Street News Anchor

Every time there's a new BMW 3 Series, the world sits up and takes notice, and this time is no different. Munich's benchmark sports sedan has gone electric, adopting the i3 moniker previously used on the automaker's first mass-produced EV, the i3 supermini, but fear not, a combustion-powered 3er will come along soon enough. If you're not here because you're interested in EVs, it's because you want to critique the new Bimmer's styling, and that's okay, because every 3 Series' appearance is loved and hated in equal measure. This one takes clear inspiration from the Vision Neue Klasse concept, just as the first Neue Klasse product, the iX3, took its design cues from the Vision Neue Klasse X concept. But style matters less than substance, so let's see what the Bavarians have brewed. 2027 BMW i3 Arrives as AWD Electric 3 Series BMW View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Like the iX3, the new (NA0) i3 launches in 50 xDrive form first, which means an electrically excited synchronous motor on the rear, primary drive axle, with an asynchronous motor on the front axle. Using sixth-generation BMW eDrive technology, the 800-volt setup delivers a combined total of 463 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. That's just 10 horsepower less than the manual, non-Competition G80 M3 offered when it arrived, and it should translate to scintillating performance, though BMW hasn't revealed any acceleration times or top speed figures just yet. BMW estimates that the new i3 will manage 440 miles on the EPA's test cycles and says the EV will be capable of DC charging at up to 400kW, which is up to 30 percent faster than Gen5 tech managed. If the iX3 is anything to go by, real-world figures may be even higher. The battery pack's cells are directly integrated into the pack, and the pack itself is directly integrated into the chassis, which translates to improved torsional rigidity and less overall weight. It also allows for a flat floor, improving aerodynamics, and the car can do bidirectional charging, feeding your home or devices when there's no other source of electricity. BMW i3 Neue Klasse Styling: Hit or Miss? BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The big news is the new front end, where the 'kidney' rilles ave become a part of the headlights, surrounding each as a sort of mask, with a recess between them. This recess leads into a valley that creates two bulges for the hood, making it appear longer and more muscular. Optionally, Iconic Glow lighting can be had, and this offers three lighting animations: Relaxed, Excited, and Balanced. Depending on the spec of the vehicle, the welcome and goodbye animations will vary. Lower down, the separated intake leans deeper into the dual-grille look, while the lower side air intakes help bridge the gap between the NA0 and the G20. Muscular wheel arches are clean and simple, and that's the theme of this design, which incorporates hidden window seals. That leads us to the windows themselves. For the first time this writer can remember, the BMW press release makes no mention of a Hofmeister kink. The i3's predecessor, the G20 3 Series, was already fiddling with the iconic design cue, and now it's almost completely unrecognizable, with the bottom of the C-pillar flicking up to accentuate the rear haunches. It's not a bad look, but the unusually large third side window looks awkward the longer you stare at it. Still, this should make for a comfortable rear-seat journey with the windows down, as will the standard panormaic roof with climate comfort glass (which means the eventual M model will not continue the recent tradition of a carbon fiber roof). BMW View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The wing mirrors are not overstyled, and the rocker panels are classy, while flush door handles add to the sleek look. These automatically extend when the Digital Key Plus (using any major smartphone or smartwatch) is detected, and this key can be shared via messaging apps, meaning others can use the car even if you're not around. This uses Bluetooth and Ultra Wide Band technology to accurately determine exactly where the signal is coming from and can also remotely operate the trunk. Around the back, the taillights match the headlights in that there's a recess for the BMW roundel between them. These taper near the middle and flick up at each extremity as a reinterpretation of the traditional L-shaped taillight motif of every 3er since the E46. Below them, the number plate recess has been made to look like a design choice rather than a necessity, and the false diffuser panel adds sportiness. This blends into a pair of upright reflectors to match the front lower side intakes. As usual, an M Sport pack is available, adding the M Aerodynamic package, an M logo to the wing mirrors, and the option of blue calipers for the M Sport brakes. The busy wheels on this model have little covers between the spokes for better aero efficiency, but more designs will be seen soon enough. This launch model of the i3 is the first to offer M Le Castellet Blue metallic paint, which is exclusive to the i3, but if you don't like it, a total of 11 solid, frozen (matte), and metallic options will be offered. 2027 BMW i3 Interior and Technology BMW View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Somehwat controversially, the steering wheel has four spokes, with the upper section gaining a spoke for the first time on a 3 Series. An optional M Sport wheel with a "flattened" design will also be offered with 4 and 8 o'clock spokes. It's a strange look, but it certainly makes the i3's cabin feel more futuristic. As with the iX3, the new i3 gets the Panoramic Vision infotainment setup with a 17.9-inch display in the center of the dashboard angled toward the driver, with up to six movable and customizable widgets. This is complemented by a narrow continuous display stretching across the base of the windshield, with a 3D head-up display optional. The system includes a self-learning voice assistant with Amazon Alexa+ AI, and the interface offers customizable colors, display schemes and background images. Speaking of choices, the cabin offers multifunction and M Sport seats as options and can be trimmed in various themes. Contemporary gives you Veganza imitation leather in Agave Green, Digital White, Castanea, or Black coloring, and the M Design World theme pairs Black Veganza with M Performtex material. Alternatively, BMW Individual provides you with real Merino leather in black. BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Whatever you choose, a wireless device charging pad is included, as are physical buttons for the hazard warning lights and the parking brake. This brings us back to the wheel, which integrates what BMW calls "Shy Tech," with buttons that only activate when their functions are required. Some may prefer a more analog feel, and we're not sure about having electric door latches front and rear, but we'll have to wait to drive the car to give our verdict on how all this feels on the road. A flat trunk floor with collapsing rear seats should mean decent practicality, but we can't help but be disappointed at the size of the frunk—it's tiny. Still, at least it's an out-of-the-way place to put the charging cable, which you connect to a standard NACS port on the right rear of the car. Production will begin in August of this year, with deliveries in the fall, but pricing and options will only be unpacked closer to pumpkin spice season. With all of that, from incredibly efficient motors, a wholly reimagined user interface, and a massive increase in the use of recycled materials, the main talking point will still be the looks. So, what do you think? Did BMW cook, or is its styling department cooked? Let us know in the comments below. BMW View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Extreme Heat Warning: An Unprecedented March Event on Desert HighwaysThe National Weather Service has issued Extreme Heat Warnings across wide portions of Arizona, California, and Nevada as a historic late-winter heat dome parks itself over the Desert Southwest and produces temperatures no one driving these roads has ever encountered this early in the year. This is not a typical hot spell. It is the first Extreme Heat Warning ever issued in March in Arizona's recorded history, beating the previous earliest instance issued between April 26 and 30, 2020, by nearly six weeks. For drivers, the warning period runs from Wednesday morning through Sunday evening and covers some of the nation's busiest desert travel corridors. If you are planning to drive I-10, I-8, US-93, US-60, or any other highway through the Sonoran Desert or the Mojave this week, read this before you go. The Primary Threat: A Historic Heat Dome and What It Does to Desert RoadsA powerful ridge of high pressure has locked into place over the western United States, acting as a heat dome that is compressing and heating the air across the entire Desert Southwest region. The NWS Phoenix forecast office, the primary authoritative source for this event, forecasts lower desert highs climbing above 100°F by Wednesday before surging to around 105 to 107°F Thursday through Saturday. Daily records are expected to fall by nearly 10 degrees each day. Phoenix is set to record its earliest triple-digit temperature ever, breaking a mark set on March 26, 1988. NWS Phoenix meteorologist Sean Benedict was unambiguous in assessing the scale: the city is not just touching 100 degrees, it is pushing well past it, to a range that ordinarily does not arrive until May at the earliest. All-time April records may fall before the week is out. The Coachella Valley in California, the corridor of I-10 through Palm Springs, Indio, and Coachella, is under an NWS San Diego Extreme Heat Warning with highs of 105 to 110°F forecast from Wednesday through Saturday. Overnight low temperatures will drop only to the low-to-mid 70s, providing no meaningful heat relief between driving sessions. The Imperial Valley along I-8 near El Centro and Calexico, the Las Vegas Valley along I-15, and a wide swath of southwest California, including the San Fernando Valley and the San Gabriel Valley, are all under active warnings. The NWS Weather Prediction Center describes temperatures running 20 to 30 degrees above seasonal norms across the affected region, a deviation that puts this event in the category of genuinely anomalous early-season heat. This matters for drivers not just because of comfort, but because the road surface itself becomes a threat. The Secondary System: California Corridors and the Las Vegas ApproachThe heat dome is not confined to Arizona. The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard office has issued Extreme Heat Warnings covering the Santa Clarita Valley, the San Fernando Valley, the Eastern San Fernando Valley, the Western San Gabriel Mountains and the Highway 14 Corridor, and portions of the Los Angeles basin's inland zones. The I-5 corridor north of Los Angeles through the Newhall Pass and into the high desert is in the warning zone. So is the SR-14 approach into Palmdale and Lancaster. The NWS Las Vegas office has flagged temperatures nearly 30 degrees above seasonal normals for the Las Vegas Valley, placing the I-15 approach into Las Vegas from both the California and Arizona sides under significant heat stress for drivers arriving from cooler home climates. The agency specifically cited high tourism levels as an aggravating factor, warning that travelers unaccustomed to desert heat face an elevated risk. For drivers making the I-15 run from Southern California into Nevada, the Barstow-to-Las Vegas stretch will see peak afternoon temperatures in the 105°F range. That is the same corridor where roadside breakdowns in extreme heat have historically turned fatal. Regional Specifics: Named Highways, Passes, and High-Risk ZonesThe NWS Phoenix office has identified the I-10 corridor through Tempe and Avondale as a zone where pavement temperatures will spike sharply during the afternoon commute window, with the highest-risk period running noon to 7 PM daily through Sunday. Research from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory has found that Phoenix pavement temperatures routinely exceed 120°F on hot days and frequently reach 140 to 160°F during peak heat events. At air temperatures of 105 to 107°F, those surface readings will run even higher. Specific corridors and zones to treat as high-alert driving environments through Sunday: I-10 (Phoenix to Los Angeles): The entire run from the Phoenix metro through the Blythe crossing, across the Coachella Valley, and through the Inland Empire. The Chiriaco Summit rest area and the Banning Pass will both see extreme heat. This is the single highest-traffic desert highway in the country. I-8 (San Diego to Tucson): The Yuma-to-Tucson stretch and the El Centro basin run through some of the most unforgiving terrain in the Southwest, with minimal shade and long gaps between services. Breakdowns here in 108°F heat are genuinely life-threatening. US-93 (Phoenix to Las Vegas): A two-lane highway through western Arizona with long stretches of no services. This road offers essentially no margin for a breakdown in these conditions. SR-74 and SR-111 (Coachella Valley): Both routes serve high weekend traffic from the Los Angeles basin into the desert, and both will see 105 to 110°F highs from Wednesday through Saturday. I-15 (Barstow to Las Vegas): The Baker-to-Jean corridor is an infamously exposed desert route where overheating vehicles are a regular occurrence in summer. This week, summer has arrived six weeks early. What Drivers Should KnowThe Arizona Department of Transportation has issued official guidance for desert highway travel under these conditions, and it covers things most drivers have never thought about in March. Do not drive these routes between approximately 11 AM and 7 PM unless absolutely necessary. Peak pavement temperatures will occur in the 2 PM to 5 PM window, when tire stress is greatest and engine cooling systems are most likely to be overtaxed. Keep your fuel tank at no less than three-quarters full at all times on desert routes this week. Running out of gas on a remote stretch of I-8 or US-93 in 107°F heat is a medical emergency, not an inconvenience. The distances between services on some of these roads make a half-tank of gas a survivability calculation, not just a fuel economy decision. Do not rely on your air conditioning to protect you from the heat indefinitely if you break down. If your vehicle stops and AC fails, the cabin temperature can become lethally hot within minutes in full sun at these temperatures. Arizona DOT recommends calling for roadside assistance immediately, running the AC as long as the vehicle allows, then exiting and finding shaded ground as far from the travel lanes as possible. Be aware that the pavement itself can cause burns on contact. Keep shoes on and keep pets off the road surface. The NWS also warns that travelers arriving from cooler climates, including the many spring training visitors and spring break road-trippers currently in the region, face heightened risk because they have not acclimatized to extreme desert heat. Bodies that have been in 60°F weather for months do not regulate heat the way long-term desert residents do. Keep An Emergency Kit In Your VehicleOn desert highways during an Extreme Heat Warning, an emergency kit is not optional. If your vehicle breaks down on I-8 east of Yuma or on US-93 north of Wickenburg, you may wait an hour or more for roadside assistance in temperatures that can produce heat stroke in an unprotected adult within 30 to 60 minutes. Your desert emergency kit for this week should include: at minimum one gallon of water per person (more for longer trips and more in temperatures above 105°F), a cooler with frozen water bottles that can be thawed and drunk or used for cooling, a wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting light-colored clothing, sunscreen, a fully charged phone (a car charger or battery pack is essential), an umbrella for shade outside the vehicle, basic first aid supplies, and a reflective emergency blanket. If you are traveling with pets, they need their own water supply; do not assume they can share yours. Tires Are Your First Line of DefenseIn an Extreme Heat Warning, tires become the first mechanical system likely to fail and they can fail violently. Understanding why matters for every driver on these routes this week. Tire pressure increases by roughly 1 to 2 PSI for every 10-degree rise in ambient temperature. On a vehicle that rolled out of a Los Angeles garage with tires at the manufacturer's recommended 35 PSI in 65°F weather, those same tires may be running at 42 to 46 PSI by the time the car reaches the Coachella Valley at 105°F ambient temperatures, before the additional heat of friction from highway driving is factored in. Overinflation reduces the tire's contact patch, causing it to ride on a smaller central strip of tread and creating a hot spot at the center of the tread face. Underinflation in heat is equally dangerous: a soft tire increases surface contact with superheated pavement, drives heat into the sidewall, and can cause the sidewall to deform and fail. Either condition can produce a blowout. Check your tire pressure before you leave, when tires are cool, not at a rest stop after 100 miles of desert driving, when pressure readings are artificially elevated by heat and friction. Look for any sidewall cracking, bulging, or tread wear that would not survive the stress of hot-road driving. If your tires are all-season with a 3PMSF (Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake) rating, be aware that they use softer rubber compounds designed for cold-weather grip; they are more susceptible to heat-induced stress than standard all-season or summer tires. If you are on winter tires that were not swapped out, do not make this trip. The compound used in winter tires begins to break down at the temperatures these roads will reach this week. View the full article

Mark Martin is rooting for Denny Hamlin right now because he knows how hard it is to defy the odds and overcome Father Time when he starts working against a high level athlete. The 2017 Hall of Fame inductee says he was first drawn to Hamlin because he’s started to see something of a baby face turn from a driver that was long established as something of a heel, and he lived that when he ...Keep readingView the full article

A TeslaCybertruck owner from Houston, Texas is suing the automaker for $1 million after a terrifying incident that she claims put her and her infant’s lives in danger. The all-electric truck, which was allegedly operating on Full Self Driving (FSD) mode when the incident happened in August 2025, was caught on camera nearly going off an overpass barrier on Houston's 69 Eastex Freeway. As the footage shows, had the Cybertruck not hit a lighting pole that sent it ricocheting it back, it would have probably flown off the overpass, plunging more than 30 feet and likely crashing into other vehicles. Nevertheless, the impact was violent and the woman claims she suffered multiple injuries, which is why she’s sued Tesla last month in a liability and negligence case. Tesla Telemetry Data Holds the Key to This Case"On August 18, 2025, our client Justine Saint Amour was driving her Tesla Cybertruck on Houston's 69 Eastex Freeway with Autopilot engaged," attorney Bob Hilliard told FOX Business. "Something terrifying happened, without warning, the vehicle attempted to drive straight off an overpass.” Dashcam footage of the incident shows the vehicle driving normally before it was supposed to follow a right-hand curve at a Y-shaped overpass. Instead of doing so, the Tesla veered slightly right and continued straight ahead, crashing violently into a concrete barrier on the overpass. Parts of the vehicle can be seen flying off in the video as it ricocheted from the impact. Tesla Now here comes the tricky part. The woman’s lawyer claims she had tried to disengage the driver assistance feature to take control of the wheel just before the crash. However, her Tesla Cybertruck was already too far in motion for any intervention to be effective, the law firm said. Basically, the argument is that the driver wanted to take over the vehicle when she saw it heading in the wrong direction, but the system didn’t allow her to. It remains to be seen if this argument holds up in court, as Tesla may counter-argue that the accident happened on the driver’s watch after FSD had disengaged. It all depends on whether FSD was active at the time of the crash, and Tesla telemetry data should show that. "She tried to take control, but crashed into the barrier and was seriously injured (mostly her shoulder, neck, and back)," lawyer Bob Hilliard said. Saint Amour also suffered two herniated discs in her lower back and one in the neck, as well as sprained tendons in her wrist and nerve damage to her right hand. Fortunately, the 1-year-old child, who was in the backseat during the incident, was unharmed, according to local TV station Khou 11. Yet Another Case Alleging Tesla Is Misrepresenting Its ADAS Capabilities The lawsuit, filed in Harris County District Court, accused Tesla of misrepresenting the capabilities of its driver-assistance system and being negligent in the design of its Autopilot feature. It also alleged that the EV maker failed to incorporate safety mechanisms such as more effective emergency braking systems or LiDAR. The lawyer said Tesla’s self-driving “relies on cheap video cameras alone” and the vehicle “lacks a proper driver alert system to ensure drivers are ready to take over driving.” Tesla hasn’t commented on this particular case yet. The EV maker was recently forced to comply with California regulations over false advertising claims related to its Autopilot and Full Self Driving features. The California DMV said the use of these terms is misleading and a violation of state law. As a result, Tesla is now referring to Full Self-Driving as ‘Full Self-Driving (Supervised)” and Autopilot as ‘Traffic Aware Cruise Control” in California marketing. That said, Tesla filed a lawsuit last month to reverse the "false advertiser" ruling, arguing the DMV did not prove consumers were actually confused. View the full article

In dismissing the media who wanted to ask about his post-race conflict with Daniel Suarez, Ross Chastain said ‘not today, boys’ but conceded he should said, ‘see you on Tuesday’ in advance of a pre-scheduled media availability. Chastain said, after walking away from Suarez, that he just didn’t understand everything that happened between them and didn’t want to say the wrong thing ...Keep readingView the full article

EV Drivers Finally Get a Proper Nürburgring SetupHyundai has installed 400 kW N Hyper Chargers at the entrance of the Nürburgring Tourist Drive. After its inauguration last year, Hyundai intends to remove the biggest barrier to EV track driving. Drivers can now charge right before entering the circuit, making the experience far more seamless. This is a major shift for electric performance cars. EVs have already proven their pace, with several models ranking among the fastest to lap the Nürburgring. The problem has always been what happens after a lap. Limited charging options forced drivers to cut sessions short or leave the track entirely. Hyundai Fast Charging That Matches Track PaceThe N Hyper Chargers deliver up to 400 kW DC fast charging and can support multiple vehicles at once. Under ideal conditions, Hyundai’s E-GMP-based cars can go from 10 to 80 percent in around 18 minutes. That aligns closely with a typical cooldown window between laps. This allows EV drivers to run multiple sessions without major interruptions. Charge, drive, repeat. It is a workflow that brings EV track use closer to what combustion drivers have long enjoyed. The difference now is that the infrastructure supports the performance. Even so, the conversation around EV performance remains active. While electric hypercars continue to chase Nürburgring records, some still fall short of top combustion benchmarks. The focus is shifting. It is no longer just about outright speed, but how consistently that speed can be delivered over multiple laps. James Riswick Open Access With Added Perks for Hyundai N OwnersThe chargers are not exclusive to Hyundai. Any EV can use them, which improves accessibility for all drivers visiting the Nürburgring. The process is straightforward. Pull in, plug in, and charge using standard payment or supported charging apps. Hyundai owners get a more integrated experience. Drivers of models like the IONIQ 5 N can use the Charge myHyundai app for easier access. Hyundai has also introduced incentives such as complimentary charging during promotional periods, reducing the cost of repeated track sessions. This move highlights a broader shift in vv11performance EV ownership. The car is only part of the equation. Infrastructure now plays a critical role in the overall experience. With fast, accessible charging at the Nürburgring entrance, EV drivers finally have something to look forward to when planning a day at the track. Hyundai View the full article

Daniel Dye, 22, has been indefinitely suspended by NASCAR and will be required to undergo sensitivity training if he hopes to get back behind the wheel. Kaulig Racing has also indefinitely suspended Dye from the organization, "effective immediately after becoming aware today of comments he made on social media." Dye was competing full-time in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series as part of Kaulig ...Keep readingView the full article

The CX-5 Story So FarSince its debut in 2012, the Mazda CX-5 has been the brand’s cornerstone in the compact SUV segment. It was the first model to fully adopt Mazda’s SkyActiv technology. This approach focused on lightweight engineering, efficient powertrains, and driver-focused dynamics. It helped redefine expectations for mainstream crossovers. Over time, the CX-5 moved upmarket. It gained sharper styling, improved materials, and a more refined cabin. It also maintained strong driving dynamics. This balance has made it one of Mazda’s best-selling models globally. It appeals to both enthusiasts and everyday buyers. That balance is why electrification is such a critical next step. Mazda Mazda’s Hybrid Delay ExplainedMazda confirmed that its first in-house full-hybrid system will debut in the 2027 CX-5. According to a Driveinterview with Mazda Australia boss Vinesh Bhindi, the system was delayed to meet internal standards. The company wanted to launch sooner to stay competitive. However, it chose to prioritize development. Bhindi explained that the hybrid must still deliver Mazda’s “Jinba-Ittai” philosophy. This concept emphasizes a strong connection between the driver and the car. Engineers were given more time and resources to achieve this goal. Mazda leadership also agreed that rushing the technology would compromise the brand’s identity. The decision across regions was clear. Do not sacrifice core values for speed to market. This comes at a time when Toyota is doubling down on hybrids globally, with plans to increase production by around 30 percent and make electrified models a larger share of its output. At the same time, Toyota continues to reinforce its long-standing reputation for reliability and efficiency, which has become a major selling point for hybrid buyers in the segment. TOSHIFUMI KITAMURA/Getty Images Why the 2027 Hybrid Could Be a Turning PointThe upcoming CX-5 Hybrid will be Mazda’s first fully in-house system without plug-in capability. It represents a major step in the brand’s electrification strategy. The system is expected to use the new SkyActiv-Z engine. This engine is designed to improve efficiency while maintaining strong performance. Performance is expected to match the current 2.5-litre turbo CX-5. This is important in a segment where rivals already offer hybrid options. Models like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Honda CR-V deliver strong fuel economy. Mazda’s approach focuses on balance. It aims to combine efficiency with engaging driving dynamics. If successful, the 2027 CX-5 Hybrid could stand out in a crowded field. Mazda View the full article

Aiming HighVinFast remains somewhat of an enigma despite being in the industry for quite some time now. The Vietnamese EV carmaker started off with intent by entering the U.S. market as early as 2017-2018, when EVs were just about to take off. It was a huge gamble for an unknown brand to enter a huge market. Now, in 2026, we can say that the gamble did and didn't work; it worked in the sense that VinFast remains a major EV player the world over, but it hasn't carved out a decent enough following in the U.S. Despite slow growth stateside, and a tough 2025, they are committed as ever to continue playing for top spot in the EV space. A Tough End To 2025VinFast's gung-ho attitude toward being in the U.S. is now biting back, according to Reuters. The company reported that its fourth-quarter net loss increased from the previous year. This is mainly due to the chargers' impairment caused by the delay at the U.S. production plant. They aim to restart construction sometime this year. They registered a net loss of 35.2 trillion dong ($1.34 billion) in the final quarter of 2025, which is 46% more than the same period in 2024, and 15% higher than the third quarter of 2025. Around $235 Million of the loss came from the proposed North Carolina EV plant. During an investor meeting, Chairperson Thuy Le said they are still very committed to the U.S. market and have been working hard behind the scenes. She also said they are targeting 2028 for the soft launch. VinFast's America production plant was first announced in 2022 and broke ground in 2023. However, due to a sudden slowdown in EV demand in 2024, they delayed construction to raise more capital. Approximate total investment will be in the neighborhood of $4 Billion, and the plant will also provide around 7,500 direct jobs for the state. When fully operational, the North Carolina plant will be capable of producing 150,000 EVs annually across the VF7 and VF8 SUVs. Ronan Glon REEVs On the HorizonOne thing VinFast plans to do to possibly return interest to EVs is to launch Range-Extended Electric Vehicles (REEVs). This emerging powertrain option pairs a full EV with a small gasoline engine that is solely used to charge the batteries. The automaker sees this as a valid option for smaller countries that don't yet have sufficient advanced charging infrastructure. They plan to roll out these REEVs in Vietnam by 2027. View the full article

Alex Bowman, 32, was forced to get out of ht #48 Hendrick Motorsports Chevrolet in the middle of the March 1 NASCAR Cup race at COTA, with Myatt Snider finishing the race for him. He was later diagnosed with vertigo. Since then, he has missed both Phoenix and Las Vegas with HMS sim driver Anthony Alfredo and 2024 NASCAR O'Reilly Series champion Justin Allgaier filling in for him. Hendrick ...Keep readingView the full article

Too Hard to IgnoreSo, this is the so-called 'timeline-wrecking' car that BMW teased a few days ago. While we were partially correct in calling it an M3 or M4, we didn't expect it to be a Touring, and it's a wild one, indeed. It's going to be BMW's entry in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring this year, and it'll fend off the likes of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Mercedes-AMG GT. The car started out as an April Fool's joke last year, but it's safe to say the public wanted it to be real. According to BMW, engagement on the M3 Touring 24H is much higher than the usual figures for BMW M Motorsport’s social media channels. If anyone needs proof that the world still loves wagons, this is it. BMW Talk About Fan ServiceWith reception like that, it's like BMW had no choice but to build the thing for real. Besides, you wouldn't want to upset legions of Touring fans worldwide, either. This could be said is one heck of a service to BMW fans everywhere, and admittedly, it can put a smile on anyone's face. The car shares some bones with the M4 GT3. But before you think this is a NASCAR-style rebody, the M3 Touring 24H's chassis is, indeed, based on the road-going hot wagon. Otherwise, the car wouldn't be eligible for GT3 racing if it were merely a silhouette racer. BMW Ready to RockWhile its chassis is still based on a standard M3 Touring, everything else attached to it isn't something one will find in BMW's accessories department. For starters, its fenders have been flared out to a point that it makes an Audi RS 6 look narrow, and that's mainly to fit in a wide set of slicks. There's no shortage of aero enhancements here, too. Diffusers are scattered all over the body, and you can bet that the underfloor is flatter than Florida. And yes, Florida is, indeed, flatter than Kansas, but we digress. If that's not enough, there's a giant wing over at the back for greater stability at the back, although the wagon's long roof already gives it a bit of an advantage in the downforce game. BMW didn't mention what's under the hood of the M3 Touring 24H, but it's likely that it'll be the same turbocharged 3.0-liter straight-six from the M4 GT3. Mind you, this isn't a garden-variety S58 engine. It has its own engine code dubbed P58, and it has 'up to' 590 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. While derived from the road car, this one gets a dry-sump system, an engine-mounted oil tank, a charge cycle split intake/exhaust system with two throttle valves, and is mounted 45 degrees. BMW More Racing Outings Soon?As mentioned, it will compete in the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours, hopefully gunning for the overall win or, at the very least, finishing the race. So far, BMW hasn't mentioned if it will enter the car in other series or endurance races. Of course, we'd love to see more of it and not just a one-off appearance. For us, though, the only thing missing here is another wagon running the race. It would be great if Volvo returned to motorsports with something like a modern interpretation of its 850 wagon that competed in touring cars back in 1994. A V60 with an obscenely wide body and a coffee-table rear wing, with heaps of power, would be nice. Still, at least it's sharing the same space as the HWA Evo R, albeit in a different category. The Evo R is a modern interpretation of the Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 Evo II, and it will be nice seeing this and the M3 Touring 24H being driven in anger later this year. BMW BMW View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Twisted Automotive, the UK-based Land Rover Defender restoration and customization specialist, has unveiled its first-ever Range Rover project, a restomod build based on the first-generation of the iconic luxury SUV. Called TRRC and recreated from memory by company founder Charles Fawcett using his father’s 1980s Range Rover as inspiration, the vehicle has undergone a high-performance luxury makeover courtesy of a GM-sourced LT1 V8 engine, full body restoration and upgraded interior. For their first Range Rover build after 25 years of crafting Defender projects, the Twisted team applied their ‘anti-ordinary’ philosophy to the two-door Range Rover Classic. The vehicle is a “greatest hits” compilation of the RR Classic, if you like, as it borrows the best features from the SUV’s 26-year production run and tops it off with a 480-horsepower LT1 V8. Distilling 26 Years of the RR Classic in One Vehicle Twisted Automotive Fawcett says the RR Classic was the “king of the road” as he was growing up, leaving a lasting impression on him. "When I think back to the 1980’s, my father always seemed to have a two-door Range Rover, and there was one particular one that stood out," says Fawcett. "It was terracotta brown with fiberglass extended wheel arches and white Weller eight-spoke wheels shod with General Grabber road-oriented tyres. On the front, he’d fabricated a valance out of an MGB GT front spoiler. To me, it was just iconic. Today, the TRRC exists out of unapologetic nostalgia, recreating something I remember from when I was a tiny boy. I think many customers will relate to that feeling,” he added. Twisted Automotive At the heart of the build sits a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter LT1 V8 engine rated at 480 hp and mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission sending power to all four wheels. The handling was specifically tuned to suit the Range Rover’s unique character, with the result being a “sharp and super drivable but not too harsh” ride, according to Fawcett. “A Range Rover needs to be supple,” he says, and we couldn’t agree more. Besides the progressive suspension and bushing upgrade, the vehicle also features upgraded differentials and an enhanced braking system with 6-pot calipers up front and 4-pot out back. Twisted Automotive Visually, the TRRC is said to blend the best eras of the RR Classic, with features including a 1970s front bumper, a 1990s-style grille and headlight surrounds, a front splitter with high-output LED driving lights, body-colored C-pillar that accentuates the two-door silhouette, and a slightly lower ride height at the front to suit the Classic’s profile. The final production design will also include vents formed in the C-pillar panel. Customers can opt for the traditional floating roof too, in which case the C-pillar is painted black. The bodywork has been re-created using new hammer-formed bespoke aluminum panels for every external surface, with the panel gap tolerance described as “obsessive.” Twisted will take a 1990-1992 Range Rover donor vehicle and do a full body-off, panel-by-panel restoration to body shell, while also stripping, blasting and e-coating the chassis and axle casings in a protective satin black finish. A Plush Cabin Fitting of a Range Rover Twisted Automotive A lot of attention is dedicated to the interior as well. The seats, for example, are positioned lower than the originals, so that the driver’s eyeline is directed at the upper half of the windscreen to make the most of the original Range Rover’s generous glasshouse. Twisted Automotive also applied leather-trimming to all interior surfaces, including the seats (which are also heated at the front), knobs, door panels, dashboard, center console, center tunnel, front armrest, steering wheel rim, and more. The cabin also gains premium-grade extended carpeting, as well as a discreet Twisted 8-channel sound system and single-DIN infotainment system. Twisted Automotive And since 1980s Range Rovers were much noisier inside than the current ones, Twisted also applies full cabin sealing and soundproofing, with the latter done in a unusual way. The soundproofing material is attached to the underside of the carpet rather than the interior shell, allowing customers to peel back the carpet to see the pristine paintwork of the TRRC—a move that pays tribute to the bare metalwork of early Range Rovers. By request, the company can even leave the rear inner arches uncarpeted. As you can imagine given this level of detail, the Twister TRRC costs a lot: it starts at £350,000 (roughly $466,000), including the donor vehicle (sourced by Twisted in either left-hand drive or right-hand drive). The company is taking orders from all over the world, including the US, but it will only hand-build a maximum of 12 units per year. All build slots for this year are taken and “2027 is looking over-subscribed,” the company’s founder says. View the full article

The Toyota Tundra TRD Pro is a brilliant off-road pickup, but it doesn’t have the power or extreme capabilities of the Ford F-150 Raptor. But the signs are there that Toyota may be cooking up a Raptor rival, with the latest indication yet being a Toyota trademark for the TRD Hammer name. This follows a survey Toyota quietly ran recently, whereby participants had to vote for the name of a future high-performance pickup truck package. One of those names was TRD Hammer, and the trademark filing suggests it’s the name of the mystery model. What To Expect From a Tundra TRD Hammer Toyota While Toyota has not confirmed an F-150 Raptor rival, an insider told The Drive that such a model was in development a few years ago. That, combined with the customer survey and the new trademark on the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s website, suggests a much tougher pickup is on its way. In the customer survey, participants had to choose between the following names: TRD BajaTRD IronTRD Pro-STRD HammerTRD BizurkTRD QuakeThe survey referenced a package “designed for off-road enthusiasts.” It also named some features, like a long-travel suspension, wider fenders, high-clearance bumpers, a powerful engine, and 37-inch all-terrain tires. All of that sure sounds like an F-150 Raptor competitor. The Tundra’s most powerful current engine is the 437-horsepower V6 hybrid, which isn’t too far off the 450 hp produced by the standard V6 Raptor. The Ford can be equipped with 37-inch tires, too, and its special shocks and dampers can take a real beating over rough terrain. Related: 2026 Toyota Tundra Gallery: See All The Updates Up Close What It Means Toyota Toyota has never had a direct rival to the mighty F-150 Raptor, so it would mark a significant expansion of its full-size pickup lineup. It would also be a different type of off-roader, as the TRD Pro is more of a low-speed trail off-roader than a high-speed desert jumper like the Raptor. More than this, the TRD Hammer could serve as a true halo truck and significantly boost the image of the Tundra range as a whole, which lags behind its American rivals in sales. A Tundra TRD Hammer would also fit in perfectly with Akio Toyoda’s statement a few years ago. The chairman of Toyota promised there’d be “no more boring cars” from the Japanese marque, and releases like the GR Corolla, RAV4 GR Sport, and even the electric C-HR have been anything but boring. A super Tundra pickup could take that same performance spirit from the road to the desert, mounting a real challenge to Ford in the process. Related: 5 Cars That Turned Toyota From “Boring” to a Performance Brand View the full article

In August last year, Ford announced that the Escape would be discontinued alongside its Lincoln Corsair cousin, and many theorized that these would be replaced by new EVs. But according to the Autoblog spies, we're looking at a new combustion Corsair undergoing testing in Sweden, and they say it will return to the U.S. market in 2027. But while the recently discontinued Corsair was produced at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant, this one, say our spies, will be imported from China, despite tariffs. If so, it means that Ford is not ready to lose Lincoln's second-best seller, and it's taking drastic action to maintain sales momentum. 2027 Lincoln Corsair Won't Be a Radical Redesign SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The development mule in these new spy shots is only wearing camouflage on its front and rear ends, which indicates that this is likely to be a facelift of the existing Corsair design, not a full revision. The camouflage is still quite effective, however, with the imposing central grille hidden beneath mesh and the front and rear fascias disguised under trippy camouflage. Despite this, the headlights appear to still be narrow, horizontally aligned elements, and at the back, the taillights are also thin clusters. It remains to be seen if these taillights will be connected once more, but overall, this prototype seems broadly unchanged from the current crossover. Related: Lincoln to Rival G-Class With Bronco-Based Luxury SUV The more meaningful changes will likely be to the cabin, where a large new center screen is reportedly coming. This may mark a diversion from the setup in the Nautilus, which has a small center display and a full-width display panel spanning the entire dash below the windshield, but our spies claim that the Lincoln Digital Experience System, as it's called, is coming to the crossover. It's difficult to tell from these images, and there's still camouflage draped over the dash, but we hope to have more revealing pictures before long. Combustion Continues for 2027 Corsair SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Whether the 2027 Corsair's interior is significantly revamped or not, what's under the hood is expected to remain mostly the same, with the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder expected to soldier on, potentially with more than its current 250 horsepower. Our spies also report that a 1.5-liter hybrid powertrain will replace the 2.5-liter hybrid we've been accustomed to, but as with anything, we'll have to wait for official announcements to be sure. Yes, Lincoln already imports the U.S. market's Nautilus from China, and yes, the Corsair has been a strong seller that dealers are sad to lose, but with an ever-changing automotive landscape, it's smart to treat the return of the Corsair to American shores as just a rumor for now. In the meantime, Ford is offering attractive incentives to retain Escape and Corsair customers. View the full article

A little over a month ago, the Autoblog spy photographers sent us images of a nearly production-ready Range Rover Velar before it transforms into an EV for the 2027 model year, revealing a very unusual silhouette. Now, they've given us a sneak peek inside the quirky car, way ahead of its expected reveal in the summer, and what the pictures reveal is a cabin unlike any Range Rover we've seen before. This will be the first JLR vehicle on the new Electric Modular Architecture 800-volt platform, and the user interface will reflect that novelty with a screen layout that Volvo could be proud of. Let's take a closer look. 2027 Range Rover Velar Has Multiple Screens, But Potentially in a Good Way SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Like the Volvo EX30 that will soon leave the U.S. market, the new Range Rover Velar EV diverges from the European automaker trend of blending infotainment and driver information displays in a single panel, instead putting a short display on the dash behind the steering wheel and a large touchscreen in the center. This should be good for visibility and minimizing driver distraction. It also allows for air conditioning vents to span the width of the cabin, increasing the occupants' impression of interior space. Unfortunately, we see that the climate control buttons are icons on the touchscreen, which will make adjusting temperatures and fan speeds on the move a little tricky. Hopefully, the covered center console at least hides a physical volume knob. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Moving to the steering wheel, a gloss black strip between the stalks likely houses a driver attention monitor, while the wheel itself appears to be a two-spoke design that the engineers have crudely disguised as a three-spoke. Happily, the buttons on this seem not to be of the haptic feedback variety and should be easy enough to use without averting your gaze from the road ahead. Finally, the roof panel houses the hazard indicator button. 2027 Range Rover Velar EV Arrives Soon SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The new Range Rover Velar will be all-electric to begin with, but a plug-in hybrid powertrain is expected to follow later. Both will have ports on each side of the vehicle, with the PHEV having one for gas and one for electricity, and the EV having two for recharging the battery. Why? So that it's easy to hook the luxury crossover up to a charger regardless of how you park and where the charger is placed. The sloping roofline will no doubt impair rear occupant space and cargo capacity, but we expect a large frunk to at least make up for the latter. Other than that, the Velar will help advance the Range Rover design language with a look that the traditional Range Rover and Range Rover Sport will be influenced by, and since JLR's engineers let our spy photographers get this close, they must be almost ready to reveal what the British automaker has been working on very soon. Stay tuned. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

High-end EVs are not in a good place. A recent report from Automotive News revealed that U.S. registrations for Rolls-Royce's Spectre EV, its only electric product at the moment, have fallen by 20 percent, and Lamborghini has canceled its first EV due to a lack of customer interest. Despite this, Bentley says its first EV, which shares its VW Group Premium Platform Electric architecture with the Porsche Cayenne EV, will be all-electric, and that it has "no intention" of converting the platform to suit a hybrid powertrain. Speaking to media about Bentley's 2025 financial results, CEO Frank-Steffen Walliser said, "It's not feasible, and it's not part of our strategy." However, the Crewe-based brand is not throwing all caution to the wind. Bentley's Future Includes Hybrid and Gas-Only Cars SH Proshots/Autoblog While Bentley is already too far down the rabbit hole to change tack with its so-called Luxury Urban SUV (a proper name will be announced before it goes on sale by the end of this year), Walliser confirmed that Bentley's second EV won't arrive before 2030. Instead, future cars will have plug-in hybrid powertrains like the Continental GT and the Flying Spur. The obvious choice here is the next generation of the best-selling Bentayga, though the CEO was coy about its arrival, only saying that it won't arrive next year. Given that the current Bentayga continues to attract customers, that's probably a prudent decision. Related: Bentley's First Electric SUV Begins to Take Shape He also said that customers are showing enthusiasm for gas-only cars, so the British automaker is considering exclusive cars (i.e., very expensive limited editions) with such a powertrain. Despite global challenges, Bentley has recorded its seventh consecutive year of profitability, so the company seems to know what it's doing. That said, up to 275 jobs are at risk at Bentley Motors, so maintaining its winning streak will be tough. Bentley's 'Baby' SUV Will Be a Beast SH Proshots/Autoblog So far, Bentley hasn't revealed too much about its first EV, besides vaguely talking up its performance and announcing its target of recouping 100 miles of range in just seven minutes. Its placeholder name of 'Urban SUV' indicates that massive range won't be a priority, as this shorter-than-Bentayga vehicle will be aimed at city dwellers, but the fact that it shares its platform with the aforementioned Cayenne EV means that up to 1,139 horsepower should be possible. With EV registrations in America falling 41 percent year-on-year in January, the new Bentley will have to be a compelling choice to convince the well-heeled to part with six-figure sums; will big power, fast charging, and the prestige of the Flying B prove a winning recipe? We'll have to wait for its reveal later in 2026 and its arrival in 2027 to know, but sticking with electric power sure raises an eyebrow. View the full article

The EV Affordability GapLooking at the U.S. electric vehicle market, the most affordable option is the Chevrolet Bolt EV, priced under $30,000. However, even that model is slated for a limited 18-month production run. Volkswagen’s current entry-level EV, the ID.4, starts at $45,095 before destination fees, highlighting the gap in truly budget-friendly options. Nonetheless, Volkswagen is already working to address this. The German automaker is preparing a new wave of affordable compact EVs based on its MEB+ platform. One of them is the ID. Cross, which was recently previewed on the streets of Amsterdam in camouflage. It is set to launch in late 2026 with a starting price of around €28,000 (approximately $32,000 at current exchange rates). The catch? It’s unlikely to be offered in the U.S. Volkswagen Size Still MattersFor one, the ID. Cross is a subcompact crossover, essentially the electric counterpart to the T-Cross. That means it may have more limited appeal in the U.S., where buyers generally favor larger vehicles. In fact, the top three best-selling vehicles last year were the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and Toyota RAV4. VW is aware of this market preference, which explains why it brought only the long-wheelbase version of the ID. Buzz stateside. However, even that strategy doesn’t appear to be paying off, as the electric minivan – inspired by the iconic Type 2 Microbus – is skipping the U.S. market for the 2026 model year. In Europe, the automaker aims to offer a wide range of configurations to suit different electric mobility needs. The new ID. Cross will be available with either a 37 kWh or 52 kWh battery, paired with three power levels producing up to 155 kW (208 horsepower). It will also support DC fast charging of up to 105 kW, an improvement over the 90 kW setup, making it better suited for drivers who frequently travel long distances. Volkswagen Volkswagen’s Budget EV PlayOther details revealed ahead of the ID. Cross launch includes Volkswagen’s new “Pure Positive” design language, a more upscale interior, and the use of intuitive functions and physical controls. It will be one of the brand’s new affordable EVs, alongside the ID. Polo – the production version of the ID.2all concept. As for Volkswagen’s core EV offering in the U.S., the ID.4 is reportedly due for a facelift for the 2027 model year and may adopt the ID. Tiguan name. It will continue to compete in the same segment as the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Infiniti’s Reset ButtonInfiniti appears to be facing unclear brand positioning, particularly as more luxury brands strengthen their identities. Genesis is known for its clean yet muscular design language, while BMW continues to be associated with sporty handling. As such, Infiniti is now undergoing a so-called “product renaissance,” and recently announced that the all-new 2027 QX65 will debut later this month. The QX65 is based on the QX60, which is the brand’s best-selling model in the U.S. The main difference is that the new model will feature a sporty fastback profile and will accommodate only two rows of seating instead of three. This approach mirrors models such as the BMW X5 and X6, as well as the Audi Q7 and Q8. While coupe-style SUVs are not typically the strongest sales drivers, they can give a brand more character. Infiniti Power for the FastbackUnder the hood, the new model is expected to launch with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four, the same engine used in other Infiniti and Nissan models such as the Murano. In the QX60, the engine produces 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque, sent to either the front wheels or all four wheels via a 9-speed automatic transmission. Rumors suggest that a more potent version featuring a V6 engine could arrive next year. That engine is currently available in the Nissan Pathfinder but was dropped from the Infiniti QX60 in favor of a smaller four-cylinder, likely to improve fuel efficiency and meet stricter emissions regulations. If so, a more performance-oriented version could eventually lead to a Red Sport variant, giving the brand a proper rival to BMW M Performance models. Infiniti The Next MoveMore details will be revealed during the model’s debut on March 26, which Infiniti says will help accelerate “the brand’s momentum as it redefines its place in the luxury market.” It will follow the all-new QX80 in Infiniti’s revamped lineup, which previously included plans for two electric vehicles – codenamed LZ1F and PZ1J – though reports suggest those projects have since been canceled or delayed. The automaker will also display the all-new QX65 at the New York International Auto Show from April 3 to 12, 2026. Despite having fewer seats, similar models from other brands suggest the QX65 will likely be priced above the QX60, which currently starts at $51,590, excluding destination fees. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The name Goliath conjures up images of size and power, so it's a perfect fit for the latest creation from the Texas-based horsepower freaks at Hennessey, who have given the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 a monstrous supercharged upgrade. The Goliath 700 ZR2, as it's been dubbed, gives the top-tier Silverado ZR2's 6.2-liter V8 a twin-screw supercharger with air-to-water intercooling and a new ECU tune that results in a 66 percent output boost, or 700 horsepower and 611 lb-ft of torque. For the record, the V8's stock figures are 420 hp and 460 lb-ft, enough to get from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. With the Goliath 700 upgrade, the sprint drops to just 4.2 seconds—not bad for such a behemoth. Of course, Hennessey didn't just upgrade what's under the hood and stop there. Hennessey Goliath 700 ZR2 Gets Trick Suspension Hennessey View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The ZR2 is already a factory-built off-roader, but there's always room for improvement in the aftermarket scene, and Hennessey has fitted its Goliath 700 ZR2 with a suspension upgrade from BDS with integrated Multimatic DSSV shock absorbing dampers, allowing buyers to use all that extra horsepower off-road without fear of instability. The improved suspension should also result in better on-road manners, allowing for comfortable highway cruises. Well, as comfortable as you can get when there's tire noise from 35-inch off-road rubber. Hennessey This is wrapped around 20-inch Hennessey off-road wheels, and the Goliath is further enhanced with custom steel bumpers at the front and rear, integrated LED lighting, and a functional carbon fiber hood vent that promises to improve cooling. Hennessey also fits some badges so that Ford Raptor R and Ram TRX drivers get fair warning before trying to bully the Goliath 700 ZR2. It's worth noting that, while this isn't a factory Chevy upgrade, the engine bay looks impeccably neat, with only a subtle Hennessey plaque indicating that there's more power here than when the ZR2 left the Flint Assembly plant in Michigan. Limited-Edition Hennessey Goliath 700 ZR2 Costs Six Figures Hennessey View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article With the enhanced suspension, revised styling, aggressive wheels, and that mammoth performance upgrade, the Goliath 700 ZR2 is not cheap, commanding an MSRP of $139,950. The good news is that the package is available through Hennessey-authorized Chevy dealers and comes with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. The price also pays for exclusivity, as just 100 examples of the Goliath 700 ZR2 will be produced. The 2027 Ram 1500 SRT TRX is expected to be a little cheaper at around $102,590, but you have to wait for it to arrive, and the 2026 Ford Raptor R is also a little more affordable at $112,460, but neither of these options will be as rare. Hennessey View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Carvana’s Next MoveWhile Carvana remains one of the top used-car retailers in the U.S. – alongside competitors like CarMax – the company has quietly expanded into the new-car space by acquiring several Stellantis dealerships. According to The Detroit News, Carvana recently purchased a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram dealership outside Boston, bringing its total to six over the past year, with other locations in Phoenix, Atlanta, Dallas, San Diego, and Sacramento. The exact reasons for venturing into the new-car space are not entirely clear, though the report states that this business model could help Carvana undercut traditional Stellantis dealerships on price – potentially a win for consumers but a loss for dealers. The used car retailer also offers home delivery, which can be a strong selling point, particularly for buyers located far from a CDJR dealership. Ram Cracking the New-Car MarketThe report notes that Carvana may view Stellantis dealerships as a “cheap entry point” into the new-car market. The automaker is also reportedly expected to regain sales momentum in the coming years, particularly with new V8- and hybrid-powered vehicles set to hit the market. The V8 option was initially discontinued amid tightening emissions regulations and the earlier surge in EV adoption, before the current administration rolled back several policies, contributing to a broader slowdown. The Hemi is now returning to the lineup, including to the Ram 1500 TRX, which produces 777 horsepower – 57 more than the Ford F-150 Raptor R. With the aforementioned EV slowdown, the U.S. market has shifted toward hybrid vehicles, with brands like Toyota doubling down on their electrified lineups. Stellantis, however, does not yet have as extensive a hybrid portfolio – especially following the discontinuation of 4xe plug-in models. Still, the automaker has several electrified models in the pipeline, including range-extender versions of the Jeep Grand Wagoneer. Jeep A New Competitive EdgeIn addition to these models, the report suggests that Carvana’s acquisition of CDJR dealerships could help the company generate more trade-in vehicles at a lower cost, while also opening up opportunities for repairs and maintenance services. Given its online-focused business model, Carvana is also unlikely to require as many employees as traditional dealerships. While it remains to be seen what the full-scale plan is, the company is expected to remain focused on its used-car business. After all, Stellantis recently sent letters to dealers reminding them that no one can acquire more than one CDJR dealership within a rolling 12-month period – without specifically referencing Carvana. Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Once upon a time, when brilliant engineer and ruthless manager Ferdinand Piëch ruled Volkswagen Group with an iron fist, some of the most ambitious car projects in history saw the light of day, including the quirky Audi A2 small hatchback. Featuring minivan styling, a blob-like design that was extremely aerodynamic, a cabin that punched above its supermini category in terms of roominess, an all-aluminum space frame for ultra-lightweight, and no opening hood, the Audi A2 was a small car unlike any other that came before it—and probably unlike any other car that’ll ever follow, including its spiritual successor that has just been teased. New Audi A2 e-tron Will Be Larger, More Efficient Than the Original Audi We include Audi’s upcoming A2 e-tron in this category because, yes, Ingolstadt has just confirmed at its Annual Media Conference the return of the A2 nameplate on a new model, albeit one that will likely be quite different from the original. For starters, the new Audi A2 e-tron debuting this fall will be a compact all-electric vehicle, which means it will not only grow in size but also feature a completely different powertrain and packaging. The new Audi A2 e-tron’s role is to further rejuvenate the brand’s lineup and “open up access to premium electric mobility,” Audi said. The latter part hints at the fact that it will be Audi’s most affordable EV model yet. Besides the name, the A2 e-tron also appears to harken back to the original from a styling standpoint. The only design sketch released so far reveals a similar side profile to the original A2, featuring a minivan-like shape, upright front and rear ends, and a sloping roofline that ends with a roof spoiler above a tiny rear tailgate window. The A2 e-tron also appears to feature slim LED matrix headlights and LED taillights. Increasing the image's brightness also partially uncovers the design of the wheels, which call to mind the original A2’s standard hubcaps. This being an EV, the alloy wheels likely have aero covers to reduce drag. Interestingly, this is not Audi's first attempt to bring back the A2 as an EV. In 2011, the automaker unveiled the all-electric A2 Concept, but a production version never materialized because of high production costs that would have made it too expensive for buyers. Audi's Entry-Level EV Will Target European Buyers “We’ve listened. Our customers want electric mobility that impresses in everyday life. The A2 e-tron is our promise to deliver exactly that – efficient, compact, and confident. We’re making entry into the electric Audi world easier and more relevant than ever,” said Audi CEO Gernot Döllner. With the new A2 e-tron, Audi says it is targeting a broad international customer base “that values everyday usability in the city, sustainability, high efficiency, and digital connectivity.” The automaker mentions increasing demand for compact electric vehicles, especially in large European cities, which likely means that Europe will be the target market. There's no word yet on U.S. availability, but we wouldn't hold our breath for it as the original A2 wasn't offered stateside either. The new Audi A2 e-tron is also expected to echo the original model’s efficiency thanks to its all-electric powertrain, which it will probably share with the facelifted Volkswagen ID.3 Neo. As a reminder, the Audi A2 1.2 TDI '3L' model became the world’s first four-door vehicle with an average fuel economy of only 3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (78.4 MPG U.S.) when it launched in March 2001. Like its predecessor, the A2 e-tron will be built at Audi’s German home in Ingolstadt, a sign of the company's commitment to transforming its plants in Germany and Europe. “The A2 e-tron is crucial for our brand and also for our German home. With the production of an additional fully electric model family in Ingolstadt, we are securing jobs and delivering electric mobility ‘made in Germany’,” said Gernot Döllner. The plant also makes the Q6 e-tron and A6 e-tron midsize luxury EVs. In addition to the upcoming A2 e-tron, Audi has also confirmed plans to unveil the next-generation Q7 and the full-size Q9 SUV. The facelifted Q4 e-tron will also debut this year. View the full article

For the Love of PorscheVery few automotive brands have the same appeal and gravitas as Porsche. Over the years, they've grown to cultivate massive loyalty among fans, owners, and collectors from all walks of life. Because of the brand's very rich history and extensive catalogue of classic models, people are constantly drawn to them. One of the biggest fan-made events centered on Porsche just concluded a monumental event in what most would consider a mecca for the automotive scene – and for the first time, it finally reached Japan. Stefan Bogner/Porsche View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Luft JapanLuftgekühlt (Luft) was founded in 2014 by two-time Le Mans Winner Patrick Long and Creative Director Howard Idelson. What started out as a small gathering of just 100 Porsches quickly caught on and gained attention. This could be because Luft prioritizes a true community built on authentic storytelling, rather than the rigid nature of traditional car shows. Over the years, Luft has grown through its annual gatherings, and the last one was held two years ago. With the community clamoring for more, this year's event promised to be bigger and better. To achieve this, they planned for it to take place in Japan, specifically, a portion of the iconic Tokyo expressway. Now, if you think it's irresponsible to close a major road in one of the most traffic crazy cities, the car meet was actually held on a recently closed-off portion of the highway, which will be converted into a public park. Since this was the first time Luft was held in a central city location, to capitalize on that, plus the famed Tokyo night lights, Luft also ran well into the evening. “The idea was to run the event into that photographic moment – experiencing the cars from daylight through to night.” Said founder Patrick Long. Stefan Bogner/Porsche View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Japan's Porsche CultureJapan's car culture is admired the world over for the uniqueness of the style and the variety of car groups that coexist in the country. When it came to showcasing the local Porsche scene, Japan once again delivered. A total of 220 road and racing examples were displayed, bringing in around 11,600 visitors. One of the notable models showcased was the famous Number 28 Porsche 910, driven by Tetsu Ikuzawa and the Taki Racing Team, which finished second overall and first in class at the 1968 Japanese Grand Prix at Fuji International Speedway. Another rare sighting was the four Porsche 964 N/GT, only twenty of these cars were ever made. Stefan Bogner/Porsche View the full article

If we look at the strategy announcements of various global automakers over the last year, the prevailing trend has been to sustain or reintroduce gas engines, even as EV development and sales continue concurrently. In the United States, a large part of the reasoning for this is the loss of the federal tax credit, and in Europe, an adjustment to carbon neutrality targets. On either side of the Atlantic, customer interest is not as high as it once was, and a new report from Automotive News, using data from S&P Global Mobility, highlights this, revealing that American EV registrations in January 2026 were down a stunning 41 percent over January 2025. Despite gas-only and hybrid cars recapturing more market share, Tesla has reason to celebrate, with its cars taking more than half the U.S. EV market. Dark Times for the EV Industry, But Tesla Rises Tesla The data reveals that, in a light-vehicle market that saw some 1.2 million vehicles registered, EVs accounted for just 59,802, with the EV share of the market down to 5.1 percent in January from 8.3 percent a year prior. Gas vehicles rose 2.3 points to 76.6 percent of the market, and hybrids are up 1 point to 14.7 percent. It's a trend that has been manifesting for some time, with EV registrations falling year-on-year in every month since the $7,500 tax incentive expired on September 30 last year, and it's hurt every player in the game, including Tesla, which sells more EVs in America than any other automaker. Its registrations (the company doesn't separate U.S. sales data from global reports) were down 26 percent in January from a year earlier, with just 32,123 vehicles registered. Related: Tesla Model Y: True Cost Per Mile While that may seem like cause for alarm, other EV brands have fallen even further, with Honda's figures down 85 percent, Volkswagen's figures down 90 percent, and Acura's EV registrations down 99 percent. Partly due to its competitors also losing out, Tesla's share of the EV segment was up 11 percentage points to 53.7 percent. Ford's share is down 3.5 percentage points to 4.6 percent, while Chevy is just behind in fifth place, with its EV registrations falling 55 percent to 2,658 vehicles, representing a market share decline of 1.4 percentage points to 4.4 percent. Automakers Given Neither the Carrot Nor the Stick Chevrolet Along with the loss of the federal tax credit for EVs, penalties for failing to meet federal fuel economy standards have been done away with, and this will drastically alter the American auto landscape. Karl Brauer, executive analyst at iSeeCars, sums it up well: "There's going to be a shakeout to the new reality with no federal EV incentives, which was the carrot, and no greenhouse gas penalties, which was the stick." A recent study from Deloitte revealed that just 7 percent of U.S. car buyers want an EV for their next car, and this is affecting brands at either end of the price spectrum; Honda has canceled three new EVs, and Lamborghini has canceled the only EV it was working on. That said, others are optimistic about the future of the segment, with BMW set to reveal an electric 3 Series this week, Audi and Porsche forging ahead with their electric sports cars, and Rivian launching the new R2 last week. Related: Audi Says Its Next Electric Sports Car Will Arrive in Just Two Years View the full article

Car launches live and die on their reveal photos—but BAIC’s latest SUV can’t seem to decide what it looks like. Automotive writer Tycho de Feijter put up BAIC's new BJ81, and some people noticed that it kept changing shape from one press image to the next. Badges shifted, body panels morphed, and the wheel spoke count changed. Details that existed in one shot vanished in another, and these didn't seem to be different trim versions either. The culprit, fairly obviously, was AI-generated imagery — the kind that looks plausible at first glance but falls apart the moment you go looking for consistency. Automakers have increasingly experimented with AI-generated visuals to speed up marketing cycles and reduce production costs, but the BJ81 shows how quickly that shortcut can undermine credibility when the details don’t hold up. If the photos can’t be trusted, neither can the first impression. X/TychodeFeijter View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Design That Borrows From EveryoneThe BJ81 itself is BAIC's replacement for the older BJ80, and the company has been anything but subtle about its inspirations. The BJ81 doesn’t so much take inspiration as it samples aggressively. Up front, five slats and round headlights do their best G-Class impression. Around the sides, flared wheel arches, chunky side steps, and red brake calipers keep the Mercedes energy going. Out back, a split tailgate and a spare wheel bolted to the door will remind you of a Jeep Wrangler, while the taillights borrow their shape from the Land Rover Defender. Pictures of the SUV from some sort of reveal event are hopefully more telling of the real deal than its press photos. YouTube/CarForLife View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article It is, in short, a vehicle assembled from the greatest hits of other people's design departments. It’s less a tribute and more a collage—and thanks to the AI images, even that collage can’t stay consistent from frame to frame. A behind-the-scenes image of the shoot was later uploaded, presumably to silence the critics. Ironically, it's even more likely AI-generated than the press pictures that came before. X/TychodeFeijter Big Looks, Modest MechanicalsLike the BJ80 before it, the new model is expected to retain a body-on-frame layout aimed at off-road use, positioning it against domestic rivals like the Tank 300 rather than the actual G-Class it visually mimics. The outgoing BJ80 was offered with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder or a 3.0-liter V6, with power outputs ranging from 231 to 276 horsepower. BAIC hasn’t fully detailed the powertrain on the BJ81 yet, but early reports suggest an electrified setup, likely a small-displacement engine acting as a range extender. Final power figures haven't been confirmed ahead of the car's public debut at April's Beijing Auto Show. The hope is that the real thing at least performs better than its press photos suggest, because right now the BJ81 is more memorable for what AI got wrong than anything the car itself got right. View the full article

We may be well into March, but extreme winter weather in parts of the United States hasn’t let up just yet. As of Tuesday morning, freeze warnings are in effect across most of the South and spreading into the Southeast, according to the latest information from the National Weather Service. Following a major snow storm in places like Minnesota and Wisconsin since the weekend, an extremely cold spell has followed. By contrast, parts of California are under an extreme heat warning, expected to last until Friday. Here are all the main weather updates to know about over the coming days. Freeze Warnings in the South, Early Heatwave Hits Western U.S. Getty Images / Michael Duva Much of the Deep South is under a freeze warning currently, which is expected to shift into the Southeast by Wednesday morning. In central Alabama, for instance, a freeze warning is in effect until 11 AM EDT on Wednesday, with temperatures as low as 25 degrees expected. This cold spell follows a major storm system from 15-16 March, creating a blast of cold arctic air in the South. In New England, a deep cyclone and potent cold front are expected to exit the region early this morning, but heavy downpours and gusty winds will still be prevalent early in the day, according to the Weather Prediction Center's latest update. Conditions couldn’t be more different in parts of Arizona, California, and Nevada, where an extreme heat warning will be in effect from 11 AM PDT on Wednesday to 8PM PDT on Friday. In some areas, triple-digit temperatures are expected—as high as 114 degrees. Affected areas include Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Riverside. These high temperatures have come remarkably early and could break monthly heat records. In some cases, existing records could be exceeded by 10 degrees. “It looks like it’s going to be a historic heat wave,” said Robbie Monroe, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, who was speaking with the Los Angeles Times. “This could be the hottest March heat wave we’ve ever had, depending on how it plays out.” Related: Is Your Battery Ready for Freezing Temperatures? How to Tell Before It Strands You Driver Precautions in Extreme Weather Alicia Christi If you need to be on the road during the freezing conditions in the South, be aware that reduced traction can increase stopping distances, possibly causing more accidents. Increase your following distances, drive slower than you normally would, and ensure that all snow and ice are cleared from your vehicle’s lights, windows, and roof. Watch out for older car batteries, too, which can be vulnerable to icy temperatures. Slow cranking can be a sign that your battery needs to be replaced. If you’re on the roads in the heatwave in one of the Western states, getting stuck in a remote area can be dangerous. Always carry an emergency kit in your car with extra water, check all vital vehicle fluids and top off if necessary, and inspect your car’s hoses for any signs of cracking. On longer trips, fill up with gas whenever possible—the last thing you want is to be stranded in a desolate area in unbearable heat. Finally, be sure to inspect your tire pressures, as extreme heat can increase the risk of blowouts. Related: Low Tire Pressures In Cold Weather: The 10°F Rule Every Driver Should Know View the full article