Street News Anchor

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

Ford continues the restructuring of its EV business with the dissolution of the Model e division that focused on designing, producing and scaling electric vehicles and connected technology. In addition to this move, the automaker has announced that Doug Field, the head of the Model e unit, is leaving the company as part of a wider reorganization. Field, who joined Ford five years ago to lead the company’s electric vehicle and software projects, “has elected to leave the company after a transition over the next month,” the automaker announced in a press release. Ford Model e Chief Leaves After Five Years Ford Before joining Ford, Doug Field, worked as VP of special projects at Apple for three years, acting as the de-facto head of the ill-fated Apple car project. Prior to his tenure with Apple, he spent five years at Tesla, first as its vice president of vehicle programs and later as senior vice president of engineering. “I'm honored to have been a part of leading Ford during an unprecedented period of technology and market disruption,” Field said. “I believe Ford now has a winning technology strategy and plan. The first breakthrough product off the Universal EV platform – a mid-size pickup – is on its way to production. We have clearly defined hardware, software, and electrification plans across our full product line. The initial quality of our core technologies is now near the top of the industry.” Doug Field’s departure from Ford signals a shift in the way the automaker is approaching electrification and software. The company said it formed a new end-to-end organization called Product Creation and Industrialization, which will integrate the company’s Electric Vehicle, Digital and Design team that Field headed with its industrial operations. By creating this new division, Ford will be able to “turn its highest‑volume vehicles into platforms for digital growth.” The new division will be headed by Ford COO Kumar Galhotra and is expected to help accelerate the Ford+ plan and its target of an 8% adjusted EBIT margin by 2029 “by delivering one of the most intensive product, software, and services rollouts in Ford’s history,” the carmaker said. Next-Gen F-150 and F-Series Super Duty Headline Slew of New Products Arriving by 2029 Ford aims to refresh 80% of its North American portfolio by volume and 70% of its global portfolio by volume by 2029, the company said. That includes the first vehicle based on the Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform—a midsize pickup—and the next-generation F-150 and F-Series Super Duty trucks. By 2030, Ford is planning for nearly 90% of its global nameplates to offer electrified powertrains, including advanced hybrids, extended-range electric vehicles, and fully electric vehicles. It is also gunning for 90% of its vehicles by volume to feature updated electrical architectures, in-house developed user experiences and hardware, and next-generation over-the-air capability. This is expected to enable a continuous improvement in experiences and services, as well as a rapid rollout of BlueCruise and the Ford Digital Experience, “providing a scalable path toward future Level 3 autonomous driving.” In addition, the “skunkworks” model that has been successfully used in California to develop the UEV platform will be leveraged for select future programs, Ford said, possibly referring to the future Tesla Model 3/Y rival. Speaking of the UEV architecture, Ford said it has already yielded breakthroughs in other areas, including high-efficiency motors that will improve future hybrids, and LFP battery engineering capability that now serves as the foundation for Ford Energy, the automaker’s stationary energy storage business. “We’re on the eve of the biggest change the company has seen, which is delivering all this new software and hardware and products and services in ’27 through ’29 that will get us not only to that 8% margin, but transform the company,” Ford CEO Jim Farley said on a call with media on April 15. “This is the team that’s going to deliver this.” View the full article

It's already been nearly two months since the all-electric i3 sedan debuted, and now a leak from a reliable insider has spilled the tea on what to expect in terms of performance from the combustion-powered BMW 3 Series. A user on the Bimmer Post forum claims that the eighth-generation G50 3 Series will launch with three models, with others to follow in due course: 318, 320, and M350 (we've known for some time that the 'i' suffix is being dropped from gas Bimmers to prevent confusing them with their electric brethren), with the latter reportedly getting more power than was previously reported. BMW M350 Will Be Boosted Beyond 400 Horsepower SH Proshots/Autoblog Spy photographers reported in June last year that the current range-topping 386-horsepower M340i would be replaced by an M350 delivering 400 hp from a mild-hybrid powertrain, but the new information leaked online is more specific, claiming that the M Performance 3er will get the B58B30M3 straight-six turbo engine with a total of 420 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. While that is higher than previously understood, the discrepancy may be a result of Euro 7 emissions regulations, with European-market models potentially getting less performance than the unshackled U.S.-spec models, as is the case with the current G20 M340i. As for the rest of the range, a four-cylinder turbo will continue. Related: BMW's High-Performance Electric X5 Is Getting Tires Not Even Supercars Have Yet The forum update says the 318's mild-hybrid, featuring the 2.0-liter turbo B48B20M3 engine, will make 154 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, while the 320 will reportedly develop 208 hp and 243 lb-ft, with both four-pots being assisted by an electric motor producing an extra 11 ponies. The latter is expected to be offered in both rear-wheel-drive and xDrive formats. In the U.S., those figures may not be potent enough, but don't forget, these are just the launch models, and it's almost certain that a 330 model with a more powerful setup will follow. This, too, is likely to be offered in RWD and AWD configurations, and a 330e plug-in hybrid is also expected to make production. So, when will these rumors be officially confirmed or denied? Gas BMW 3 Series Coming After X5 Debut SH Proshots/Autoblog The new G50 3 Series has already been teased by BMW, and a major leak in February of this year confirmed that it will arrive in xDrive form for the 2027 model year. This is expected to occur after the new X5 is launched, and that enters production in August, with a reveal happening in the summer (so anytime from late June). With 3 Series production scheduled for November, we don't expect the all-new 3 Series to break cover before the fall. View the full article

OEM Plus Hyundai has a new parts catalog for 2026. The recipients of these new pieces include the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and the Elantra N. We have yet to see the Ioniq 6 N, but perhaps we'll see a new catalog dropping from the South Korean brand soon enough as models make their way to owners and dealers. The Elantra N and the Ioniq 5 N are both stellar forays into Hyundai's performance vehicle category. The brand's N Division continues to generate excitement among its "Nthusiasts" by providing several accessories designed and engineered by Hyundai N. These products will be made available at select U.S. Hyundai dealers that sell Hyundai N cars. Hyundai New Dress Up Bits Both the Hyundai Elantra N and the Ioniq 5 N receive dress-up parts and hardware in Hyundai's published catalog of parts. These are model-specific pieces that align with the "Just Drive" tagline of Hyundai's performance-driven brand. Ioniq 5 N / Elantra N N Performance Black Wheel Nuts Ioniq 5 N / Elantra N N Design Floor Mats Ioniq 5 N / Elantra N Metal Door Scuff Plates Ioniq 5 N / Elantra N Wheel Caps Ioniq 5 N / Elantra N Alcantara Steering Wheel Ioniq 5 N / Elantra N N Performance Decals “Hyundai’s new N Performance Parts are specifically engineered to meet the discerning demands of our Hyundai N Nthusiasts,” said Joon Park, Vice President of N Management Group, Hyundai Motor Company. “These rigorously engineered N Performance Parts deliver high performance and motorsports-inspired designs for N owners who crave more performance and a higher degree of design personalization. The biggest ticket item of the bunch is the Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel which will replace the stock leather-wrapped unit. Along with that, we also get floor mats, metal scuff plates, wheel caps, decals, and even black wheel nuts. Hyundai N Performance Parts (IONIQ 5 N Alcantara® steering wheel) Hyundai View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Elantra N-Specific Upgrades Hyundai is rolling out more upgrades for the Elantra N. The platform is reaching a certain level of maturity with owners. You could say it's the right time for an upgrade. If you didn't get the Elantra N TCR, full assemblies for the rear wing and carbon fiber side mirrors will be available for purchase. Interior bits that might have been worn down over time can now be refreshed with Alcantara-clad parts. Elantra N Carbon Fiber Rear Wing Elantra N Carbon Fiber Side Mirrors (without camera) Elantra N Alcantara Gear Knob & Shift Boot (M/T or A/T) Elantra N Alcantara Parking Lever Elantra N Alcantara Center Armrest Elantra N 19-inch Forged Alloy Wheels (Matte Black) The biggest upgrades in this bunch are the 19-inch Forged Alloy Wheels and the Carbon Fiber Rear Wing. You have to remember that the rear wing on the Elantra N is actually a functional bit of aero. The wheels are also forged, and an upgrade over the stock set. Hyundai N didn't publish fitment specifications for the new set of 19s, but zooming in on the press photos, you'll see it's wrapped in 245/35 R19-series tires, which are close to stock size. The kicker is that the OEM-plus set is forged, so you'll save a bit of unsprung mass there. Hyundai N Performance Parts (Elantra N 19-inch matte black forged alloy wheels) Hyundai View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Simple and UnderstandableI'd like to think that one of the hardest automotive processes is naming the actual car. As simple as it may be, I'm sure countless man-hours and meetings have been spent on naming. Some brands like to use words and come up with unique names, while others prefer to keep it simple with a combination of letters and numbers. This is usually reserved for the premium brands, but Infiniti is looking to shake things up. After years of using letters and numbers, a change to a more streamlined type of naming process. Adam Lynton/Autoblog Internal ConfusionWhile it's understandable that some people are confused by the numbers-and-letters naming style, most have gotten used to it by now. However, it has come to light that some Infiniti executives have expressed confusion about how the brand names its models. In a report by Edmunds, they were able to attend a media session with Nissan Americas' chief product and planning officer Ponz Pandikuthira. Pandikuthira candidly admitted to the assembled media that he was frustrated with the current naming process and that Infiniti is working to change it. He isn't alone in feeling this frustration; he notes that Nissan Americas' chairman, Christian Meunier, isn't a fan of this "alphabet soup," which doesn't stick to people or resonate with buyers. Most of the confusion centers on the "Q" and "QX" models, introduced in 2012 to streamline the lineup. This naming convention debuted in 2014, when the G became the Q50, the M transformed into the Q70, and the crossover and SUVs took on the QX (add number here) names. Pandikuthira says that Nissan banks on a lot of great nameplates, that Infiniti lost our on by going alphanumeric, lamenting the loss of the FX, which he claims stood for something. Cole Attisha Using Midjourney 7.0 and Gemini 3 Pro What Now?There are a few cars slated for launch still under the current naming convention: the QX65 and the Skyline-platform Q50 are set to make a return. After that, nothing is clear, which could provide Infiniti the opportunity to fix its naming problems. Some will argue they understand Infinit's model lineup, but looking at the competition proves Pandikuthira's point. Alphanumeric works if it provides a clear distinction between models. For example, you understand that the BMW 2-series is different from the 3-series, that the Audi Q5 is different from the Q7, and that a Lexus IS is not the same as an LS. Infiniti View the full article

"Wings" Trademark disputes are quite interesting to cover. On the one hand, there are the outright copycats who deserve to be served, while on the other hand, there are more finicky situations, such as the one that Geely finds itself entangled in. Aston Martin is suing Geely because the Chinese brand's new badge looks a little too similar to Aston Martin's classic wings logo. Bentley may have wings on its logo, but it's nowhere near the shape of Aston Martin's. You could argue the same for the London Electric Vehicle Company's emblem as well. London Electric Vehicle Company Too Similar?The dispute was served to Zhejiang Geely Holding Group by Aston Martin, arguing that the new logos that the Chinese brand wants to use on its cars are too close in design to the British marque's famous wings emblem. Geely plans to use its new "Aston-like" logo for its London taxi subsidiary, London EV company. Whereas Aston's logo is slim and has the brand's name on it, Geely's "copy" features a horse's head in the center of the wings, and it's a much fatter set of flappers to boot. Different enough, but not dissimilar enough to – potentially – confuse buyers. You could say that Aston has a case if you consider the logos alone. However, would you really confuse an electric taxi with a wings logo for an Aston Martin? London Electric Vehicle Company Since 2022 The Telegraph reported that the dispute was first filed in 2022, when Geely attempted to register the logos with the U.K.'s intellectual property office. In 2023, Aston Martin blocked this, stating that the Chinese automaker infringed on its logo design. The court ruled in Geely's favor, however. Again, the argument was that car buyers are unlikely to mistake an EV taxi for an Aston Martin. In the following year, Geely bought a 17-percent stake in Aston Martin for $310 million, putting it squarely on the list of majority shareholders. Ironically, Aston Martin also "lost" James Bond to BYD – in a manner of speaking. The addition of Aston Martin to Geely's portfolio during this time is only one of the few British brands the Chinese company has managed to secure, which also includes Lotus. Even if Geely owns part of Aston Martin, the brand isn't backing down and still wants to block the logos. The British brand declined to discuss the case further, while Geely stated that it's just a routine trademark dispute. Despite the kerfuffle, Geely is committed to maintaining a professional relationship with Aston Martin as a business partner and part-owner. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Cadillac Prices Are Climbing FastCadillac is seeing a serious spike in what buyers are paying. According to a report from Cox Automotive, in March 2026, the average transaction price hit $84,139, up 11.6% from last year and 3.0% from February, a big jump in a short time. It aligns with a broader industry shift in which expensive vehicles, especially SUVs, are dominating. Cadillac, with its lineup of premium models, is right in the sweet spot of that trend. Cadillac The Market Is Starting to Look Like a Luxury ClubThis is where things get more interesting. The U.S. new car market itself is starting to behave like a luxury business. Higher-income households now make up a much larger share of buyers, while lower-income buyers are being pushed out or opting for used instead. That shift helps explain why brands like Cadillac are thriving. There’s a growing gap between buyers who can afford these vehicles and those who can’t. In fact, studies show that 70% of buyers are cutting back on everyday expenses just to afford a car, which tells you just how far people are stretching to stay in the new-car market. Cadillac Buyers Are Stretching, And It’s Propping Up PricesAnother possible reason prices keep climbing? Financing. Buyers aren’t necessarily earning more; they’re borrowing more. Longer loan terms, some stretching 72 to 84 months or more, are helping people afford vehicles that would otherwise be out of reach. The result is a market that looks strong on the surface, but is being supported by bigger loans and higher monthly payments. That’s helping keep prices elevated and not just for luxury brands like Cadillac, but across the entire industry. Cadillac No Real End in SightAll signs point to this trend continuing. Average new car prices have already crossed the $50,000 mark, and there’s little indication they’re coming back down anytime soon. Put it all together, and Cadillac’s rising prices act as a snapshot of where the entire market is headed. More expensive cars, wealthier buyers driving demand, and everyone else trying to keep up. Cadillac View the full article

Chevron Exec Says “Drive Less” as Fuel Crisis DeepensComments from Andy Walz, president of downstream, midstream, and chemicals at Chevron, are striking a nerve as global fuel prices surge. Speaking to CBS News, Walz urged Americans to rethink their driving habits: “People should try to drive less. They should try to conserve energy… We should be doing that all the time.” The remarks come as oil markets reel from geopolitical instability, particularly disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which typically carries about 20% of the world’s oil supply. With tanker traffic reduced, Brent crude has climbed to around $100 per barrel, pushing fuel costs higher across the board. The effects are already being felt at street level. Some Americans are reportedly beginning to ditch their cars altogether as fuel becomes prohibitively expensive. What was once a cornerstone of daily life: commuting, errands, and road trips, is now being reassessed in real time. Walz himself admitted there’s likely no “silver bullet” to bring prices down, emphasizing the global nature of oil markets and warning that prolonged instability could make conditions even tougher for consumers. $4 Gas and the Ripple Effect on IndustryThe pressure is quantifiable. U.S. average gas prices recently breached the $4-per-gallon mark again, a psychological and financial threshold that tends to reshape consumer behavior. This spike is beginning to affect automakers as well. Companies like General Motors have already reported declines in sales, suggesting that rising fuel costs are influencing purchasing decisions, particularly for larger, less-efficient vehicles. Technology is attempting to soften the blow. A growing number of apps now help drivers locate the cheapest gas stations nearby, some even leveraging AI to predict price fluctuations. But these tools are ultimately a stopgap. They optimize spending within a broken system rather than addressing the root cause. As Walz noted, if global supply constraints persist, even the cheapest station on the map won’t feel particularly affordable. David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images America’s Car Culture Faces an Uncomfortable RealityAmericans have a deeply ingrained relationship with their cars, one that goes beyond transportation into identity and freedom. The Interstate Highway System was built to enable this lifestyle, prioritizing long-distance, high-speed travel over alternatives such as high-speed rail. When a top executive from a major oil company suggests driving less, it signals more than just a temporary adjustment; it signals a structural strain in the system. If even the industry benefiting from fuel consumption is advising restraint, it underscores how dire the situation has become. And with no clear resolution to the geopolitical tensions driving these prices, the road ahead looks increasingly uncertain. Ford View the full article

The Ford Mustang GTD has just rewritten the record books at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. A lighter, more powerful, more aerodynamic GTD Competition variant has reset the benchmark with a time of 6:40.835 around the Green Hell, beating the GTD's previous time by 11 seconds and the Corvette ZR1X's time (6:49.275) by over eight seconds to become the fastest American car at the circuit, the second fastest production car ever to run the course—behind only the Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar (6:29.090)—and the sixth fastest for the Nürburgring Pre-Production/Prototype Class. You can watch an on-board video of the record at the bottom of this article. The news confirms a rumor from last month and is particularly impressive since the AMG ONE is a hypercar produced in collaboration with a Formula One team, and the ZR1X is an all-wheel-drive hypercar with 1,250 horsepower. So how did Ford do it, and can the Corvette team snatch it back again? Mustang GTD Competition Gets Lighter, Slipperier, and More Powerful Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The 5.2-liter supercharged V8 under the GTD Competition's hood has been enhanced with both hardware updates and more aggressive tuning to deliver more than the original GTD's 815 hp, says Ford, though an exact figure was not revealed. As the likes of Hennessey have shown, the 5.2-liter supercharged Predator engine is capable of four-figure output, but we'll have to wait to find out just how far Ford pushed the limits. The GTD team worked on the aerodynamics, too, with a modified rear wing, secondary front dive planes, and carbon fiber aero discs on the rear wheels (like on a Porsche 911 GT3 RS Manthey Racing), enhancing downforce while minimizing drag. There's also new rubber on the wheels, which have lost weight and are made of magnesium, and the damper system is lighter, too. Inside, new carbon bucket seats further strip weight, among other undisclosed upgrades. While Ford is keeping its cards close to its chest, it does say the GTD Competition remains street-legal, and it'll be offered to the public. Speaking of, Ford today reopens the application window for North American customers who want a chance to buy the GTD. So, can Chevy fight back and reclaim its title? Probably. Chevy Has to Make One Change to Go Faster at the Nürburgring Ford While the Blue Oval points out that Ford Racing and Multimatic factory driver Dirk Müller is a former professional racing driver, the Corvette ZR1 and ZR1X times were achieved by engineers, not pros, and it's therefore safe to assume that GM may be able to reclaim the title of fastest American car around the Nordschleife with a Nordschleife specialist at the wheel. Perhaps because of this, Ford notes that this more extreme Mustang GTD Competition was also taken around the course by engineer Steve Thompson, who has done fewer than 40 laps of the Green Hell, and he set a time of 6:49.337, which is still quicker than Müller's original record and just a fraction behind the ZR1X's time. Clearly, Ford recognizes just how tight the friendly competition is, but for now, it's the undisputed American king of the 'Ring. View the full article

Show Cars with a PointOne-off show cars usually exist to test boundaries, not rack up sales. They’re rolling design exercises that let brands explore ideas without worrying about production realities. In the case of Mini, that idea has always revolved around individuality. Mini Mini teamed up with Austrian design studio Vagabund to create two Countryman SUVs that look nothing like what you’d find at a dealership. Vagabund is known for turning the ordinary into something expressive, and here, they’ve injected a strong dose of culture and lifestyle into the mix. The end result? Two Countryman builds that treat the SUV as a blank canvas. Underneath, it’s still a Countryman, but the purpose is on a whole different level. Mini A Louder, Wider, More Theatrical CountrymanBoth builds start life as a Mini Countryman S ALL4, but that’s about where the stock story ends. The body gets wider arches, new bumpers, and a stance that looks ready for a show, not a school run. Ride height is up, and those 20-inch wheels with 3D-printed covers look like they belong on a speaker, not a crossover. Each build has its own personality. One goes for a lighter Melting Silver with sand and white accents, while the other is all-in on Midnight Black. Put them side by side, and you get a clear contrast: playful versus technical, open versus precise. But the real highlight is the sound system. Instead of rear-side windows, you get a custom audio setup designed to project music outdoors. Tweeters and mid-range speakers are built right into the body, and subwoofers in the back turn the tailgate into a mini stage. Even the roof rack gets in on the act. It’s laser-cut aluminum with mesh details that look like speaker grilles. There’s even a Walkman tucked into a 3D-printed case on one side – a small touch that brings a bit of old-school nostalgia to this modern build. Mini More Than Just a Design ExerciseBut it’s not just about looks. Mini and Vagabund want these builds to be platforms for connection – bringing people together through music and shared experiences, with the cars as the centerpiece. Just as wild as the looks are the materials used in the project. The speaker housings are made from cast polymer granite, chosen for its sound, not just its looks. Each car works on its own, but together they create a bigger, more immersive setup – almost like a two-car stage. One of these will debut at Auto China 2026 in Beijing next week, together with other wild concepts, with additional showings planned afterward. Production isn’t on the table, nor do we hope it would be, because frankly, this isn’t something you’d want in your garage, more so in your neighbor’s. Mini View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ford has just revealed a new version of the electric Explorer in Europe. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t aimed at families. It’s a commercial vehicle. And oddly enough, if you add some seats in the back, it might be closer to what some buyers hoped the Mustang Mach-E would be from the start. A Simpler, More Useful Explorer EV The new Explorer Van is essentially a two-seat version of the standard electric SUV, reworked for fleet use. The rear seats have been replaced with a flat load floor, while a full bulkhead separates the cabin from the cargo area, making it perfect for light-duty work. Because it features a partition behind the driver and no rear seats, it’s classified as a van in Europe. That's also why it has the yellow lug nut indicators on its wheels. The all-wheel-drive version produces 335 hp and 500 lb-ft of torque, while the rear-wheel-drive model can travel up to 374 miles on a single charge. Payload capacity tops out at 650 kg (1,433 lbs), and towing capability reaches up to 1,200 kg (2,646 lbs). The numbers aren’t meant to rival larger petrol-powered or hybrid vans, but they don’t need to. The EV Americans Might Actually Want Ford While this model is designed for European fleets, it unintentionally hits a sweet spot for American buyers, assuming it regains rear seats. If this were to become a reality, the almost station-wagon-looking Explorer EV could do everything the Mustang Mach-E does, just better. The size and simplistic design are much closer to what US consumers typically prefer, especially given the mixed reception to the Mach-E. And best of all, no more blasphemed Mustang name. The Possibility of It Coming To The States Ford will introduce a new affordable four-door model in the States, rumored to be a sedan. As it stands, the Explorer Van is unlikely to make its way to the United States. It has been developed specifically around European regulations. Although America gets the gas-powered Explorer, the Explorer EV, and its van variant join the list of Euro-only Ford SUVs, including the Puma, Kuga, and Capri (you can keep that one). Not every buyer is looking for something flashy or overdesigned. Sometimes, a clean, practical EV with the right size and shape is exactly what’s missing. View the full article

Still Chasing the Rotary DreamCall it resilience or sheer stubbornness, but Mazda still wants to include rotary engines in its future lineup. Of course, making that happen has been a challenge, to say the least. On their own, rotary engines emit a lot of emissions, and given the automotive industry regulations now, Mazda faces an uphill battle that gets steeper every day. Mazda gave the rotary another shot fairly recently with the MX-30 e-SkyActiv-R. It used a rotary engine as a generator for the electric motor, and it was a cross between a plug-in hybrid and a range-extended EV. That version was axed earlier this year due to low sales and high prices, leaving only the piston-powered mild-hybrid model. Mazda Not Giving UpSo, the MX-30 rotary plug-in hybrid flopped, but Mazda still isn't willing to throw in the towel. We've seen several patents and concepts to make it work, and the company has even gone so far as to revive its rotary engine development division. Executives have also said that the brand will come back to making another rotary sports car someday. The last rotary-powered sports car Mazda and the world had produced was the RX-8. It was built from 2003 to 2012, and while it wasn't a direct successor to the RX-7, it did inherit the mantle of the company's flagship sports car. In the end, emissions regulations killed it in Europe, and with the loss of a major market, sales dwindled and were eventually discontinued. Reclaiming a TrademarkMazda's dream of a sporty rotary never died, but its hold on the RX-8 trademark did. It had been left idle for so long that the rights to the name simply expired. Anyone could've simply yanked the name, but fortunately for Mazda, no one did. In fact, Mazda recently filed for the trademark RX-8. We found the document in the U.S Patent and Trademark Office database, and it was dated February 17, 2026. But before anyone gets too excited, it can mean one of two things. The first is that Mazda just wants to reclaim the rights to the name. The recent Luce (pronounced lu-che) filing by Ferrari might have prompted Mazda to review the nameplates from its back catalog and check whether it still owned them. At the same time, it might be an indicator of Mazda's intent to revive the model. It could mean nothing, and it could mean everything. But let's say Mazda is, indeed, in the middle of developing a new rotary-engined sports car. One thing is for sure: it will be electrified in one way or another to meet tighter regulations. There's a better chance the engine would simply be used as a range extender (think Nissan e-Power) to keep the batteries juiced, but at least the rotary would get another chance. Who knows, we might even see a similar arrangement of more pedestrian models. Wieck View the full article

If you are driving I-70 this weekend, today is not the day to start. The National Weather Service has a Winter Weather Advisory active right now for Colorado's mountain passes and a Freeze Warning covering the entire Front Range urban corridor and northeast plains tonight through Saturday morning. The storm clears Saturday, but the damage to roads and vegetation will already be done. What makes this one worth paying attention to is not the snow totals in the mountains. It is the freeze behind it. Denver was in the upper 70s yesterday. Tonight, lows across the Front Range will fall to 18 to 24 degrees. That is more than 50 degrees in under 36 hours, and anyone who has already turned on their sprinkler system is about to find out the hard way. The StormThe cold front that hit Wyoming this week crossed the Colorado border overnight. NWS Boulder confirmed it in their Area Forecast Discussion issued at 5:27 AM today: a spring storm moving in with snow showers and a much colder air mass, with a hard freeze expected across the plains Friday night. Snow is already developing in the mountains this morning and spreading to lower elevations through the day. Denver's forecast high today is in the low 40s with an 80 percent chance of snow showers. The city has not seen measurable snow since March 15. The snow at lower elevations will be light and mostly wet, but the main concern is what happens to wet roads when temperatures crash into the teens tonight. Saturday clears along the Front Range. Denver gets back to the upper 50s under sunshine, and the low 70s by Sunday. The AFD calls for a warming trend with mostly dry conditions through Tuesday, though the mountains may see low-end rain or snow chances Monday and Tuesday at higher elevations. NWS The HighwaysThe Eisenhower-Johnson Memorial Tunnel on I-70 at 11,158 feet is taking the worst of it today: 2 to 4 inches of snow with heavy bursts and gusts to 34 mph through 5 PM. The AFD notes snow accumulations of 2 to 9 inches above 9,000 feet and 2 to 6 inches in the foothills, with hazardous driving conditions possible along I-70 and mountain passes late this morning through early Friday afternoon. Berthoud Pass on US-40, the two-lane alternative when I-70 closes, is in the same advisory zone. Conditions are set to improve on Saturday as warmer, drier air moves in, but today's travel window through the mountains is narrow. CDOT's Traction Law is in effect through May 31 between Dotsero and Morrison. The Front Range along I-25 will not see much snow, but do not let that fool you. The Freeze Warning means every bridge deck and overpass from Fort Collins through Denver to Colorado Springs will ice over tonight. Lows of 18 to 24 degrees on wet pavement is black ice, not snow, and that is harder to see and harder to recover from. Colorado Springs faces a second round: NWS Pueblo has issued a Freeze Watch for Saturday night into Sunday morning as well. When To DriveToday is not a mountain day. The advisory is active through 5 PM at the higher passes, snow is falling, and roads above 10,000 feet are getting slick. If you absolutely must cross I-70 today, go now, early morning, before conditions build through the afternoon. Tonight is the worst window on the Front Range as a result of ice. The Freeze Warning activates at 8 PM as everything that melts during the day refreezes. It is expected that every bridge on I-25 and I-76 will have ice on it by midnight. Saturday the Front Range recovers. Denver is sunny and near 60. Mountain passes should be clearing, though residual ice is possible on shaded sections. Sunday and Monday warm further, with highs reaching the 70s in Denver. The AFD expects mostly dry conditions through Tuesday. US NWS The FreezeThis is the part that will affect the most people, with Denver in the upper 70s one day, and hard freeze the next. The NWS Freeze Warning issued at 1:07 AM today is specific about the damage: above-ground irrigation lines will likely fail if they are not drained or protected, and a hard freeze will kill sensitive vegetation and damage fruit trees. This winter was warm enough that many homeowners turned on their systems weeks ago. February brought spring flowers out across the metro area. Colorado's statewide snowpack was sitting at 17 percent of the median peak as of April 13, the worst in four decades. The mountains will take whatever moisture this system delivers. The Front Range just gets the cold. Before You DriveYour tires matter more than your drivetrain this weekend. Colorado law requires 3/16-inch tread depth. Cold drops tire pressure 1 to 2 PSI per 10-degree change, and most people do not check until they are already sliding. AWD helps you go but does not help you stop on ice, which is what the Front Range will have after tonight. If you are crossing the passes today, throw chains or traction devices in the vehicle along with a blanket, water, phone charger, and a flashlight. Road ConditionsMake sure to visit COtrip.org for real-time I-70 conditions, live cameras, and active traction law status. For updated mountain weather and winter forecasts, use the Colorado 511 mobile app, dial 511 from any phone in Colorado, or go to NWS Boulder. View the full article

Earlier this year, Mercedes teased an extreme new AMG CLE under its Mythos sub-brand, a division dedicated to ultra-low-volume special editions, and now the Autoblog spies have snapped a development mule up close at the Nürburgring. First impressions? This will be a far more aggressive vehicle than anything in the BMW lineup, including the 543-horsepower M4 CSL, with plenty of aerodynamic aids and even a roll cage. Okay, the roll cage may only be there for on-track security during testing, but we wouldn't be surprised if such a thing were offered in the markets that legally allow it. With close to 650 hp on tap, according to reports out of Germany, this will be a monster. Hardcore AMG CLE Coming to the U.S. with Big Horsepower SH Proshots/Autoblog News of the top-tier CLE's power came after a dealer meeting showed U.S. and Canadian dealers a slew of exciting AMGs that will be introduced before the year is out, indicating that this limited edition will come to North America. The report said the special CLE 63 variant would pack 646 hp (likely from a specially tuned version of the flat-plane crank V8 in the new S-Class), adding that only 30 units would be produced. That's the entire production run, not just North America's, and if that's accurate, this will be one of the rarest modern Mercs yet, doubtless with an eye-watering price tag to boot. Our spies say this will be a hybrid, but it's unclear if it will be a plug-in or a mild-hybrid. To keep weight down, we suspect the latter. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Also unclear is whether this will carry the Black Series badge or something new. AMG's current CEO, Stefan Weckbach, said Black Series models are "an obligation" for the brand, but perhaps he was referring to the incoming AMG GT Black Series, with this Mythos creation getting a new designation. Whatever the case, this prototype showing up at the 'Ring means development is approaching the final stages, and the bodywork suggests as much, too. Mythos AMG CLE Has New Bodywork All Over SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Up front, the hardcore CLE has a very deep splitter, and the aggressive lower side intakes are flanked by canards. Higher up, the AMG grille appears to have a small badge on the right side, and the hood is vented. The fenders are too, with large openings covered by vinyl behind the front wheels. This seems to indicate that the fender vents may not be fully functional, but they'll look good and help widen the body and track. We see some fake cladding beneath the camo on the rear quarters, too, so this will be wider from every angle. The rear fascia seems pretty standard, but that'll almost definitely change for the production model, with a special diffuser and possibly even some unique exhaust tips. What's not standard is the large wing, which has slots to allow for manual adjustment, further hinting at this car's performance acumen. Notably, neither the headlights nor the taillights bear star-shaped LED graphics; will that change for production, or is this meant to stand apart from other Mercedes products? We should know soon, with a reveal expected before the end of the year, possibly as early as the summer. SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

Hyundai has put a price on the hottest version of its Elantra N entry-level performance car, the limited-edition 2026 Elantra N TCR Edition. Built to celebrate the six-consecutive Hyundai TCR Manufacturers’ Championships in the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge, the TCR Edition starts at $39,250 for the manual transmission model and $40,750 for the eight-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) version; the prices exclude a $1,245 destination charge. Compared to the regular Elantra N, the TCR Edition commands a $4,150 premium regardless of the transmission choice. Racing-Inspired Upgrades Make It Stand Out From the Standard Elantra N Hyundai Motor America Developed by Hyundai N’s wizards, the TCR Edition is the real deal and not just a fancy name. It brings unique racing-inspired performance features and styling, including a model-specific N Performance brake system, adjustable swan-neck carbon-fiber rear wing, lightweight 19-inch N TCR forged alloy wheels, and Alcantara cabin touchpoints. On the outside, the Elantra N TCR Edition rides on TCR-design lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels in a gloss black finish. The rims are designed specifically to accommodate the four-piston monobloc front brake calipers with two-piece rotors that are developed specifically for the TCR Edition. Hyundai Motor America Customers will only be able to have the Elantra N TCR Edition in Hyundai N’s signature Performance Blue exterior finish. Other exterior tweaks include the TCR Edition rear deck badging and TCR-specific door puddle lamp. Inside, the Elantra N TCR looks more focused than the base Elantra N thanks to a series of Alcantara touchpoints including the steering wheel with Performance Blue top-center mark, shift knob/boot, handbrake lever, and center console armrest. The motorsport-inspired ambience is rounded off by the Performance Blue driver and passenger front seatbelts and N Performance aluminum door sill plate. The 2.0L Engine Carries Over from the Elantra N Hyundai Motor America The engine is the same one that powers the Elantra N—a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder rated at 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque. Models equipped with the DCT get the N Grin Shift (NGS) overboost feature that increases power to 286 hp for short bursts. On the Elantra N, the engine enables a 0 to 60 mph acceleration in 4.8 seconds with the DCT and a top speed of 155 mph. “Our new motorsports-derived Elantra N TCR Edition builds on the Elantra N’s winning formula with additional performance parts and unmistakable motorsports visuals,” said Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America. “This limited-production model is sure to excite driving enthusiasts, motorsports fans, and collectors alike.” Hyundai did not say how many units of the Elantra N TCR Edition will be available in the United States, but Canada will reportedly be allocated only 100 units. That means the US market should get a significantly larger allocation—fingers crossed for that. View the full article

Solid-state batteries have been the electric vehicle industry's most coveted prize for the better part of a decade. The reason is simple. Today's lithium-ion batteries use a liquid electrolyte that is flammable, heavy, and chemically unstable at extreme temperatures. Swap that liquid out for a solid material, and you get a battery that cannot catch fire, holds significantly more energy per kilogram, and degrades far more slowly over time. Better range, better safety, longer life. It sounds almost too good to be true. The catch has always been getting one off a lab bench and onto a factory floor at scale. Now, Greater Bay Technology, a startup backed by Chinese automaker GAC, says it will do exactly that before the end of 2026, targeting GWh-scale production and vehicle installations that would make it the world's first mass-producible solid-state battery. Mercedes-Benz Why Everyone Else Is Still StuckToyota has been chasing solid-state batteries for over twenty years. Samsung, Panasonic, QuantumScape, and a handful of well-funded Western startups have collectively burned through billions of dollars in R&D without reaching mass production. The fundamental problem is that every leading approach, whether sulfide, oxide, polymer, or halide-based electrolytes, carries its own trade-offs. Sulfides conduct ions well but react badly with air and moisture, making manufacturing a logistical nightmare. Oxides are stable but brittle, cracking under the pressure of repeated charge cycles. Polymers work only at elevated temperatures. Halides show promise but remain difficult to synthesise at scale. Manufacturing yields stay low, costs stay high, and nobody has cracked the code on making solid-state batteries reliable enough to put in a car you sell to the public. Few have claimed to come close, but Greater Bay Technology might be the best bet yet. YouTube - @DonutLabOfficial How Greater Bay Technology Is Playing It DifferentlyRather than betting on a single electrolyte chemistry, Greater Bay Technology developed a composite approach, blending organic and inorganic materials into what it calls an ESC all-solid-state electrolyte system. The resulting A-sample cells hit energy densities of 260 to 500 Wh/kg, support 2 to 3C fast charging, and passed nail penetration and crush tests without fire or explosion. If the production timeline holds, EVs don’t just level up; they change the playing field. View the full article

Honda has spent years marketing itself as the sensible choice, and nowhere is that more true than in its safety record. The Civic, Accord, and CR-V aren't just three of Honda's most popular models. They're three of the most commonly purchased vehicles in America. Parents buy them. New drivers inherit them. Fleets lease them by the dozen. So when the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) puts them through their paces, people pay attention. All three are capable of earning the institute's Top Safety Pick+ designation, but the fine print tells the full story. Crashworthiness: Honda's floor is very highThe good news, if you're shopping any of these three: Honda's structural engineering is genuinely excellent. In IIHS crashworthiness evaluations covering small overlap front (driver and passenger sides), moderate overlap front, and side impact, all three models earn Good ratings across the board in their respective 2025 tests. That's not a given in the industry. Honda's High-Strength Steel frame architecture, refined over multiple generations, holds up well when cars hit things, which is, after all, the whole point. Small overlap front (driver) Good Good Good Small overlap front (passenger) Good Good Good Moderate overlap front Good Good Good Side Good Good Good If you're mostly worried about surviving a crash, all three models put you in roughly the same position: a good one. The Accord's larger footprint and heavier curb weight (roughly 3,300 lbs vs. the Civic's ~2,900 lbs) give it a marginal structural advantage in multi-vehicle collisions, basic physics that no amount of clever engineering fully erases, but the IIHS ratings don't reflect a meaningful gap between them. The CR-V, sitting at around 3,400 lbs and riding higher off the ground, benefits from its mass in side impacts but introduces rollover geometry that sedans don't have to think about. Crash prevention: Where the real differences emergeThis is where the spreadsheet gets interesting. The IIHS evaluates crash prevention across three dimensions: headlight effectiveness, front crash prevention between two vehicles, and front crash prevention involving pedestrians. All three Hondas come standard with Honda Sensing, the brand's suite of driver assistance tech that includes automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The platform is consistent across the lineup. The execution, however, is not. Headlights Acceptable to Good (trim-dependent) Acceptable to Good (trim-dependent) Acceptable to Good (trim-dependent) Front crash prevention (vehicle-to-vehicle) Good Good Good Front crash prevention (pedestrian) Good Good Good The vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian crash prevention systems perform consistently well across all three. Honda Sensing earns its reputation here, with strong results in the IIHS's daytime and nighttime pedestrian tests. The gap, and it's a meaningful one, comes down to headlights. Headlight ratings in the IIHS system aren't just about brightness. They measure whether the beam pattern actually illuminates the road where you're about to go, particularly on curves. All three Honda models receive Acceptable ratings on base trims, which sounds fine until you realize that Acceptable headlights are often the single reason a vehicle fails to qualify for Top Safety Pick+. To earn the top award, a vehicle must have at least one trim with Good-rated headlights, standard. The Civic, Accord, and CR-V all have higher trims with better-performing headlights, but buyers who stick to base or mid-level configurations may be unknowingly opting out of the award's protective umbrella. The CR-V deserves a specific note here: its elevated ride height means its headlights sit higher than a sedan's, which changes beam geometry. Higher isn't automatically better. In some IIHS tests, it creates glare for oncoming drivers while still leaving gaps in the driver's own field of vision. Choose your CR-V trim carefully. Final verdict: The Accord edges aheadIf the goal is a clean sweep, Good crashworthiness, strong crash prevention, and headlights that actually qualify for Top Safety Pick+ without hunting for a specific build sheet, the 2025 Accord is the most consistently safe of the three. Its size works in its favor structurally, its Honda Sensing implementation is mature, and the headlight situation is more reliably sorted across mid-level trims than it is in the smaller Civic or the CR-V. The Civic is no slouch. It's the right answer if you want the same IIHS crash prevention performance in a smaller, lighter package. Just be deliberate about trim selection. The CR-V is an excellent vehicle that earns its safety reputation, but SUV geometry and headlight variability mean you need to do more homework before signing the paperwork. Honda builds safe cars. All three of these will protect you well. But "equally safe" oversimplifies it, and in a category where the difference between Good and Acceptable can mean your car doesn't stop in time for a child crossing at night, that nuance is worth the extra five minutes on IIHS.org before you buy. View the full article

Ferrari’s first-ever electric production model, the Luce, will have a "tactile-first" interior that is the work of former Apple designer Jony Ive and the LoveFrom design collective he co-founded with Mark Newson, another Apple alumni. After releasing the first interior teasers in February, Ferrari has now dropped a new interior walkthrough video for the Luce, offering the best look yet at the cabin and a taste of the experience the driver will have interacting with the vehicle controls. Right off the bat, the difference between the Luce’s dashboard and existing EV interiors is crystal clear. The new cabin features many tactile controls instead of the massive displays that have become ubiquitous on electric vehicles in recent years. A Ferrari Unlike Any Other That Came Before ItWhile the Luce does have a central display, it’s square-shaped with a thick metallic edge and curved corners like an older iPhone. It’s also restrained in size and features typography that reminds of older iOS-era Apple design language, according to some auto outlets. The video shows that the main screen also tilts toward the driver or the passenger, according to preferences. The screen integrates physical switches at the bottom for the climate control system, a volume knob and three shortcut buttons. Additionally, on the top right corner there are two buttons that appear to toggle between a clock, a compass, and a stopwatch displayed in the integrated round display. The video doesn't show a single function that is enabled by touching the screen; everything is done via buttons and switches. Ferrari There’s a second display behind the steering wheel that houses the instrument cluster grouped into three main round areas that imitate a classic instrument panel but are highly configurable. The largest one in the middle displays the speedometer, battery charge level and range, the one of the left shows how much energy the vehicle uses or receives at any given time from the regenerative braking system, while the one on the right is a G force meter. The cool thing about the digital cluster is it’s connected to the steering column so it moves along as you adjust the wheel to provide the driver with a clear view of the instruments. Ferrari Speaking of the steering wheel, it features an old-school look with three aluminum spokes but it’s also modern, using physical control pods along with Ferrari’s hallmark Manettino rotary dial, which has been repurposed for an electric powertrain, acting as a power-flow selector. The steering wheel also includes buttons for the turn signals, wipers, and a dial for the drive mode selector—the Luce features three modes: Range, Tour and Perfo. We also get to see the startup sequence that is triggered by inserting the glass-and-leather key into a dedicated slot in the center console. The key’s e-ink display changes appearance once docked into its place, with the instrument panel lighting up after that. Performance Worthy of the Prancing Horse Badge SH Proshots/Autoblog The exterior design of the Ferrari Luce remains a mystery for now, although we do know that it’s a four-door, four-seat electric super-GT. As you would expect from a car sporting the Prancing Horse badge, the performance will be spectacular. Ferrari has so far said that the Luce features a 122-kWh battery pack running on 880 volts and offering a range of around 330 miles under European testing. The fact that it gets a big battery is reflected in the Luce’s curb weight of just under 5,100 pounds. That makes it the heaviest production Ferrari ever made, putting it on par with the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. Still, the weight won’t be a problem as far as performance is concerned. SH Proshots/Autoblog The battery feeds a four-motor powertrain expected to deliver over 1,100 horsepower for breathtaking performance; the video shows how a launch is seen from the interior, with the 0 to 62 mph sprint taking 2.5 seconds. Interestingly, simulated gear shifts will also be on the menu for added driver feedback. The top speed is 193 mph, which is impressive for an EV. The front e-axle delivers a total output of 282 horsepower (141 hp for each motor), while the rear e-axle produces 832 hp (416 hp for each motor), bringing the total peak power to 1,114 hp, according to Ferrari. A disconnect system shifts into rear-wheel drive to maximize efficiency—and allow the driver to slide the rear end should they feel brave enough. The world premiere of the Ferrari Luce is scheduled for May 25 in Maranello, Italy, with production expected to start in late 2026, followed by deliveries in early 2027. View the full article

Tyler Reddick continues to lead the championship standings, but Ryan Blaney is moving closer as the NASCAR Cup Series heads to Kansas. He will also have a new jackman after recent issues with the Penske pit crew. Ty Gibbs finally broke through for his first Cup win in his 131st career start last weekend at Bristol, besting Blaney in a photo finish. At Kansas, the Cup Series will be joined by ...Keep readingView the full article

While passenger EVs are powered by lithium-ion batteries, a commercial vehicle that needs to transport heavy goods faces a different reality. The weight and volume of the battery packs, as well as charging time delays, create havoc for the logistics industry. Hydrogen fuel cells offer an incredibly attractive value proposition, with the rapid refueling and energy density of traditional diesel, while still effectively running on electricity, just without using lithium-ion batteries, ridding fleet owners of traditional EV struggles. Toyota, a pioneer that brought us the Mirai, has long been the standard-bearer for hydrogen. However, their tech needed a high-volume commercial vehicle partner to achieve the scale required to bring costs down. EnterIsuzu, after having just announced delays to their heavy-duty Hydrogen truck, a brand synonymous with reliable commercial vehicles. The partnership aims to leverage Toyota’s fuel cell expertise and Isuzu’s dominance in the light-truck market to create a standardized, mass-produced hydrogen-powered truck, on the Isuzu Elf platform. Toyota Breaking Down the PartnershipThe partnership focuses on three core points: Modular Design: By creating a modular fuel cell system, the platform will be designed to fit into any commercial-class vehicle. Scale Benefits: Mass production is the only way to make hydrogen competitive with diesel and electric. As economies of scale teach us, by pooling resources and mass producing the technology, Toyota and Isuzu can lower the costs currently associated with hydrogen fuel cell technologies. Infrastructure Creation: Having faced legal trouble for a lack of hydrogen infrastructure, Toyota realizes now that a vehicle is only as good as its nearest fuel station. This partnership signals to energy providers that the demand for hydrogen hubs is officially here, and Toyota and Isuzu will play their part in promoting this infrastructure transition. Toyota The TimingThe timing of this announcement is interesting. Isuzu announces delays to its heavy-duty hydrogen truck while immediately following that announcement with news about its partnership with Toyota for a hydrogen light-truck. This is likely because the light-truck segment is a more rational market-entry point. Having larger volumes, and being that they are used for regional logistics rather than long-haul, the initial infrastructure solutions would be region-focused - growing certain hyperlocal implementations of the infrastructure until perfected before expanding across broader regions. The race is officially on in the electric trucking space, the race to decarbonize freight is no longer a fringe experiment—it’s a multi-billion dollar sprint. Logistics and freight businesses that couldn’t adopt traditional BEVs due to the charging downtime are looking at this Toyota-Isuzu deal with renewed interest. Hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles have a refueling time of 10-15 minutes, a minimal weight penalty as they weigh considerably less than multi-ton battery packs, and provide significantly less range degradation in severe cold conditions than lithium-ion BEVs. Maybe BEVs have to concede the commercial vehicle space to the newer, more promising tech. View the full article

Not the Warmest of ReceptionsIt wasn't that long ago when Volkswagen's current CEO, Thomas Schäfer, called the ID.3 and ID.4 "not true Volkswagens." While it's something shocking to hear from a CEO, he was blunt and honest about those two models. Neither had the familiar feel of the company's products, and this was compounded by user experience issues and lukewarm reviews. The ID.4 is ending U.S production soon, and that name will likely be dropped as well. However, VW gave the ID.3 a chance to survive instead of axing it outright. About a month ago, the company revealed a few sketches of its heavily updated version. From our understanding, so much had changed that it needed a new name, in this case, ID.3 Neo. Volkswagen More Than a RebootTo make things clear, this is not a second-generation ID.3. It's more of a heavy facelift and update than an all-new model. While the looks are still somewhat unchanged, there's an overhauled interior, more tech, and more importantly, more range from its batteries. Think of this then as a course correction for the compact EV. After it was heavily criticized by the press and lagged behind the competition, the company hopes that this will be the car's redemption arc. Volkswagen What's Changed?From the outside, there are new bumpers, a redesigned faux grille, and new wheels. Of course, it now says ID.3 Neo on the tailgate, signifying that this is a new chapter for the car. It's easy to dismiss it as a mild facelift and a name change, but the real changes are on the inside and under the skin. The company now describes the cabin as '100% Volkswagen,' and we can see why. After VW waged war on buttons and lost, it's refreshing to see a whole load of buttons in there. Gone are the capacitive touch panels everywhere; in their place are honest-to-goodness physical controls. The steering wheel now looks, well, normal and easy to use, and joy of joys, the climate control panel is a row of switches. Volkswagen is, indeed, healing. Volkswagen Improved PowertrainsMajor enhancements were made to the electric drive systems of the ID.3, resulting in improved energy consumption and performance. From launch, there are three powertrain options and three available battery sizes. The smallest battery is 50 kWh and is the standard size for all trims. Optional is the 58 kWh pack, which provides more range; the biggest battery one can get in the ID.3 Neo is a 79 kWh unit. VW claims a range of up to 392 miles under the WLTP cycle. The charging system now comes with higher capacities as well: the 50 and 58 kWh models support DC charging up to 105 kW, while the 79 kWh version can accept up to 182 kW. Power output is also up significantly for the ID.3 Neo. The previous ID.3 had figures of 143 hp, 148 hp, and 201 hp. Now, the base motor produces 168 hp, while the middle version makes 188 hp. As for the top motor, it now puts out 228 hp. Volkswagen Other HighlightsThe infotainment system had been given a massive update with new graphics, an easier-to-use interface, and greater functionality. VW calls it Innovision, and expects it to reach more models down the line. The digital driver's display also offers far greater personalization, including a configuration that replicates the MK.1 Golf's (Rabbit in the U.S.) instrument cluster. Of course, there are stacks of advanced driver-assist systems on board, but there's also the enhanced Connected Travel Assist, which gives it greater semi-autonomous driving capabilities. VW also said it improved its one-pedal driving mode for a smoother and more linear experience. A significant option for the ID.3 Neo is Vehicle-to-Load capability, which allows the car to power certain household items outdoors or during emergencies. With more power, greater range, improved energy efficiency, and much-needed interior improvements, it now looks like the ID.3 Neo is the car VW wanted it to be in the first place. Should the company keep this up, it might be able to win back the customers it lost a few years ago, and hopefully, help the company turn things around. Volkswagen Volkswagen View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

With all due respect to Alex Bowman’s recovery from vertigo, and return to the Hendrick Motorsports No. 48 over the weekend after missing four NASCAR Cup Series races, now it’s time for the 32-year-old to save his job. Everyone downplays it, but Bowman is in a contract year, and having faced several medical issues over the years while also not winning at the scope of his superstar ...Keep readingView the full article

Getting stuck while off-roading is embarrassing and annoying enough, but one Jeep Wrangler driver in Florida has felt those emotions to the nth degree after his vehicle was cited as the cause of a massive forest fire. As reported by NBC's WESH (channel 2), a wildfire in the Ocala National Forest burned more than 20 acres after the off-roader ventured off a trail, got stuck in the mud, and its hot exhaust ignited dried grass. In other words, human error is responsible for decimating flora and causing a fire that had to be battled through the night of April 11. Forest Service Eventually Puts Out Avoidable Forest Fire Florida Forest Service The incident has been called the Grassy Pond fire and took place off Paisely Road within the national forest, and the Forest Service and Lake County Fire Rescue returned to monitor hotspots the following morning, but the fire showed no signs of roaring back to life. According to The Drive, it's unclear whether the Jeep was on a sanctioned route or not, but it's clear that driving through foreign territory without a backup recovery vehicle providing the security of a winch is not particularly smart. Then again, the Jeep may not have been near a tree or other potential anchor point for a winch anyway. Of course, the driver may not have been aware of the damage they would cause. Temperature readouts on the dashboard show coolant and oil, not catalytic converter temperatures, and the parts of the exhaust can exceed 1,500°F when the engine has been revved high in a misguided attempt to extricate the vehicle. Doubtless, doing this only dug the Jeep deeper, and given how wet the ground appears to have been, the possibility of fire likely never even entered the driver's mind. Stick to Trails, and Use the Correct Equipment Jeep This incident highlights how important it is to stick to sanctioned trails and use the right vehicle for the job, and it's far from isolated. Drivers have gotten stuck in Death Valley and other locations around the country because of taking their vehicles where they're not legally allowed, or for using vehicles not equipped with 4x4 for challenging trails. Hopefully, this fire in Florida will serve as a warning to all that warning signs and demarcated trails exist for a reason, and not following them can have disastrous consequences that will take years to repair. Fauna have been displaced, flora has been burned, and a vehicle has been destroyed, all because a Jeep didn't stick to a trail. View the full article

At the 1995 Frankfurt Auto Show, the Series 1 Lotus Elise was revealed with a 1,600-pound curb weight, and it's been the benchmark for lightweight, driver-focused motoring ever since. 30 years on, Analogue Automotive has reimagined the S1 Elise as a low-volume single-seater called the VHPK, using carbon fiber and aluminum to make it even lighter—1,320 lbs, or 599 kilograms. Not even Gordon Murray's exceptional T.50 comes close, weighing a relatively obese 2,198 lbs. The result is 400 horsepower per tonne, and with space only for the driver, the VHPK is set to be one of the most engaging driving experiences on the planet. Revealed at this year's Salon Privé Concours in the U.K., we saw the car in all its glory and spoke with founder and CEO Steffen Dobke about what customers can look forward to. VHPK Uses a Legendary Engine, Obsesses Over Lightweight Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Behind the driver is the famed Rover K-Series twin-cam engine, bumped up to 1.9 liters and boasting a billet crankshaft, forged connecting rods and pistons, and fully bespoke billet camshafts. The engine breathes through a full stainless-steel exhaust and is partly insulated by gold leaf (Gordon Murray would be proud). Along with a MoTec ECU and powertrain control module, the result is over 250 hp. Analogue Automotive hasn't revealed torque, acceleration, or top speed figures, but in something this light, those details are all but academic. Still, with a PG1 five-speed close-ratio manual transmission sending power to the rear wheels via a limited-slip differential, the experience will surely be visceral, encouraging the driver to drain the 12.7-gallon aluminum gas tank over and over again. Naturally, something like this is best suited to the track, and with rose-jointed suspension (like the 997 GT3 RS 4.0, for example), plus multi-way AA-spec passive dampers, aluminum uprights and steering arms, feedback from the asphalt will be anything but insulated. Optionally, buyers can opt for fully active suspension, too. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Elsewhere, the car boasts carbon-ceramic brake discs with Pagid ceramic pads, helping keep unsprung weight to a minimum, with four-pot calipers from AP Racing. These are surrounded by the same 15-inch front and 16-inch rear wheels as the SuperSport two-seater, with forged wheels and Yokohama rubber optionally available. Speaking of options, each of the 35 examples intended for production can be had with carbon fiber-barreled wheels that save some 26 lbs, and the carbon fiber bodywork can be ordered with an exposed finish enhanced by either clear or tinted lacquer. This would complement the carbon fiber Tillett Racing seat and Alcantara interior trimmings nicely (seen here, in part, in a stunning purple), but customers can order any paint finish they want, too, with Analogue Automotive CEO Dobke promising no two vehicles will have the same finish. That brings us to pricing... VHPK Customers Hail From All Over The Globe Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article At £350,000 ($473,510) plus taxes, shipping, and transportation costs, the VHPK is far from affordable and nearly 18 times pricier than the S1 Elise was at launch, but that hasn't deterred buyers from the U.K., Hong Kong, Japan, and the U.S. from placing orders (Gordon Murray likely isn't one of those buyers because he doesn't fit in a regular Elise). Dobke tells us that six of the 35-unit production run have been allocated, so there's still time to reserve one. Place an order today, and your ultra-lightweight single-seater will be ready in roughly 10-12 months, depending on the spec (exposed carbon will naturally take a little longer than painted carbon). Sure, there are faster, more powerful, and more luxurious cars in this price bracket, but nothing will come close for pure, analog feedback, and we hope to see some at track days around the U.S., not locked away in garages gathering dust. Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the full article

If you’re the proud owner of a Nissan or Infiniti powered by a VQ-series V6 engine and want to show it off at the May 9 Supercar Saturday event in Omaha, Nebraska, tough luck—you’re banned. Yes, you read that right, the organizers of the car show have decided that people who drive Nissan 350Z and 370Z sports cars, as well as Infiniti G35, G37, and Q60 coupes, are banned from attending the show. You can’t even turn up in a VQ-powered Infiniti G25, Q40 or Q50 either, as these sedans are also on the list of undesirables. No Nissan VQ Power AllowedNow, this may sound arbitrary and discriminatory, but organizers say they made the difficult decision for safety reasons. “This was not an easy decision. However, due to the number of complaints and incidents that have occurred at previous shows, we believe this step is necessary to help maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone,” organizers said in a post on Facebook. Jamal Rahmanzai, the host and organizer of Supercar Saturday, told Road & Track that many younger folks who own these cars refuse to abide by the rules, constantly doing burnouts, revving their engines and acting reckless. For example, four years ago, a 16-year-old Nissan 350Z driver crashed the car into a fire hydrant, nearly hitting some spectators (see video below). Rahmanzai said that had he not put the VQ ban in place, he would've had to cancel the show all together. While the ban will last for the entire 2026 season, it may be reevaluated after that, he added. The organizer added that he sees the same VQ cars driving with a “street takeover” mentality at other shows in the area, and if this continues, the Supercar Saturday ban is likely to remain in place. The Ban Also Affects Responsible Drivers of VQ-Powered Nissans and Infinitis Copyright 2013 Brandon Turkus / AOL The organizer is aware that the ban also punishes responsible owners of VQ-powered vehicles, but he said that enforcing it on a case-by-case basis is not practical, which is why all VQ cars will be turned away at the gate; local police will help enforce the rules. While owners of VQ-powered cars are not allowed to drive their cars to Supercar Saturday this year, they will be able to attend the show as spectators, Rahmanzai said. Unfortunately, this is where we are now after years of dangerous street takeover events that have been plaguing many cities across the country. Some drivers can’t tell the difference between an illegal gathering where they perform reckless driving stunts and a legit car show—and it seems that in Omaha, many of them are driving VQ-powered cars. Organizers of sanctioned events like Supercar Saturday must now enforce discriminatory bans to make sure that they won’t end up with lawsuits from victims of accidents caused by reckless drivers at their events. It’s a sad reality, but this is where we are at the moment. View the full article