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A Familiar Leader ReturnsThe broader electric vehicle market may have slowed, but Tesla appears to be holding its ground at the start of 2026. The automaker delivered 358,023 vehicles in the first quarter, up 6.5 percent from the same period last year. The rebound also helped Tesla reclaim the global EV sales crown from BYD, the Chinese automaker that led the segment in 2025. According to the South China Morning Post, BYD sold 310,389 units (excluding non-full EVs) in Q1 2026, down 25.5 percent year over year. The latest swing, however, may say less about the relative strength of their product lineups and more about shifting policies, particularly in China. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Rules of the GameChinese EV buyers were previously exempt from the standard 10 percent vehicle purchase tax but are now subject to a five percent levy starting in 2026. The country has also taken steps to curb price wars, including rules barring automakers from selling vehicles below production cost. While these changes could improve automakers' profitability and encourage healthier competition by rewarding stronger players rather than the cheapest, they may also contribute to a market slowdown, as reflected in the aforementioned sales figures. Most of Tesla’s Q1 volume came from China-made vehicles, with the Shanghai plant accounting for 213,398 units in wholesale volume – nearly 60 percent of its global total. In the U.S., the EV maker continues to navigate the market following the discontinuation of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit in September 2025, though it remains the segment leader by a wide margin. A New DirectionIt remains to be seen how shifting policies in China, along with other current and upcoming factors, will affect BYD in its battle with Tesla. While the year is still long, Tesla has discontinued the Model S and Model X to free up capacity for its Optimus humanoid and Cybercab robotaxi projects. That likely will not cause a major shake-up in the brand's EV sales, however, since the Model 3 and Model Y have long been the company's stronger sellers. BYD, meanwhile, will continue to expand its global presence, including opening a new plant in Hungary as part of its push to localize manufacturing in Europe. The Chinese automaker, along with Geely and Chery, is also considering entering Canada, as the country allows roughly 49,000 China-made EVs at lower tariff rates – a move criticized by the United States. Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Not Just an ICE Problem AnymoreGM already has its hands full with lawsuits over its gas engines – a troublesome V8 here, a questionable inline-three there. But the headaches aren’t stopping with combustion models. Now, the spotlight is shifting to their electric lineup. This time, it’s the Cadillac Lyriq under fire. Two owners have taken GM to court, saying their luxury EVs have problems that run deeper than the typical new-model teething pains. The lawsuit raises a tough question for GM: Even as it tries to lead the EV charge, are some of its top models still struggling with basic reliability? And is this just a couple of unlucky owners, or a sign of a bigger problem? Cadillac What the Lawsuit AllegesThe proposed class action was filed in the US District Court for the Western District of Washington on April 2, with plaintiffs Wendy J. Cochran of Washington and Charlene Riddle of Florida leading the charge. According to the complaint, their Lyriqs are affected by a range of electrical, battery, and software-related issues. These problems can allegedly cause the vehicles to become “bricked,” meaning they cannot start, charge, or function at all. The lawsuit points to failures involving control module communication, battery management systems, and charging systems. In some cases, the vehicles reportedly need to be towed to dealerships, where technicians struggle to diagnose or fix the underlying issues. The plaintiffs claim GM has been aware of these defects through internal testing, warranty data, dealership reports, and complaints filed with regulators. Despite this, the company allegedly continued marketing the Lyriq as a premium, reliable EV built on its Ultium platform. They are seeking to represent a broader group of owners nationwide, with additional claims under federal warranty law and state-level consumer protection statutes. Cadillac GM Offered Buy-BacksSo far, GM hasn’t said much about the lawsuit. According to the complaint, the automaker offered to buy back some Lyriqs but has dragged its feet on actually paying out – possibly to soften the financial blow. The owners’ argument is simple: These aren’t one-off glitches. The problems are tough to fix and serious enough that GM should be held accountable. Their lawyers also hint that parts shortages could be making repairs even slower, though GM hasn’t confirmed that. What happens next depends on whether the court lets the case go forward as a class action, and how GM decides to play it – settle, fix the cars, or fight it out in court. Kristen Brown View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Tariffs and Their AftermathDue to import tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, Stellantis moved production of the next-generation Compass from Canada to Illinois. The shift led to the Brampton plant being idled, leaving thousands of workers in limbo and sparking backlash in Canada. Bloomberg, citing unnamed sources, reports that Stellantis is now considering using the idled plant to build Chinese electric vehicles with Leapmotor, in which it holds an approximately 20 percent stake. The move follows Canada’s decision to allow Chinese EV imports into the country, at least for an initial 49,000 units at lower tariff rates – a policy the U.S. criticized and warned could trigger tariffs on Canada of up to 100 percent. Stellantis Where Things Get TrickyHowever, the situation is far more complicated. The proposal has raised employment concerns, particularly because it reportedly involves knock-down kits. In simple terms, these are Leapmotor EVs that are largely built in China before being imported for final assembly. That kind of setup would create only minimal local jobs while also reducing the need for Canadian suppliers. No official agreement has been reached yet, but Stellantis said it is continuing to explore ways to reinforce its presence in Canada. “Stellantis remains focused on a strong Canadian footprint and is actively evaluating future programs for Brampton, with the objective to ensure that any investment decision is sustainable and a long-term commitment that supports workers and suppliers,” LouAnn Gosselin, Stellantis’ North America spokesperson, said in an emailed statement. Stellantis EV Push Moves ForwardWhile Stellantis remains in talks over plans for the Brampton plant, the automaker is also preparing to launch three electrified crossover models in Mexico: the compact B10, midsize C10, and full-size C16. These vehicles are expected to undercut several EVs from legacy brands, potentially giving consumers more choices but increasing pressure on automakers to adapt to remain competitive. Chinese automakers such as BYD and Geely are also planning to enter the Canadian market following the country's relaxation of barriers to entry. Their growing presence in North America, however, continues to face opposition from the United States. U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra recently said Chinese EVs would not be allowed to cross the border, though it remains unclear whether he meant they would be barred from being sold in the U.S. or from physically entering the country at all. Among the concerns cited are data privacy and cybersecurity risks, particularly because connected vehicles can collect and transmit data. Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It was eventful and occasionally dramatic but Garrett Mitchell dba Cleetus McFarland made it to the checkered flag in his NASCAR O’Reilly Series debut at Rockingham Speedway on Saturday. Driving the No. 33 for Richard Childress Racing, McFarland finished 32nd and six laps behind winner William Sawalich and there was a lot that happened over 250 laps in the sand hills region. Off the ...Keep readingView the full article

William Sawalich has been beaten up and emotionally challenged but it all culminated in his first NASCAR O'Reilly Series victory on Sunday at Rockingham Speedway. As a (younger) teenager, Sawalich won at every step along the way, including 13 victories in the ARCA Racing Series, but went 0-for-41 upon reaching what used to be called the Xfinity Series. There were some ugly crashes along the way ...Keep readingView the full article

This year’s New York Auto Show is packed with crazy concept cars, stunning wagons, and rare metal, but sometimes it’s the familiar machines that leave the biggest impression. Case in point: a red Porsche 911 GT3 RS fitted with the Manthey Racing Kit. It's arguably the most extreme road-legal 911 that's ever been built, and we got to see it up close and personal at the 2026 New York Auto Show. Aerodynamics Taken To The Extreme Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Even in standard form, the GT3 RS has earned its “winged monster” nickname, especially once fitted with the Weissach package. Manthey follows that philosophy and takes it to a whole new level. The kit adds a more aggressive front lip with canards, wheel arch gurneys, underbody tweaks, rear aerodiscs, roof fins, and an even gnarlier diffuser. The standout feature remains the gargantuan carbon fibre rear wing with a massive shark fin and a drag reduction system (DRS). Altogether, the package generates over 1,000 kg (2,204 lbs) of downforce at 285 kph (177 mph), allowing it to lap tracks even faster. Under The Skin Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog The kit does more than alter aerodynamics. Although the GT3 RS retains its original 518-hp naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six engine, Manthey Racing tinkers with its driving dynamics. The chassis has been reworked thanks to a semi-active coilover suspension system that increases spring rates by up to 30% that allows for more precision when driving on the limit. Braking has also been improved with optional steel-braided lines for a more consistent pedal feel, along with race-focused pads designed to handle sustained high temperatures. A Road-Legal Track Weapon Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Despite all this, the car remains road legal, which is what makes the Manthey Kit even more impressive. Seeing it in person at the New York Auto Show just reminded us what a massive impact these upgrades have on its real-world performance around a track. The current GT3 RS Manthey Racing car is yet to set an official Nurburgring lap time, but we have times from the not-so-serious 991-generation GT3 for reference. The pre-facelift 911 GT3 equipped with a Manthey Racing kit clocked a time of 6 minutes 55.74 seconds, just 6 seconds behind the untouched GT3 RS. Autocar lapped Silverstone in 2 minutes and 11.15 seconds – 2 seconds quicker than the standard GT3 RS. The company also makes a kit for the Taycan and 911 S/T. And once the facelifted GT3 RS hits the market, we're sure to see another Manthey Racing kit hit the scene, and do what Porsche is too afraid to do: Make it less aesthetically appealing in favor of on-track performance. View the full article

The Weight of the MatterThe Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents major automakers like General Motors and Toyota, is pushing to replace the gas tax with a single fee based on vehicle weight. While the proposal aims to address declining gas tax revenue used to fund highway repairs, such a measure could disproportionately impact owners of pickup trucks, SUVs, and electric vehicles. That is because trucks and SUVs typically use heavy-duty components to improve capability, often at the cost of added weight. EVs, meanwhile, also tend to be heavier than internal combustion vehicles because of their battery packs. Reuters noted that John Bozzella, head of the group, did not specify how much the proposed fee would be, but some form of change appears increasingly necessary, especially since the federal gas tax has not been updated since 1993, even as the auto industry has changed significantly over the past decade. Hyundai Funding Roads in an EV EraNotably, EVs have become more widespread in the 2020s with models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Ford Mustang Mach-E. These zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles are not subject to the 18.4-cent-per-gallon federal gasoline tax because they run purely on electricity, meaning they still use public roads without directly contributing to the fuel-based taxes that fund their maintenance. Hybrids have also become far more popular, to the point that the Toyota RAV4 has gone exclusively hybrid for the 2026 model year. These vehicles consume less fuel than conventional ICE models by using one or more electric motors to assist with propulsion. But at the same time, that trend could further strain the long-term sustainability of U.S. highway funding, which still depends heavily on gas tax revenue. Paying by the PoundWith that in mind, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation’s proposal could help reduce funding gaps created by the rise of electrified cars. Heavier vehicles generally place more stress on road surfaces than lighter ones, which may support the case for a weight-based fee. Still, it remains to be seen how such a policy might affect ownership of larger vehicles. If approved, the proposal could impact a substantial share of U.S. drivers, especially given that full-size pickups like the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado remain among the country’s best-selling vehicles. Another proposal is a $250 annual fee for EVs, which critics have called unfair, especially since gasoline-powered vehicles pay about $88 on average. These ideas are gaining attention as the current U.S. surface transportation law is set to expire on September 30, 2026. The federal government also faces growing pressure to find a long-term solution after transferring more than $275 billion from the general fund to help cover road repairs since 2008. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

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