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When Toyota opened orders for its new bZ7 electric sedan in China, the response was almost violent. Over 3,100 reservations came in within the first hour. That kind of demand happens when a company builds something extraordinary, prices it aggressively, and drops it into one of the most cutthroat EV markets on the planet. The bZ7 is Toyota's flagship electric vehicle in China, developed through its GAC-Toyota joint venture. It is, by any measure, a big deal, and it is almost certainly never coming to the United States. If it did, you can be sure that it would have gotten way more than 3,100 orders in an hour, thanks to the US market being starved for affordable EVs. GAC Toyota View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Flagship That Punches Well Below Its WeightOn paper, the bZ7 makes a mockery of Western pricing logic. At 202 inches long with a 118.9-inch wheelbase, it is physically larger than a Tesla Model S. Yet it starts at just $21,500, topping at $29,000. The Model 3, a smaller car from Tesla, starts at roughly $34,500 in China. The bZ7 undercuts it by over $13,000. GAC Toyota With 278 horsepower, performance may be called modest, but its range is not. The larger 88 kWh LFP battery pack offers up to 440 miles of claimed range, and fast charging can recover 186 miles in just 10 minutes. Inside, buyers get zero-gravity front seats with heating, ventilation and massage, a floating 15.6-inch center display running Huawei's HarmonyOS, Xiaomi smart-home integration, and an optional driver assistance suite built around roof-mounted lidar, five millimeter-wave radars, 11 HD cameras, and 10 ultrasonic sensors, making for 27 sensors in total. The Toyota bZ7 is by no means a bargain bin product; it’s a proper flagship with features to match, just at prices that don’t seem to line up. How the bZ7 Is So Affordable in ChinaThe Toyota bZ7 is so affordable primarily because it is built in China, for China. Local battery supply chains, domestic tech partnerships with Huawei and Xiaomi, and fierce competition from rivals like BYD all drive costs down in ways that simply do not exist in the American manufacturing context. Toyota Toyota has given no indication the bZ7 will ever arrive in the US, but even if it did, import tariffs, regulatory compliance costs, and American labour expenses would almost certainly push the price past $40,000, possibly higher. Even if someone wanted to import one in and deal with the 100 percent tariffs, it just isn’t possible. It is a car engineered for a market that rewards value above almost everything else. In America, where Toyota sells Tundras and Sequoias at enormous margins, that equation is very different. View the full article

Trucks and SUVs may dominate U.S. car sales, but a small sedan is generally much more affordable to buy and run. They’re also lighter on gas, a key consideration as gas prices have jumped substantially in 2026. That brings us to the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Mazda 3, three of the most reliable Japanese sedans on sale. But which one of these three is the safest if the worst happens? Based on the 2026 ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, we’ll compare these three cars based on crash worthiness and crash prevention. Related: Honda CR-V Vs. Nissan Rogue Vs. Hyundai Tucson: Which SUV Is The Safest? Crashworthiness: Mazda Takes The LeadIn the crashworthiness category, the IIHS runs three different crash tests. In the small overlap front, a collision with the front corner of the vehicle is tested. The moderate overlap front involves an offset crash between two cars, while the side impact tests evaluate the structural integrity of the side of a vehicle. Ratings of Good, Acceptable, Marginal, or Poor are assigned for each test. Mazda 3 Honda Civic Toyota Corolla Small Overlap Front Good Good Good Moderate Overlap Front Good Acceptable Not Tested Side Good Good Not Tested The Corolla wasn’t evaluated for two of the three tests, while the Civic was marked down in the moderate overlap front test for issues with the rear passenger restraints and dummy kinetics. Only the Mazda achieved Good ratings in all three tests. It’s also the only one of these three to attain the Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, which indicates high safety scores in all key tests. Related: Honda Civic vs. Accord vs. CR-V: Which Is Safest? Crash Prevention: Toyota Shines Toyota The only thing better than a car that protects you in a crash is one that can help you avoid a crash in the first place. These tests evaluate crash prevention between two cars and between a car and pedestrian. A headlight rating is also provided. Mazda 3 Honda Civic Toyota Corolla Headlights Good and Acceptable (trim-dependent) Good Good Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) Acceptable Acceptable Good Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) Good Acceptable Good The Honda is the newest car between these three, so it’s surprising that the others outperformed it in crash-prevention tests. It was also the only car with a Marginal rating for the seatbelt reminder system. The Corolla was the best, with a spread of only Good ratings. It was the only car here to avoid a collision with another vehicle at all tested speeds. The Mazda’s standard headlights were rated as Acceptable; you need to spend a lot more on a top trim if you want Good-rated headlights. The others have Good ratings for their headlights, regardless of trim. Final Verdict: Mazda Wins, Honda Trails Mazda All three cars provide a level of crash protection and prevention that’s now expected from a modern vehicle—even a small, light sedan. The Mazda is the best at protecting occupants in a crash, while the Toyota leads for crash prevention. The Honda didn’t win in any category, so there’s room for improvement. Overall safety goes to Mazda for now, as it’s the only model here with a Top Safety Pick+ award. However, if the Corolla aces its remaining crash tests, it will also qualify for this award. Related: Mazda Just Took Volvo’s Safety Crown, Says Consumer Reports View the full article

The age-old question, “Can a car be an investment?” The answer, of course, is yes, it can be, if you choose well and time it right. Having mentioned the timing, we take a look at five modern classics that have appreciated over five years, and we predict that they will continue to appreciate in the foreseeable future. Explaining the MarketThe market for classic cars, specifically, and used cars in general, has seen record performance in recent years, and one could argue that this is due to the homogeneity of newer cars. Within the American automobile market today, the sheer volume of bloated, overly complex, and electronically numb appliances masquerading as cars is staggering. Automakers are spending more of their R&D budgets on infotainment screens, emissions compliance, and autonomous lane-keep assists than they are on driving dynamics. Leaving enthusiasts with no optimism for the future, making them look backward, modern classics are the darling segment of investment-class cars in 2026, combining visceral charm with modern usability. As the supply of clean and original examples of modern classics dries up across the United States, the value curves on select cars haven't just flattened—they are moving significantly upward. We aren't talking about million-dollar garage queens. We are talking about accessible classics you can buy today, experience, and sell for a profit in five years. Here are five future classics currently trading in the American market that are primed for a steady appreciation - all valuation data is from Bring A Trailer. Mazda MX-5 / Miata - NA Generation Mazda Five years ago, clean examples of the first-generation NA Mazda Miata (1989-1997) could be had for around the $5,000 mark. Between then and now, prices have almost doubled, now stable around the $10,000 level for stock clean examples, while fully built cars, including LS-swapped projects, trade at over $30,000. Hardly surprising considering the overall investment return on popular JDM sportscars such as Mk4 Toyota Supras or really any generation of Nissan GT-R. The Miata offers the kind of distilled and pure driving experience that no modern vehicle, aside from its great-grandchild, the Mazda MX-5 ND, can match. From its agile dynamics to its reputation for being reliable and well built, the NA Mazda Miata is sure to continue this upward trajectory simply due to the fact that there will always be demand for an honest driver’s car. Nissan Z32 300ZX Nissan The Nissan Z32 300ZX seems to have missed out on the hype that gripped cars like its cousin, the Nissan GT-R, the Toyota Supra, and other JDM icons. For no good reason though, because with its VG30 6-cylinder architecture, assisted by cutting edge (for the time) electronics, dual overhead cams and a twin-turbo variant, the 300ZX was way ahead of its time, making 300 hp in the USDM variants, and 283 lb-ft of torque, even being offered from the factory with limited-slip differentials, produced between 1989 and 2000. Prices for the Z32 300ZX have doubled in the last five years, with clean twin-turbo examples going from a benchmark of $15,000 - $20,000 to now trading at around $40,000 for similar examples. Being that it is still possible to find a good deal in the mid-to-high $20,000s, and with upward potential for the foreseeable future, the 300ZX may not be the easiest to work on and maintain, with its cramped engine bay and being from the era of early electronics, however it offers an incredibly rewarding driving experience, and it shares its headlights with the Lamborghini Diablo, which is always cool. BMW E36 3-Series BMW When we assess the market for more mainstream vehicles, which were produced in larger numbers, the ones to look out for are the higher power, higher spec, and more unique variants of these cars. Older BMW 3-Series models, specifically the E36 generation, is the poster child of the modern-classic movement. Models like the M3, the 328is, and the 325is offer precision engineering and immense driver involvement at friendly prices. Five years ago, an E36 BMW six-cylinder variant would sell for comfortably under the $7,500 mark. Today, however, clean examples of sedan E36 six-cylinder models are trading at over $10,000. With the E36 fanbase growing and E30-generation BMWs getting expensive, the E36 may take a while to significantly appreciate. They make for enjoyable cars that are not difficult to take care of, by German car standards. Jeep Cherokee XJ Stellantis Off-roading and overlanding are two of the fastest-growing subcultures in the car world. A direct consequence of this is the increasing values of popular SUVs like Land-Cruisers and classic G-wagens. However, those cars now cost a pretty penny, and if we are trying to identify a good deal on a capable 4x4, we settle on the Jeep Cherokee XJ. Unlike other 4x4s of the time, the XJ utilized a unibody construction with integrated frame rails. This made it incredibly light—weighing between 3,000 and 3,400 pounds—giving it an excellent power-to-weight ratio and making it highly maneuverable on the trail. Offered with four and six-cylinder motors, the one to get is the legendary 4.0-liter Straight 6, known to be reliable and torquey. Prices for like-for-like variants of the Jeep Cherokee XJ have approximately doubled in the last 5 years, and being that they can still regularly be had for well under $10,000, they make for quite the bargain if you’re looking for a capable, reliable, and cool 4x4. Porsche 928 Porsche Everybody knows that the 911 is the most recognizable Porsche, but for people who were around when the 928 and 968 were launched, they remember them as being some of the most iconic, futuristic cars of their time. For the purpose of this article, we will only consider the 928. The all-aluminium SOHC 4.5-liter M28, Porsche’s first V8 engine, built in 1978, made 219 horsepower in the US models when the 928 was introduced. When the M28 eventually ended its service in the 928 in 1995, it was also available as a 5.7-liter DOHC V8. The desirable 5-speed manual examples used to sell for well under $20,000 in 2021; today, equivalent examples sell for around $40,000, double the price. Designed to replace the 911, as a powerful grand tourer, the 928 may have failed at creating a niche, but it is now set for significant appreciation. The era of accessible fun cars may be closing its doors, but it hasn't shut completely. The automotive market is loudly telegraphing what it values: repairability, engagement, and a true mechanical heartbeat. The question isn't whether these five cars will appreciate; the question is whether you'll buy one before you're completely priced out. View the full article

Gas theft is back again, and it has gotten meaner. With gasoline prices at their highest in four years, thieves have moved on from siphoning off gas to making holes in fuel tanks on parked cars. The method is simple and especially brutal in its aftereffects. A thief needs only an electric drill or a punch in both plastic or metal gas tanks, a few minutes, and something to catch the fuel. The driver, meanwhile, is left with a ruined tank and a repair bill that can run up to $3,000 for a replacement gas tank, if they're not jerry-rigging a sealant-fix together. According to some reports, repair shops are now fixing a gas tank with a hole in it roughly once a week. Before prices climbed, it happened maybe a couple of times a year. That sharp jump in frequency tells you everything about how desperate things have gotten. Unclesteve16/YouTube This Has Happened BeforeIn the 1970s, chronic gas shortages triggered a surge in siphoning. People would drop plastic tubing into the tanks of parked vehicles to drain the fuel. Annoying, but at least it left the car intact. Locking gas caps became common, and awareness went up. The same pattern played out more recently. When inflation peaked at 9.1 percent in June 2022, following pandemic-era supply chain chaos and rounds of stimulus spending, gas prices hit record highs, and theft incidents climbed with them. Each time prices spike, desperation follows. The difference now is that siphoning has largely been engineered out. Newer vehicles have narrow, curved filler necks and internal baffles that make forcing a tube through nearly impossible. So thieves drilled down to find another way in, literally. Do Not Expect Relief Anytime SoonAnyone hoping this is a short-term problem may be waiting a while. Gasoline prices surged 21 percent in March 2026 alone, the largest single-month jump on record. And once gas prices rise, history shows they rarely fall at the same speed they climbed. Economists have drawn comparisons to the late 1970s, when multiple energy shocks prevented inflation from normalizing and forced increasingly aggressive responses. For drivers watching the pump and their parked cars, the uncertainty of how long this will continue is far from comforting. View the full article

After an extended period of turmoil, Nissan is finally showing signs of a comeback, cutting underperforming models and launching new ones that should hold strong appeal. Among them is a new Xterra SUV, and Nissan has confirmed it will cost less than $40,000, making it a serious contender in the space occupied by the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler. According to CarBuzz, Nissan Americas boss Christian Meunier said, "We're at a time when the average transaction price in the U.S. is $48,000, and it's non-sustainable... [Nissan is] going to bring an Xterra below $40,000." So how will Nissan pull this off? Several ideas will be implemented, some of which the likes of Ford and Jeep have already implemented to great effect. How Nissan's New Xterra Will Be Affordable: Simplicity and Siblings, Including Infiniti SUV Nissan/LinkedIn The Nissan Americas CEO said the company has lost its way by putting a lot of technology into cars just for the sake of it, "adding a lot of features and cost" for little return, but with the Xterra, things will be different. "We're going to stop doing [that]," said Meunier. "And Xterra, I think, is going to be the symbol of this... [Nissan is] going to bring an Xterra with everything you need, nothing you don't, which is the slogan that was used in 2002, which we believe is right for the brand." The Jeep Wrangler has maintained its status as an icon by focusing on only the elements its customers want, not overcomplicating the vehicle with high-tech features that most may never even use. But this simplistic approach is not the only strategy Nissan will employ to keep Xterra costs down. Related: Nissan Is Getting Serious About Bringing the Silvia Back Just as the Ford Bronco shares its body-on-frame platform with the Ranger and Everest, Nissan's body-on-frame platform will underpin as many as four other SUVs, with V6 and V6 hybrid powertrains helping boost appeal against the four-cylinder Toyota 4Runner. One of the new vehicles expected on this architecture will be a new Infiniti off-roader, revealed Nissan Americas Chief Product and Planning Officer Ponz Pandikuthira: "So at this point, all we can say is, if Xterra, which has a clear position already in the marketplace of a rugged everything-you-need-nothing-you-don't-type SUV for Nissan, the Infiniti version will have to be separated from it, much like QX80 is separated from Armada." Autoblog's Take on Nissan's Affordable SUV Plans Nissan Nissan's new Xterra is only due in 2028, and plenty can change between now and then, but looking at the pricing of the SUV's would-be rivals today, Nissan could have a popular hit on its hands if all goes to plan. The Toyota 4Runner starts at $41,870, the Ford Bronco at $39,995, and the Jeep Wrangler at $39,040. If Nissan can launch its "badass" SUV in the same ballpark, it will be able to entice former buyers back to the brand and foster a new generation of enthusiasts. This new body-on-frame SUV, new sports cars, and new sedans could be the catalysts Nissan needs to mount a real challenge to its rivals in the U.S. But the automaker will need to work harder than ever—even Hyundai is working on rugged SUVs, and Kia is launching a midsize pickup in America too, which will almost definitely be complemented by an SUV at some stage. View the full article

'Overly Sensitive' Brake AssistIf you own a GM product with Super Cruise and have been experiencing overly sensitive automatic braking, there's currently an issue with the Integrated Brake Assist. The company issued a technical service bulletin for it back in November 2025, targeting 'Unwanted Integrated Brake Assist.' Several models are affected by the issue. GM Authority listed a couple of Cadillac models: Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, and the Vistiq. The Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, as well as the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, were also mentioned. Cadillac On HoldSeveral months have passed since the service bulletin was issued, but GM has just said the fix for the sensitive brake assist has been put on hold for select vehicles. Per GM Authority, there was no explanation given as to why it has been put on hold, nor when the company will start accepting cars for the specific repair again. It's worth noting that the fixes are suspended for 2026 model-year vehicles equipped with Super Cruise. The affected models include 2026 versions of the Cadillac CT5, Chevrolet Equinox EV and Silverado EV, and GMC Sierra EV. For those who have an older model, you may still head to your nearest dealer to get the service done. The full-size SUVs mentioned above are not affected by the suspension. Cadillac The ProblemBased on the service bulletin, the root cause of the problem is a software glitch that trips up the system, sending it into a 'panic'. That causes the aggressive intervention of the brake assist and, at worst, triggers a phantom-braking situation that could lead to an accident. GM Authority says the fix will take about an hour of labor to complete. The system will be reprogrammed to adjust its sensitivity and prevent further unwanted brake assist instances. For those with Super Cruise-equipped vehicles that are not affected by the temporary suspension of repairs, it's best to have the reprogrammed system installed as soon as possible. Chevrolet View the full article

A Virginia driver stared death in the face as her minivan exploded after she attempted to light a cigarette while driving with a propane tank in the vehicle. As if that did not constitute a major red flag in of itself, the propane tank had a small leak, which led to gas buildup in the Chrysler Pacifica minivan and an inevitable explosion that shook up the entire neighborhood in Burke, Virginia, in the morning of April 9. It's a Miracle That the Driver Escaped with Minor InjuriesMiraculously, the driver escaped with non-life-threatening injuries and no one got killed in the massive explosion that turned the minivan into a pile of scrap metal as the roof was blasted off and landed in the middle of the road, the windows were blown out, and the door panels split into pieces. The blast was so powerful that it shook homes nearby, with residents reporting pictures falling off walls and objects breaking. NBC4 Washington reported that firefighters arrived at the scene and quickly put out the burning car. The woman driving the minivan was found with burns on her arms and shaking uncontrollably after the explosion; she was able to walk as the ambulance arrived and she got rushed to the hospital for treatment. NBC4 Washington / YouTube A local resident told the news outlet that he saw the driver sitting on a curb in front of his home after the explosion. "A woman was comforting her. She was just shaking uncontrollably. She had burns on her arms. You know, it was like red — deep sunburn,” Alan Caramella said. Another resident said he was “in awe that nobody was killed,” noting that the blast sounded like a sonic boom and shook the townhouses. “Pictures fell off the wall and stuff broke,” Julian Hart said. The report cites Fairfax County police as saying that the woman did not know about the leak in the propane tank. Investigators believe that the driver probably had the windows rolled up as temperatures were in the 30s at the time of the incident, which enabled the Pacifica's cabin to get filled with gas. When she lit her cigarette, the car exploded. How You Should Transport a Propane Tank in Your Vehicle Propane.com Propane is commonly used as a fuel for heating and grills, but it is extremely flammable and needs to be handled with great care. Propane provide AmeriGas recommends carrying a propane tank wedged tightly between the front seat and the back seat in a vehicle, always in an upright position and firmly secured. If you transport it in the trunk, you’ll need to support it so that it stays upright during the drive. More importantly, you should never keep a filled propane cylinder inside a hot vehicle and you should always transport it in a well-ventilated area of the vehicle. Additionally, you should always close the cylinder valve, even if the cylinder is empty, and seal it with a plug. Once you get going, you should always proceed right to your destination and remove the tank from your vehicle immediately as you arrive. Finally, it goes without saying that you should never smoke while carrying a propane tank in your vehicle. View the full article

A Warmer Welcome in Japan Than ElsewhereThe Honda Prelude’s comeback has landed differently depending on where you are. In the US, most enthusiasts are still on the fence about a hybrid coupe wearing the Prelude badge. In Japan, though, demand has been strong from the start. Honda may have underestimated just how much weight the Prelude name still carries at home. That early demand led to the first special model, the Honda ON Limited Edition (with black roof and other niceties), which sold out quickly. Buyers had to move fast to get one, showing that supply couldn’t keep up. Now, with interest still high, Honda looks ready to roll out a second limited-edition version for Japan. Honda A More Distinctive Take on the PreludeDetails are still coming together, but this second special edition seems focused on looks rather than performance. According to Creative Trend, a website known for dealer-level info on upcoming JDM units, the main change is the color: instead of the usual options, this one is expected to wear Premium Crystal Garnet Metallic, a deeper, more mature red closer to maroon. It’s closer to the Premium Crystal Garnet Metallic available to Japan’s ZR-V (see image below) than to the Radiant Red Metallic available in America. The red theme reportedly continues in the cabin. Instead of the current blue-accented interior, this edition could get a full red treatment, but in a darker, more understated shade. It’s a clear shift from the launch model’s blue-and-white look, hinting that Honda is aiming for a different kind of buyer. Expect the exterior accents to change, too. The standard car’s blue highlights, especially up front, could be replaced with red, and even the brake calipers might match. It’s less about a traditional limited edition and more about pushing the Prelude’s look closer to a sportier, Type R-inspired style, even though the hardware stays the same with the 2.0-liter hybrid setup. Honda Questionable PricingIf the rumors are accurate, pricing could be the sticking point. Estimates put the special edition at 6.6-6.7 million yen before options, with actual prices possibly topping 7 million yen (around $44,000). That’s a big jump over the standard model, especially if most changes are just cosmetic. The special edition will reportedly debut as soon as summer 2026, which would be a quick follow-up to the last one. Whether buyers will jump in again at this price is still up in the air, but early signs suggest the Japanese market remains interested. There’s no sign this version will be sold outside Japan. Honda seems to be taking a careful approach to rebuilding the Prelude name, picking its markets. For America, this special edition is probably something to watch from afar, not expect in showrooms. Kristen Brown View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Shady DealingsBuying a car is a very complicated process, a filled experience; it isn't as straightforward as walking into a dealership, choosing, and buying the car of your choice. In reality, it requires a lot of back-and-forth between the dealership and the customer to obtain all necessary approvals and documents. Sometimes, without anyone's knowledge or consent, some of the people who work for the dealership engage in dubious sales practices to trick buyers into overspending or to cheat them out of what they actually paid for. Jeep Buyers BewareAutomotive News reports that a lawsuit has been filed by a customer named Louis Huertas, who recently had a bad sales experience at a Jeep dealership. Huertas' complaint details that the Riverdale Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Ram dealership in the Bronx, New York, offered to buy his old Cherokee at 20% above market value and also offered him a 2025 Grand Cherokee L with just 13 miles. After accepting the offer for the 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, Huertas says he signed the documents with a wet signature but wasn't given a copy. Things took a turn when the financial services contacted him, saying his "new" Grand Cherokee L had falsified mileage; the 13 miles were actually 6,216 miles, as confirmed by the odometer. After discovering the discrepancy, he immediately alerted the lender about the dealer's misrepresentation. Furthermore, it seems that not only was the mileage false, but he also ended up paying more for the car itself. The agreed-upon sale price was $49,000, but after Huertas reviewed the sales contract, he saw that the final listed sale price was bumped up by $2,400 to $51,400. Other added costs he didn't sign up for were included in the contract, such as the $3,882 service contract and the $1,000 tire-and-rim contract. Jeep FalsifiedHuertas' lawsuit claims he discovered these additional charges in the sales contract, which he alleges contained a forged version of his signature. Huertas says he documents that he signed the credit application with a digital signature; everything else was signed by hand. The complaint alleges that the dealership routinely hides the true cost of borrowing from customers by failing to disclose price increases and by including unwanted, undisclosed products. The lawsuit is seeking compensatory and punitive damages in relation to fraud and violations of the Truth in Lending Act, Odometer Act, New York’s motor vehicle and deceptive practices laws. Jeep View the full article

The Reliable V6 That Might Not Be BulletproofSince 2020, the Nissan Frontier has been offered with just one engine: the 3.8-liter VQ38DD. It checks a lot of boxes for buyers looking for a no-nonsense V6, free from complexity and rooted in the well-established VQ family. With 310 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque, it’s competitive for the segment and keeps things refreshingly simple. The VQ38DD brings a familiar formula: all-aluminum construction, direct injection, dual overhead cams, and electronically controlled variable valve timing. It’s widely regarded as one of the more robust engines in its class, with many expecting it to easily reach 200,000 miles or more with proper care. But as with most engines known for reliability, there’s often more to the story. A recent teardown by I Do Cars uncovered a potential weak spot that could turn a minor issue into something much bigger if left unchecked. What Went WrongThe engine examined was pulled from a 2021 Frontier with about 120,000 miles on the clock. It arrived as a core for teardown, so its full history was unknown. Right away, there were hints of trouble: spark plugs showed moisture, and the intake ports had both carbon buildup and visible water on the valves. Once the teardown started, the main problem became obvious. The engine oil had turned milky, a clear sign of coolant contamination. Digging deeper, the culprit was found: the internal water pump had failed. Unlike earlier VQ engines, where a water pump failure usually meant an external leak, this design lets coolant seep into the crankcase if the pump fails from the inside. In this teardown, the pump was badly worn, with damaged bearings and clear signs of failure. Coolant mixed with oil, cutting lubrication, and spreading debris throughout the engine. The result? Widespread internal wear. Bearings were heavily damaged, camshaft journals showed scoring, and metal particles had spread through the system. There was also physical damage near the water pump housing, enough to render the block unusable. While some components, like pistons, appeared salvageable, the engine as a whole was effectively done. I Do Cars/YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article What This Means for OwnersPerspective matters here. The VQ38DD is still widely seen as a durable engine, and there’s no clear trend of widespread failures. What this teardown shows is how one overlooked part can have outsized consequences if it goes bad. For owners, this makes regular maintenance even more important. Using quality oil and fuel, as recommended for direct-injection engines, is a good baseline. Staying on top of oil changes is especially key, since clean lubrication is what keeps these engines running for the long haul. It’s also worth keeping an eye on the cooling system. If you notice unexplained coolant loss, overheating, or any signs of oil contamination, it’s best to address it right away. Waiting could make things worse in a hurry. The VQ38DD still looks like a solid, long-lived engine. This teardown just showed that the internal water pump could be a weak spot if things go sideways. It’s not a reason to worry, but it is something to keep in mind. Chris McGraw View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Timeline Takes ShapeWith the next-generation Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 reportedly arriving for the 2027 model year, production is also nearing. A report from GM Authority claims that, citing sources familiar with the matter, the two new full-size pickup trucks are expected to enter production in October 2026. This claim could prove useful for shoppers looking for a fresh truck on the market. However, despite production reportedly starting in about six months, not much is known about the upcoming models. Still, a few leaks and findings offer an early idea of what to expect once General Motors reveals more information. Chevrolet/USPTO A New Identity FormsOne of the most talked-about changes so far is the design, which came to light after leaked design patents surfaced. Up front, the trucks appear to feature slim daytime running lights above C-shaped headlights, while the grille and hood adopt a more squared-off look. The front-end styling resembles that of the Mitsubishi Triton, a midsize pickup not available in the U.S., giving it a more rugged appeal. Reports suggest that the next-gen Chevy Silverado could get a massaging front seat function for the first time, a feature long offered in its more premium alternative, the GMC Sierra. Both upcoming trucks are expected to ride on an updated version of the GM T1 platform, codenamed T1-2. Powertrain options could include updated versions of the 2.7-liter L3B turbocharged inline-four and 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six, along with the automaker's new Gen 6 small-block V8 architecture, which is also slated for the new Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport. AutoYa/YouTube The Plants Powering ProductionThe report noted that the start of regular production remains tentative, meaning it could change at any time. Both the Silverado and Sierra are currently built at GM’s Fort Wayne plant in Indiana and Silao plant in Mexico, while the Chevy truck is also produced at GM’s Oshawa plant in Canada, which helps meet strong demand in North America. The segment’s top rival, the Ford F-150, is also due for a full redesign, though it likely won’t arrive until 2029. Meanwhile, the Ram 1500 received a mid-cycle update for the 2025 model year and is expected to add a range-extender variant, which has faced delays amid market uncertainties around EVs. Chevrolet/USPTO View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

RAV4 EV? Not Anytime SoonToyota has transformed the RAV4 into a hybrid-only vehicle for the 2026 model year, signaling the possibility of a fully electric version in the future. However, new RAV4 chief engineer Yoshinori Futonagane told Australia’s Drive through an interpreter that going fully electric is not expected to happen, at least in the coming years. Instead, Futonagane-san pointed to Toyota’s multi-powertrain approach, which may have helped the brand deal with changing EV policies, a challenge companies like Stellantis are now confronting. For those who might want a Toyota-badged EV, he championed the bZ (or bZ4X in Australia), an all-electric compact crossover that rivals the likes of the Tesla Model Y. He said, “We haven't given... a lot of deep thought” to an electric RAV4. Toyota Keeping Lanes SeparateIf Toyota aims to expand the reach of its EV lineup, leveraging the RAV4 nameplate would be a logical move right now. However, the Japanese marque wants to maintain a clear distinction between the RAV4 and the bZ. The RAV4 is designed to meet strong demand for SUVs, a key advantage given the segment's continued popularity. By contrast, the bZ is meant to more fully reflect the brand's vision for an EV while also helping the brand deepen its understanding of the segment, rather than diving in headfirst. Still, Toyota is not closing its doors on a possible RAV4 EV. Futonagane-san said, “The technology leads us to a point where we all say: wait, we could do a BEV RAV4. That could happen, so I don't want to say that will never happen. [But] it's not going to happen today.” Toyota Toyota’s Measured EV PushAfter all, the RAV4 shares the TNGA-K platform with the Lexus ES, which now spans both hybrid and fully electric variants. Similar strategies have been adopted elsewhere, with Hyundai applying it to the Kona, while Ford leverages the Mustang nameplate for the all-electric Mustang Mach-E. For now, Toyota remains cautious about going all-electric, offering only the bZ, bZ Woodland, and C-HR in the U.S. RAV4 buyers seeking a plug-in version can instead look to the RAV4 PHEV, which starts at $41,500 before destination fees, nearly $10,000 more than the hybrid version. Meanwhile, the bZ sits in the middle, starting at around $34,900. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A month after BMW revealed the new i3—essentially an electric 3 Series—its great rival has responded with the electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It marks an all-new era for the iconic compact sedans, and the new C-Class has been completely redesigned for the challenge. From its coupe-like profile to a jaw-dropping amount of tech inside and the bold claim that it rides as well as an S-Class, it’s a complete departure from the current gas-powered C-Class. But in order to edge its rival, the C-Class will also have to be a great EV. Has Mercedes nailed it or not? Here’s a first look. Fastback Design Deviates From Traditional Sedan Look 2027 Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article The new electric C-Class completely reimagines the traditional look of the sedan. In front, there’s a larger iconic grille with optional illumination and a chrome frame. This panel grille features optional animation when the vehicle is opened, closed, or charged. The new headlights have Mercedes star motifs, as we’ve become used to seeing on the latest vehicles from the brand. Digital Light headlamps are optional, and for the first time in the U.S., these will be offered with a partial high beam function. Flush-fitting door handles and that fastback rear define the sleek side view. Those door handles contribute to a drag coefficient of as low as 0.22. Deep red star design taillights also have the star motif. 2027 Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article In terms of size, the car’s wheelbase is 3.8 inches longer than the combustion-powered C-Class, but the short overhangs mean its body may not be longer. “With the all-new electric C-Class, we have made a profound statement: reinventing classic elegance for the electric age,” said Bastian Baudy, Chief Design Officer, Mercedes-Benz Group AG. “Its distinctive coupe-like silhouette, sculpted with taut surfaces and muscular wheel arches, radiates a powerful emotional appeal.” Interior: Screens Galore, More Space, and Sustainable Materials 2027 Electric Mercedes-Benz C-Class Mercedes-Benz View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Mercedes revealed the interior a few days ago, but now we have a clearer look at it from all angles. The new screen-festooned dashboard catches the eye first, with three different display options: 10.3-inch driver’s display, 14-inch center display, and digitally animated panel (standard equipment)MBUX Superscreen with 10.3-inch driver’s display, 14-inch center display, and 14-inch passenger-side display (optional)MBUX Hyperscreen with continuous 39.1-inch display (optional) Mercedes-Benz The Hyperscreen looks best, as it does away with the bezels of the other two options. Elsewhere, it’s the modern Mercedes interior we expect. There’s extravagant ambient lighting, high-end materials like “Twisted Diamond” design Nappa leather, and plenty of tech, including the available Sky Control panoramic roof with 162 illuminated stars. For the more environmentally-conscious customer, a certified vegan interior option is available. Mercedes-Benz Mercedes has incorporated a number of noise-reducing measures, which includes standard noise-insulating front door glass and a quieter air-conditioning system. The new climate control system heats up twice as fast as the one in a combustion-engined vehicle, further improving comfort. There’s also more space than in the gas-powered C-Class, with greater front legroom and overall headroom. Here are just a few of the advanced features available inside the C-Class: Burmester 4D sound systemMassage function across entire backrest11 high-resolution ambient stylesMBUX Virtual AssistantMBUX Augmented Reality Head-Up DisplayAI integration of ChatGPT4o, Microsoft Bing, and Google GeminiAlthough touchscreen-based controls dominate, Mercedes has incorporated new physical roller switches on the steering wheel for volume control and the cruise control. There’s another row of physical switches lower down for the hazards, driving mode selection, and volume. Overall, it’s a cabin that looks upscale and ultra-modern. Performance, Range, and Charging Mercedes-Benz The first variant of the new C-Class to be available at launch will be the C400 4Matic Electric. Producing 482 horsepower and with standard all-wheel drive, it’s capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in only 3.9 seconds. That power comes from the combination of a permanently excited synchronous motor on the rear axle and another motor on the front axle. Under low load, the front motor can be decoupled, which improves efficiency and range. The rear axle features a two-speed transmission, which boosts performance and efficiency, with the second gear designed for power delivery at higher speeds. Depending on the driving mode, the shift points will differ. With 800-volt technology and a 94-kW battery, the C-Class is capable of fast charging and a long range per charge. Mercedes claims a WLTP-rated range of 762 kilometers, which works out to around 473 miles. Expect closer to 400 miles by EPA standards, which means the 440-mile BMW i3 would be ahead in this department. Mercedes-Benz DC fast charging at up to 330 kW is possible in the Mercedes, again slightly down on the BMW’s 400 kW maximum. Still, the Mercedes will be able to add around 200 miles of range in 10 minutes, which is impressive. A standard DC converter enables charging at 400-volt charging stations when needed. Mercedes has made the bold claim that the C-Class delivers levels of comfort and smoothness to match the S-Class on longer journeys. The optional Airmatic air suspension and 4.5-degree rear-axle steering deliver high levels of sportiness and comfort, depending on the driving mode. These capabilities can be unlocked by opting for the Agility & Comfort Package. With this, the car can automatically adjust the damping before encountering a speed bump. The new braking system offers a consistent pedal feel and can bring the car to a stop without you needing to touch the brake pedal, based on the level of recuperation chosen via the steering wheel shift paddles. 
Mercedes-Benz
 Further adding to the elevated driving experience will be City Pro, a point-to-point driving experience that can automatically navigate the car through heavy city traffic. This function will be available at a later stage. “The all-new electric C-Class is redefining the mid-size segment for electric vehicles. Customers will get exactly what they expect from this new version of the beloved model: the perfect blend of performance, comfort, dynamics, and intelligence,” said Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management, Mercedes-Benz Group AG. Pricing for the electric C-Class hasn’t been announced yet, but we expect the C400 to start at close to $60,000 when it goes on sale. It arrives at U.S. dealers in the first half of 2027. What It Means Mercedes-Benz The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class is no gentle evolution of the current, gas-powered C-Class. It had to be revolutionary, though, as BMW has taken a similarly large leap forward with the i3. With this C-Class, Mercedes is also trying to shed the mediocre reputation of previous EQ-badged EVs. The C-Class has dropped the ‘EQ’ moniker entirely, and it has also moved away from the excessively rounded and polarizing design themes of models like the EQE and EQS. We expect a new gas-powered C-Class to adopt the same look and technologies of the electric sedan you see here. The stage has been set for a heated face-off in the EV segment between BMW and Mercedes next year. View the full article

The Pacifica Hybrid's Sudden Engine Shutdown RecallBack in 2023, Chrysler announced a recall for its Pacifica Hybrid. The reason for that was the minivan's risk of shutting down the engine while in motion, potentially leading to an accident. It affects over 67,000 vehicles for the model years 2017 to 2023. Models from 2024 and later are not included. The main issues revolved around an internal transmission wiring connector. That part suffered a short, resulting in an unexpected engine shutdown. At the time, Chrysler said it would repair the affected vehicles with a software update that would warn drivers that the engine is about to shut off. It was said that the warning would give enough time to pull over before things got any worse. Afterward, Chrysler rolled out a software update to reflash the inverter module, reducing the risk of an unexpected shutdown. At the time of writing, no accidents have been reported due to the prior fault. Unhappy OwnersA number of owners were unhappy with the company's solution. Car Complaints reports that a class-action lawsuit has been filed against Chrysler, alleging that it's playing "Russian Roulette with the lives of their vehicle occupants." There are 30 plaintiffs involved in the class action lawsuit, and according to the report, "the minivans would not be properly repaired." The plaintiffs want Chrysler to buy back the vehicles, claiming they were "injured" because they overpaid for their Pacifica Hybrids. Not only that, the suit wants the company to buy back over 67,000 affected minivans as a resolution, not just those from those who filed the case. Stellantis What the Judge SaidIn this case, the judge sided with the plaintiffs, citing that they "have suffered an injury in fact." However, the judge said that while the lawsuit can continue, it cannot under the current motion. The judge ruled, "The class action lawsuit will not cover all the vehicles nationwide." Instead, it can continue in "18 state-specific sub-classes." With that, the buyback of over 67,000 Pacificas won't happen. However, Chrysler isn't completely out of the woods yet, and it will be interesting to see how this case unfolds. The minivan itself cannot afford another massive recall, as it remains the company's sole offering, although new models are expected soon. View the full article

A Tiny Dent, A Massive BillA Reddit post has highlighted how a seemingly simple fender bender on a Rivian R1T turned into a $14,000 repair. What appears to be a simple parking-lot mishap quickly escalated because Rivian’s one-piece bedside construction integrates multiple structural elements into a single panel. Instead of a quick fix, the job required extensive teardown, transforming minor damage into a major repair operation. At a Rivian-certified facility, labor rates reportedly reached $125 per hour for body work and $175 per hour for mechanical work, with technicians removing large sections of the truck to access and reshape the damaged area. Even with the owner choosing to repair rather than replace the panel to avoid more invasive work, the process still required full side paint blending and careful reassembly. As Rivian continues to push for tighter technology integration in models like the Rivian R1S, the downside is becoming harder to ignore: even minor accidents can carry massive repair costs. Rivian’s pricing has gone up graduallyRivian has been quietly adjusting pricing across its lineup, even removing early estimates for upcoming models like the Rivian R2. At the same time, quality concerns have not exactly faded into the background. A recent recall tied to a separating toe link joint shows the company is still ironing out foundational issues while pushing forward with new products. And this is not an isolated repair horror story. Previous reports have shown minor collisions on the R1T ballooning into repair bills approaching 40,000 dollars. The common thread is design complexity. Integrated panels, embedded sensors, and extensive teardown requirements mean labor hours stack up quickly. What used to be a body shop's afternoon now becomes a multi-day disassembly process. Reddit: u/JonjakobJinkleHymer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Cost of Advanced Technology and DesignThere is no denying that Rivian is building some of the most interesting EVs on the road. The engineering ambition is impressive, but it comes with real-world consequences. When a single panel incorporates structural, aesthetic, and functional elements, repairability takes a back seat. Owners are left to deal with insurance claims that seem disproportionate to the damage. That is a problem Rivian cannot ignore. The company is still burning through cash at an aggressive rate, and recent delivery figures show momentum is not guaranteed. It needs a win, not just in innovation but in ownership experience. Because if a small dent keeps costing money on a used Toyota Corolla, even the most loyal early adopters might start thinking twice. Reddit: u/JonjakobJinkleHymer View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Winter is making one more run at the country this weekend, with active Winter Storm Warnings in Alaska, accumulating snow across the Rockies and a sharp temperature crash heading for the eastern half of the United States. Alaska Bracing for Up to 5 Feet of SnowThe National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings across large stretches of Alaska, where snow totals could reach 58 inches by Monday. In the Eastern Alaska Range south of Trims Camp, the forecast calls for 8 to 16 inches of snow with wind gusts to 40 mph and blowing snow reducing visibility to near zero. The Richardson Highway from milepost 202 to 224 is directly in the path. Along the Yukon Delta Coast, communities including Kotlik, Scammon Bay and Hooper Bay face 5 to 8 inches with gusts reaching 45 mph. The NWS warned that travel could be "very difficult," with wet snow on warm pavement creating refreeze hazards each night. The Winter Storm Watch runs through Monday morning. Cold Storm Hits the RockiesMeanwhile, a late-season Pacific system is delivering what AccuWeather is calling a "cold storm" across the western interior. Conditions feel more like early March than mid-April, with temperatures running 10 to 25 degrees below the historical average. As the storm presses inland through Friday, several inches to a foot of snow will fall at intermediate elevations in Idaho, western Montana and northeastern Utah. Yellowstone National Park is forecast for 4 to 8 inches. Light accumulations are expected in Pocatello and Boise, Idaho, Great Falls, Montana and Salt Lake City. The temperature swings are the real story for drivers. In eastern Wyoming, highs will drop from the 60s and near 70 on Thursday into the upper 20s and lower 30s on Friday. Colorado will spike into the 70s Thursday before crashing into the 30s Friday. Laramie, Cheyenne and Aspen could all see an inch or two of accumulation. Wet roads that freeze overnight are the primary hazard on mountain passes across the region. The Weather Prediction Center is also tracking snow squalls and convective bands across Utah and Wyoming, with the heaviest terrain-focused snow shifting over Colorado through Friday. A follow-up system is expected to reach the West Coast by Sunday, bringing another round of rain and mountain snow. Midwest and Northeast Temperature CrashThe same pattern change will hammer the eastern half of the country. Highs in the 70s, 80s and even 90s that have been baking the East Coast all week will be replaced by readings in the 30s, 40s and 50s within one to two days. In northern New York and northwestern New England, the cold air may arrive quickly enough on Sunday for rain to briefly mix with or change to snow. Late-season light snowfall is also expected over the Upper Great Lakes and Upper Mississippi Valley from Saturday into Sunday. If your vehicle is not set up for a sudden return to winter conditions, Autoblog's winter car readiness checklist is worth reviewing before you head out this weekend. View the full article

If you're driving across the Sierra on Tuesday or Wednesday this week, the trip is going to look very different from the clear roads of the past ten days. A Pacific trough is dropping snow levels to pass elevation from Tuesday morning onward, and by Tuesday night I-80 and Highway 50 are likely to be in chain controls at the same time, with no practical alternative through the central range. If your timing is flexible, Monday or Thursday are the two clean windows. The National Weather Service office in Reno has a Winter Storm Watch up for the Sierra Nevada from 5 a.m. Tuesday, April 21 through 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, with an upgrade to a Warning likely once confidence firms up. The NWS Weather Prediction Center has the same setup in its national discussion: onshore flow and upper-level impulses driving rain and higher-elevation snow across the Pacific side of the West. The Watch covers the Greater Lake Tahoe Area, the Lassen-Eastern Plumas-Eastern Sierra counties, and Mono County. NWS Reno is calling for 4 to 10 inches above 6,500 feet, 12 to 18 inches along the highest peaks, and 1 to 4 inches at lake level, with the west shore most exposed. Ridgetop winds could gust to 90 mph. Separately, a Lake Wind Advisory runs today (Monday, April 20) from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT: southwest winds 10 to 20 mph, gusts to 35, 1 to 3 foot waves on the lake. This Watch lands just over a week after a considerably stronger system dropped 2 to 3 feet on the Sierra and closed I-80 in both directions on April 12. This one is smaller, but it arrives late enough in the season that most people have already swapped to summer tires and put the chains in the garage. California's April 1 snowpack came in at 18 percent of average, the second-lowest April reading on record, with the Northern Sierra at 6 percent. March was the warmest and driest on record statewide. Timing and Highway ImpactSnow levels start Tuesday morning near 6,800 feet. That puts the first chain controls over the top of Donner Summit between Kingvale and Donner Lake. Through the day, steadier snow moves in and levels drop toward 6,000 feet, which pushes controls down to Blue Canyon and Truckee. Tuesday night is where this storm earns the Watch. Snow showers continue, another 1 to 3 inches possible at lake level, much more at pass elevation, and the wind picks up. Wednesday morning is the break. Snow tapers before 11 a.m., roads clear, chain controls come off through midday. Then a second system moves in Wednesday afternoon into the evening, which will likely put controls back up over Donner before clearing out overnight. Thursday: sun, high near 52 at South Lake Tahoe. I-80 over Donner Summit (7,240 ft) is the primary concern. It's the main east-west artery across the Northern Sierra, controls are near-certain Tuesday and probable Wednesday evening. Highway 50 over Echo Summit (7,382 ft) faces the same exposure with fewer plowing resources. When both corridors tighten at once there is no practical alternative through the central range. US-395 along the eastern Sierra gets gusty winds and accumulating snow on the side roads toward Mammoth and June Mountain. Carson Pass on CA-88, CA-89, anything above roughly 7,000 feet, all of it tightens earlier than the Interstates. Road Conditions and What to ExpectThe pattern on a spring Sierra storm like this is not deep snow, it's transitions. Pavement will cycle through wet, slushy, snow-packed, and refrozen inside the same drive. The worst of it tends to land in two places: bridges and overpasses, which ice before anything else, and the last mile or two before each summit, where the grade steepens and snow levels catch up to the roadway quickly. Controls will likely start as R-1 (chains or M+S tires required on commercial vehicles) and escalate to R-2 (chains on everything except 4WD/AWD with M+S tires on all four corners) as accumulation builds Tuesday afternoon and evening. R-3, which requires chains on every vehicle including AWD, is less common but possible overnight Tuesday into Wednesday if winds pick up and visibility collapses. Short closures for spin-outs and over-the-hood drifting are more likely than a full multi-hour shutdown based on current guidance, though the April 12 system did close I-80 in both directions and a smaller one can do the same if the timing lines up badly. AAA Visibility is the part drivers underestimate. Wind-driven snow across open sections of I-80 near Boreal and along the exposed stretches of US-395 can drop visibility to a few car lengths with almost no warning. If you can't see the tail lights of the car ahead, slow down well before you think you need to. Tuesday night is when all of this converges: falling snow, dropping snow levels, picking up wind, and traffic from people who left later than they should have. Before You GoChains are required above 4,000 to 5,000 feet during active controls. AWD is not exempt from R-3 restrictions. The statewide 511 line carries live chain-control status for California; Nevada drivers can dial 511 in state. Carry chains even if it looks clear at departure. Conditions shift fast on the passes. View the full article

Daytona, Atlanta, COTA, Darlington, and now Kansas: Tyler Reddick is now 5/9 for NASCAR Cup wins in 2026, and 23XI Racing co-owner Michael Jordan has been one of the first people to congratulate him after every single one. The NBA legend has been at the track constantly early in the season, and he has been watching from pit road as Reddick earned each of his five victories thus far. But ...Keep readingView the full article

Denny Hamlin was half a lap away from taking the white flag in the NASCAR Cup Series race at Kansas, one that seemed largely decided between himself and Tyler Reddick, but then Cody Ware cut a tire and spun out. Shake the snow globe! Hamlin retained the lead off pit road, with most of the frontrunners taking just right sides, but lost it on the restart when he didn’t get the best launch ...Keep readingView the full article

Stat: For the first time since 1987, a driver has won five of the first nine races, and the last driver to do it was Dale Earnhardt. This time, it’s Tyler Reddick and the 23XI Racing No. 45. “Yeah, that's a guy on the Mount Rushmore of NASCAR drivers,” Reddick said after winning the AdventHealth 400. “To be able to accomplish things that someone like him did is truly incredible but ...Keep readingView the full article

Can anything stop Tyler Reddick at this point? The 23XI Racing driver now has five wins in the first nine races of the 2026 NASCAR Cup season, and he now has a 105-point lead in the championship. His boss, Denny Hamlin, has jumped up into second in the overall standings, and the two drivers did battle in the closing laps at Kansas on Sunday. Around the Chase cutline, things have changed as ...Keep readingView the full article

Building Out a Robotaxi MapTesla has expanded its unsupervised Robotaxi service to two additional cities, Dallas and Houston, bringing its total to three locations in Texas. The company also operates in the San Francisco Bay Area, though that deployment still requires a safety driver. The move could prove pivotal for Tesla, as the company looks to evolve beyond electric vehicles and lean into robotaxis and even a humanoid robot known as Optimus. But the trade-off is ending production of the Model S and Model X, two of its earliest mainstream nameplates, to make room for what comes next. Robotaxi now rolling out in Dallas & Houston 🤠 pic.twitter.com/G3KFQwqGxB — Tesla Robotaxi (@robotaxi) April 18, 2026 Tesla’s Rollout StrategyIn a post on X, Tesla Robotaxi shared a 14-second video announcing its rollout in Dallas and Houston, showing a Model Y operating without a safety driver. The company also outlined the geofenced service areas, with Houston covering parts of Willowbrook and Jersey Village, and Dallas centered around Highland Park. These are just two of several cities Tesla plans to roll out robotaxis in during the first half of 2026. Disclosed during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call, the list also includes Phoenix, Miami, Orlando, Tampa, and Las Vegas, with the latter’s strong tourism demand helping support robotaxi services. Real-world data gathered from robotaxi trips could help the development of the upcoming dedicated robotaxi, dubbed the Cybercab. Unlike the Model Y, the Cybercab has only a two-seat cabin, which may limit space but could still prove convenient for solo riders or two passengers, while the lighter EV is expected to be more cost-efficient. Moreover, producing a smaller vehicle like this could allow the plant to build more units without driving up costs as much. Getty The Vision Beyond Electric CarsIf anything, the expansion into more cities offers a glimpse of Tesla’s future direction, alongside the aforementioned Optimus humanoid robot, which is even seen as potentially larger than its vehicle business in the long term. But of course, Tesla will face competition. Aside from the current leader, Waymo, Rivian is also entering the space through a partnership with Uber. By 2028, the tie-up aims to deploy 10,000 R2-based robotaxis, with San Francisco and Miami among the first launch cities. The segment is also set to diversify further through Uber’s robotaxi program with Volkswagen, which plans to deploy ID. Buzz vans in Los Angeles. Getty View the full article

The Case Against Going CordlessThere is no question that wireless charging is less efficient than plugging in directly. Phones and smartwatches have already shown that, so skepticism about applying the same idea to electric vehicles is understandable. But according to Jason Fenske of Engineering Explained, Porsche may have made one of the strongest cases yet for why the technology can work. Fenske, who has an engineering degree and owns a Lucid Air, said he went into the experience skeptical and asked Porsche engineers directly about the system while testing the upcoming Cayenne Electric. The German automaker claims its wireless charging setup is about 90 percent efficient, peaking at 92 percent under ideal conditions and dropping to 89 percent in worst-case scenarios. For comparison, a conventional Level 2 wired charger operating at 9.6 kW is said to be about 96 percent efficient. Porsche’s wireless setup, meanwhile, can charge at up to 11 kW. After losses, that means the wireless system can still deliver roughly 10.25 kW to the battery, compared with about 9.22 kW for the wired setup. The Math Behind the ClaimUsing the Cayenne EV’s 108-kWh usable battery pack as an example, Fenske estimated that a full Level 2 wired charge would consume about 112.5 kWh from the wall, compared with 121.3 kWh for wireless. At an average U.S. electricity rate of $0.173 per kWh, that works out to about $19.46 for wired charging versus roughly $21 for wireless. Over 200,000 miles, Fenske estimated that wireless charging would add only around $1,000 in electricity costs versus wired charging. Based on the average American driving about 13,000 miles per year, it would take roughly 15 years to reach that gap. The bigger drawback is the upfront cost. The ground pad is priced at about $6,500, while the Cayenne hardware costs around $1,650. Still, Fenske noted that total lifetime charging costs with wired Level 2 charging could reach about $22,145, only modestly higher than an estimated $20,760 for Level 1 charging over the same period. Porsche Paying for EasePorsche also appears to have addressed many of the usual concerns surrounding inductive EV charging. The pad can be installed outdoors, and the system includes safeguards for real-world use. Fenske ultimately came away convinced that the technology is viable. At its core, wireless charging is about paying for convenience. Instead of grabbing the connector and plugging in, EV owners can simply park over the pad and walk away. In that sense, it is similar to ordering food through a delivery app: it costs more, but the convenience is the point. The Cayenne Electric is expected to arrive in the U.S. in summer 2026 with a starting price of $109,000. It will join the Macan Electric and Taycan in the brand’s EV lineup, while the all-electric 718 Cayman and Boxster are still expected, despite rumors suggesting the automaker may have canceled them amid broader uncertainty around the future of EVs. Porsche View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tyler Reddick has now won five of the first nine races to open the 2026 NASCAR Cup season, passing Kyle Larson in the final seconds of Sunday's race at Kansas Speedway. Chase Briscoe, who restarted 11th in overtime with four fresh tires, surged all the way up to third by the time the checkered flag flew. Denny Hamlin led the way at the start of the final two-lap dash, but fell back to fourth ...Keep readingView the full article

Championship leader Tyler Reddick was in the wall and running on fumes with two laps to go, but a surprise caution opened the door for him to have another go at the win. Denny Hamlin had the lead in an overtime restart, but it was Kyle Larson that powered into the lead with a three-wide pass below the apron. Reddick was nearly back to fifth after a chaotic restart, but by the white flag he ...Keep readingView the full article