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Japanese Brands – American Hands Japanese-branded, American-made – three U.S.-made Toyotas are headed to the East, which include the Toyota Camry midsize sedan, Highlander SUV, and Tundra full-size truck. The Camry and the Highlander are models aiming to make a comeback in the Japanese market. The Camry was last seen for sale in Japan in 2023, while the Highlander (known as the Kluger for the Japanese market) made its last appearance in Toyota dealerships in 2007 – almost two decades ago. It's funny to think that Japan Domestic Market (JDM) models have a certain desirability to U.S. car enthusiasts. Once upon a time, Japan kept the best stuff for itself, but now they're knocking on the doors of their American factories. Surprisingly, U.S. factories are reportedly being given OEM support to convert their left-hand-drive models to right-hand drive for export. Toyota Toyota Reverse-Imports Three ModelsThe first of the models, the Toyota Camry, comes at a very opportune time for it to make some noise in its segment. The midsize sedan faces modest internal competition in its "home" country, with luxury models like the Toyota Crown and Lexus ES as premium offerings out of reach for many car buyers, while basic sedans like the Toyota Corolla are still big sellers but lack luxuries. The Camry will sit between the two extremes – not too expensive and not too ill-equipped for business users seeking premium comfort and luxury without the hefty Lexus or Crown tax. Next is the Highlander, which is returning to Japan after almost 20 years. The fourth generation is currently pegged as the incoming model for the Japanese market. However, a fully electric model was just revealed for the U.S. market. On the horizon, Toyota is also set to launch the new all-electric Highlander later this year, in the third quarter of 2026 as a 2027 model year. Will Japan shift factories to source the new battery-electric vehicle soon? We'll leave that story to develop for now. The last Toyota for export from U.S. shores is the venerable Tundra. This pickup truck has huge proportions, seemingly sizing itself out of the narrow city streets of Japan. Needless to say, it will be a unique model that could put Toyota at the top of the full-sized pickup truck segment in the Japanese market. All models are expected to be right-hand drive, with a rumor that the Toyota Tundra will be the only one sold as a left-hand-drive model to Japanese consumers, as reported by Japan's Best Car. Japan News Not For Sale – Yet Thanks to the American-made Toyota Highlander being designated as an official vehicle of the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry, at least one Toyota Highlander is already registered and driving on Japanese roads. Car buyers reportedly inquired at Toyota dealerships about the model, asking what it is and how they can get their hands on one. The fourth-generation Highlander is still not officially on sale in Japan. Dealers had to explain the situation to these inquisitive buyers and subsequently tell them to return at a later date. Apparently, each explanation is on a "case-by-case" basis. Nissan Why American-Made Cars Are Going To JapanToyota, Honda, and Nissan all state that their goal in selling these American models is to meet the diverse needs of a broad range of customers and improve Japan-U.S. trade relations. With this, the new system developed by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism will allow American-built cars to enter the Japanese market without requiring local safety testing. The "Joint Statement on Framework Agreement between Japan and the United States" is one of the programs that allows cars made in the United States to be imported into Japan and go on sale without certification or testing. The two countries have aligned their safety standards to increase the flow of commerce in their respective automotive sectors. Toyota Other Cars That Will Be Imported to Japan From The U.S.As mentioned, Toyota will be reverse-importing three models: the Camry, the Highlander, and the Tundra, all U.S.-spec models, with the Camry and Highlander receiving a right-hand-drive conversion for the Japanese market. The Tundra's rumored to come as left-hand-drive only for the Japanese market. It is important to note that Japanese car buyers are inquiring about the fourth-generation Highlander, not the incoming fifth-generation electric-only model. The same can be said for Nissan, which also announced that the Murano is making a return to the Japanese market, thanks to U.S. Manufacturing, with sales set to begin in early 2027. Nissan also plans to sell it as is with the steering wheel on the left side. Furthermore, Honda is bringing two more American-made models: the Acura Integra Type S and the Honda Passport TrailSport Elite. According to Honda, the two models drew a lot of interest at the recent 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon and Osaka Auto Messe 2026, and visitors also expressed expectations for their launch in the Japanese market, with confirmation from Honda itself. Honda Japan Hits Itself With A Reverse CardThe automotive industry is full of surprises. Three Japanese car manufacturers are set to import American-made models into their local lineups. The U.S.-produced models are coming, and anticipation is building in the Japanese car industry. On a side note, the 25-year rule has fully encompassed all the legendary 90s Japanese nameplates, and Japanese sports cars from that era are commanding premiums as Americans are eager to import them. This whole situation is starting to look like a bit of a "trade deal" of sorts. The U.S. gets old Japanese legends, and Japan gets modern U.S.-bred models for its market. Win-win? Honda View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Firefighters know exactly what they’re up against with an internal combustion vehicle fire. Kill the flames and cool the metal so what remains of the vehicle can be towed away. With an EV, though, the fire can come back hours after the fire is seemingly suppressed. When a lithium-ion battery pack enters thermal runaway, a self-sustaining chemical reaction, cells continue to overheat from the inside and vent (accompanied by a popping sound) long after the fire appears to be out. This reaction creates toxic gases that feed the heat and can reignite at any time with no warning. That one difference is the main factor that makes fighting electric vehicle fires so difficult to suppress and safe to leave. Water Helps, But You Need a Lot of ItWhile water is still the most commonly used method for suppressing these fires, the volume of water used is quite considerable. One Tesla battery fire documented by the International Association of Fire and Rescue Services needed roughly 24,000 gallons over 40 minutes to bring under control. Some estimates suggest EV fires can demand up to 40 times more water than a conventional ICE vehicle blaze to put out. A large part of that is thanks to the very thing that gives EVs their low center of gravity and characteristic handling: battery placement. The battery pack sits low in the vehicle, locked inside a protective casing that’s built to be tough and water-resistant. It’s the reason why EVs can be driven in the rain, through flood water, and so on without the fear of an electrical short circuit, but it’s a genuine safety risk during a fire. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) tests in 2025 found that just tipping a burning EV onto its side gave firefighters a much clearer shot at the battery compartment, cutting suppression time to around 24 minutes using multiple hose lines. Getty Fire Blankets Aren't the Answer EitherSome responders have attempted to use fire blankets to deprive the battery of oxygen and starve the fire. While that is a logical approach, unfortunately, it does not work effectively to prevent EV fires. The blanket traps the toxic gases building up inside, and the moment someone lifts or adjusts it, those gases meet fresh air. That can trigger an explosion. Australia's EV FireSafe has pushed back against their use for this reason, pointing out the danger they create for the very people handling them. It’s worth noting, though, that EV fires are genuinely rare occurrences. Safety data puts the number at around 25 fires per 100,000 EVs, in stark comparison to the roughly 1,500 fires per 100,000 ICE vehicles. So, while EVs are 60 times less likely to catch fire, they demand a lot more when they do happen and are more hazardous until contained. View the full article

The Porsche Cayenne range offers something for everyone (as long as they have at least 90 grand), and telling them apart can be quite a challenge, but thanks to new spy shots showing two upcoming Cayenne Coupe facelifts in convoy, we can see some of the subtle differences coming to the luxury SUV for the 2027 model year. The two models in question are the Cayenne Coupe and the Cayenne Turbo GT, which is only offered with the sloping roofline, and the main changes are coming to the front ends. Let's take a closer look. Porsche Cayenne Variants Get Differing Lighting SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Porsche can't seem to make up its mind about where to put indicator lights. With the 991 and 992.1 Porsche 911, the indicators were separated from the headlights, appearing above the lower side indicators, but with the 992.2, they've migrated back to the main clusters. With the Cayenne Coupe facelift, a similar case of indecision is evident, with the regular version having vertical indicator lights added to the outer edges of the lower side intakes and the Turbo GT retaining the horizontal indicator bars of the pre-facelift model, albeit now with straight units rather than the dog-bone-shaped elements of the current model. With camouflage over the headlights of both prototypes and black tape around some of the grilles of the Turbo GT, we can expect minor refinements in these areas, too. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Telling the two apart from the back will be no different than before, with the Turbo GT having a pair of oval tailpipes close together in the middle of the diffuser panel and the regular model getting rhombus-shaped finishers at the outer extremities of the lower fascia. The graphics in the taillights of both SUVs are expected to be lightly refined, but little else is evident in the way of exterior changes. Porsche Cayenne Coupe Expected to Retain Existing Powertrain Offerings SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Under the hood of each model, we expect no major changes. Currently, the base Cayenne Coupe is available with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder delivering 348 horsepower, while the E-Hybrid version embraces an electric motor for a total of 463 hp. The Cayenne S upgrades to a 4.0-liter V8 with 468 hp, and the Cayenne S E-Hybrid makes a total of 512 hp. Then there's the non-hybrid GTS with 493 hp, the Turbo E-Hybrid with 729 hp, and the Turbo GT with 650 hp. Those seeking something vastly different (and more powerful) can try out the new Cayenne EV, which has up to 1,139 horsepower but is expected to be usurped by an even more powerful variant before long. We'll know more about the new Cayennes later this year, as they're expected to be offered for the 2027 model year. This generation of Cayenne has been on sale in America since 2019 and in Europe since 2017, so a nip/tuck is long overdue. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

BMW Dials It BackA report from BMW Blog confirms that the facelifted 7 Series will drop its SAE Level 3 self-driving system, known as Personal Pilot L3. The decision is cost-related, as the technology did not meet BMW’s commercial expectations. The U.S. market had little to do with that, since the system was never sold stateside anyway. Still, this report puts an end to any hopes prospective buyers may have had of experiencing Personal Pilot L3 in the new 7 Series in the near future. BMW R&D chief Joachim Post explained that only a small number of customers opted for the system, making it unprofitable. In other words, low demand and the high cost of a €6,000 option (about $7,000 in current exchange rates) made for an unsustainable business case. BMW The Numbers Didn’t Add UpPost said, “We had the Level 3 system in our vehicles, but we realized demand had not reached a point where it could be profitable. Of course, we have to run a profitable business. That’s why we no longer offer a Level 3 system.” However, the automaker is not completely shutting the door on eyes-off, hands-off technology. Post added, “That doesn’t mean we are going to disregard higher levels. As soon as we have feasible business models, we will pursue them.” The upcoming 7 Series will likely get BMW’s Symbiotic Drive Level 2 system instead, which falls within the same Level 2 category as Ford's BlueCruise and General Motors’ Super Cruise. In Germany, however, it is certified for hands-off, eyes-on driving. The system debuted in the iX3, which also introduced the brand's Neue Klasse EV platform. BMW A Familiar Flagship, ReimaginedSpeaking of the new architecture, the facelifted model will likely adopt some of its design cues without actually riding on it. BMW recently released a teaser showing a quad-headlight layout and a large illuminated grille, which could give it a more imposing face. With Personal Pilot L3 dropped, that front end will not need to accommodate the additional hardware required for Level 3 autonomy, at least until the company finds a way to make it profitable. The new 7 Series is expected to debut at the Beijing Auto Show, which runs from April 24 to May 3, 2026. It may also be viewed as BMW’s latest answer to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, which was recently revised for the 2027 model year. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

The dispute between Ferrari and Mazda regarding the ownership of the 'Luce' name is heating up, as the Italian luxury sports car manufacturer insists that it holds the right to use the name, which it intends to use on its first-ever fully electric car. That is despite the fact that Mazda trademarked the Luce name in Japan roughly three weeks after Ferrari announced details of its upcoming Luce electric car. The Japanese automaker first used the Luce name in 1966 on a series of high-end sedans that were produced until 1991 and were also available in the US for a while under the Mazda 929 badge. The last time Mazda referenced the Luce was in 2017, when it unveiled the Vision Coupe Concept; at the time, the Japanese automaker said the spectacular design study was a “respectful node to its heritage” that includes the 1969 Mazda Luce Rotary Coupe. Ferrari Trademarked the 'Luce' Name with the WIPO in September 2025 Ferrari In the first public reaction since Mazda’s trademark filing, Ferrari stresses that it holds every right to the name, which means both “light” and “electricity” in Italian—the latter used colloquially to mean "power," especially when referring to utility bills. “Ferrari holds the right to use the ‘Ferrari Luce’ trademark internationally, by virtue of its registration under international law. As always, Ferrari carried out prior searches, which did not identify any active third-party rights in conflict with ours,” the automaker’s said in a statement issued to CarExpert. How was Mazda able to trademark the name in its home market, then? That’s a good question, and it all hinges on whether Ferrari filed a trademark for Luce in Japan or not. Since Mazda managed to register the Luce name in its home market, it means that it was up for grabs. The situation is different depending on the market. We’ve checked the WIPO (World Intellectual Property Office) website and found that Ferrari registered the Luce name on September 12, 2025 for a period of 10 years. Mind you, while WIPO administers international registration systems for 194 countries, national laws determine the final IP rights, meaning that countries have the final say. No USPTO Trademark Filings Yet from Either Ferrari or Mazda Ferrari In the US, for example, the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) website doesn't list applications for the Luce name from either Ferrari or Mazda. In Europe, however, the EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office) website lists the ‘Ferrari Luce’ trademark application number 2026000023002 as having been filed in Italy on February 9, 2026. While this gives Ferrari the right to use the Luce name in the 27 member countries of the European Union, what will happen in other markets? It would be awkward for Ferrari to use different names for its EV in different countries, especially since Japan is a key market for Maranello. It remains to be seen how this dispute will be solved, but we can’t help but remember another famous dispute that also involved Ferrari, namely the one with Ford Motor Company over the F150 name. In 2011, Ford sued Ferrari for trademark infringement over the use of the F150 name for Maranello’s Formula 1 car at the time, arguing it diluted their F-150 pickup truck brand. Ferrari resolved the dispute by renaming the car “150 Italia” in celebration of the Italian reunification’s 150th anniversary. So far in the new dispute between Ferrari and Mazda, it looks as though neither side is willing to let go of the Luce name easily, so we can’t rule out a lawsuit as a way to settle the matter. View the full article

Efficiency by DesignWhen the electric vehicle market began to grow significantly at the start of this decade, discussions around aerodynamics became more prominent. That’s largely because a more streamlined shape reduces drag, helping improve driving range. EVs such as the Lucid Air and the Mercedes-Benz EQS stand out with drag coefficients (Cd) of 0.197 and 0.20, respectively. By the early 1980s, however, Ford, in collaboration with Italian design house Ghia, developed two concept cars as part of a series of low-drag prototypes that easily edge out today’s EVs in aerodynamics, with a claimed 0.152 Cd. Known as the Probe IV Concept, the prototypes were used to study extreme low-drag design and features such as adjustable ride height, and the first of the two examples (chassis #001) is currently up for sale on Bring a Trailer. Bring a Trailer But You Can't Drive ItTo be fair, the 1983 Ford Probe IV Concept was designed with far fewer constraints than modern EVs, as it was intended for wind-tunnel testing rather than public roads. Production models must meet strict safety regulations, including passing crash tests, which force automakers to make design compromises that can affect overall drag. They also require additional airflow openings to cool components such as brakes. Nevertheless, the Probe IV shows just how far aerodynamic design can be pushed – an impressive feat considering it was developed more than four decades ago. According to the listing, the vehicle – featuring a fiberglass bodywork over a wood frame – was previously displayed in the private collection of the owner of Gullo Ford in Conroe, Texas, before being acquired by the current seller in 2024. The second example is currently on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles and is considered the more complete of the two. That’s because chassis #001, the example for sale, is not a functioning car. Unlike the other prototype, which runs on a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, this one lacks an engine, transmission, brakes, and a steering system, though the front wheels can be manually repositioned. It also shows several imperfections, including a sagging rear roof, missing mirrors, and a left-front spat that does not stay in place. Bring a Trailer The Value of Engineering HistorySo why would anyone buy it? The Probe IV Concept essentially offers a piece of engineering history – one that likely helped Ford refine aerodynamics in future models. With only two examples ever built, it also represents an exceptionally rare opportunity for collectors. The listing is scheduled to end on March 22, with the current bid at $1,500 as of this writing. Bring a Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

NASCAR has issued a four-race suspension for three members from the Big Machine Racing NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts team, due to "loose or separated ballast" on the #48 Chevrolet, driven by Patrick Staropoli. As a result, Patrick Donahue, Dillon Bassett, and Morgan Olsen will have to sit out the next four races. Donahue is the crew chief for the car. They will miss upcoming races at Darlington ...Keep readingView the full article

Keeping Things In the FamilyOne benefit of having multiple brands under one corporate ownership is that each brand can share components with the others. Doing parts sharing reduces cost and boosts production efficiency, helping keep costs in check and expanding products across related brands. This practice isn't only used by affordable mass-market automakers; some higher-tier brands also share parts among themselves. Notable examples can be found everywhere, but there are times when sharing parts is seen as too much of a cost-saving move, and could hurt a model's credibility before it even launches. Porsche Best-SelllerThe Porsche Macan was the brand's best-selling SUV in the United States last year. So popular, in fact, that the brand eventually launched an all-electric version of the Macan. Unfortunately, it hasn't proven as successful in sales as the ICE model. Porsche has since remarked that it's all in on developing and keeping gasoline engines alive as the EV demand has slowed globally. The Macan has already met its end in Europe, as it no longer complies with European Cybersecurity laws. In the U.S., the gasoline Macan is still on sale, but is quickly aging compared to the competition. The brand's former CEO announced that an all-new gasoline-powered Porsche Macan would be launched by 2028. Following this, the automaker also said that the last current-generation gasoline Macan will be built in mid-2026, leaving the EV Macan to carry the nameplate until 2028. It was recently reported that the next-generation Macan under development will be heavily based on the all-new Audi Q5 platform. There are already photos of the test car out and about. Audi's all-new Q5 rides on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) architecture. SH Proshots/Autoblog A True Porsche MacanDuring an earnings call, Porsche executives discussed whether there was a way to accelerate the development and production of the all-new Macan, considering the existence of the PPC platform. Current Porsche CEO Michael Leiters was quick to point out that while they will leverage commonalities between Audi and Porsche, they are keen to ensure the Macan is a real Porsche,Automotive News reports. Thus, all the ingredients needed to achieve Porsche's goal will take time to properly develop and flesh out. Recently, Porsche paid $1.15 billion in license fees to Audi, enabling them to work together on certain models by sharing vital components. Leiters says this isn't limited to the Macan project but covers multiple future models. Porsche View the full article

NASCAR Truck Series rookie Cole Butcher spent his first off-weekend back in something more familiar, driving a Super Late Model at Five Flags Speedway in Pensacola, and nearly won the race in a spirited duel with Richard Childress Racing development driver Carson Brown too. It was a much needed reminder to himself that he still knows what he’s doing after three races in which literally ...Keep readingView the full article

The Battery Gap WidensWith little to no surprise, most electric vehicle batteries produced last year came from China. According to Nikkei Asia, Chinese EV battery makers accounted for around 70 percent of the global market in 2025 – a sharp increase from less than 50 percent in 2021. China's Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) – which has supplied batteries for Ford EVs like the Mustang Mach-E – remained the industry leader and reported a record net profit of 72.2 billion yuan (about $10.4 billion at current exchange rates) in 2025, up 42 percent from the previous year. Chinese firms also dominated the rankings, accounting for six of the world’s top 10 battery manufacturers by installed capacity last year. Notably, Chinese battery makers have been less exposed to the EV slowdown in the U.S., largely due to their limited presence in that market, while South Korean firms like LG Energy Solution and SK On have been more significantly impacted. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog The Slowdown Ripple EffectThe slowdown has been tied to shifting policy support, forcing South Korean battery makers to adjust. SK On – a key supplier for Hyundai Motor Group EVs like the Ioniq 5 – has cut 958 jobs at its Georgia plant. LG Energy Solution, meanwhile, is also restructuring, with its Ohio joint venture with Honda Motor selling a factory building and related assets to Honda’s U.S. subsidiary. On the other hand, Chinese battery makers continue to expand outside the U.S., including in Europe, where BYD is building out its manufacturing footprint in Hungary and Turkey. BYD, which ranked second to CATL in global share last year, continues to produce batteries in-house for its own vehicles while also increasing supply to other automakers, including Stellantis and Xiaomi. Rachen Sageamsak/Xinhua via Getty Images Survival of the FittestWhile Chinese companies posted strong results in 2025, the outlook this year appears more mixed. The report notes that new sales of electrified vehicles fell 28 percent year-on-year in the January–February 2026 period following adjustments to government subsidies. The shift could push out weaker players and favor more competitive, profitable companies, though it may also pose risks for Chinese suppliers. If China keeps widening its lead, it could effectively set the global price floor for EV batteries. Unless American and allied automakers can scale up fast enough, they risk facing higher battery costs, which would make affordable EVs harder to build. That matters in the U.S., where budget-friendly choices are already scarce, with the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Nissan Leaf still among the few mainstream models hovering around the $30,000 range. View the full article

This is the most invested and involved Mark Martin has been in NASCAR since his retirement after the 2013 season. For a while, even on both sides of his Hall of Fame induction in 2017, he just didn’t know what he was supposed to do within the space after practically four decades of driving at the highest level. He would still watch races but didn’t know what his role was supposed to ...Keep readingView the full article

With changing legislation and many automakers suffering enormous losses from the EV pullback, Audi's new electric sports car seemed in doubt not long ago, but the company's CEO, Gernot Döllner, has confirmed that Porsche is still helping develop the new arrival, expected to be a design landmark in the same way that the TT was. A few weeks ago, he said that the production version of the Concept C would arrive within the next two years, comprehensively denying rumors that the electric sports car had been scrapped, and now he's been even more specific, saying the car will go into production in 2027. Audi Concept C Will Enter Production Next Year Audi The news came during Audi's annual conference, the same one at which it teased the return of the A2 as a compact crossover. Normally, when an automaker says a new car is coming in the next two years, that's the absolute earliest at which we should expect to see it in a best-case scenario, but now that Döllner has committed to a 2027 production start, we can expect teasers and technical information to start dripping out of Ingolstadt over the next year. Of course, the sports car may only go into production at the end of 2027, but it's still good news and means we can expect Audi's design language to change in other models, too, including that forthcoming A2. Designed under the keen eye of Chief Creative Officer Massimo Frascella, the Concept C will mark a step change in both the way Audi products look and are interacted with. Related: 5 Coolest Features Of Audi’s New Concept C Frascella has been very outspoken about the over-digitization of the car cabin, saying that tactility is "very important" to how customers perceive products, adding that "big screens are not the best experience," saying that they're just "technology for the sake of technology." The concept embodies this approach with a conservatively sized center display on the dash that disappears from view when not in use. Hopefully, the production version of the concept will be just as tech-shy. Still, the new sports car is not guaranteed to be a hit. Audi's New Sports Car Will Be Unique Audi View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Concept C has some similarities to the Audi RSQ concept that starred in I, Robot alongside Will Smith, with a very simple, restrained approach to its design. The body blends straight edges and curves with aplomb, and its narrow headlights and taillights force onlookers to focus on the car itself. The upright, rectangular front 'grille' element, however, calls to mind the mustache of Charlie Chaplin (and a certain infamous German dictator), but the proportions are good, and the electrically retractable targa-style top should be a hit. Inside, the clean interior features physical steering wheel controls, something many automakers have regrettably moved away from. Hopefully, the final product entering production next year will also allow for analog interaction and be similarly efficient in its design. As for performance, single-motor rear-wheel-drive and dual-motor AWD variants are possible, albeit not yet confirmed for the production model. The Concept C will be positioned between the R8 supercar and the TT, effectively replacing both of those discontinued cars and neither of them at the same time. What it will be named is a mystery, but given that production starts next year, more info won't take long to arrive. Audi View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Pivoting to Energy StorageHere's some good news. In a Reutersreport, General Motors and LG Energy Solution announced that their Tennessee Ultium Cells plant will be repurposed for lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery production for energy storage products. This represents a significant shift from their previous strategy of focusing solely on electric vehicle battery production. This comes at a time when both companies face slowing demand for their products, resulting in excess battery production capacity. General Motors Instead of leaving these facilities idle, the partnership has decided to shift its production capacity to energy storage products. This sector is experiencing tremendous growth. This is largely driven by the rapid increase in AI data centers. In addition, General Motors has stated that energy storage demand is far exceeding supply. This trend is expected to continue for several years. General Motors Laid-Off Workers Get New Chance as Battery Demand IncreasesThis shift in strategy has an immediate impact on workers. Ultium Cells has announced that it will be recalling 700 workers who were previously laid off. This comes after forecasts for their battery demand for electric-vehicle production slowed in 2026. The workers will be utilized for LFP battery production and will begin during the second quarter. This represents an interesting trend as these workers will be repurposed based on energy storage demand. It’s an interesting shift, however, as the battery jobs market is now not an indicator of EV market growth, but of the growth of electrification as a whole. With other manufacturers now looking at the EV battery space as well, the trend is clear: the industry is hedging its bets with the flexibility of LFP batteries, using them as needed in EVs or stationary applications, whichever market is most in demand. Battery Development No Longer EV ExclusiveWhen we get past the news of EV market slowdowns, factory retooling, and the like, we see that the trend lines were actually pointing towards batteries not just being about EVs, as the bigger picture of GM’s overall strategy, including previous investments in internal combustion engines as well as EVs, as well as the company’s decision to go with the flexibility of the LFP chemistry, points towards a company that is hedging its bets on the future of propulsion. The truth of the matter is this, batteries are the foundation of the future of energy, whether that future is inside the floor of a Chevy Bolt EV, or inside a facility powering an AI server farm, batteries are the future, and the future is now. EVs may go in and out of demand, but energy demand is not going anywhere; however, as evidenced by this Tennessee facility, the future of batteries is not just about EVs, it’s about everything. GM View the full article

The Price Of OmissionThe automotive industry is littered with cautionary tales about corporate mistakes. The most common issues usually pertain to safety concerns, recalls, or, worse, to concerted efforts to keep certain things from the public. All corporate entities that sell products are held to a high standard for transparency, especially those that make and sell cars. Vehicle purchases rank among the biggest investments an individual will make in their lifetime, so when certain details about parts and warranties aren't clear, buyers pay the price. Mercedes-Benz is one of those companies that went under the microscope due to alleged dishonesty – and it has recently decided to settle the case. Mercedes-Benz High-Cost Emissions PartsAccording to Classaction.org, a settlement has just been reached by luxury automaker Mercedes-Benz USA. The suit alleges that the German carmaker intentionally omitted all parts that should be classified as “high-cost emissions warranty parts” from the warranty booklet. It was found that the brand did this to limit its own expenses and exposure to owners who would make warranty claims on the said parts. Simply put, under California law, all high-priced parts should come with a seven-year 70,000-mile emissions warranty. As a result of the brand's actions, owners were forced to pay higher repair, diagnostic, and replacement costs. There is also a court-approved website regarding this specific class action suit: HazdovacEmissionsWarrantySettlement.com. In it, those who file a valid and timely claim form have multiple options for receiving their reimbursement settlements. The suit is a little confusing at first, but here are the salient details: Mercedes-Benz has agreed to compensate up to 50% of the out-of-pocket costs for claims pertaining to qualified repairs and replacements.Mercedes-Benz has agreed to also reimburse 100% of the cost for claims pertaining to a qualified diagnosis of parts affected by the warranty.100% Coverage will also be provided for claims filed for qualified repair, replacement, and diagnosis of a qualified part under the warranty. Mercedes-Benz More DetailsAll of these claims are available to class action members with vehicles between the four-year/50,000-mile and seven-year/70,000-mile warranty period. These services can also only be availed at authorized service centers. As mentioned, this suit is very detailed and quite confusing, but to be more specific, the cars eligible for the claim are 2015 models through the present year. Also, these cars should be registered in states that follow California's emission and pollutant regulations. Mercedes-Benz View the full article

A Legacy Wagon, But TallerThe idea of a wagon on stilts isn't exactly new. One just has to look at the AMG Eagle 4x4 Wagon to see where it all began. Still, Subaru was inspired by that, hence why it built the Outback. It made its home market debut in 1994, around the same time as the RAV4. The rest of the world followed in 1996. The formula was simple: take a Legacy Wagon, add a couple more inches of ground clearance, and give it more rugged styling. For the next six generations, Subaru didn't change the recipe, and that's all thanks to the Legacy Wagon. For as long as it was around, the Outback's lineage could continue. Subaru New DirectionThe seventh-generation Outback still rides on the Subaru Global Platform, but it's no longer directly related to the Legacy because, well, it's been axed. For this redesigned model, it's more like a shortened Ascent. The body is much bigger than before, and the roof is higher up. Overall, it looks more like a crossover now than a tall wagon. It's as if the Outback had well and truly embraced its SUV genes. The loss of the Legacy had forced Subaru's hand to do that, but the company has something to say about comments saying that the Outback is no longer a wagon. Subaru Swears it's a WagonMore specifically, it's Subaru Australia that insists on calling the current Outback a wagon. That's according to a report from Drive during a recent get-together with Australian motoring media. "Australians still want more out of their vehicle. They want substance. They don't just want to look the part, [they want] vehicles that deliver confidence when the road turns rough. Outback has been and will remain our greatest all-terrain wagon," said Scott Lawrence, general manager of Subaru Australia. Admittedly, calling it an 'all-terrain wagon' is another way to avoid calling it a crossover. Then again, SUVs were classified as wagons before the term was coined, so perhaps Subaru Australia is clinging on to that. It's a stretch, but it's something. Meanwhile, in America...It seems as though the communications for the new Outback aren't aligned worldwide. While the Australian office still calls it a wagon, Subaru North America has dubbed it an SUV. According to CarBuzz, customer clinics wanted more SUV elements in the redesigned model, which is why it looks the way it does now. Either way, the seventh-gen Outback's new direction will spark more debate down the line. If different Subaru offices can't decide on what it really is, the lack of a 'one voice' makes this new model a bit of a category-buster. Subaru View the full article

Kaulig Racing will put A.J. Allmendinger behind the wheel of the #10 Kaulig Racing Ram 1500 at Darlington Raceway this weekend, replacing Daniel Dye. Dye was indefinitely suspended by NASCAR and Kaulig for mocking IndyCar driver David Malukas with a homophobic voice on a recent livestream, making inappropriate inferences about the Penske driver's sexuality. He has since apologized and will ...Keep readingView the full article

If you didn’t sit through the entire live reveal of the new BMW i3, you might have missed the fact that BMW teased something pretty special. The company will be making a new-generation 3 Series Touring—unlike the M3 Touring racing wagon revealed earlier this week, this will be a BMW wagon that's actually for sale. When even Volvo has abandoned the wagon segment, this is great news for longroof fans. BMW Keeps The Wagon Alive https://www.youtube.com/live/98qr4Z26mbA?si=mR5kpGra9DwYGQnl&t=1540 Towards the end of the i3’s reveal, current BMW CEO Oliver Zipse—who will exit his position imminently—confirmed that a new 3 Series Touring is coming. On the screen behind him and visible in the video above, we got to see two very shadowy teasers of this new model: One from the side and one from the back. Most of the design was concealed, but the front and rear lighting signatures are very much reminiscent of the i3’s. “Business customers and [families] will be particularly delighted,” said Zipse. “The Touring has always been a favorite with them.” BMW Group/YouTube Although no details were confirmed, we expect the new 3 Series Touring to follow the sedan with both electric and gas powertrains. The i3’s 463-horsepower dual-motor powertrain would be one possibility, which should make this a wagon with near-M3 levels of performance. It would slot in below the latest 5 Series Touring, which is also available in fully electric i5 form. Whether the new 3 Series Touring comes to the U.S. remains to be seen, as the only wagon BMW offers here currently is the high-performance M5 Touring. What It Means BMW In late February, BMW accidentally leaked several new models arriving for the 2027 model year. The lineup included the M2 xDrive, an M350 xDrive, and a lower-powered version of the i3, a 40 xDrive. There was no mention of a new Touring model, so even if the new 3 Series Touring does make it here, it’s unlikely to be before the 2028 model year. Only a few larger wagons have survived in the U.S., including the Audi RS6 Avant and the M5 Touring. These are powerful, expensive, niche products that sell in relatively low volumes. This leads us to believe the 3 Series Touring has a slim chance of coming here at best, as more Americans are likely to buy an X3. Still, it’s promising to see BMW continue to offer a variety of body styles across its lineup, despite the popularity of its SUVs. View the full article

A New Charge for Going ElectricLast year, the current administration ended the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, which had been an important incentive for EV adoption in the U.S. Now, according to Reuters, the chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee is pushing to impose a $250 annual fee on EVs to help fund repairs to U.S. highways – a move that could further discourage EV ownership, especially as critics call the fee “unfair.” This proposal comes as the current U.S. surface transportation law is set to expire on September 30, 2026. Speaking at a U.S. Chamber of Commerce infrastructure event, Representative Sam Graves said, “We would like to get money from EVs,” adding that he expects the next five-year bill to include $500 billion to $550 billion in funding for highways and bridges. Kristen Brown The Gas Tax GapOne reason for the criticism is that gas-powered vehicles pay about $88 per year in federal fuel taxes. EVs, however, don’t use gasoline, meaning they aren’t subject to the taxes that help fund road repairs. Essentially, these zero-tailpipe-emission vehicles, like the Ford Mustang Mach-E, still use public roads without contributing to that specific funding source. The system is designed so that, as drivers buy more fuel and use the roads more often, they indirectly contribute more toward road maintenance costs. The report noted that some states already charge fees for EVs to help cover road repair costs, though these vary widely—often ranging from $50 to over $200 annually in states like Texas. These, however, are used to fund state-level infrastructure, and the proposed $250 federal fee could stack on top of existing costs. Tesla The Numbers Tell the StoryMore than $275 billion, including $118 billion from the 2021 infrastructure law, has been moved from the general fund to help pay for road repairs since 2008. As more drivers began switching to electric vehicles in recent years, fewer people were paying federal gas taxes, adding to the pressure on the system. However, some lawmakers say reaching a funding deal by September 30 could be difficult, especially with the November congressional elections approaching. Hybrids, which use less fuel than traditional internal-combustion vehicles, are also being considered for a $100 annual fee. That could be significant, given that many buyers have shifted toward hybrids amid slower EV sales in the U.S. in 2025, with automakers like Hyundai and Toyota doubling down on their electrified lineups. Hyundai View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Long OverdueAfter a decade of looking pretty much the same, the Chrysler Pacifica finally gets a massive facelift. It's for the 2027 model year, so it'll be a while before anyone can actually drive it off dealer lots. Okay, the rest of the body still looks identical to the decade-old version, but the face is totally new. On top of that, the lineup has received a bit of a shakeup. The Pacifica LX effectively replaces the Voyager, leaving Chrysler with just one model yet again. It also gets enhancements to the advanced driver assists that the company calls Safety Sphere, plus new paint and wheel options. From the front at least, it looks like a totally new vehicle. Chrysler Skin DeepThat said, the same couldn't be said about the interior. Fellow auto website Carscoops obtained photos of the 2027 Pacifica's cabin, and it's a sense of deja vu, especially for current owners. You can check out more photos by following the hyperlink above, but you can also check out the image below from the current model. Admittedly, it's not a direct copy-paste from the current model, but it's a very familiar look nonetheless. The dash layout is virtually unchanged, and the same holds for the partially-analog instrument cluster. We'll go out on a limb here and say even the button placements are the same as before. The 2027 Pacifica also retains the rotary dial gear and selector. If it's any consolation, at least there are still buttons in there that make it easier to interact with the dashboard. But there's no denying the fact that the design itself looks, well, pretty last decade. Still, there are some changes here and there, namely the badge on the steering wheel, a couple of interior accents, and, er, that's pretty much it. The top-spec Pinnacle trim does copper-look bezels and a Blue Agave Nappa Leather interior, though. Are There Other Changes?As far as we can see (or not), updates to the Pacifica are mostly cosmetic. There was no mention of any tweaks to the chassis or any changes to the infotainment system. Chrysler did repeatedly bring up a couple of class-exclusive features, such as the clever Stow-n-Go seats, but that's pretty much it, save for the aforementioned safety feature enhancements. Prices have moved a little, but there is some good news here. Yes, there is a price increase for the two lower trims, LX and Select, but prices for the Limited and Pinnacle are lower than for the 2026-model-year Pacificas. While Chrysler's sole model still hasn't benefitted from a total redesign, its age hasn't stopped it from being the best-selling model among its peers. Still, if it wants to stay on top, an all-new model is a must. Chrysler View the full article

Forbidden Fruit I find it ironic that the Japanese market is now lusting after products from Toyota's North American lineup. How the tables have turned, am I right? The first-generation Toyota Highlander was also called the Toyota Kluger. It was a five-door SUV that shared bones with the Lexus RX and debuted in 2001 as a five-seater and then reconfigured as a seven-seater by 2004. It was offered in Japan, Australia, and North America, where it was sold with either a gasoline or a hybrid powertrain by 2005. Toyota Leaving Japan After the first generation, Toyota Japan dropped the Kluger model in its local lineup altogether. The second generation of this family of models was never sold in Japan, but it was still being offered in Australia as the Kluger. This was also the generation that had three assembly plants: one still in Japan, another in China, and finally, the Toyota factory in Princeton, Indiana, in the U.S. By the third generation, there was no trace of the Highlander in Japan. The model was now being mass-produced in China and the U.S. The same goes for the fourth- and incoming fifth-generation Highlanders, until recently. Toyota Reverse Import The current fourth generation of the Toyota Highlander is being assembled in the United States, at Princeton, Indiana. The battery-powered fifth-generation model will be produced in Toyota's Georgetown, Kentucky factory. Two generations later, it returns to Japan, no longer a locally produced model, but as a "reverse import." A Japanese-branded car, made in the United States and then imported to Japan. Ironic, isn't it? Why is it back? Well, because the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism has established a certification system for U.S.-made vehicles, the Highlander can be imported into Japan again without additional testing. This system is called the "Joint Statement on Framework Agreement between Japan and the United States," which was issued on July 22, 2025. To promote awareness of the system, Ryosei Akazawa, the Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry in Japan, introduced the Toyota Highlander as an official vehicle in February 2026, stating that it was "spacious" and "comfortable" to ride in. Japan News Not For Sale... Yet According to Japanese automotive media, Kuruma News, the model has been getting inquiries left and right, enough for journalists to take notice. However, there is a catch: the model is not yet for sale. Following Ryosei Akazawa's promotion, which was broadcast throughout Japanese media, it prompted eager car buyers to inquire about the Highlander at Toyota dealerships. As a model that hasn't been in Japan for about two decades at this point, it's almost entirely unfamiliar to the local Japanese market. The eagerness stems from the fact that it looks new, but more savvy Toyota fans will know that the Highlander's availability in Japan marks the return of the Kluger nameplate in the country. It has a totally new design and a Toyota badge, so it must be on sale in Japan, right? Unfortunately, all of those inquiries were met with an unfortunate "no" from dealerships. It's currently serving as a poster car for the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. Toyota is not currently selling the model to the public, but it has announced that it is considering American-produced models such as the Camry, Tundra, and Highlander for entry into the Japanese lineup as early as 2026. It may be only a matter of time before these inquiries turn into sales. The estimated price, variants, and availability of the Highlander are unknown for now, and Toyota dealers are explaining the situation to each and every customer one by one. For now, the Highlander is "forbidden fruit" for Japanese clientele; meanwhile, Americans can purchase the Highlander starting at MSRP $45,570 for the base trim. The new fifth-generation model, which is fully electric and capable of 320 miles of range (500 kilometers), is set to launch late this year. Japanese media outlets have also picked up on the electric Highlander and are eagerly anticipating its arrival. Toyota Toyota View the 23 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Alpine, the sports car brand owned by France’s Renault Group, first announced plans to enter the US market in June 2023 with a duo of performance luxury EVs. As the EV market has changed dramatically since then in the United States, which canceled the EV federal tax credit last year and rolled back stricter fuel economy standards that favored EVs, Alpine was forced to rethink its strategy. While the initial plan was to start selling vehicles in the US from 2027, tariffs and regulatory hurdles have reportedly delayed Alpine’s US debut closer to 2030 and have changed its potential model lineup as well. The Next-Gen A110 May Also Get a Gas-Powered Variant Alpine The A110 core sports car, which is going all-electric for its next generation but may also feature a gas-powered variant, and a larger crossover designed to compete with the Porsche Cayenne are now rumored to be Alpine’s US bets. While reports are nothing more than reports, there is now a serious reason to believe Alpine is dead serious about coming to US, and that is the fact that it’s subjecting the next-gen A110 to crash testing in the USA. Alpine CEO Philippe Krief confirmed the news to Automotive News last week, a strong suggestion that the brand is serious about entering the lucrative US car market. While the executive noted that a final decision hasn’t been made yet as to whether the A110 will launch stateside, undergoing US crash tests is an essential step in the process of certifying a car for sale in the US, not to mention it’s also really expensive. Besides revealing that the upcoming Alpine A110 electric sports car is undergoing US crash testing, Krief also said the Alpine Performance Platform (APP) that underpins it—shared with the Renault 5 Turbo 3E super hot hatch—can also accommodate internal combustion engines. He would not elaborate on whether the A110 would launch as an EV or gas-powered model in the US, but given the current EV environment, an internal combustion version should be in the cards. What We Know So Far About the Next Alpine A110 Alpine The next-generation Alpine A110 is scheduled to launch overseas by the end of 2027, but the US version will follow later on, likely before 2030. Besides crash testing and homologation, launching a new car stateside involves a lot of steps, including building out a sales and service network. Renault reportedly held talks with AutoNation regarding this in 2023, but the result of those discussions—if any—remains unknown. The upcoming Alpine A110 will sit as low as the current ICE car and will be a bit longer, with the styling to stay close to the current model, Krief recently told Autocar. The targeted weight is around 3,300 lbs, which is not bad at all for an EV but still a lot more than the current A110’s 2,500 lbs. The electric sports car will be offered as coupe, convertible, and four-seat GT, and will retain its mid-engine dynamics thanks to the 70-kWh battery pack being placed behind the seats. As a result, the driving position with be even sportier than the current Alpine A110, with the driver’s feet raised, Formula 1-style, and the seat very reclined. The driving range is estimated at over 300 miles—or three full-speed laps of the Nürburgring. Power is expected to come from two rear-mounted electric motors delivering more than 345 hp—which is what the most powerful gas A110 currently makes—but Alpine is also leaving the door open to in-wheel motors like those that power the Renault 5 Turbo 3E. Alpine View the full article

Seven Years Profitable, Still Under PressureBentley’s streak continues, with seven years of profits even as the luxury market cools off. For 2025, revenue landed at €2.6 billion (around $3 billion) – just a one percent dip – while operating profit came in at €216 million ($249 million). Profits are down compared to last year, but most of that comes from outside pressures. Tariffs, currency swings, and write-offs from cancelled EV projects all took a bite. Strip those away, and Bentley’s main business is still holding steady. Deliveries dropped almost 5% to just over 10,000 units, mostly due to softer demand in China. Instead, Bentley is doubling down on higher-margin models and custom Mulliner builds. The strategy is to move fewer cars, but make each one count more. The Bentayga is still Bentley’s top seller, with the Speed version picking up steam late in the year. Meanwhile, hybrids like the Continental GT and Flying Spur are moving closer to the center of the lineup. Bentley Cost Cuts Without the PanicBentley is trimming its structure and planning to cut up to 275 jobs – about 6% of its workforce. Around 150 roles will be cut outright, while the rest will be handled through retirements and internal reassignments, Automotive News reports. Management says this isn’t a panic move, just a long-term adjustment. The entire auto industry is feeling the squeeze, and Bentley is making sure its costs align with the new reality. There are good reasons for the change. China used to drive more growth, but now it’s a smaller piece of the pie. The U.S. is still important, but it’s not without its own challenges. Just like other automakers, tariffs alone cost Bentley €42 million ($48 million) last year, further adding to the pressure. Even so, Bentley is still pouring money into its Crewe plant to get ready for an electric future. The challenge is keeping profits up while covering the cost of that shift. Bentley EV Plans Reworked, Hybrids Take OverBentley’s EV plans are changing, too. The original goal was five electric models by 2035, but now only one is confirmed for the near future, with a second one by the end of the decade. That first EV, an SUV, is expected soon and will use the same electric platform as Porsche and Audi. After that, the roadmap gets a lot less clear. This change comes after Volkswagen Group cancelled the SSP61 platform, which was supposed to support several new EVs. Instead of pushing ahead anyway, Bentley is choosing to play it safe. Right now, hybrids are carrying most of the load. Bentley’s V8 plug-in systems have been well received, striking a practical balance between performance and emissions. The next wave of models, including the upcoming Bentayga, will likely stick with that recipe. Bentley isn’t stepping away from EVs entirely, but it is slowing down its development. The focus has shifted from expansion to timing, as demand in the ultra-luxury space catches up. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Nissan has announced that its Murano SUV, built right here in the United States, will be sold in Japan early in 2027. Nissan is one of a growing group of Japanese automakers taking advantage of new certification rules for U.S.-built vehicles, making it possible to sell left-hand-drive vehicles in Japan (a right-hand-drive market) without any changes. A boost in Japan sales will help to balance the strain of U.S. tariffs, but some industry analysts question how popular U.S.-spec models like the Murano will be in Japan. Related: I Drove the 2026 Nissan Murano Platinum. Here's My Review Nissan Follows Honda and Toyota’s Lead Nissan Late last year, Toyota said it would be shipping locally built Camry, Highlander, and Tundra models to Japan. The Highlander and Tundra were particularly surprising options, given the demand for tiny kei cars in that region. Then, just a few weeks ago, Honda confirmed it would export the Acura Integra Type S and Honda Passport TrailSport Elite to Japan. Like Nissan, Toyota and Honda hope that the novelty of these U.S. models will appeal to a small but passionate niche market in Japan. The new Murano is manufactured at the Nissan North America Smyrna plant in Tennessee. This will be the first time an American-made Nissan model is sold in Japan since the 1990s. Nissan “I'm excited to share with you that Murano is coming back to Japan,” said Ivan Espinosa, Nissan’s president and CEO. “The Murano has earned high praise from customers in the U.S. market for its elegant design and exceptional comfort. With the introduction of this model, Nissan aims to further strengthen its product lineup in Japan and meet the diverse needs of Japanese customers.” Redesigned for the 2025 model year, the Murano introduced a fresh look and a new 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and nine-speed automatic, in place of the older V6 and CVT. It rides well and has a comfortable, premium interior. Related: After 40 Years, U.S.-Built Acuras Are Going To Japan Low Sales Expected Nissan The left-hand-drive layout is a major limiting factor in how well these U.S.-built models can be expected to perform in Japan, as they simply won’t be as practical to drive on a daily basis. “Who the heck will buy these? The wheel is on the right side. I don’t think they are trying very hard,” said Christopher Richter, head Asia auto analyst at CLSA in Tokyo, to Automotive News. “They will likely make a point that American spec’d cars will not sell in Japan, regardless of who makes them.” For Japanese customers, the Murano will be the most premium Nissan SUV they can buy, as the X-Trail (essentially America’s Rogue) has been the biggest Nissan SUV available there until now. Diehard fans of these Japanese brands may buy a Murano or Tundra as a second vehicle for occasional use, while keeping a Japanese-spec model for everyday driving. But this group is unlikely to make up a large number of buyers. What It Means Nissan Reverse-importing models with steering wheels on the wrong side wasn’t on anyone’s bingo card even a year or two ago, but it highlights the difficult decisions automakers have had to make after U.S. tariffs were introduced. The move allows brands like Honda and Nissan to address trade imbalances, but the gamble will only work if enough Japanese customers express interest in these vehicles. If these U.S.-built models sell strongly in Japan, it could lead to more manufacturing jobs at local auto plants. The challenge for all three automakers will be to ensure that production capacity for U.S. customers isn’t impacted. View the full article

The Jetta Soldiering OnWhile most of the market has moved on from sedans, the Volkswagen Jetta is still hanging on. It’s not breaking sales records these days, but it’s one of the last few options for buyers who want a traditional compact sedan instead of a crossover or SUV. Even so, the Jetta sticks around. It fills a gap as a practical, budget-friendly sedan – something that’s getting harder to find in Volkswagen’s lineup as the brand shifts toward bigger vehicles and electric models. That’s what makes this latest recall a bit of a letdown. The Jetta has been quietly doing its job, but now it’s in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. The defect isn’t common, but the risk is serious enough that owners should take notice. Volkswagen What Went WrongVolkswagen has issued a recall affecting 48,165 units of the 2025–2026 Jetta due to a potential fire risk tied to an electrical issue. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)'s recall report, the issue comes down to a transmission ground wire that might not have been connected properly at the factory. If that wire isn’t hooked up, it leaves an open circuit. Under the right conditions, it can draw too much current and increase the risk of a fire under the hood. It’s a straightforward case of human error on the assembly line, made worse by a particular oil pressure unit that completes the circuit and lets the problem show up. So far, Volkswagen knows of six cases in which wiring melted, or an engine bay fire broke out. All of them only damaged the car itself – no injuries or crashes have been reported. Volkswagen The Fix – and a Pattern EmergingThe fix is simple enough: dealers will check the ground wire and repair it for free if needed. Until then, owners are being told to park outside as a precaution. Volkswagen has already updated its assembly process as of February 2026, so new cars coming off the line shouldn’t have this problem. This recall by itself might not seem like a big deal, but it’s part of a pattern. Volkswagen has had to recall several models lately, from loose wheel bolts to battery fire risks in the ID.4 and airbag problems in some Tiguan models. Put together, it shows a brand that’s been busy dealing with a steady stream of quality and safety issues. None of them are catastrophic on their own, but it’s clear Volkswagen has had its hands full lately – sometimes with actual fires. Volkswagen View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A lawsuit for an alleged Honda Collision Mitigation Braking system failure is heading to trial after originally being filed eight years ago. In its current form, the lawsuit claims that the Collision Mitigation Braking System equipped to certain CR-V and Accord models detects hazards when there are none, leading to hard and unexpected braking. Some owners say the defect has left them afraid of driving their Hondas. Here’s everything we know about a case that has dragged on for many years. Honda Lawsuit Explained Honda The initial lawsuit filed eight years ago involved the Honda Sensing system as a whole, which consists of multiple driver-assistance features. These include the following: Collision Mitigation BrakingRoad Departure MitigationAdaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed FollowLane Keeping AssistThe lawsuit now only includes the Collision Mitigation System, which uses a combination of camera and radar sensors to identify obstacles and apply the brakes automatically. But, if the car brakes when it shouldn’t, this can increase the chances of a crash. The class action lawsuit has been modified and refiled three trims, but it’s now heading to trial after the judge allowed it to drag on for eight years. The vehicles must have been purchased new from Honda dealerships in the following states: California, Florida, New York, Ohio, North Carolina, New Jersey, Arizona, or Iowa. Leading up to the trial, both parties are still debating the case, with the automaker saying the jury instruction doesn’t match the alleged offense. Affected Honda Models Honda Models implicated in the lawsuit include the 2017-2019 Honda CR-V and 2018-2020 Honda Accord sedan. These are the previous generations of both models, so the CR-V and Accord on sale now are not implicated. We did a search on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website and quickly found complaints related to the braking issue. On March 15, 2026, one owner of a 2019 CR-V said their vehicle suddenly braked hard at an intersection when the light was green and the road was clear, with the speed being roughly 40 mph. “I felt I was close to being rear ended because I didn’t engage any braking at all,” said the driver. Another 2019 CR-V driver said their vehicle initiated “hard, emergency-level braking without any actual obstacle in the path of travel.” The NHTSA opened an investigation into the issue a few years ago, and this remains ongoing, with a total of 1,294 complaints noted at that time. 50 complaints alleged that an injury had occurred, with 31 crashes reported. Related: Drivers Reveal the Car Tech They Can’t Live Without — and What Drives Them Crazy What It Means Honda The CR-V and Accord are two of Honda’s most popular models in the U.S., so any safety issue affecting them will potentially impact thousands of owners. Honda has equipped its Sensing suite with collision mitigation braking for years, too, further driving up the number of affected models. The lawsuit exposes the double-edged sword of modern vehicle safety technologies. On the one hand, they make driving safer and more convenient when they work as they should. But they’ve also made cars more complicated, and the very features designed to save lives can be dangerous when they malfunction. After eight long and frustrating years, Honda and the plaintiffs will both be anticipating a favorable outcome once the case goes to trial. Related: AAA study shows automatic emergency braking has its limits View the full article