., with the company’s entire lineup seeing declines. The numbers were not helped by the fact that Volvo has discontinued its sedan and wagon range in this market. Expected to be keenly priced when it arrives, the EX60 will be an important addition to Volvo’s range. “Today is an important milestone for our company and for Sweden as a whole, as we start to build the first EX60 customer cars,” said Håkan Samuelsson, Volvo Cars CEO. “We are now focused on a steady ramp-up of high-quality EX60 production, making sure this game-changing car will be a profitable growth driver in the coming years.” Initial demand has been especially strong in Europe, which is why the company is keeping its Torslanda plant in Sweden open for an extra week this summer—the first time it has done so. For U.S. and Asian customers, order books will be opening later this spring. Volvo EX60 Key Specs Volvo The EX60 is styled to closely resemble the larger, three-row EX90. It’s a classy SUV with more restrained details than its somewhat controversial German rivals. Three variants were announced at launch: P6 with 369 horsepower (single motor)P10 with 510 horsepower (dual motors)P12 with 670 horsepower (dual motors)Depending on the trim, the EX60 has a claimed range of between 290 and 400 miles, with gradually bigger battery packs as you work your way through the trims. A NACS-style charging port will allow for easy access to the Tesla Supercharger network, and charging speeds of up to 400 kW are possible. This can add 173 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Something to watch closely will be the stability of the EX60’s software and infotainment interface. This is something Volvo struggled with when the EX90 was launched, with many owners left frustrated by glitchy screens and features that refused to work reliably. Volvo can’t afford the same setback with the EX60. Related: New Volvo EX60 Will Feature A Seatbelt That Thinks Final Thoughts Volvo Volvo’s EV sales are down 14% to start the year, so the EX60 can’t come soon enough. It will plug a gap between the smaller EX30 (which is being discontinued) and the larger EX90. This is a sweet spot in the luxury EV market, where models are less vulnerable to tariffs but more attainable than full-size options. Besides the BMW and Mercedes, the EX60 will also compete against the Cadillac Optiq and Audi Q6 e-tron. It’s fast emerging as a highly competitive segment, but the Volvo’s specs suggest it has what it takes to succeed. View the full article

A Strong Start, With One Big ProblemThe 2026 Nissan Frontier landed this year with a handful of updates – nothing radical, but enough tweaks and new features to keep it in the midsize truck game. The real headline, though, was the arrival of the Pro-4X R by Roush: a factory-backed special with American tuner upgrades straight from Roush Performance. This version was meant to be the tougher, more off-road-focused Frontier, with beefed-up suspension and bolder looks to take on trucks like the Colorado ZR2. On paper, it seemed like a smart move. But there’s a catch. More than 1,200 trucks that already rolled out of Roush’s shop now have to head back. According to a newly filed recall, 1,217 units of the Pro-4X R are affected, covering vehicles produced between late September 2025 and early March 2026. That effectively includes every example built before a key quality control fix was introduced. Nissan What Went Wrong at the FactoryThe problem isn’t complicated, but what can happen because of it definitely is. At the Roush facility, some technicians apparently missed installing cotter pins on important suspension and steering parts. These tiny pins might not look like much, but they’re what keep fasteners from working loose. Without them, things like the upper control arm ball joint or steering tie rod can start to come apart over time. There’s also a chance some bolts weren’t tightened to spec, which just adds to the risk. The risk is simple: a loose or disconnected joint might start with odd noises up front, but in the worst case, you could lose steering and crash. The problem first surfaced through a dealer warranty claim on March 2, 2026, when a newly delivered truck showed a separation at the upper control arm. A missing cotter pin was identified. Not long after, a second case appeared involving a disconnected steering tie rod on a low-mileage vehicle. A third incident followed days later. Roush’s own review found that some techs didn’t follow the usual instructions, and the paperwork wasn’t clear enough to prove that everything was tightened down the way it should have been. Nissan What Owners Need to Do NextRoush isn’t taking any chances. If you own one of these trucks, you’re being told not to drive it – get it towed to a Nissan dealer for a checkup. At the dealer, techs will go over all the suspension and steering parts, add any missing cotter pins, swap out old ones, and make sure every bolt is tightened right. If anything’s damaged or missing, it gets replaced. Owners won’t pay a cent for the fix. Roush has already tightened up its process as of March 2, 2026, with tougher checks and better paperwork to make sure every cotter pin is in and every fastener is torqued before a truck leaves the shop. Owners should get notifications between mid-May and mid-June 2026. Until then, if you’ve got one of these trucks, it’s basically grounded until it gets checked out. Nissan View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Dealership RelationsSelling cars is a complicated and process-filled task; the safeguards put in place by the brand and the dealership are ironclad in ensuring a smooth transaction of business between the brand and the customer. The dealership is the middleman, acting as the point of sale, showroom, and sales executor, sometimes to a fault. One important service offered by the dealership is after-sales maintenance for the cars, a labor- and time-intensive activity. Disputes between the brand and dealerships are rare, but a Bugatti dealership in Miami is taking its issue to court. Bugatti Bugatti vs. BugattiAutomotive News reports that a Bugatti dealership in Miami is suing the mother company, Bugatti of the Americas. The suing dealership claims in the suit that, after requesting higher labor reimbursement rates, other allegations in the complaint include breaches of the dealership agreements, discriminatory vehicle allocation, and illegal sales directly to consumers. The lawsuit highlighted that in September of 2024, Bugatti Miami (owned by Braman Enterprises) requested an increase in warranty parts reimbursement rates from 100.49% to 160%, and the request was approved. In June of 2025, the same dealership asked Bugatti of the Americas for a hike in labor reimbursement rates to $1,350 per hour. After negotiations, it was agreed that the rates will increase to $1,100 from July to December 2025, then to $1,350 as of January 1, 2026. Come February, Bugatti informed the dealership that it would no longer allow it to perform warranty work due to excessive parts and labor markups. This led the dealership to believe that they were "fraudulently and in bad faith induced to accept a temporarily reduced labor reimbursement" during the last half of 2025. Furthermore, Bugatti also said it would inform owners in the area that the Miami dealership will no longer offer warranty services. Bugatti Allocation DiscriminationAnother part of the complaint is that the Miami dealer accuses Bugatti of failing to honor dealership agreements by holding back on car allocations. In the complaint, Miami received only two Tourbillion models and was denied an additional four models upon request. Bugatti Miami also said that the Bugatti Broward dealership was given nine Tourbillons for inventory. An extreme allegation made by the lawsuit is that Bugatti has been engaging in direct-to-consumer sales in violation of Florida law. Essentially, this claim states that Bugatti is bypassing the (Miami) dealership for sales. Bugatti View the full article

Desperate Times, Creative CommutesWith fuel prices doing their usual wallet damage, some “enterprising” types have taken things to extremes, like literally drilling into fuel tanks to siphon petrol. For everyone else, there’s a far less criminal, and far more practical, response: carpooling. According to the Today show, a mix of relentless congestion, rising pump prices, and frictionless app-based coordination has pushed shared commuting back into relevance, particularly across major U.S. metros. West Coast-based carpooling platform Scoop reported a 40% jump in rides from February to March alone, a sharp month-on-month spike that tracks closely with fuel price volatility and return-to-office mandates. Commuters in similar neighborhoods are algorithmically paired, splitting fuel costs instead of paying a full ride-share fare. With the average ride hovering around 18 miles and roughly $9 per person, it undercuts traditional ride-hailing while turning unused seats into tangible savings. HOV Lanes PerksThe carpool (HOV) lane has long been the most coveted strip of asphalt during rush hour, a fast lane reserved for those clever enough to share a ride. But beyond shaving minutes off a commute, the modern carpool offers a more layered value proposition. It’s not just about beating traffic; it’s about redistributing the cost of mobility in an era where solo driving is increasingly inefficient. There’s also a human element that’s been largely absent from the gigified transport economy. Unlike rideshare services, where interaction is optional and often minimal, carpooling introduces a recurring social dynamic. As highlighted in the video, most riders sit up front, creating a more conversational, shared experience. Whether it’s coworkers, neighbors, or even school administrators commuting together, the system builds micro-communities, something algorithms alone can’t replicate. Add in incentives from cities, like transit credits or perks, and carpooling starts to look less like a compromise and more like a strategic upgrade. Getty Images Public Transportation Isn’t Optional for MostLet’s be honest: telling people to “just drive less” isn’t a solution and sound more like a soundbite. Public transportation isn’t optional for most, and the infrastructure in many parts of the U.S. still assumes car dependency. The real question isn’t whether people should drive less, but how they can drive smarter, carpooling answers that without requiring a wholesale lifestyle shift or waiting on long-term policy fixes. What’s emerging here is a pragmatic middle ground. You keep the convenience and flexibility of a car, but dilute the cost and inefficiency by sharing the journey. When the average vehicle still carries barely more than one occupant, the upside is obvious. Modern carpooling has just been re-engineered for a smartphone-first world. And right now, with costs climbing and patience thinning, that reinvention is hitting at exactly the right time. Lyft View the full article

Ford’s Recall Streak Now Hits the RangerFord has been on a recall spree, not just with one model. Just a few days ago, millions of F-150s were recalled for transmission problems – a big deal for Ford’s most important truck. Now the midsize Ranger joins the list, but for a different reason. This isn’t a mechanical fault – it’s an electrical one. The numbers aren’t as huge as the F-150 recall, but over 140,000 trucks is still a lot. Kristen Brown What’s Actually Going WrongAccording to the safety recall report, the recall covers 2024 to 2026 model year Ford Rangers built between December 9, 2022 and December 28, 2025, totaling 140,201 trucks. The problem involves the wiring harness for the sunvisor and headliner. In some trucks, the wiring may have too much tape or may not be routed correctly during assembly. Over time, this can cause the wires to rub against metal inside the A-pillar, wearing down the insulation and exposing the wire. If that happens, a short circuit is possible. That’s when things get serious. A short can cause heat or sparks, which might lead to smoke, melted parts, or even a fire inside the A-pillar. That’s a real safety risk for anyone in the truck. Ford found the problem after looking into a fire in a 2024 Ranger. They found trouble codes tied to the sunvisor circuit and signs of repeated electrical shorts. There aren’t many reports yet, but the risk was enough for Ford to issue a recall. Drivers might spot early warning signs like flickering or dead vanity mirror lights, or overhead console lights that don’t work, before anything serious happens. Kristen Brown What Owners Should DoFord’s fix involves checking the truck, swapping out parts if needed, and updating the software. Owners will need to bring their Rangers to a dealer, where technicians will look for trouble codes. If they find damage, they’ll replace the wiring harness. All recalled vehicles will also get a Body Control Module software update. This update is meant to cut power to the sunvisor circuit if repeated faults are detected, helping prevent future short circuits from becoming more serious. All the work to be done is free for owners. Ford will send out recall notices in phases, starting with interim letters in late April 2026 and full instructions by August. For now, keep an eye out for warning signs and stay on top of recall updates. Kristen Brown View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

We’re starting to lose track of the many China-specific Volkswagen models as the automaker vies to regain market share in the world’s largest car market. It is attempting to do so by launching new vehicles developed with its joint venture partners specifically for Chinese consumers. Today we’re bringing you two fresh Volkswagen EVs that have been unveiled for the first time at the Volkswagen Group Media Night event held yesterday ahead of the Auto China 2026 show that starts on Friday in Beijing. We’ve already covered the new Jetta X SUV concept, but the event also marked the world premiere of two Volkswagen EVs: the ID. Unyx 09 flagship sedan built by the Volkswagen Anhui joint venture and the ID. Aura T6 midsize SUV built by FAW-Volkswagen. These two new models, along with the Jetta X SUV and the AUDI E7X, are part of Volkswagen Group’s largest-ever product offensive in China. More than 20 electrified vehicles are coming onto the market in 2026 alone, and by 2030 that number will grow to 50 models—30 of which will be all-electric. Every aspect of these vehicles, from design and digital cockpit services to advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), will be tailored specifically for Chinese customers. VW ID. Unyx 09 Flagship Sedan Is Co-Developed with XPeng Volkswagen Group China Starting with the VW ID. Unyx 09 flagship sedan, it was co-developed with Xpeng in 24 months, just like the ID. Unyx 08 SUV which borrows technology from the Xpeng G9. The ID. Unyx 09 electric sedan is almost 197 inches long and features sophisticated tech like advanced L2 driving assistance, high-performance computing, and an intuitive AI assistant. Those are enabled by Xpeng’s Turing AI chips, which are said to boast up to three times the computing power of current industry standards. Volkswagen Group China The Turing AI chip features a 40-core processor, dual Neural Processing Units (NPUs), and a neural network-optimized architecture tailored for end-to-end (E2E) large models, making it ideal for AI-defined vehicles, robots and flying cars. Mind you, Volkswagen said the ID. Unyx 09 shown in Beijing is a “close-to-production” vehicle, which means that some changes may happen before it enters production. Still, it looks pretty much ready for prime time in these photos. Volkswagen Group China The automaker did not disclose anything else about the ID. Unyx 09, but from a design standpoint it’s pretty clear that it’s closely related to the ID. Unyx 08 SUV. It’s got a very similar front end featuring split lighting with eyebrows-like LED DRLs on top and slim headlights below. The headlights are continued by a black trim piece that gives the impression it pierces through the wheel while crossing the fender and ending on the front door. At the rear, the slim LED taillights also remind of the ID. Unyx 08 SUV in the way they almost meet in the middle of the trunk, separated by an illuminated VW logo. ID. Aura T6 Debuts VW's New China Electronic Architecture (CEA) Volkswagen Group China Moving on to the VW ID. Aura T6, it is a midsize SUV built by FAW-Volkswagen and marks the beginning of a new series of vehicles that will feature the ID. Aura designation. The all-electric SUV features a more conventional design than the ID. Unyx 09, with clean lines and surfaces. The ID. Aura T6 is described as a cornerstone model for the brand as it is built entirely on the China Electronic Architecture (CEA), developed by the Volkswagen Group China Technology Company (VCTC) and Cariad China with Xpeng. Volkswagen Group China This new technological foundation is said to reduce ECUs by 30%, enable over-the-air (OTA) updates and support advanced AI, including onboard AI Agents that provide “highly intuitive, human-like interaction between vehicle and customer while ensuring robust personal data protection.” CEA also enables advanced L2 assisted driving. From 2027, the next-generation CEA 2.0 will integrate intelligent driving and cockpit control into a unified system across all powertrain types empowered by Agentic AI. According to the automaker, this will mark the Volkswagen Group’s next step towards the AI-Defined-Vehicle era in China. Volkswagen Group China View the full article

When the S650-generation Ford Mustang arrived, it brought with it a new Dark Horse variant, and more recently, the Blue Oval has introduced a supercharged Dark Horse SC that is a new Shelby GT500 in all but name. The automaker explained that the decision to avoid the Shelby name was taken to highlight that the Dark Horse SC is a Ford Racing product, arguing that Shelby doesn't race. While that may be fair enough, a new report from Ford Authority suggests that the use of the Shelby name was costing Ford millions of dollars. Additional reporting suggests the Shelby badge could return to an official Ford product someday, but more on that later. Ford Reportedly Paid Hundreds of Dollars Per Shelby Model Sold Bring a Trailer According to the publication, which cites insiders as its source, Ford reportedly paid "approximately $800 in royalties for each Mustang Shelby sold," though this has not been officially confirmed by either Ford or Shelby American. While it's unclear how long this particular payment agreement may have been in place, some quick math shows that $800 per car adds up to millions of dollars per series relatively quickly. Just looking back as far as the S550 generation, the Shelby GT350 and GT350R's combined 24,211-unit production run would translate to $19,368,800 in royalties. Add in the GT500, of which 14,130 vehicles were produced over three years, and the bill climbs by another $11,304,000. That's a grand total of $30,672,800, which is big bucks in anybody's book. Related: Every S650 Ford Mustang Ranked By Horsepower From EcoBoost to 800 HP GTD Following the reveal of the Dark Horse SC (recently confirmed to make 795 horsepower and carry a $103,490 starting price), Shelby American has since announced the development of a Mustang for the Trans Am racing series, so it will be racing again soon. But we get where Ford is coming from—aligning the special 'Stang and its race-derived upgrades with Ford's factory-supported efforts in motorsport, including Formula One, is logical marketing. Add in the savings from not paying royalties to use the Shelby name, as well as the fact that a new name can create a new generation of fans, and it all makes sense. But could it return? Special-Edition Ford Name Changes Are "Cyclical" Adam Lynton/Autoblog Speaking with Road & Track, Shelby American president Gary Patterson was asked about Ford's decision to move on from the Shelby name, and his response suggested that Ford could take advantage of the heritage-rich name someday in the future. "Those things are cyclical, right? And it just depends on what's going on within their own company and what their directives are at any one time," he said, adding, "They're using Dark Horse, but you know what? This isn't any different than the Sixties. They went to Boss, all that stuff. So everybody gets all excited about this stuff, and I'm like, 'Look, it's part of a cycle.' And it'll come and go and so forth. What we do is we stay very focused on who Shelby is, and how we can also help polish the Blue Oval." Basically, Shelby American remains open to collaboration with Ford, and since the latter has given special Mustangs names like Boss, Mach 1, Bullitt, and Cobra, the Shelby name could well be reintroduced someday if an internal study reveals that customers long for it. Sure, it would cost Ford a few hundred dollars on each car, but perhaps it would be worth the payments if the car is special enough. On the other hand, Ford could find such great success with Dark Horse and other names that it decides the Shelby name is unnecessary. Furthermore, as Shelby launches tuned Mustang after tuned Mustang, the name may ultimately become synonymous with the aftermarket, for better or worse. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the full article

A Familiar Idea, Reimagined for an Electric EraWhen Kia showed the Vision Meta Turismo late last year, it was clear this wasn’t just another show car. The proportions and stance immediately reminded many of the Stinger GT, even if Kia didn’t say so outright. There was intent behind the design, not just a collection of futuristic ideas. At Milan Design Week, Kia revealed more about the Vision Meta Turismo. The Korean marque positions itself as a grand tourer built for the digital era, blending performance with a new in-car experience. The design still follows Kia’s 'Opposites United' approach, but now it’s clearer how that could shape its next electric sedans. Kia Design, Tech, and That Digital LayerThe cab-forward shape and low, wide stance give the Vision Meta Turismo a solid, planted look. Geometric lines and a glass canopy make it stand out as a concept, but it’s the smaller details that really catch your attention. Kia says the car is built around three things: performance, digital interaction, and comfort. Inside, you can see that split. The driver’s seat is focused and minimal, with a slim instrument cluster and light seats that feel ready for real driving. The passenger side is more relaxed, with a seat that can even rotate for a social setup when parked. In terms of digital tech, there’s an augmented-reality head-up display covering the windshield, similar to what BMW is doing with its latest models, like the Neue Klasse iX3. There’s a playful side, too. The joystick-style shifter simulates gear changes, with haptic feedback and fake engine sounds. It’s a similar idea to what Hyundai did with the Ioniq 5 N that everyone just seems to love. The steering setup borrows from gaming, with modes like Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer. In Gamer mode, the car becomes an entertainment hub when parked. It’s the kind of creative interface you’d expect from a high-end concept, but with a different focus. Kia What This Could Turn IntoKia hasn’t confirmed what the Vision Meta Turismo will turn into, but the direction is obvious. This looks like a preview of a future flagship EV, maybe something above the EV6 and EV9, or linked to the rumored GT1 project. The blend of performance features and digital tech shows Kia is aiming for a more premium segment. It’s not just raising the price, but changing how the car feels to use. By focusing on engagement, even with digital tricks, Kia is looking to keep enthusiasts interested as it goes electric. If this makes it to production, some of the wilder features will probably be dropped. But the main ideas – driver-focused EV performance, digital layers, and flexible interiors – are likely to stay. Kia View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The 7 Gets An Update Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog The seventh-generation 7 Series receives its first facelift, what BMW calls an LCI (Lifecycle Impulse) for the 2027 model year, benefiting from Neue Klasse technology and design language from the company's iX3 and i3 models. This is a heavier refresh than we typically see from an LCI model, and it fixes on of the biggest complaints many online critics had with the pre-facelift model: its ugly face. 1 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article This isn't a ground-up redesign, but BMW moved around the main headlights and reshaped the crystal headlights, which now look thinner and more stately. The new design is smoother rand more cohesive than before. 2 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog Both the gas-powered 7 Series and electric i7 models still have large kidney grilles, which are illuminated with BMW's Iconic Glow feature, but the radars, sensors, and washer nozzles are now hidden better. 3 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Buyers can opt for a hand-finished BMW Individual Dual Finish paint that takes more than 75 hours to apply. 4 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The interior benefits from the latest Neue Klasse technology suite, including BMW Panoramic iDrive with BMW Operating System X. The pillar-to-pillar projection from the iX3 and i3 has been transplanted, but the 7 Series also adds new passenger screen. 5 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The rear seat delivers peak luxury with an available Executive Lounge specification and optional BMW Theater Screen. BMW has added Zoom video conferencing to the Theater Screen, which measures over 31 inches. 6 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The gas-powered 740 and 740 xDrive models get an upgrade under the hood; the B58 inline-six now produces 394 horsepower. A 750e PHEV model is coming in 2027 with 483 hp. 7 Jared Rosenholtz/Autoblog The all-electric i7 now features BMW's Gen6 cylindrical battery cells, improving the range to over 350 miles in the 50 xDrive and 60 xDrive variants. A new standard NACS port enables charging speeds up to 250 kW, an improvement from the previous 195 kW peak. View the full article

The Cost of TransitionGeneral Motors may have taken a multibillion-dollar hit to its electric-vehicle strategy, but the company remains committed to sustainability. In fact, GM has secured enough renewable energy to match 100% of its electricity use across all U.S. facilities in 2025, making it the first U.S. automaker to do so. That does not mean every GM facility runs solely on renewable electricity in real time. Rather, the company says it contracts enough clean energy from sources such as solar and wind to match its annual U.S. electricity use on a 1:1 basis. It matters because the company can support vehicle production with cleaner energy while reducing climate impact. Other benefits include strengthening its EV narrative with models like the Chevrolet Silverado EV and limiting exposure to energy price volatility. General Motors Inside the Energy StrategyThe feat was achieved by GM’s diverse mix of renewable energy sources. In 2025, 40% came from clean-energy utility programs, while 37% was sourced through virtual power purchase agreements. The smaller remaining share came from unbundled renewable energy credits (14%), default delivered renewable energy (8%), and on-site generation and landfill gas (1%). As a result, GM has reduced operational emissions by 52% since 2018. It has also contracted 1.5 GW of renewable energy capacity through 2026, enough to power 260,000 homes annually. In terms of economic impact, the company’s renewable energy investments generated $1.9 billion in GDP, created 1,528 construction jobs per year, and supported 65 operational jobs per year from 2015 to 2024. Meanwhile, projects scheduled for 2025 to 2026 are expected to generate $333 million in GDP. General Motors Expanding the MissionGeneral Motors says its “zero-emissions journey starts before an EV customer ever hits the accelerator.” The company operates an EV plant in Michigan called Factory Zero, which is intended to drive renewable energy adoption across the automotive value chain through programs such as Transform: Auto, a commitment it is encouraging suppliers and partners to join. GM’s Spring Hill, Tennessee, plant, which builds EVs including the Cadillac Lyriq and Vistiq, is also part of that commitment. However, not all EVs are produced in the U.S. The Chevrolet Equinox EV and Blazer EV, along with Cadillac’s entry-level EV, the Optiq, are built at its Ramos Arizpe Assembly plant in Mexico. Whether savings from more stable energy costs and reduced emissions-compliance spending will improve vehicle affordability remains unclear, but it’s a notable step forward in sustainability. Gemini View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Like the Toyota Hilux, the Isuzu D-Max is another capable Japanese midsize pickup the US market unfortunately does not get. That’s because Isuzu exited the US light-vehicle market in early 2009, focusing exclusively on commercial vehicles and industrial engine operations in the country. But Isuzu keeps selling passenger vehicles in other parts of the world, and it currently builds only two models, the D-Max and the MU-X midsize SUV, which is actually based on the pickup. Known for its rugged durability, impressive off-road capabilities, class-leading towing and payload ratings, as well as robust diesel engines, the D-Max has the reputation of a dependable workhorse. Prices Start at Over $81,000 in the UK Isuzu UK To keep up with the times, the D-Max has received an all-electric variant that should enhance the nameplate’s appeal in some markets, including the UK. Unveiled a year ago at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham, the Isuzu D-Max EV is starting UK deliveries next month, and the prices have just been announced. Spoiler alert: it’s expensive. The new Isuzu D-Max EV starts at £59,995—the equivalent of $81,000—for the eDL40 trim with extended cab, while the same trim with double cab costs £60,995 ($82,300). There’s also a range-topping eV-Cross trim priced from £62,495 ($84,350). That’s a lot of money for a midsize pickup, but it’s competitive with the Toyota Hilux BEV, which hasn't launched in the UK yet but is expected to start at around £60,000. Isuzu UK The Isuzu D-Max EV features a 66.9-kWh battery enabling a 163-mile range (WLTP combined); for comparison, the Hilux BEV offers a claimed range of 149 miles. In the city, the D-Max EV is said to cover almost 224 miles. The D-Max EV's battery powers a dual-motor AWD powertrain with a combined 200 horsepower and 256 pound-feet of torque; the front electric motor has 62 hp while the rear motor has 138 hp. This setup enables the electric pickup to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 10.1 seconds and reach a top speed of over 80 mph. It Beats the Electric Hilux at Hauling and Towing The good thing about the D-Max EV is that it doesn't sacrifice the pickup truck stuff for the sake of electrification. It is as capable as its diesel-powered sibling, becoming the first fully electric commercial pickup in the UK to offer a payload of over 1 metric ton (2,204 pounds), which is significantly better than the Hilux BEV’s 1,576-lb payload. The D-Max EV also has a towing capacity of 3.5 metric tons (7,716 pounds), more than double than the Hilux BEV’s 3,525-lb rating. Isuzu does not say what driving range the D-Max EV is expected to offer when hauling and towing, but you can be sure it drops significantly from the advertised 163 miles. Isuzu does say the D-Max EV offers an optional Eco drive mode that extends the range (it does not say by how much), as well as four selectable regenerative charging levels. Speaking of charging, the D-Max EV’s battery takes one hour to charge from a DC supply at maximum 50 kW or six hours from an AC supply at maximum 11 kW. As Rugged and Capable as the Diesel-Powered Isuzu D-Max The D-Max EV uses the same strengthened ladder chassis of the regular Isuzu D-Max, but adds a new De-Dion semi-independent suspension system replacing the traditional leaf springs to manage the increased weight of the battery pack, improve handling and refinement, as well as reduce cabin noise and vibration under full acceleration by up to 10%. The off-road capability is also worthy of the D-Max name, with the EV featuring the D-Max Rough Terrain Mode, 210-mm (8.2-in) ground clearance, 600-mm (23.6-in) maximum water fording, and impressive off-road approach and departure angles of 30.5 degrees and 24.2 degrees respectively. The new Isuzu D-Max EV’s standard equipment includes a leather/high-grade cloth interior, dual-zone climate control, heated seats, front and rear parking sensors, bi-LED headlights, a 7-inch driver information display. All models come with an eight-year, 125,000-mile battery warranty. View the full article

Building Up The CommunityWillow Springs is one of the few tracks most can describe as quaint, situated in Southern California. It has, over the years, served as a venue for racing, but also become a trackday favorite in more recent times. It also has many starring roles in U.S.-based YouTube car videos. Willow Springs is also known as the "Fastest Road in the West" and is considered by most to be the oldest continuously operating road course in the U.S. In 2025, the historic track was bought by Singer Vehicle Designs and CrossHarbor Capital Partners, with the intention of developing it as a destination for the motoring and racing community. Singer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Singer Drivers Club ExperienceSinger and CrossHarbor have announced a new project, the Singer Drivers Club. This exclusive experience will be a private members' club at the Willow Springs circuit, serving as a new hospitality area. It will be just the first step in both companies' plans to make the Southern California race track a world-class automotive destination. Singer and partners are keen to make Willow Springs a global hub for motorsports and the community. The whole complex spans 600 acres, and the track has multiple layouts. The new owners are saying that all three track layouts will remain open to track visitors. New enhancements to the current facilities are also underway to improve the whole experience. Within this complex will be the Singer Drivers Club, which will operate as an independent entity. Some of the experiences offered within the driver's club will include concierge services, driver coaching, and a bespoke food and beverage program, creating a distinct and elevated presence within Willow Springs. One key aspect stressed by the group is that this experience will be different from other private track clubs. Singer's package will give members access to multiple tracks and driving environments in a single destination. This is their means to achieve variety and a better progression of driver skill. Members can engage across a spectrum of disciplines, from high-speed circuit driving to technical development and off-road exploration. Singer Championship Star PowerAs if this exclusive couldn't get any better, the Singer Drivers Club will offer members a chance to use a unique fleet of Porsche 718 Caymans and the more track-focused GT4 RS, along with driver coaching and data analysis. From a more grassroots standpoint, there will also be a karting experience, anchored by Singer's global ambassador, Formula 1 World Champion and pundit Jenson Button. Part complex will also have member-only facilities, including the Streets Paddock House and the Member Lounge, which feature a bar and lounge, locker rooms, simulators, and conference rooms. Singer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Atlas Has Proven Its Place in VW’s US LineupNearly ten years after it first rolled off the line, the Volkswagen Atlas has quietly hit a milestone that says a lot about its place in the US market. One million units have now come out of the Chattanooga, Tennessee plant – not because of any one big sales year, but thanks to consistent demand year after year. The Atlas has become one of Volkswagen’s most important models in the US, now second only to the Tiguan in sales. In 2025, VW sold 71,044 Atlas units here, which helps explain how the SUV reached that million-unit milestone. Volkswagen Built for the US, and It ShowsVolkswagen started building the Atlas in Chattanooga back in 2016, and from the start, it was designed with North American buyers in mind. That’s clear in the essentials: three real rows, cargo space you can actually use, and a focus on comfort instead of just style. In 2019, Volkswagen added the Atlas Cross Sport – a two-row version for those who wanted the same size and look but didn’t need all the seats. Even so, most buyers still go for the standard Atlas, which accounts for about three-quarters of production, with the Cross Sport filling the rest. Last year, the Atlas family moved over 100,000 units in the US. Nearly a third of all Volkswagens sold here now wear the Atlas badge in some form, which shows just how central this SUV has become to VW’s plans in America. This milestone also puts a spotlight on the Chattanooga plant and its team, both of which have grown with the Atlas program and now play a big part in Volkswagen’s North American operations. Volkswagen View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A New Chapter Starts with the 2027 ModelVolkswagen isn’t letting up. The next Atlas has already made its debut at the New York International Auto Show, giving us a look at how VW plans to evolve its proven formula. The 2027 Atlas gets a bolder look, more tech, and a more upscale interior, but the basics haven’t changed. It’s still about space, practicality, and the features families actually use in a midsize SUV. More importantly, VW has confirmed that electrified versions of the Atlas family is on the horizon. The new model is scheduled to go on sale in the US this fall. Not long after, Volkswagen will roll out the second-generation Atlas Cross Sport, rounding out the next phase of a nameplate that has quietly become one of the brand’s most reliable performers. Adam Lynton / Autoblog View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas Speedway on Sunday drew 2.926 million viewers on over-the-air FOX according to Nielsen’s Big Data + Panel metric. Beyond just the factual number, there is not a straightforward comparison, since this race aired on FS1 last year. NASCAR boasted a 26 percent increase from Kansas last year but that race aired on FS1. An April Cup Series race would be over 3 ...Keep readingView the full article

The Toyota GR Supra is a sports car. It's low, it's quick, and it’s impractical by design. The bZ Woodland is a rugged electric SUV with five seats, roof rails, and all-terrain tires. These two cars have no business sitting side by side on a spec sheet. And yet, in independent testing by Car and Driver, both the Woodland and the six-cylinder GR Supra equipped with the manual gearbox recorded identical 0-60 mph times of 3.9 seconds. That's not a claimed figure from Toyota, either. It's a real-world, verified number, and it beat Toyota's own claim of 4.4 seconds by half a second. The Woodland also blitzes the quarter-mile with a 12.5-second pass that's barely slower than a BMW M2. On all-terrain tires. Which begs the question: why does a family SUV need sportscar-level performance in the first place? Toyota View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What the bZ Woodland Actually IsThe Woodland is a dual-motor, all-wheel drive electric midsize SUV, larger than the more affordable bZ, sitting on a 74.7 kWh battery pack. It produces 375 horsepower and 396 lb-ft of torque, with the torque arriving the way it always does in EVs: instantly. Range is rated at 281 miles on standard tires, dropping to 260 miles on the optional all-terrain rubber. DC fast charging at up to 150 kW can bring the battery from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes, and a Level 2 home charger handles a full top-up in roughly seven hours. Pricing starts at $45,300, stretching to around $48,000 for the Premium trim. The 382-horsepower Supra, by comparison, also does 3.9 seconds, but you'll pay around $60,000 for the privilege, and you get only two seats. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Fast Is Easy Now. Does That Actually Matter?Electric motors have made performance almost embarrassingly democratic. A family SUV matching a sports car's sprint time is no longer a headline that shocks engineers; it's just the nature of instant torque and dual-motor AWD. The more interesting question is whether any of this speed is actually what buyers of a practical electric SUV need. The bZ Woodland's job is to carry families, haul cargo, occasionally venture off-road, and make daily charging painless. Range, charging infrastructure access, and real-world usability are the metrics that determine whether an EV is genuinely useful. A 3.9-second 0-60 is a fun talking point, but a much more useful upgrade for the people actually buying these types of EVs would be a range greater than the Woodland's 281 miles, via more conservatively tuned electric motors. Sure, the speed is a bonus. A very impressive one, but it’s just a little pointless at the end of the day for the type of car the bZ Woodland is. View the full article

Every year, over 5,000 people die in commercial truck crashes across the United States. While many are tragic accidents, a disturbing number involve "chameleon carriers"—unsafe trucking fleets that dodge federal penalties by simply changing their names. And despite years of warnings, the regulatory loophole allowing them to operate remains wide open. Chameleon CarriersThe mechanism is straightforward. When a commercial carrier racks up a large number of safety violations, out-of-service orders, or crippling fines, the operators don't pay up. Instead, they fold the company. Days later, the exact same trucks, drivers, and management apply for a new Department of Transportation (DOT) number. For roughly $1,000, they buy a clean slate. Repeat offenses aren't a byproduct of the system; they are the underlying business model. AI The sheer scale of “Semi-gate”, as I like to call it, was recently laid bare by CBS’s 60 Minutes. In an eight-month-long investigation, correspondent Bill Whitaker exposed Super Ego Holding, a sprawling transport network operating between the U.S. and Serbia. The investigation revealed an operation where overseas agents routinely hacked electronic logging devices, allowing drivers to push past legal exhaustion limits. When the regulatory heat turned up, whistleblowers testified that management ordered drivers to literally slap duct tape over old company logos to display newly minted DOT numbers. The barrier to entry for this game? An internet connection and a nominal registration fee, entirely avoiding meaningful safety audits. Are American Motorists Safe?For the American motorist, the repercussions are severe. The 60 Minutes episode referred to industry analytics firm Fusable’s research, which notes that these reincarnated fleets are four times more likely to trigger severe collisions than legitimate new operators. The numbers connected to the Super Ego network alone are chilling: nearly 15,000 safety violations and 500 crashes in just two years. Federal ActionThese figures have finally triggered federal action. Super Ego is now the subject of an active federal investigation, and lawmakers recently introduced the SAFE Act (H.R. 7539) to force the FMCSA to implement automated screening to block chameleon applicants at the door. Yet, Washington has known about this for over a decade. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) first flagged the chameleon carrier crisis in 2012, citing crash data stretching back to 2005. The root problem is simple math. The FMCSA employs roughly 350 investigators to police over 700,000 motor carriers. It takes months of legal maneuvering to shut down a dangerous fleet, but only a few weeks to register a new one online. AI The freight industry runs on razor-thin margins. Until regulators mandate rigorous physical vetting over digital paperwork, bad actors will keep exploiting the system because it is cheaper to rebrand than to repair brakes and let drivers sleep. For the everyday commuter, your best defense is distance. Maintain a wide berth around battered rigs, especially those sporting fresh, hastily applied DOT decals over older paint or duct-taped doors. The company name might only be a week old, but the heavy machinery—and the exhausted driver behind the wheel—could be harboring a long, dangerous, and unresolved past. View the full article