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Saturday's NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race ended with a first-time winner as William Sawalich captured the checkered flag in the No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing Toyota. The win came in Sawalich's 42nd career start, and ended JR Motorsports' five-race win streak. His Rockingham win came in a Joe Gibbs Racing 1-2, beating teammate Brandon Jones to the win. Justin Allgaier finished third ...Keep readingView the full article

No Waiting AroundDespite starting customer deliveries just last year, Lucid has already updated the Gravity for the 2027 model year, adding more standard features – most notably DreamDrive 2 Premium across the range. The update doesn’t reinvent the all-electric midsize crossover, but it does make it better equipped right out of the box. The Gravity is still offered in two trims, Touring and Grand Touring. Both now come equipped with DreamDrive 2 Premium, a suite of Level 2 advanced driver-assistance features, rather than offering it as an option as before. It includes features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane change assist, and front and rear cross-collision protection, though it still misses some features reserved for the Pro package, including hands-free drive assist, traffic light detection, and remote automatic parking, among others. Still, the update could help the model keep pace as such technologies become more widespread, especially as the IIHS imposes stricter crash-avoidance criteria. It also now includes an additional key fob that was previously optional. Going Fully LoadedThe flagship Grand Touring trim now comes standard with the Comfort & Convenience Package, the Power Package, and 21-inch/22-inch wheels. However, it is also available with an optional Prestige Package, which adds 22-inch/23-inch wheels, Surreal Sound Pro, the Dynamic Handling Package, and third-row seating – bringing it in line with three-row rivals such as Rivian R1S. The Prestige Package will become available starting in summer 2026, priced from $10,500. These new updates further enhance the Lucid Gravity’s tech suite, alongside the recent addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Those features improve connectivity for a wider range of users – an area where some Tesla owners still come up short, despite the EV maker signaling interest in adding the features to its vehicles, though that may ultimately matter less for the Gravity’s Tesla rival, the Model X, which is ending production. Pricing in the SegmentIn terms of pricing, the Gravity Touring still starts at $79,900 (excluding destination fees) for the updated 2027 model year. The Grand Touring trim, meanwhile, now starts at $98,900 – about $4,000 more than the 2026 model year, which is not surprising given the extensive addition of features. This announcement follows the model’s win as the 2026 World Luxury Car of the Year from the World Car Awards, while the BMW iX3 took the overall title. The accolade suggests Lucid already had a strong product, with the latest 2027MY update building on that momentum. Gabriel Ionica View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Quiet Standout in a Loud ShowThe New York International Auto Show is usually about big reveals and even bigger headlines. Automakers bring out their flashiest new models, all fighting for attention. But sometimes, something manages to stand out by doing the opposite. Karma Automotive’s Amaris is one of those cars. It technically isn’t brand new, since it debuted globally last year, but seeing it up close changes things. Parked next to the usual crowd-pleasers, the Amaris stands out with a kind of quiet confidence. It doesn’t need to shout for attention. In person, it’s a real head-turner. Low, wide, and cleanly shaped, it has the stance of a grand tourer but with a sharper, hundreds-of-thousands-of-dollar look. Well, because it is. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Looks Dramatic in the MetalThe Amaris takes the idea of a classic grand tourer and updates it with a modern, almost futuristic approach, but stops short of looking like a concept car. It’s sleek and restrained, but there’s enough detail to keep you looking. Up front, the design is clean, with slim lights and a low nose that makes it look planted. The sides show off deep sculpting, black aero pieces, and big multi-spoke wheels that add some edge without making it busy. At the back, the pass-through spoiler and slim taillights keep things neat. The cabin is clearly built around the driver, with everything else adjusted from there. There’s a squared-off steering wheel in carbon fiber, a digital cluster, and a low center screen that stays out of your way. It’s modern, but not trying too hard to be high-tech. The materials stand out most. Red leather, suede, and carbon fiber make for a rich mix, but it doesn’t feel over-the-top. The seats are deep and sculpted, more about comfort and long drives than track days. There are small details, too, like a hidden start button and a passenger display that only shows up when needed. It’s the kind of interior you notice more the longer you sit in it. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article It’s a $200,000 ExoticThe Amaris does things a bit differently from most EVs. It’s an extended-range electric, so it runs on electric motors but uses a turbo four-cylinder as a generator to recharge the battery. That setup helps it balance performance and real-world usability, especially on longer trips. Yes, no range anxiety here, unlike other full-fledged EVs. Karma claims about 700 horsepower, with 0-60 mph in the mid-three-second range and a top speed near 165 mph. Its electric-only range should be over 100 miles, and the total range could top 400 miles. The Amaris uses an aluminum space frame, evolved from the Karma Revero, with carbon fiber and aluminum body panels to keep weight down for its size. Production is set for late 2026, with prices expected to start around $200,000 for the 2027 model year. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Ahead of his highly anticipated NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series debut at Rockingham, popular YouTuber Cleetus McFarland (Garrett Mitchell) took part in the ARCA Menards East Series race at The Rock, finishing fourth in his career-best result. "After climbing from the car, a very excited Cleetus said: "Honestly, I just went out there and turned left for Greg Biffle. I had more confidence today ...Keep readingView the full article

The "Wrong" Oil A class action lawsuit was served to Valvoline after its Instant Oil Change facility filled a 2025 Kia Sorento with oil that did not meet the vehicle manufacturer's specifications. According to the suit, the vehicle manufacturer's oil specification for the Sorento is 0W-30. Despite that, the Valvoline Instant Oil Change Facility used 5W-30 for the service. The Indiana plaintiff, Robert Campbell, claims that because Valvoline used a different grade of oil during his service, this resulted in additional expenses, decreased performance, an increased risk of engine damage, loss of warranty coverage, and a reduction in the value of his vehicle. Kristen Brown A Routine Oil Change, Allegedly Gone WrongCampbell brought his 2025 Kia Sorento to the Valvoline location in Westfield, Indiana, for service on October 8, 2025. The Instant Oil Change service center replaced his oil with 5W-30, despite Kia's recommended grade of 0W-30. After discovering this, Campbell requested a refund from the service center; however, he was offered a back job. Worse still, he was given another batch of oil that also did not meet the manufacturer's recommended specifications. After the two successive oil changes, Campbell had no choice but to go to another service center to have his oil replaced a third time at his own expense. The plaintiff was charged $102.99 for the first oil change and the back job. By the third change at a different outlet, the correct manufacturer-recommended specification was used. Campbell claims that Valvoline is guilty of a "breach of contract, breach of implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose, violation of the Indiana Deceptive Consumer Sales Act, and unjust enrichment," the class action lawsuit reads. “All individual owners of vehicles serviced at a Valvoline Instant Oil Change location operated by Valvoline Inc. and whose vehicle engine oil was replaced with oil that did not conform to the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.” The plaintiff seeks to represent a nationwide class and an Indiana subclass of customers who've had their engine oil replaced at a Valvoline Instant Oil Change location that did not meet the manufacturer's recommended specifications. He is also demanding a jury trial and requests declaratory and injunctive relief, as well as an award of actual, statutory, and treble damages for himself and all class members. Valvoline Was the Oil Really Incorrect?The two numbers in the SAE Viscosity standard are not too far apart in Campbell's case, but the difference between 0W and 5W matters when the engine is cold and when ambient temperatures drop below a certain point. The recommended 0W-30 weight oil should flow more easily when cold than the 5W-30 that was put in by Valvoline, per the SAE J300 standard. Oil is more viscous when cold; at low enough temperatures, 0W oil flows more easily than 5W oil, which means it can reach the engine more quickly and provide better protection on cold starts. However, once the engine reaches operating temperature, the "30" at the end of the grades indicates that both engine oils should perform similarly. What sources did not mention is whether Valvoline used a 5W-30 oil that was conventional, semi-synthetic, or fully-synthetic. Kia recommends using a fully synthetic oil in the 2025 Sorento with the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. The question is, "Does it matter?" That may depend on a bunch of factors. Considering the SAE's testing standard, if oil is exposed to -40℉ weather all the time, then 0W-30 would be a better option. However, if it's not cold enough, one could argue that the difference between 0W-30 and 5W-30 is negligible. View the full article

A New Entry Point for Performance?A report from The Drive states that Dodge CEO Matt McAlear is not ruling out a new sports model priced under $30,000. At that price point, it would undercut every affordable sports car currently available in the U.S., including the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Toyota GR86. Affordability is one thing, but the bigger question may be whether there is even a market for it. At least according to McAlear, the answer is yes. He told the publication, “There’s a market for affordability in something that nobody else is offering and separates us from the pack.” While he acknowledged that the brand owes its dealers and customers attainable vehicles, he neither confirmed nor denied that such a project is in the works. Cole Attisha/Autoblog Where Dodge Stands TodayThe most attainable performance model in Dodge’s lineup right now is the Charger, equipped with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six producing 420 horsepower, starting at $49,995 (excluding destination fees). That’s a far cry from the Ford Mustang, whose more conservative EcoBoost variants start at $32,640. Both the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Toyota GR86 start at a little over $30,000, but play more niche roles in a market where most demand is concentrated in crossovers and SUVs. That may be one factor Dodge is considering, though there is no way to know for sure. What McAlear did mention, however, is the need for more back-to-basics vehicles — a point that stands out even more as newer cars arrive with increasingly extensive in-car technology, including massive screens. “I think the biggest thing that we need to start doing is challenging the industry on what the expectations are from an entry level base vehicle,” the Dodge CEO said. “And I don’t mean that from the word ‘cheap’ or ‘less.’ I mean that from that of back to the basics.” Cole Attisha/Autoblog Less Tech, More DrivingMcAlear pointed to the Dodge Viper as an example of a back-to-basics philosophy. While it packed a naturally aspirated V10 with at least 400 horsepower, the rest of the car was largely stripped down, especially in its early years, when it lacked many driver-assistance technologies. In terms of affordability, the comments suggest that a sports car may not be Dodge’s main focus right now, even though the brand has hinted at the possibility since last year. Instead, the bigger idea appears to be a return to back-to-basics vehicles. That approach already has some precedent within Stellantis, particularly at Jeep, where the Wrangler – now often seen as more of a lifestyle statement than a purely utilitarian vehicle – is still offered in stripped-down forms. Stellantis View the full article

Another Week, Another RecallIt hasn’t been long since Aston Martin initiated a voluntary recall of the DBX, following concerns about its tire pressure monitoring system. That issue alone was enough to raise eyebrows about a model that serves as the brand’s volume seller. Now, just a week later, the DBX is facing a new recall, and this time it’s not about electronics. The problem is with the rear suspension, which has a much bigger impact on how the SUV actually drives. Aston Martin Bolt Gone WrongAccording to the safety recall report, the root of the problem is a thinner-than-ideal bolt in the rear lower suspension. If things line up the wrong way, a pin can slip out, putting extra stress on the joint. Over time, that can crack or even break the suspension arm. That’s not a small issue. If the suspension arm fails, it can mess with how the DBX handles and even damage the rear brakes. Worst case, it could lead to a crash. Aston Martin reports three known cases globally involving damaged rear suspension arms out of over 13,000 vehicles, with one incident resulting in a collision attributed to brake line damage following suspension failure. No injuries have been reported. In the US alone, nearly 4,000 DBXs could be affected, covering everything from the standard model to the DBX 707 and the newer DBX S. The issue goes back as far as October 2019 and runs all the way through September 2025, so it’s not limited to just a few early builds. So far, failures have only shown up on one side at a time, but Aston Martin isn’t ruling out more cases popping up. Aston Martin What Owners Should DoThe fix sounds simple enough: dealers will swap out the old bolts for beefier ones that hold everything in place better. While they’re at it, they’ll check the suspension arms for cracks and replace them if needed. If it’s just the bolts, you’re looking at about an hour in the shop. If the suspension arms need replacing, it could take up to four hours per side. Either way, the repair is free. If you own a DBX, check whether your SUV is affected and book a visit to the dealer soon. This is one recall you don’t want to put off. Notifications will roll out in phases through May 2026, but you can already check your VIN online. Aston Martin View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

“Six for 6 in 2026,” that’s Randy Parker’s shorthand for the automaker’s latest goal – a sixth consecutive year of record sales for Hyundai Motor America, where he serves as CEO. But that’s just the beginning of what the Korean carmaker has in mind. Hyundai has come a long way since it launched operations in the U.S. Worldwide, it’s now the third-largest automaker, second in terms of profitability. And, in the States, it’s giving chase to giants like General Motors, Ford and Toyota. Last year, the company committed to a $26 billion investment program that will cover everything from a new steel plant to a robotics factory. It will also see the automaker launch a total of 58 new or “significantly updated” vehicles by 2030 – 36 through the Hyundai brand and another 22 through its upscale sibling Genesis, said Parker’s boss, Hyundai Motor Co. CEO Jose Munoz. Heavy LiftingHyundai gave a hint of what’s to come during a preview at the New York International Auto Show on Wednesday, the automaker pulling the wraps off the Boulder SUV. Officially, it’s just a concept vehicle, but the reality is that Boulder is a thinly disguised version of a new model the automaker is working up for launch later this decade, confirmed Sang-Yup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of the Hyundai and Genesis Global Design Center, in an interview with Autoblog. “It’s pretty much” production-ready. Related: Hyundai’s New Off-Road SUV Could Take on the Bronco and Wrangler The size of a Ford Bronco Raptor, and designed to challenge not just Ford’s rugged off-roader but comparable products from Jeep and Toyota’s TRD line, the production version of Boulder will be based off an entirely new body-on-frame platform Hyundai is developing – it’s first ever. Significantly, that architecture will serve as the foundation of a “family” of extra-rugged light trucks going well beyond the current capabilities of Hyundai’s XRT and XRT Pro models. “We know it’s a highly competitive space and we’re not taking it lightly,” said Parker, adding that a body-on-frame platform “opens the door to many possibilities.” What those possibilities are, company officials aren’t ready go into great detail about. But Parker did confirm that this truck family will include a new midsize pickup. It could, in fact, beat Boulder into production. Adam Lynton/Autoblog Expanded U.S. PresenceThe auto industry has been coming under heavy pressure from the Trump administration to expand its manufacturing presence in the U.S. market. The results have so far been mixed – automotive employment actually lost nearly 21,000 jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Companies including BMW and General Motors have said they will boost manufacturing in the States over the next several years, but none match the dollar figures Hyundai has laid out, the automaker last year promising to invest $26 billion in the States. Hyundai That figure covers a broad array of business lines, including a new steel mill it will begin constructing in Louisiana later this year, while Hyundai’s Boston Robotics subsidiary plans to set up operations capable of rolling out as many as 30,000 humanoid Atlas robots annually starting in 2028. On the automotive side, meanwhile, the plans call for increasing vehicle production capacity from 800,000 to 1.2 million annually before the end of the decade, said Munoz. That would, in turn, account for 80% of the vehicles the Hyundai Motor Group plans to sell in the U.S. at that point. HMG delivered 984,000 vehicles to American motorists in 2025. Based on that 80% target would suggest a total sales goal of 1.5 million by 2030. Expanded Powertrain Line-UpConsidering all the new bases Hyundai Motor Group plans to cover, and the growing demand for fuel-efficient technologies meeting various market demand, Hyundai is working up a range of new powertrains, noted Munoz. It already has a variety of internal combustion engines: from pint-sized inline-fours to the muscular V8s powertrain Genesis models like the G90. Hybrids are becoming an important part of the line-up, as well, and could become even more critical if the current Iran War leads to long-term disruptions in global energy supply, Hyundai officials suggested. The plan now calls for the parent company to have 18 different models using hybrids in production by 2030 – though that could increase. “Hybrids were the number one technology in terms of growth for us last year, Munoz said Wednesday. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Meanwhile, Hyundai plans to have its first range-extender on the market by 2027, and despite the pullback by many of its key competitors, the Korean automaker remains committed to the EV market, he stressed. Indeed, U.S. dealers for both the Hyundai and Genesis brand have seen a surge in shopper interest in both hybrid and EV drivetrains since the Iran War began. Flexibility is KeyOne thing remains key to Hyundai’s long-term strategy, stressed Munoz: flexibility. That covers a lot of bases, including its powertrain line-up. With the exception of products based on the EV-only E-GMP platform, other architectures will have the capability of using a wide variety of powertrain technologies, including the new body-on-frame platform. Related: Hyundai’s Hybrid Boom Signals a Direct Challenge to Toyota in the U.S. That also goes for Hyundai’s manufacturing plants. They are being tooled up to permit assembly lines to roll out a wide mix of products and platforms. That’s proved especially important with the automaker’s Georgia Metaplant. It was originally intended to be EV-only. But, with the slowdown in battery-electric sales it’s now being set up to handle both hybrids and EVs and may even be able to produce both unibody and body-on-frame products in the coming years. “Our solution to any situation we face in the world is flexibility,” said Munoz. By adjusting product plans to market needs, Hyundai can minimize the production disruptions that have often crippled its rivals. Related: Hyundai Just Announced a $55 Billion Gamble—And America Wins Big View the full article

Paying the Price, Then Changing the PlanIn 2025, Mercedes-Benz took a direct hit from tariffs imposed by the US government. The bill: about $1.2 billion in extra costs, which helped drag earnings down by 57%. The German marque wasn’t alone – automakers across the board lost tens of billions as import duties piled up. Mercedes didn’t just take the hit and move on. The company previously announced it’s moving GLC production, one of its most popular models, stateside. And now, with a $4 billion investment into its US operations, Mercedes is making it clear this is a long-term play, not just a patch. Mercedes-Benz A Bigger Bet on AlabamaMercedes is putting that $4 billion into its Alabama plant through 2030, with most of it going straight to GLC production, Automotive News reports. The Tuscaloosa facility has been the backbone of Mercedes’ SUV lineup for years, already turning out the GLE and GLS. This isn’t just about adding another model. It’s about ramping up. The plant now builds 250,000 to 300,000 vehicles a year, but Mercedes expects that to hit 340,000 once the upgrades are done. Inside the company, they call this place the beating heart of their SUV business. Building more vehicles in the US means Mercedes dodges the 15% tariff that hits every imported GLC. It’s a move toward regional production, and Mercedes isn’t shy about saying it’s the only way forward as global trade gets more complicated. What Happens Next for the GLCUS-built GLCs are set to roll out starting late 2027, with about 50,000 units expected in the first year. But don’t expect full speed right away. Mercedes CEO Ola Källenius says real volume won’t come until 2029. That slow ramp-up shows just how big this investment is – and how much is riding on getting it right. The GLC isn’t just another badge in the lineup. Last year, it made up about a quarter of Mercedes’ US sales, with 72,000 units sold. That’s more than several other imported models put together. The GLC lineup keeps evolving. Right now, it covers everything from the entry-level GLC 300 to AMG versions and plug-in hybrids, mixing accessibility with the Mercedes badge. An electric GLC is coming soon, which will only cement its place as a core model. Bottom line: Mercedes is turning a costly setback into a reset. Tariffs forced the issue, but now the company is doubling down on the US market and making sure its key models are built where buyers actually are. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

As average gas prices across the United States have topped $4.00 per gallon for the first time since August 2022 and continue to trend upward reaching $4.08 on April 2, Americans are starting to really feel it at the pump. Since late February 2026, gas prices surged over 30%—a rise of more than $1 per gallon—as a consequence of the US and Israel’s war on Iran, which has led to a volatile oil market with prices exceeding $110 a barrel on April 3. US Drivers Paid $8.4 Billion More for Gas Since the Iran War Began Frederic J. BROWN / AFP via Getty Images If there’s a figure that illustrates how much pain Americans are feeling at the pump, it’s $8.4 billion: that’s how much drivers have paid extra for gas since the war began a month ago, according to an estimate from the Congressional Joint Economic Committee’s Democratic minority. The mind-blowing sum was determined based on a combination of three metrics: daily average gas prices as tracked by AAA from February 28 through March 31, vehicle tank sizes of top-selling gas vehicles in the US per Edmunds, and federal fuel consumption data from the Federal Highway Administration and Energy Information Administration. Cole Attisha If that’s still a bit too abstract, maybe the following bits of information will help. Drivers of the Toyota RAV4, America's best-selling SUV, now spend $58.26 to fill up their tanks, up $15 (35%) from before the war, according to the report. Drivers of the country's top-selling sedan, the fuel-efficient Toyota Camry hybrid, are now paying $52.23 to fill up a tank, nearly $14 more than they used to only a month ago. Things are way more dramatic for drivers of larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles like the Ford F-150, America’s best-selling vehicle for more than four decades. It now costs on average almost $145 to fill up the pickup truck’s tank, up nearly $38. The states worst hit by rising gas prices have been Texas, California, Florida and North Carolina, the report noted. Consumers Spending Less on Expensive Items Because of High Gas Prices Getty Images While many Americans have no alternative than to swallow these high gas prices because they’re depending on their vehicles to get to work and move around, the consequences are starting to be felt in how they spend their money on other items. A report by LendingTree found that roughly one in three Americans are changing their typical spending or savings habits to cope with increasing gas prices, while another 35% planning to do so if prices remain high. Additionally, a March 31 report from the Conference Board Consumer Confidence Index revealed that fewer Americans plan on purchasing big-ticket items over the next six months. Analysts are expecting a modest second quarter for spending and GDP growth as the inflation starts to sting consumers. The Trump administration said the recent spike in gas prices is temporary and that fuel costs will decline when the Iran war ends. "When Operation Epic Fury is complete, gas prices will plummet back to the multi-year lows American drivers enjoyed before these short-term disruptions,” White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said in a statement to CBS News. Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images) View the full article

A Name from the Archives, Back in the ConversationUnless you’re a motorsport diehard, Lola Cars probably isn’t a name you hear every day. The British brand has mostly kept out of the limelight lately, even though it built some of the most important race cars in history. In the 1960s, Lola’s machines went up against the big names and earned a reputation as the go-to choice for privateers who wanted to punch above their weight. Now, Lola is quietly stepping back into the game. Instead of following the latest trends, the brand is reaching into its own history for inspiration. The result: the T70S and T70S GT. Both are ultra-limited, modern takes on one of Lola’s most legendary race cars. This is not a traditional continuation model. Instead, it’s a modern reinterpretation, using original drawings and scans to stay close to the 1965 design, but updated with current engineering. The result is a car that connects to its past while meeting today’s standards, at a time when most new cars are focused on electrification. Old-School Muscle, Modern PrecisionAt its heart, the T70S sticks to a formula that feels almost rebellious now. The track version packs a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Chevrolet V8 right behind the driver, good for 530 horsepower. That’s enough to launch it from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.5 seconds, with a top speed of 203 mph. The road-going T70S GT dials things back slightly but remains serious. It uses a larger 6.2-liter V8 with 500 hp, hitting 60 mph in 2.9 seconds and topping out at around 200 mph. It also gets subtle usability tweaks like improved ergonomics and climate control, though the overall experience stays raw and mechanical. Both versions use a lightweight aluminum monocoque and period-correct suspension. The setup is intentionally analog, giving you direct steering and almost nothing between you and the road. The real innovation is less obvious. Lola’s new Natural Composite System swaps out traditional carbon fiber for plant-based and basalt fibers, all held together with resin made from sugarcane waste. This move cuts manufacturing emissions by more than half, but doesn’t sacrifice strength or durability. Even the magnesium parts come from solar-powered extraction out of seawater. It sounds like something out of a lab, not a boutique supercar. Lola Cars Ultra-Limited, Ultra-RelevantLola is only building 16 of these cars in total, so this isn’t your typical product launch. It’s a collector’s piece. Pricing is still under wraps, but with this level of engineering and exclusivity, it’s clearly aimed at serious collectors. But it’s not just about rarity, we believe. While most new performance cars chase silent speed and software, the T70S takes the opposite route. It matches modern EVs in numbers, but delivers real noise, vibration, and mechanical feel. That’s what makes the T70S stand out. It doesn’t ignore progress, just uses it in its own way. The result is proof there’s still space for cars that feel alive, even as the industry gets quieter. Lola Cars View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Forget stolen catalytic converters or wheels getting jacked overnight. Amsterdam has a wing mirror theft epidemic, specifically, the kind packed with cameras, blind spot sensors, and heating elements found on high-end luxury cars. A recent Instagram reel highlighting the bagged-up mirrors lining the city's streets has struck a nerve. The comments are full of drivers saying the same thing is happening in their city. Faced with a problem that police are still struggling to get ahead of, Amsterdam drivers have landed on a solution that is almost beautifully low-tech. They're wrapping their mirrors in bags secured with bike locks, making the mirrors difficult and slow to dismantle quickly. Why a Wing Mirror Is Now Worth StealingA modern wing mirror on a luxury or electric vehicle is barely recognizable as the simple glass-and-plastic unit from 20 years ago. Today's versions contain wide-angle cameras feeding into parking assist and surround-view systems, blind spot detection warning lights, auto-dimming glass, heated elements, and memory positioning motors. A replacement mirror assembly on a Tesla Model 3 or BMW 5 Series can run anywhere from $800 to over $2,000 at a dealership, and that's before labor. On some larger SUVs and high-spec trim levels, the figure climbs past $3,000. Thieves know this. They can strip a mirror in under two minutes using basic tools, and the parts move easily through gray-market channels, sold online or through unscrupulous body shops as cheaper alternatives to OEM dealer pricing. The stolen mirror that cost someone $1,500 to replace might fetch $400 cash with no questions asked. exploreamsterdamwithme/Instagram View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Bagging The Mirror Is the Last Line of DefenseFor owners of Porsches, Ferraris, and other high-value cars who'd rather not have a baggie flapping off a six-figure vehicle, dedicated products like the ProKevLock have emerged as the more presentable solution. Around $180 a pair, these Kevlar-and-steel-mesh covers lock around the mirror housing with a cable system that's designed to be nearly impossible to cut through with the tools a street thief would realistically carry. Prokevlock The logic is simple: thieves working fast in public need a clean, quick grab. A bagged mirror that requires extra time and tools to remove raises the risk of getting caught, so they move on. It won't win any design awards, but in a city where your mirror might be gone by morning, a simple baggie is starting to look like pretty smart engineering. View the full article

Global EV Sales Have CooledThe electric vehicle boom has hit a more complicated phase. After years of relentless growth, markets like the United States have shown their first signs of softening. Reports indicate EV sales dipped for the first time in years, a signal that early adopters have largely been captured while mainstream buyers remain cautious. Infrastructure gaps, pricing concerns, and charging anxiety are now more visible friction points. This cooling effect is not isolated. Automakers across the globe are recalibrating expectations. Even legacy brands that went all-in on electrification are tightening budgets and reassessing timelines. Cost discipline is becoming just as important as innovation. Layoffs, production adjustments, and delayed rollouts are now part of the conversation. The industry is transitioning from a land grab to a margin game. BYD BYD Cuts 100,000 Jobs While Growing BiggerThat said, BYD trimming roughly 100,000 jobs in 2025 sounds dramatic. However, it is more structural than reactive. The company still employs around 870,000 people, meaning the reduction represents about 10 percent of its workforce. BYD attributes the move to restructuring and efficiency gains, not weakening demand. With a number of their dealerships shutting down, that claim, whether 100% accurate or not, is debatable. The numbers do support that claim. Revenue climbed to 8,039.6 billion yuan, or about 1.12 trillion USD. Deliveries reached 4.60 million vehicles, with exports surpassing one million units for the first time, and the company has even leapfrogged Ford in global sales for the first time. Yet profitability tells a different story. Net income fell 19 percent to 326.2 billion yuan as pricing pressure intensified in China’s hyper-competitive NEV market. At the same time, BYD maintained aggressive R&D spending of 634 billion yuan, funding advancements like Blade Battery 2.0 and its rapid flash charging capability. Rachen Sageamsak/Xinhua via Getty Images What Comes NextNot everyone is pulling back. Leaders like General Motors continue to push electrification as an inevitability despite short-term turbulence. The argument is straightforward. Regulatory pressure is not easing. Battery costs will continue to fall. Infrastructure will catch up. From that perspective, today’s slowdown is a pause, not a reversal. Others are hedging. Hybrids are making a strong comeback. Investment is being spread across multiple powertrains instead of betting purely on EVs. BYD sits in an interesting middle ground. It is doubling down on technology and exports while tightening internal efficiency. The job cuts are not a red flag. They are a signal that the next phase of the EV race will not be won by volume alone. It will be won by who can scale profitably. Hauke-Christian Dittrich/picture alliance via Getty Images View the full article

A Bargain EV Meets a Big ConcernNissan continues to support the electric vehicle market with the new Leaf introduced last year, as its affordability makes it a more accessible option for those looking to make the switch or simply buy a new EV. Unfortunately, though, some examples are already facing an early setback after the Japanese marque issued a recall over a battery pack defect that could cause a fire even when parked. Because of the safety risk, affected owners are being urged to bring their Leaf to a Nissan dealer, where they will be provided with a rental car until a remedy is available. The recall covers about 51 units built between July 17, 2025, and November 26, 2025. The automaker estimates that all of them are affected and notes that no other Nissan or Infiniti models are involved. Nissan What Went WrongAccording to NHTSA recall number 26V188, the issue with the 78-kWh lithium-ion battery pack stems from the supplier’s manufacturing process. The edges of the battery cell cathode material may have been damaged, and those torn edges could fold over on themselves, increasing the risk of a short circuit within the battery module. That could lead to overheating, a thermal event, and ultimately a fire. Nissan has identified the potentially affected units through one-to-one traceability between battery IDs and VINs. So far, two units have been reported to have experienced thermal incidents – one in Japan on February 16, 2026, and another in the U.S. on March 2, 2026. Both occurred while the Nissan Leaf was parked. No accidents or injuries related to the defect were reported. Cole Attisha Addressing the IssueNissan will notify affected owners starting April 17. Dealers will inspect the affected EVs and replace the battery if necessary. No reimbursement program has been established because the recalled units are still under warranty. Meanwhile, owners who choose not to bring their Leaf to a Nissan dealer for a rental vehicle are advised not to charge it and to park it away from buildings to reduce the risk of a fire. Because the defect is attributed to a manufacturing error, it does not necessarily indicate a design flaw. The Leaf – now in its third generation – starts at $29,990 (excluding destination), undercutting similarly positioned EVs in the U.S., including the Hyundai Kona Electric and Toyota bZ, which start in the low-to-mid-$30,000 range. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Rodney Childers is amongst the first to clock in every morning at JR Motorsports and amongst the last to clock out several months into the next chapter of a no-doubt NASCAR Hall of Fame career. That’s how you know this is working out for the 2014 NASCAR Cup Series champion crew chief now tasked with leading a No. 1 car split between Carson Kvapil and Connor Zilisch. After spending most of ...Keep readingView the full article

Post-race inspection for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series at Rockingham is complete, and there were no issues with the race-winning No. 1 Tricon Toyota of Corey Heim. However, fourth-place finisher Chandler Smith, who was leading the Truck Series championship standings, has been disqualified. In post-race inspection, the No. 38 Front Row Motorsports Ford failed to meet rear body inspection ...Keep readingView the full article

Corey Heim absolutely dominated Friday's NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS) race at Rockingham, but he had to fight for it in the closing laps. Heim suddenly began to struggle with his No. 1 truck, wondering on the radio if he had a tire going down. As he navigated slower traffic, teammate Kaden Honeycutt ran him down, setting up an incredible battle for the win. They were side-by-side on ...Keep readingView the full article

Giving the EQS Some LoveThe Mercedes-Benz EQS hasn't had the easiest of lives. It was met with a mixed reception when it was new, and it's also one of the slowest-selling cars the German automaker has ever produced. On paper, the car was groundbreaking and revolutionary, but people simply weren't convinced enough to go to their nearest Mercedes-Benz showroom and wave money at it. Mercedes-Benz Still, its maker isn't giving up on it even if we all know it won't make it past this decade. The EQS was given a facelift for 2025 to make it look more, er, normal, but there are bigger changes coming soon. It'll be for the 2027 model year, so it might be revealed later this year. Mercedes-Benz The Biggest ChangeThe meat of the 2027 EQS will be the availability of a steer-by-wire system. Granted, Mercedes isn't the first to put that system in a production car, but it'll be a first for the company. It was actually previewed about a year ago, but more details have been shared recently. As shown earlier, going for steer-by-wire means replacing the steering wheel with a yoke. Like it or not, it's the way automakers have been emphasizing their respective columnless steering systems, including Mercedes-Benz. With no more steering shaft required, the ratio is infinitely variable and speed-sensitive. At lower speeds, the wheels turn at a greater angle and less so once speeds pick up. It also works in conjunction with rear-axle steering. In case of failure, the stability control serves as the backup for the main system, so there is still a degree of control present. The company claims that its version offers 'completely new steering feel and superior control with virtually no effort required' and 'easier maneuvering and parking as well as even greater driving stability and agility.' Hopefully, that doesn't translate to 'numb' and 'vague' in real life. Mercedes-Benz Other UpdatesGiven that the cars are still heavily camouflaged, we could expect significant changes to the exterior. The car could also benefit from some of the new tech seen in the heavily updated S-Class, particularly in the infotainment department. The 2027 EQS will also shift to an 800V architecture to reduce charging times and improve energy efficiency. New, more powerful eATS 2.0 electric motors will also be included in the update. Mercedes-Benz Mind you, the shape is still the same as before, and if you didn't like it then, then this major facelift probably won't convince you. But if you are looking forward to all the new tech that will be applied to the new EQS, but in a more normal-looking package, there's a great chance of the future electric S-Class getting all of it. Mercedes-Benz View the full article

NWS Marquette has upgraded to Ice Storm Warnings across Michigan's Upper Peninsula as a second wave of freezing rain takes aim at highways already battered by two days of ice, sleet and snow. The warnings take effect Friday evening and persist through Saturday afternoon, with ice accumulations up to 0.4 inches and wind gusts reaching 40 MPH along US-2 and US-41. Meanwhile, a clipper system is dropping 5 to 8 inches of snow across northern Wisconsin with gusts reaching 50 MPH, and NWS Green Bay is tracking a significant weekend storm with 12+ inches of snow and near-blizzard potential. What to ExpectThe heaviest icing is forecast across the western and central UP. Dickinson, Iron and Gogebic counties face 0.3 to 0.4 inches of ice from 7 PM Friday through 1 PM CDT Saturday, with NWS Marquette warning that travel could be "nearly impossible." Baraga and Marquette counties are under an Ice Storm Warning from 11 PM Friday to 2 PM EDT Saturday with 0.1 to 0.4 inches of ice and 35 MPH gusts, while Chippewa and Mackinac counties face 0.2 to 0.3 inches Saturday morning into the afternoon. In northern Wisconsin, NWS Green Bay reports the clipper is producing 5 to 8 inches of snow north of Highway 29, with 40 to 50 MPH gusts creating blowing and drifting on I-41, US-141 and secondary roads through the Northwoods. Road ConditionsThis is the third hit on the same highway network in under 72 hours. More than half of Menominee and Portage counties remain without power from the first round of icing, and at least one person died in a crash on I-43 during Thursday's storm. Fresh ice forming on partially treated surfaces creates a compounding, layered hazard far more dangerous than any single event. Bridges and overpasses along I-41, US-2 and US-141 will freeze first and should be treated as near-zero-traction surfaces through Saturday. Check 511wi.gov for Wisconsin conditions and MI Drive for the UP. Weekend Storm BuildingNWS Green Bay reports increasing confidence in a significant weekend winter storm capable of producing 12 or more inches of snow across northern Wisconsin, with winds gusting over 40 MPH and near-blizzard conditions. If this system delivers as forecast, it would be the fourth distinct winter weather event to strike the I-41 and US-2 corridors in a single week. Winter Driving TipsBack-to-back icing events create a layered road surface that is exceptionally difficult to read. Pavement that appeared clear after treatment will refreeze overnight, producing black ice on bridges along I-41, US-2 and I-43 with no visible warning. On ice, stopping distances multiply dramatically, and all-wheel drive does nothing to close that gap. Review Autoblog's guide to best practices for driving in snow, ice and rain before heading into the warning zones. Check tire pressure before any trip into these areas. Cold temperatures drop pressure roughly 1 to 2 PSI for every 10-degree change, and an underinflated tire loses critical contact exactly when you need it most. Keep a fully stocked emergency kit in the vehicle, especially with active power outages across the region, and make sure your car is winter-ready. For anyone heading north for Easter, delay departure until Saturday afternoon at the earliest, after road crews have treated surfaces once the icing clears. TimingThe clipper exits northern Wisconsin Friday evening. The icing wave moves in Friday night and persists through Saturday midday. The larger weekend storm could begin affecting the region Saturday night. Refreezing remains a risk on untreated surfaces through Easter Sunday morning; check conditions before committing to any drive. View the full article

Design and ClassMazda is one of the brands that has successfully reinvented itself and gained a whole new type of following. From just being another Japanese brand, it transformed into offering more upscale models with even more premium designs and feel. The brand's patented Kodo design language has given the world some of the most striking and Japanese cars we've ever seen. Kodo has won Mazda multiple design awards over the years, and it has done it again. Mazda Mazda EZ-6/6eThe Mazda EZ-6/6e has just been awarded the 2026 World Car Design of the Year Award. What makes this monumental is that this model was built as a joint partnership between Mazda and Chinese Automaker Changan, as an EV for both the Chinese market and select European countries. China carries the EZ-6 model name, while Europe's designation is the 6e. However, the EZ-6 has been around in China since 2024, and the 6e is yet to debut sometime this year in Europe, the UK, and Australia. The EZ-6/6E design was considered a challenge for Mazda, which was keen to use the already iconic Kodo but also add a touch of modernity, as a nod to the car's electrified nature. The design is regarded as "Authentic Modern," which, according to Mazda, "combines vibrant, life-inspired forms with a sense of advanced modernity befitting an electrified vehicle, while achieving a beautifully proportioned coupe silhouette." It's also important to note that, according to Mazda Australia's boss, the 6E isn't a Mazda6 and can't be considered the true replacement. Mazda claims that these electrified models, apart from their award-winning design, still adhere to the brand's Jinba-ittai mindset, in which car and owner become one while driving. While the EZ-6 and 6E are the same model, the latter has been refined with additional features to meet driving standards in the future markets it'll be launched in. Earl Lee/Autoblog Hat TrickThis latest win by Mazda marks the third time the brand has won this award. It started in 2016 with the MX-5, and then followed up in 2020 with the Mazda 3. The World Car Design of the Year Award was officially launched in 2004 and uses the opinions of motoring journalists from around the world to determine the winner. 2026 saw ninety-eight motoring journalists choose from ninety-eight eligible car candidates, with the eventual winner announced on April 1, 2026, in New York, USA. Mazda View the full article

A Familiar Future, With a TwistWe’ve known for a while that Nissan is working on the next GT-R, even as earlier plans hinted at an all-electric future for the badge. That idea hasn’t completely disappeared, but it’s clearly not the full story anymore. Now, there’s a bit more clarity thanks to comments from Ponz Pandikuthira, Senior Vice President and Chief Planning Officer for Nissan North America. The update paints a picture that feels both reassuring and slightly complicated, depending on what you were hoping the next Godzilla would become. On one hand, the next-generation R36 GT-R is still very much alive. On the other, it won’t be a pure combustion sports car. "GT-R is part of our mythology. There will always be a GT-R," Pandikuthira told Autoblog at the 2026 New York Auto Show. Electrified Not Just for CompliancePandikuthira confirmed that the R36 will have some level of electrification, though he also made it clear that it won't be electrified just for the sake of complying with stricter global emissions rules, including upcoming Euro 7 standards. “We do know it’s going to need some level of electrification. And it can’t just be electrification for the sake of electrification. It still needs to be a capable performer – Nürburgring, multiple laps, hold lap timing records. And that balance is what’s actually delaying the introduction of the next generation," Pandikuthira added. Pandikuthira also shared a rough timeline, confirming that a team in Japan is already spearheading the development of the next GT-R. "So it’s not an if — it’s only a when,” he assured. “If everything goes the way we want, I’d like to see it by ’28. You should at least hear some very concrete news from us," the executive shared. Pandikuthira didn't share any specifics about the electrified setup, but we can deduce that Nissan will likely use an evolution of the VR38 V6 engine from the current Nissan GT-R R35. Why? Because it’s already a proven, high-performance foundation. AOL VR38: Two Decades of RenownThe VR38 engine has earned its reputation over nearly two decades, and that’s a good reason Nissan isn’t ready to walk away from it. Originally developed for the R35 GT-R, the twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 is known for its robustness and tuning potential. It’s built with a closed-deck aluminum block, a design that improves rigidity and allows it to handle significant power increases without compromising durability. Each engine is also hand-assembled by Nissan’s Takumi master technicians, adding a level of craftsmanship that’s become part of the GT-R’s identity. Over the years, the VR38 has proven capable of supporting extreme outputs in both factory and heavily modified applications, which helps explain why Nissan sees value in evolving it rather than replacing it outright. For the R36, that likely means a hybridized version of this engine, updated to meet modern emissions while still delivering the kind of performance expected from a GT-R. It may not be the all-new powertrain some enthusiasts were hoping for, but it does suggest continuity in character. Joel Stocksdale View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Audi's Straight-Five LegacyIt's safe to say that Audi is one of the pioneers of the inline-five engine. Even though it wasn't the first, five-cylinders have become one of its hallmarks, especially back in the '80s. That said, the first inline-five was from Mercedes-Benz, but its development was led by Ferdinand Piëch of the Porsche dynasty, who later returned to the family business to build one for Audi. The Audi 100, also known as the 5000 in North America, was Ingolstadt's first model to offer such an engine way back in 1976. More models eventually followed and became a staple in Audi's range until the mid-'90s. It was revived in the first-generation RS 3, and models like the TT RS and RS Q3 could also use it. Unfortunately, the engine isn't long for this world, as 2027 will be its final year... or is it? Audi Good News, Bad NewsIt's a distinct and characterful engine, and we'll be sad to see it go. However, Audi has, indeed, confirmed that it will live on after 2027. It's not like the company suddenly had a change of heart, though. Speaking to Motor1, a spokesperson told the publication that the RS 3, the only model that uses the 2.5-liter TFSI engine, will hang around a little longer. So, that's good news, but only if you live outside of Europe. If you are European and are reading this, you won't like the next part. That straight-five will still be canned by mid-2027, regardless of where you are in the region or in a country that adheres to the stricter Euro 7 standards. There's a whiff of irony here as the German-built engine can't even be offered in its home continent. For the rest of us, though, we can still enjoy this engine while it lasts. Europe is Losing its Fun Cars and EnginesThe whole Euro 7 rules have been slowly but surely erasing fun cars and engines over in the Old Continent. Toyota and Subaru couldn't sell the 86 and BRZ over there anymore due to emissions, and Honda was forced to axe its Civic Type R for the same reason. Most automakers are resorting to hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrains to skirt around the regulations in Europe. While those rules don't apply to the rest of the world, it'll only be a matter of time before those same regulations will affect the global market. For now, though, let's enjoy these engines while we still can. View the full article

Corey Lajoie stopped by one of his favorite coffee shops on the way to Rockingham Speedway on Friday morning. Local Patriot Roasting Company While there, and after placing his order, engaged in a conversation that kind of encapsulated the head space for the 34-year-old heading into this new opportunity in the Craftsman Truck Series with RAM and Kaulig Racing. “We were just chopping it ...Keep readingView the full article

Kaulig Racing has announced Carson Ferguson as the next driver of the team's No. 25 Ram 1500 'free agent' truck, with the accomplished dirt racer making his NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Bristol next weekend. Ferguson was the runner-up in the 'Ram: Race for the Seat' competition, which decided the full-time driver of the team's No. 14 truck for the 2026 season. He lost out to Mini ...Keep readingView the full article

In qualifying ahead of Saturday's NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Rockingham, Corey Day put the No. 17 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet on pole with a 27.717s lap. He will share the front row with reigning series champion Jesse Love in the No. 2 Richard Childress Racing Chevrolet, who fell 0.064s short of the top spot. "I felt really good," said Day. "We got a really good car, so thanks ...Keep readingView the full article