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A (Literal) Touchy TopicI was never a fan of software buttons. While they do have their place in certain car functions, the basics need to be covered. The industry finally seems to have gotten the message, with major players starting to move back into the physical realm. Yes, it's cheaper to simply have a screen that controls everything, and no, it's not going to be as ergonomic, and (at least some) brands are coming to their senses. In an Autocar interview with Luke Miles, founder of NewTerritory, certain design topics were brought up, which I'm inclined to agree with. NewTerritory is a design studio that has projects in aviation interior design. The firm is not in the car industry thanks to clients like Ford and Mercedes. In this interview, Miles laid out his thoughts on passenger vehicle interior design and ergonomics. Tesla Buttons = Branding You may not realize it, but the way that you interact with a car is more personal than you think. If you think about it, every brand has its standards when it comes to interaction, and one of the ways that brands can stand out. From the archives, Hyundai has pledged to keep physical controls in its cars, citing that it's not only convenient, but also safer to keep things properly keyed in. Well, that was before we caught them shoving a bigger screen in a new Ioniq 5 without physical switches. Anyway, that brings us to Miles' observation. He stated that "screens have made their way into vehicles and they're upgradeable, but unless they're dealt with well, it can be quite a lazy intervention." The term "lazy," while blunt, is the word that we could use to describe a lot of cars lately. In the last 10 years, we've seen infotainment screens balloon from about 7 inches to 10, 12, and even nearly 20 inches. The con? No more buttons, or at least only the ones you need, and nothing else. For everything else, you need to touch the glass to access the functions you want. Earl Lee/Autoblog The Case For Physical Controls Miles continued to state that "physical controls create those 'human moments' that foster the connection between car and driver." He then continued to mention how materials can affect the perception of the driver or passenger. Think about how materials are used to convey a sense of quality, and how a single interaction can give you a sense of being in a more expensive car. Needless to say, tactility plays a huge role in creating that sense of quality for consumers. Think back to the time that Volkswagen debuted its new crop of cars, only to dial back its design decisions in the next generation. Mind you, those design mistakes weren't just for on-screen buttons, but also for touch-capacitive ones. Even the iPhone's designer, Jony Ive, didn't want to just put a touchscreen in a car and call it a day, as seen in his recent work with the Ferrari Luce. Mercedes-Benz Could Buttons Make a Comeback Soon? These exercises in excess prove that buttons could be coming back soon, and some designers are working hard to bring them back into cars, as is the case with Luke Miles. However, judging by what we're seeing so far, buttons could come back into vogue first at the high end. As it stands, it's now more cost-effective and "futuristic" to just add a screen and worry about the details later. However, there are other control interfaces that may also enhance the car experience. When was the last time you used a key as an actual "key"? Nowadays, we have fobs and receivers that simply let us get into a car, press a button, and drive off. There is no "handshake," as Miles put it. Miles suggested that manufacturers will "want to invest in moments of positive friction" to differentiate themselves from competitors. While that might be the line you use with your marketing department to get them to agree with your design department, I just hope I get to live in a future where I don't always have to tap a piece of glass. Ferrari View the full article

When Denny Hamlin launched the ‘Action Detrimental’ podcast on Dirty Mo Media, he vowed to be authentically candid and honest about the hot topics of each NASCAR Cup Series race weekend. It’s proven to be a successful formula, at least until a current driver took exception to that candor, in the form of Kyle Busch. The former Joe Gibbs Racing teammates had a back and forth through the ...Keep readingView the full article

Rock Creek All the ThingsNissan currently has two off-road-oriented lines in its range. For the more rugged, body-on-frame models, those get the Pro-4X label, while the crossovers get the Rock Creek Edition tag. Currently, there's the Armada and Frontier Pro-4X, along with the Pathfinder and Rogue Rock Creek Edition. Now it seems there will be another model that will receive the latter treatment. Instagram spy photog kindelauto snapped a shot of a covered-up Kicks sporting a roof rack, among other things. This suggests a Rock Creek Edition for the subcompact crossover. Nissan Previewed in Canada?During the Montreal Auto Show back in January, Nissan showed a Kicks outfitted with various accessories that made it look ready for the first. It didn't have a badge to say it was a Rock Creek Edition, but it did appear that Nissan was hinting at it at the very least. The car was also displayed right beside a Rogue Rock Creek Edition. According to Canadian auto website RPM, the real deal will be released sometime this year, likely by Summer. The publication also reckons that it'll slot just below the SR Premium. The Spy ShotThe car spotted by kindelauto was seen in Tennessee. That little tidbit is worth mentioning as Nissan USA's headquarters is in that state. There's a good chance it was undergoing some testing, and luckily, someone was able to take a photo of it. Its entire tailgate is covered up, suggesting there are changes to that panel. The side door badge was also masked, and the wheels were camouflaged. Funnily enough, there's the same zebra-like pattern on the roof rack, though it won't be totally hidden from view. But what's more interesting here is the camo on the front. This suggests a design unique to the rest of the Kicks lineup, just like any other Nissan crossover that's received Rock Creek Edition trim. What caught our attention was the top half of the grille, which had three rectangular holes, something the standard Kicks doesn't have. Kindelauto/Instagram Nissan's on a Roll LatelyNissan is fresh off its announcement of long-term plans and the world premiere of the all-new Juke and Rogue. The program also gave a sneak peek at the Xterra revival and the reboot of its sport sedan, the Skyline. It's all part of the company's plan to regain relevance and, more importantly, to recover from years in the red. The redesigned Rogue will be key to the equation, while the Juke aims to revitalize the company's fortunes in Europe. Meanwhile, the Xterra could be fully revealed by the 2027 model for the 2028 model year, and the same goes for the redesigned Skyline that could become the Infiniti Q50 successor by the time it reaches the U.S. Nonetheless, this new potential trim of the Kicks will play a small but vital role in Nissan's recovery plan. We could see more special trims and models down the line to keep interest up before the wave of new models comes in. Nissan/Linkedin View the full article

Legendary Ingenuity Race cars aren't often remembered unless they mean something special; usually, it's the team or the driver that holds the recognition, the car is but a mere tool to achieve the desired result. However, the very few iconic race cars tell a story that transcends the team and driver, where the car stands on its own. Mazda's 787 Le Mans racer is unique for two very good reasons: it was the first Japanese-manufactured car and brand to win the grueling 24-hour race, and, most importantly, the first rotary-powered (non-piston-engine) car to win as well. It bested the competition by showcasing Japanese traits of reliability and performance, finishing the race while its core competitors broke down. Keeping the Legend AliveAfter it won the race in 1991, the rules for Le Mans racing were changed. In other words, the rotary engine was banned from the competition, effectively cementing the 787's achievement as singular and unrepeatable. Since then, it has been in Mazda's Heritage collection, only taking to the track during special events like the Mazda Fan Festa, inspiring a whole new generation of racing fans. 8 What's amazing about the 787 4-rotor rotary is that it was unbreakable; the engine proved to be one of the most reliable race engines ever. After the race win, Mazda decided to prove to the world just how good the engine was by taking it apart in front of the media, and what it showed was that the internal components were still in good condition. The Mazda engineers claimed that the engine could run another 24-hour race. Mazda played the long game during the 1991 Le Mans race, detuning the engine from 900 to 700 hp and lowering the red line to keep tolerances in check throughout the race. A video has just been posted by Mazda Motorsports showing a dedicated team of engineers from the Heritage Collection continuing to keep the 787 in race-ready condition. Part of their job is to fully rebuild or refurbish the 4-rotor rotary. Doing this isn't easy, as they need to disassemble the entire motor and check all the "nuts and bolts" that make up the engine. Mazda Motorsports/YouTube View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article One of a KindBecause this engine was one of a kind and was technically raced only once, no parts are available. The 4-rotor engine was specific to the 787 Le Mans program, with just a finite number of parts made. Its uniqueness lends itself to a painstaking maintenance process, with more specific components than the standard rotaries. But the team behind the restoration and rebuild process says the main parts are still in good enough condition to use, while the replaceable parts are readily available. Mazda Motorsports/YouTube View the full article

Ford has officially mapped out the timeline for the overhaul of its most popular vehicles: the F-150 and F-Series Super Duty trucks. Said to arrive in 2029, the next-generation trucks represent far more than a cyclical product update. They will be the culmination of a significant internal restructuring aimed at optimizing Ford's manufacturing economics and pivot the automaker's powertrain strategy toward scalable, high-margin technologies. Ford Restructured OperationsAt the core of this transformation is the dissolution of the Model e division—a move that signals a strategic departure from isolated electric vehicle development. Ford has consolidated its operations into a unified "Product Creation and Industrialization" unit under COO Kumar Galhotra. This structural pivot aims to streamline capital expenditure and operational efficiency across the board. The mandate is fiercely ambitious: refresh 80 percent of Ford’s North American volume—and 70 percent of its global volume—by the end of the decade. This accelerated timeline relies heavily on structural integration and software-defined architectures. By 2030, Ford expects 90 percent of its global output to run on entirely new electrical backbones. This isn't merely a technological upgrade; it’s a prerequisite for scaling Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities, which inherently opens up lucrative post-purchase software revenue streams through an advanced BlueCruise ecosystem. About the TruckMechanically, the 2029 F-Series will target substantial cost reductions and performance gains through radical hardware simplification. Ford is actively exploring a complete transition to by-wire braking and steering technologies. Using rapid-discharge supercapacitors and electric actuators, this pivot would effectively eliminate traditional hydraulic setups. From a manufacturing standpoint, removing a physical steering column and mechanical linkages drastically reduces assembly complexity, yielding leaner production times while enhancing the full-size truck's operational agility under heavy payload. Ford Perhaps the most crucial economic pivot lies in Ford's recalibrated electrification strategy. The fully electric F-150 Lightning will be repositioned as an Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV). The EREV architecture shifts the paradigm from pure battery dependency to a more pragmatic, dual-power system. The wheels are propelled entirely by electric motors, but a dedicated onboard combustion generator will be used to replenish the battery pack. Targeting an operational range exceeding 700 miles, the EREV mitigates the costly necessity of massive, resource-heavy battery packs while entirely negating consumer range anxiety—a primary barrier to heavy-duty EV adoption and towing. The Near FutureBefore these high-margin heavyweights launch, Ford will stress-test its new Universal EV platform with a mid-size electric pickup. This preliminary launch will pioneer a "unicasting" production methodology. By consolidating hundreds of stamped parts into single large castings, Ford aims to dramatically compress manufacturing costs. Ford With Chevrolet projecting a 2027 launch for its next-generation Silverado, Ford’s delayed 2029 release is a highly calculated risk. However, by leveraging unicasting, EREV pragmatism, and by-wire simplification, the Blue Oval is betting that an economically optimized, technologically superior product will secure the F-Series' formidable market dominance well into the next decade. View the full article

A Shortage of MechanicsLikely due to its aging population, Japan faces a shortage of new talent across various fields, and the automotive maintenance business is no exception. According to Kuruma News, the job-to-applicant ratio currently exceeds 5:1. The thing is, not everyone wants to be a mechanic, so the job isn't filled with people lining up at the gates. In an effort to curb the issue, Mazda has opened its technical school for those who want to get in on the craft. The center is called the Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe), and it's more than willing to accept applicants. Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) The School Has a Cool PrincipalLike any school, there is a principal, and Mazda has chosen the original program lead of the MX-5 project as its headmaster. His name is Nobuhiro Yamamoto, and his CV is beyond impressive. One can even say he's the right person for the job. Yamamoto joined Mazda in 1973 and started out in the rotary engine and motorsports department. Later on, he became involved in vehicle development programs. Some of Yamamoto's highlights include the RX-7 and the second-generation MX-5. He was also the deputy program manager for the third-generation MX-5, and yes, he was also involved in the 787B program, you know, the car that won Le Mans. After serving the company for 50 years, Yamamoto had retired, but it seems that retirement isn't in his vocabulary as he takes on a new role. Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) Curious About the Curriculum?Of course, there's going through the oily bits, but the courses are also a dream for any Mazda fan. For starters, there's Mazda Studies, which does a deep dive into the company's history and explains its core values. Lab work consists of practical exercises that involve fluid and force dynamics and mechanical structures. Oh, and there's even a subject called Rotary Engine Theory. As cars become more dependent on tech, there is also a workshop for electrical components and electronic control units. The students will work with actuators and circuit boards to gain real-world experience. Lastly, there is a simulated service area with real, working cars so that students can apply what they learned. Coolest school, ever? Maybe, but if you're into Mazdas, have a huge appreciation for anything mechanical, and love getting your hands dirty, it's the school for you. Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) Mazda Automotive Maintenance Technical School Kobe (MASTeC Kobe) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

No Fix RequiredTwo of General Motors’ most affordable vehicles, the Chevrolet Trax and Trailblazer, may exhibit vibrations when parked facing downhill. However, the Michigan automaker says the condition is ‘normal’ and has instructed dealers not to take any further action. The condition is outlined in GM’s dealer service bulletin PIC6553B, as shared by GM Authority. The vibration stems from the engine mount snubber contacting the mount housing when the vehicles are parked facing downhill. For reference, the vehicles in question include 2024–2026 model-year Trax and 2021–2026 model-year Trailblazer units. Cole Attisha The Setup That Causes ItThe Trax and Trailblazer are sourced from South Korea, with the former continuing to sell well despite exposure to import tariffs. Both also use a turbo three-cylinder engine, which is inherently less balanced than a typical four-cylinder and generally produces more vibration. That may make the condition more noticeable in these vehicles, as some owners have pointed out. Still, GM argues that it is not a defect. The bulletin said the vibration can be reproduced when the vehicle is shifted into Park and the brake pedal is released. It may also become more noticeable when the air conditioning is switched on, likely because the engine is working harder to run the compressor. The bulletin provides a 0.2-hour labor operation to verify the condition, but says no further action should be taken if the dealer can duplicate it. This condition was initially addressed in 2024, but was recently updated to include later Trax and Trailblazer model years. Chevrolet Parking Habits MatterWhile it is debatable whether GM should issue a revision to eliminate the vibration, it is generally good practice to avoid shifting into Park without a parking brake whenever the vehicle is resting on a slope. Doing so places the load on the parking pawl, a small component inside the transmission that locks the drivetrain to prevent the vehicle from rolling. The ideal method is to keep a foot on the brake, engage the parking brake first, and then shift into Park. Some drivers shift into Park before applying the parking brake, but either way, anything is better than letting the transmission do all the work. For now, owners should expect to continue experiencing the vibration under those conditions. A separate case involves thudding sounds reported from the Trax’s three-cylinder engine, which GM said in a service bulletin is a normal characteristic and not an indication of a defect. Chase Bierenkoven View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Early ADAS When advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) features first became mainstream, many manufacturers jumped in and made these safety suites compulsory on most models. Some systems were more advanced than the others, but generally speaking, all performed as advertised and intended. One issue in the early days of ADAS is the learning curve that comes with the system, especially with features that take over. Collision Mitigation Braking became a big deal for Honda, with a lawsuit filed against them claiming some models suffered from "Phantom Braking." Honda ExoneratedReported by Car Complaints, Honda has been exonerated by a jury in the trial of this class action suit. The suit itself generally focused on the brand's ADAS system, called "Honda Sensing," but by the time it reached trial, it narrowed to the Collision Mitigation Braking system. The lawsuit also narrowed the list of affected cars to two models spanning three years: the 2017-2019 Honda CR-V and the 2018-2020 Honda Accord. Another thing to note is that the class action suit only covers certain states; other nationwide claims have been dismissed. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit claim that the Collision Mitigation Braking sometimes activates on its own, despite there being no objects in front of the vehicle; hence the "Phantom Braking" term. This can sometimes catch drivers and passengers by surprise, but Honda claims that the system is there to assist the drivers, but it isn't perfect. The brand goes on to say that a perfect system is not possible; in fact, they argue that just because the system has problems, it doesn't mean it's legally defective. Honda pleaded with the jury that, despite the system's imperfections, it should still be able to help drivers. Also, the owner's manual warns drivers about the numerous limitations of the automatic braking feature. At the Push of a ButtonIt was also brought up by Honda that one of the plaintiffs who sued them over a faulty Honda Sensing system sold the car to CarMax without disclosing that his Honda Accord had the issue, and that he was also suing Honda. Some owners in the suit claimed that this feature caused them to stop driving their cars altogether, even though the systems can actually be turned off at the push of a button. Honda issued a statement to Car Complaints: "American Honda is committed to the safety and satisfaction of our customers, and we applaud the jury’s decision. During the trial, clear evidence was presented that the allegations in this lawsuit did not reflect the common real-world performance of the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) in Honda vehicles, and this result is consistent with those facts." Honda View the full article

A Comeback That Actually MattersNissan is bringing back the Xterra, but this isn’t just about nostalgia. The new Xterra is part of a bigger shift in Nissan’s body-on-frame lineup. It will be built in the US and is meant to lead a new group of rugged vehicles, showing that Nissan is serious about this segment. There have already been a few teasers. The first showed a thin amber light bar across the front and a stamped NISSAN wordmark. Then Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier shared a side profile that revealed a squared-off shape with real SUV proportions. That was enough for render artists to start filling in the gaps almost right away. From Teasers to RenderingsSome of the more convincing renderings, like those from Autoya, stick to what made the original Xterra work. The proportions are upright, with short overhangs and a stance that looks ready for actual off-road use rather than just tough. The front keeps the horizontal light bar from the teaser, along with a blunt fascia and squared grille. It looks modern but still has a mechanical, rugged feel, especially with the exposed tow hooks and thick lower cladding. From the side, the shape is clean and utilitarian. There are flat panels, defined wheel arches, and what appears to be a functional roof rack. Some renderings even show the stepped roofline from the original, but without forcing the retro look. The design feels straightforward and not overdone, which makes it more believable. Autoya/YouTube What to Expect When It Finally ArrivesBeyond the styling, the basics are already lining up. The new Xterra will use a new ladder-frame platform that will also support other upcoming models. That’s a clear move back to real truck-based engineering. Nissan plans to keep a V6 under the hood, which is a clear choice in a market full of smaller engines. A hybrid version is also coming, likely to boost torque and efficiency while keeping the SUV usable for towing and long trips. This approach should appeal to buyers who still need real capability. What isn’t clear, however, is whether manual transmission is still on the table. That’s something worth watching out for. There are signs of real off-road hardware, like good approach angles, roof gear, and maybe even a spare tire on the tailgate. Details are not confirmed yet, but the direction is obvious. The new Xterra is not coming soon. Nissan is aiming for a 2028 launch, which gives the company time to finish the rest of the lineup and fine-tune the platform. If the production model is close to these early renderings, the Xterra could be relevant again. Autoya/YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Mazda’s Volume Player Gets a BoostThe Mazda CX-5 is the brand’s best-selling model in the current lineup, though that isn’t as strongly felt in the U.S., where buyers continue to favor nameplates like the Ford F-150 and Toyota RAV4. For the 2026 model year, however, the Japanese marque introduced a long-awaited update to its compact crossover after nearly a decade, which may have helped it attract more shoppers. According to Consumer Reports, the CX-5 has been the most popular model among shoppers so far this year. It is reportedly the most researched vehicle in the publication’s rankings, which may not mean much on its own, but it could offer a preview of where sales may head in the coming months. After all, buyers who do not have as much time to research often default to what is popular, viewing it as a safer choice than a niche or newer nameplate. Mazda Evolving the CX-5 FormulaThe 2026 Mazda CX-5 has been redesigned, though the front end still features several similarities to the outgoing model. The changes to the rear end are more pronounced, especially with the slimmer taillights that make it look closer to the automaker's newer offerings, the CX-70 and CX-90. It is unclear exactly why shoppers are showing interest in the all-new CX-5, but Consumer Reports noted that models with high Overall Scores tend to earn its recommendation. Those scores are based on factors such as road-test performance and the availability of safety features, an area where Mazda has stood out this year. In fact, in a separate Safety Verdict assessment, Mazda ranked ahead of Volvo – a notable result given how long the Swedish automaker has dominated that space. Moreover, Mazda earned the most 2026 Top Safety Pick+ awards last month with eight, followed by Hyundai and Audi with six apiece. Not Without Its Trade-OffsSo far, one of the most common criticisms of the CX-5 has been its larger touchscreen, which Mazda argues helps deliver a better driving experience. The move away from physical controls has become a broader issue across the industry, with brands like Volkswagen already reversing course after drawing negative feedback. It is also worth noting that more technology can mean more points of failure, which could hurt long-term reliability. It is still too early to say how the new-generation model will hold up over time, but the latest popularity rankings suggest it has clear potential. The CX-5 is followed by the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Subaru Outback, Subaru Forester Hybrid, Honda CR-V, Subaru Crosstrek, and Honda Passport, with the Toyota Camry and Toyota Highlander rounding out the top 10. Mazda View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Manufacturing FaultWe’ve said this before, and it’s worth repeating: Not every recall is about a design flaw or bad engineering. Sometimes, the problem starts on the factory floor. That’s what’s happening here: Kia and Genesis – both part of Hyundai Motor Group – are recalling over 235,000 vehicles in the US because of a detail in how a part was installed. At first, it looks like a big problem affecting two brands. But look closer, and you’ll see it’s really about how the part was installed, not the part itself. The crossover fuel pipe, made by Usui International Korea, isn’t defective on its own. The real issue is how it was fastened during assembly. Kyle Edward What’s Actually Going WrongAccording to separate recall reports submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall centers on the crossover fuel pipe, specifically the fasteners that hold it in place within the engine. For Genesis, the recall affects the G90, G80, GV80, and GV70 – 94,760 vehicles in all, ranging from 2021 to 2026 model years. The root of the problem is that not enough torque stabilizer was applied during assembly. That small detail matters because it keeps the fasteners tight over time. Without it, the connection can loosen up, and that’s when leaks start. For Kia, 141,032 Carnival units are on the list, covering model years 2022 to 2026. The official explanation calls it a production deviation, but it boils down to the same thing: the fuel pipe nuts weren’t tightened consistently at the factory. Over time, that can mean a loose connection and a possible fuel leak. The first signs of trouble were reports of fuel smell, which kicked off a deeper investigation. Inspectors checked parts and dug through production records. For Genesis alone, there were over 100 reports, but so far, no crashes or injuries have been tied to the issue. A loose fuel pipe can leak gasoline, and if there’s heat or a spark nearby, the risk of an engine bay fire goes up. Drivers might notice a fuel smell or see warning lights before anything serious happens. Kia What Owners Should DoThe good news is the fix is simple. Owners will get a notice and need to visit a dealer. Technicians will check the crossover fuel pipe and its fasteners. If everything looks good, they’ll retighten the connections. If there’s a leak, the pipe gets replaced. As always, repairs are free, and both brands will reimburse anyone who has already paid for related work. As a precaution, owners should park outside and avoid driving if they smell fuel. Production lines have already been updated with new torque specs and stricter assembly checks, so newer vehicles shouldn’t have this problem. Genesis USA View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

UPDATE, Saturday, April 18, 2026, 9 AM MDT: The system delivered up to 6 inches across the Colorado foothills overnight, with Denver International Airport officially recording 3.5 inches, the city's first snowfall in more than a month. A hard freeze is now hitting the Front Range Saturday morning, with temperatures dropping into the 20s across Cheyenne, Denver, and Colorado Springs. -- Up to two feet of snow and temperatures plunging 25 degrees below the mid-April average are slamming 11 western and northern states today, Friday April 17, 2026, as a late-season "cold storm" presses from the Cascades and Northern Rockies into Colorado and the Northern Plains. The Weather Prediction Center is headlining late-season snow for the Northern Rockies, Central Rockies, and Northern Plains, with mountain passes from Washington and Oregon east through Idaho, Montana, Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado all in the impact zone through Friday night, plus snow and ice probabilities extending into North Dakota and northwest Minnesota. Peak danger window: Friday afternoon through Saturday morning across I-70, I-80, and I-25 in Colorado and Wyoming, where 70-degree highs Thursday will collapse into the 30s Friday and refreeze wet pavement after sunset. What to ExpectSnow totals: 1-2 feet across the Cascades and Northern Rockies; 8-16 inches cumulative across Utah and Colorado mountains; 4-8 inches in Yellowstone National ParkLower elevations: Light accumulations expected in Boise, Pocatello, Great Falls, Salt Lake City, Laramie, Cheyenne, and AspenTemperature crash: 40-degree drops in under 24 hours across eastern Wyoming and ColoradoWorst corridors: I-90 across Montana, I-84 through eastern Oregon and Idaho, I-80 across Wyoming, I-15 through Utah and Idaho, I-70 over the Colorado RockiesThe storm's heavy snow focus is shifting south and east through Friday, with Colorado terrain taking the brunt as the Utah and Wyoming snow tapers off. Snow squalls and convective bands hammered Utah and Wyoming overnight, and the WPC is flagging Day 1 snow probabilities of 10-20% for greater than 4 inches over central North Dakota, with ice probabilities of 10-30% for greater than 0.1 inches stretching from northeast North Dakota through northwest Minnesota. Per OpenSnow's multi-day breakdown, southwest Montana, northwest Wyoming, and northern Utah saw the heaviest accumulation Thursday, with Colorado now in the firing line through end of day Friday. Road ConditionsMountain passes in Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Colorado will see accumulating snow throughout the day, with rapid changes in surface conditions on bridges, overpasses, and shaded stretches. Even AWD and 4WD vehicles need winter-rated tires to stop on ice, which is the threat that builds across the impact zone after dark. Autoblog's AWD vs. 4WD breakdown covers what each system actually does and doesn't do in this kind of weather. Drivers should allow extra travel time, keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, and avoid travel altogether during peak accumulation windows if possible. US NWS Temperature Whiplash on the Front RangeCheyenne, Laramie, Denver, Colorado Springs, and Aspen are the textbook examples of why this event is dangerous well beyond the snowfall totals. A 40-degree temperature swing in 24 hours over wet pavement is the recipe for late-evening black ice on roads that looked perfectly drivable at lunch. If you're traveling I-25 between Cheyenne and Pueblo Friday afternoon or evening, or heading west on I-70 toward Vail and Glenwood Springs, plan to either be off the road by sunset or to slow your stopping calculations dramatically as temperatures cross freezing. Winter Driving TipsIf you are driving into the impact zone today, your tires are the single most important variable. AWD will help you accelerate on snow, but it does nothing to shorten stopping distance on ice, which is exactly the threat you'll face on I-80 in Wyoming or any pass along I-70 in Colorado as temperatures crash overnight. Autoblog's winter car readiness checklist recommends a minimum of 4/32 inches of tread depth for safe winter driving, and cold temperatures will drop tire pressure by roughly 1 to 2 PSI for every 10 degrees, so check your pressures before you leave a warm garage. Give yourself at least triple the stopping distance you would use on dry pavement, and double that again on ice. If today's storm is the reminder that your vehicle isn't set up for winter, Autoblog's full breakdown of the best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving is worth a read, and our best practices for driving in snow, ice, and rain guide covers everything from skid recovery to what to keep in your trunk for emergencies. The smartest call on a day like today, if your schedule allows, is to wait out the peak refreeze window entirely. TimingThe system is moving through the western U.S. today, Friday April 17, 2026, with Colorado snowfall winding down by Saturday morning as the storm exits east. The Cascades and Northern Rockies are tapering after their Thursday peak. However, the National Weather Service notes a new storm system arrives by Sunday, bringing additional rain and mountain snow to the West Coast, so this is not the last round. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

Taylor Gray is now a two-time race winner in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series. Driving the No. 54 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota, he held off a charging Sheldon Creed in the No. 00 Haas Factory Team Chevrolet as Kansas Speedway. "First of all, thank you to everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing," said Gray in Victory Lane. "How about (crew chief) Jason Ratcliffe? That pit call was awesome. I knew we had ...Keep readingView the full article

Carson Kvapil started Saturday's NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts from pole position, but his day ended just three laps into the event. The wreck was something you'd expect to see at a superspeedway, not a 1.5-mile intermediate track... Driving the No. 1 JR Motorsports Chevrolet, Kvapil was running second and battling three-wide with JRM teammates Justin Allgaier and William Byron. Byron was to ...Keep readingView the full article

The US electric vehicle market has had a rough stretch. Federal EV tax credits disappeared, supportive policies were rolled back, and overall EV sales dropped by around 27 percent year-over-year in the first quarter of 2026, according to Cox Automotive estimates. Then the conflict with Iran hit, and geopolitical tensions pushed oil prices higher. That single shift in what people pay at the pump appears to be influencing buyer behavior—at least in the short term. Hyundai Motor Company CEO José Muñoz told Bloomberg that the company's US EV sales grew by 40 percent between February and March, and he pointed squarely at rising fuel costs as the reason. Getty Images Hyundai's Numbers Tell the StoryThe jump comes off a relatively soft February, highlighting how quickly demand can swing with fuel prices. The Ioniq 5 crossover alone sold 4,425 units in March, up 27 percent from the month before, making it the second best-selling EV behind Tesla models in the country for the first quarter. The larger Ioniq 9 did even better, jumping from 505 to 905 units in the same period. These are meaningful numbers for a brand that has one foot firmly in the EV market while several competitors have retreated. Hyundai View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What Comes Next for the EV MarketMuñoz acknowledged that the industry's earlier optimism, the idea that EVs could hit 50-60 percent US market share by the end of the decade, no longer looks realistic. He expects something closer to 10 to 15 percent market share, which he described as enough to stay committed to the technology. Car-buying platforms like Edmunds have noticed increased interest in electric options since the Iran war began, and a recent survey found nearly a third of Americans say they would seriously consider an EV for their next vehicle. The used EV market is also seeing a lift, and the timing is almost accidental. Years of aggressive EV leasing and a wave of early adopters trading up have pushed a large supply of used electric cars into dealerships at exactly the right moment. It brings accessible price points to buyers eager to switch, but who were previously priced out of the new car market. For an industry searching for its next catalyst, the answer may be as simple and volatile as the price of fuel. View the full article

What in the World is a Boschert?If you take a look at the European tuning scene in the '80s, there was definitely no shortage of outrageous, expensive, and unashamedly polarizing custom jobs. Call it imaginative, expressive, or straight-up tacky, those cars perfectly captured the excesses enjoyed by the rich during that decade. One man wanted to try his luck in that scene, and his name is Hartmut Boschert. In essence, he drummed up the idea of creating a modern (for the '80s) interpretation of the classic Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, otherwise known as the Gullwing. From there, he set out to build it for real, and the result is the car you see here now, the Boschert B300. RM Sotheby's The BuildMind you, the Boschert B300 wasn't the only gullwinged aftermarket Mercedes built during that era. Styling-Garage released a car called the 500SGS Gullwing, based on the C126 S-Class. Not wanting to do the exact same thing, Boschert used a Mercedes C124 as his basis, a 300 CE to be exact. To say the modifications were extensive would be an understatement. The entire bodywork of the 300 CE was altered with pillars moved, bits of the front and rear trimmed, and sills that had to be heavily reinforced to accommodate those long 65-inch-long gullwing doors. A section of the roof had to be cut off, hence the need for extra chassis bracing so that it would not have the structural rigidity of an overcooked linguini. Now, the front end appears to have come straight off an R129 SL, but it's far more than that. The entire front end had to be re-engineered to achieve the look, and even then, the panels fitted had to be fabricated. As for the interior, it should look familiar to any W124 owner, past or present, but the trims used are bespoke, and the seats were lifted from an R129 SL. The result? We might get some opinions on our take, but it looks clean, well-built, and possibly factory. RM Sotheby's More GruntUnder the hood of the Boschert B300 is the M103 inline-six engine found in various 124 models. Available in either 2.6 or 3.0-liter forms, the latter version made 187 hp. Those were impressive figures for the day, but the Boschert strapped two turbos on it to bump power up to 283 hp. It retained its five-speed manual transmission. Admittedly, we were expecting a little bit more given the twin-turbo arrangement, and those weren't entirely wild numbers for performance cars even back then. Still, an improvement of nearly 100 hp is commendable. Perhaps Boschert was aiming for a relaxed and understressed tune rather than extracting every ounce of horsepower at the expense of reliability. RM Sotheby's A True One-OffThe car made its world premiere at the 1989 Frankfurt Motor Show, first shown in silver with a black interior. It was advertised at 186,000 Deutsche Marks, about the price of two 300 CEs, with some change left over for a slightly used 190E. Boschert planned to build 300 of these cars, but ultimately fell flat. Just 11 were made, and the 10 didn't get those dramatic-looking doors. Also, this very car was the only one personally built by its creator. That makes this car a true one-of-one build. In 1990, the car was repainted in Bornite and gained that two-tone purple interior. After it toured the German auto show scene, it eventually ended up in private hands. It was sold off to its second owner, who kept it for 18 years from 2005 to 2023. The car was then auctioned off and sold for €455,000, or a little over $490,000 based on 2023 exchange rates. That's about $530,000 in today's money. It's a huge amount of money, but one can't put a price tag on this level of exclusivity. Not only that, whoever bought it now literally owns a piece of awesomely obscure history. RM Sotheby's RM Sotheby's View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Assisted IntelligenceThe AI craze has defined the past few years for humankind. From a world that seemingly lived and even thrived without it, we have suddenly integrated it into our lives as a necessity. AI has empowered our smart devices, our cars, and our lives in many ways, creating and in some cases shifting reality. While there are valid reasons to be skeptical or wary of AI, some of its applications are helpful. Most major companies across all industries have incorporated AI in one way or another. For most people, AI is used as an assistant to improve internal processes and tasks. General Motors AI Car DesignGeneral Motors (GM) is one of the larger automotive companies in the world, spanning more than a century in the automotive manufacturing business. It wouldn't have gotten this far without a forward-thinking mindset; each new technological push helps modernize automotive production. GM's new initiative integrates AI with its in-house car design team, with the main goal of streamlining the design process. Car design is an important aspect of the production process, and this used to take weeks or even months to accomplish. GM says this new AI-integrated process takes mere minutes, giving designers more room for creativity. The people leading this shift within GM will tell you that AI's best use isn’t in taking over car design, it’s augmenting human creativity. According to Bryan Styles, the Director of Design Innovation and Technology Operations, GM is focused on finding a way to effectively ride the wave of AI technology. He also explains that they are using AI to help them be better at things they're already good at, as a tool to augment and expedite processes. General Motors Extrapolation of DesignAI is not taking over the designs of GM's cars, but is helping designers get more out of their creative visions in a shorter timespan. AI allows the design team to see the full outcome of the design vision through an AI-generated image. Basically, the designer hand-draws a design, feeds the design into an AI tool, and asks it to generate images. The tool eventually generates 3D photos of the car design in motion. This whole process used to take weeks and months of work with a team; now it takes a day and can be completed by a single designer. Another key part of the automotive design process is aerodynamics, form, and function. AI is also helping GM create better designs by using aerodynamic models generated by the AI tech. General Motors View the full article

The dream season continues for Tyler Reddick and 23XI Racing, just one day after partnering with Rockstar Energy. The championship leader earned his 14th career pole and his third of the 2026 season at Kansas Speedway. With a fast lap of 29.142s, Reddick beat his boss Denny Hamlin by 0.019s for the top spot. It was a Toyota 1-2-3 in qualifying with last week's winner Ty Gibbs in third. Kyle ...Keep readingView the full article

Rally Pedigree That Still Pays OffSeveral automakers, including Audi and Subaru, have built lasting reputations in rally that continue to benefit their production models. Another notable marque is Lancia, which gave rise to icons such as the Delta Integrale and the wedge-shaped Stratos. However, the brand gradually faded from the spotlight after leaving rally competition in 1992, and later withdrew from global markets to focus solely on Italy. This decade, Lancia is beginning to stage a revival under parent company Stellantis and has even returned to the World Rally Championship. The highlight came recently with a class win at Rally Croatia, where Yohan Rossel took victory in a Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale with co-driver Arnaud Dunand. Stellantis The Comeback Gets RealThe duo put Lancia back on the top step of the podium after over three decades and helped Team Lancia Corse HF take the standings lead after four rounds of the 2026 season. The team competed in the opening round at Rally Monte Carlo, skipped the next two events in Sweden and Kenya, and returned to action in Croatia. It is worth noting that the win came in WRC2, the series’ second-tier class behind WRC1, where Toyota, Hyundai, and Ford currently field factory entries. Teammate Nikolay Gryazin, alongside co-driver Konstantin Aleksandrov, also secured a third-place podium finish in Croatia. The Ypsilon Rally2 HF Integrale is based on the Ypsilon road car, a five-door hatchback offered either as a fully electric model or with a 1.2-liter turbocharged inline-three engine. It rides on Stellantis’ CMP platform, which also underpins other models within the group, including the Jeep Avenger, a model not sold in the U.S., where buyers tend to favor larger vehicles. Stellantis Revival in MotionWith its return to rallying, there had been speculation that Lancia would enter WRC1, especially with new regulations set to take effect in 2027 that aim to lower costs and encourage more entrants to join the flagship class. However, the Italian marque appears to be focusing on WRC2 for now, with the team stating that it is not developing a car to comply with the new rules. If Lancia continues to find success in motorsport, Stellantis could leverage that momentum to reinforce the brand’s positioning as a performance-focused luxury marque. The automaker is also expanding beyond the current Ypsilon, with plans to introduce the Gamma, expected to serve as its volume model. It will be followed by the revival of the Delta nameplate, which is expected to launch around 2028 and is rumored to be a performance electric hatch. Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ultimately, at the end of the day, Ryan Blaney said his role regarding pit crew changes at Team Penske is just to support and welcome those who put on the No. 12 uniform each week. This is regarding the change made this week with the demotion of jack man Landon Honeycutt from the Blaney team to the Wood Brother No. 21 driven by Josh Berry. This follows a slow start by the Penske No. 12 pit ...Keep readingView the full article

Keeping it SimpleNot everyone wants or needs a hybrid or EV with a screen for a dashboard. Oftentimes, simplicity is the key, and Lancia had done exactly that with the latest car it had just launched. Meet the Ypsilon Turbo 100, and its specs are so refreshingly simple that it's the kind of car the world needs more of these days. The car is a response to the Italian market's demand for a low-cost subcompact hatchback. According to Lancia, the Ypsilon Turbo 100 was "born from direct customer feedback and analysis of the Italian market." That means uncomplicated mechanics, no electrification, and features you actually need. Lancia Making Them Like They Used ToLancia says a significant portion of drivers (at least in Italy) still prefer manual transmission. So, that's exactly what the company gave the Turbo 100. It's an honest-to-goodness six-speed manual, and there's no other transmission option. The brand says fitting a manual "is a gesture that puts the driver back at the center of the experience." Features-wise, it's actually decently equipped. There's auto headlights, auto climate control, cruise control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus autonomous emergency braking, stability control, and a barrage of airbags, which are required by EU law. Again, it's offering the essentials that modern consumers expect - nothing more, nothing less. As for the engine, it's a three-cylinder 1.2-liter turbo that makes 99 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. Aware that this engine will be flogged around tight streets and country roads, the engine received rigorous reliability trials. It consisted of over 30,000 hours on the test bench and more than 1.8 million miles on prototype vehicles. Lancia Cheap and CheerfulThe main headline here, aside from its sheer simplicity and unpretentiousness, is the introductory price. The little hatchback starts at just €15,950, which is roughly $18,800 at current conversion rates. It's not like the base model is barren, either, so there's incredible value here. Not only that, one can drive it home with monthly payments of €99 (approx. $117 per month) for 36 months. That said, other trims are available that add more assists, but even the fully-loaded, sporty-looking Turbo 100 HF Line still costs well below $25,000. Truth be told, this is the kind of car that should come with Fiat badges, but it's nice to see that Lancia is being given the chance to make up for some volume. Given that the brand only has one model (sounds familiar?), it'll need every sale it can make to survive. There are other versions available, of course. For those who'd like an automatic, they'll have to go for the mild-hybrid version, which currently has a special price starting at €19,900 (around $23,500). The Ypsilon is also available as a pure EV with a promo price of €21,950 (just under $26,000). Did we mention there's a rally-bred Ypsilon, too? It actually won its first race fairly recently, so you can say it's got a bit of racing pedigree. Lancia Lancia View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In the extremely relevant long-haul electric semi space, legacy automaker Volvo has just revealed its offering - the FH Aero Electric’s extended range variant - with a claimed range of 435 miles on a single charge, putting it right up there with the upcoming Tesla Semi and Windrose Electric semi. Volvo Electrifying EngineeringThe primary hurdle for EVs in the commercial sector has always been the brutal trade-off between energy density and weight. In the world of semi-trucks, every additional pound of battery traditionally meant a pound of lost payload. Volvo’s solution is a masterclass in smart packaging. By redesigning the rear electric axle into a more compact e-axle that integrates the motors and a six-speed transmission, engineers freed up enough chassis space to fit a massive 725 kWh battery pack. Volvo Having a payload of up to 28 tonnes and a claimed range of up to 435 miles per charge, it’s a clear indication that electric trucks are no longer relegated to short-range last-mile deliveries. To make a 725 kWh battery usable for real-world trucking operations, charging speed is as critical as range. Volvo has equipped the FH Aero Electric to handle the Megawatt Charging System (MCS). Volvo claims the platform is capable of charging from 20 percent to 80 percent in approximately 50 minutes when connected to a 700kW charger. This timing is intentional, as it aligns almost perfectly with mandatory driver rest periods, effectively neutralizing the downtime argument that has long deterred long-haul carriers from switching away from diesel. Positioning Against the CompetitionWhile the standard Volvo FH Electric was already a leader in regional logistics, the "Aero" variant uses advanced aerodynamics to minimize drag and maximize efficiency at highway speeds, allowing the Volvo to target long-haul trucking competition like the Tesla Semi and Windrose Electric semi. Volvo The entry of a legacy manufacturer into the 400-plus mile club changes the math for global fleets. Volvo brings an established global service network, proven parts availability, and decades of chassis durability data to the table—factors that are often just as important to fleet managers as the electric powertrain itself. Heavy-Logistics EV RoadmapWhile infrastructure seems to be the final hurdle, the hardware is now widely available. We are witnessing a transition where electric trucks are evolving from niche sustainability projects into viable, primary tools for international logistics - both battery electric, as well as hydrogen FCE (Fuel-Cell Electric). The psychological barrier for many operators was the 400-mile mark. Now that Volvo has joined a growing club of manufacturers who have surpassed it, the industry focus will likely shift from "Can it do the job?" to "How fast can we build the chargers?" The potential fuel-cost savings of moving to EV trucking from diesel trucking will prove to be immensely attractive for profit-maximizing businesses. View the full article

A Fragile Supply WebA report from Nikkei Asia says Nissan is using 90 percent less rare-earth metals, including dysprosium and terbium, in the new Leaf than in the original model released in 2010. While this reflects advancements in EV motor technology, the reduced reliance also helps limit exposure to rare-earth export restrictions, particularly in China. China dominates the rare-earth supply chain, and while the U.S.-spec Leaf’s direct exposure is unclear, it is still likely tied to that ecosystem. As EV motor technology improves, reducing reliance on those materials could benefit the U.S. by limiting exposure to potential supply disruptions. Nissan The Original EV EvolvesThe previous-gen U.S.-spec Nissan Leaf was built at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant, which currently produces SUV models like the Nissan Pathfinder. However, for the next-generation model introduced last year, production has shifted to Sunderland, England, as demand for the model and EVs in general has cooled in the U.S. Still, the Leaf remains one of the most affordable EVs stateside, alongside models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV. It features a 75-kWh lithium-ion battery and a single AC synchronous motor producing 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. The estimated range is up to 303 miles, while a 10 to 80 percent charge via DC fast charging takes about 35 minutes. The Leaf is one of the longest-running mainstream EV nameplates, having arrived even before Tesla launched the Model S in 2013 – a flagship now nearing the end of its run alongside the Model X. That makes the Leaf a strong case study on how far EV technology has come, with the report noting that Nissan aims to keep cutting rare-earth use as development continues. Nissan Cutting Back on Critical MaterialsNissan offers the Leaf with a starting price of $29,990, excluding destination fees. It is now the Japanese marque's sole EV model sold in the U.S., following the discontinuation of the larger, more upscale Ariya after the 2025 model year. Aside from Nissan, General Motors is also working to address its reliance on rare earths. GM, which owns Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC, is taking part in the U.S. administration’s plan, including a $12 billion commitment to stockpile rare earths and other critical minerals. The effort is intended to help protect American automakers from potential pricing and supply chain disruptions. Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Kyle Busch did not appreciate the commentary about his season and career trajectory from Denny Hamlin during a segment on the Actions Detrimental podcast on Monday. Hamlin effectively said Busch is one of the greatest of all time, but also felt like Busch needed to solidly outperform teammate Austin Dillon to justify a narrative that the two-time champion is being held back by Richard Childress ...Keep readingView the full article

The carbon fibre-infused Encor Series 1, first revealed late last year, is edging closer to production. And at the 2026 Salon Privé Concours, we finally got to see it in person alongside another Lotus restomod. Based on a donor Lotus Esprit rather than a clean-sheet build, the Series 1 replaces ageing components with modern parts and tech while preserving the character that made the original iconic. With just 50 hand-built units planned and a starting price of around £430,000 ($580,000), this is a rare and expensive reinterpretation of a true classic. A Tiny Wedge With Pop-Up Headlights Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Seeing it up close really highlights just how small the Esprit platform is. Measuring just under 14 feet long, 6 feet wide, and just over 3.5 feet tall, the Series 1 has a footprint that feels bite-sized by modern standards. Yet the presence is anything but. The original shape, penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro, remains intact, complete with pop-up headlights and that signature wedge silhouette. But the old fibreglass body is gone, replaced by a carbon-fibre shell for added rigidity and weight savings. It even sits on 5-spoke wheels that echo the donor car’s design, tying the whole look back to its roots. Even among other highlights at the event, like the F1-inspired Nichols N1A, the Encor still drew a crowd. Old-School Soul in a Modern Package Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Rather than chasing extreme numbers, Encor has focused on refining the Esprit’s original formula. The rebuilt 3.5-litre twin-turbo V8 produces around 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, sent through an upgraded 5-speed manual gearbox. More importantly, it still sounds like an old V8, retaining that raw, mechanical character. And with a weight of about 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs), it doesn't need a boatload of power to impress. Encor Design claims a 0-62 mph time of 4 seconds flat and a top speed of 175 mph. The chassis has also been refreshed, with upgraded suspension components, Bilstein dampers, and Eibach springs. A Restomod That Gets It Right Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog The example we saw at the Concours was finished in Liquid Silver paint, with a contrasting Encor Ramsay Blue interior. The cabin's layout stays driver-centric, like the original Esprit, but the materials and execution have been upped a notch. Carbon fibre surfaces, high-quality leather, and a dash of wood on the gear stick keep the interior feeling modern, but not soulless. Even the machined aluminium piece that houses a digital display makes it feel contemporary, but not at the expense of its analogue charm. If Encor Design's goal was to rework the classic Lotus Esprit from top to bottom, they failed. But if they wanted to reimagine it, without disgracing its legacy, they hit the nail on the head. They refined, respected, and modernized the Esprit in a way very few thought was possible. View the full article