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Half empty or half-full? Despite a 3.3% downturn in U.S. sales last year, Jim Donnelly, President and CEO of Mazda Motor America, Inc., is ever the optimist, convinced the company not only can “crest” the 400,000 mark for the third year in a row but come through with another sales record in 2026. To deliver, he’s betting big on the arrival of the third-generation CX-5 crossover which introduces the Hiroshima-based automaker’s first hybrid drivetrain developed entirely in-house. Related: Mazda CX-5 to Go Full Hybrid With New Skyactiv-Z Engine From the days when it was largely dependent upon the quirky Wankel rotary engine, Mazda has traditionally followed its own path when it’s come to powertrain technology. But the CX-5 shows it falling a bit more in line with the broader industry trend towards electrification. For 2026, it offers conventional and plug-in hybrids in a number of product lines, including the flagship CX-90. And, as Donnelly told Autoblog in an exclusive interview, there will be still more coming in the next “24 to 36-month timeframe.” Follow the Leader“We’ve had an intentional follower mindset when it comes to electrification,” Donelly said during a break from a media drive of the new CX-5. That includes adding all-electric models to its line-up. The automaker’s initial entry, the short-range MX-30 failed to move the needle and was quickly pulled from the U.S. market. A long-range package was expected to debut in 2029 but, according to a January report by the Japanese news service Nikkei, it’s now been pushed back to 2029. Donnelly declined to officially confirm that – but notably didn’t deny the delay, explaining, “Clearly, we’re moving on a pathway towards that, but we feel the powertrains we have are fit for the U.S. market conditions right now.” The brand’s self-described “multi-solution” approach includes its first hybrid system, a twin-motor package developed by Toyota and now used in the CX-50. There’s also the plug-in hybrid package now offered in both the CX-70 and CX-90 models. As for the new SkyActiv-Z hybrid, Donnelly made it clear it won’t be limited to just CX-5. It would surprise few observers if it completely replaces the Toyota system. While both of the electrified packages deliver significant improvements in fuel economy over Mazda’s current gas-only SkyActiv drivetrains, the home-brew system, explained Donnelly, is meant to be “a driver’s hybrid, where you get the benefits of the efficiency improvements, but it's very much the Mazda DNA in terms of the performance.” Related: The Engine That Almost Killed Mazda — and Why It’s Still Alive Today Don’t Count Out the WankelWhat we can bet on is that Mazda isn’t planning to become just another me-too brand when it comes to powertrains. It’s brought back its iconic rotary engine in an extended-range electric vehicle. Currently, this version of the MX-30 EV only is sold in Japan, but it offers hints of what might yet be coming. Mazda “There is work being done on the rotary, overall, and (it’s use as a) range-extender,” said Donnelly. “Rotary is such a part of our heritage…it will be part of our future. But I don’t have anything to announce today.” Perhaps not, but Mazda offered some clues last October at the Japan Mobility Show in the form of the Vision X-Coupe Concept. Not only the latest example of Mazda’s eye-catching Kodo design language, it featured a new range-extended, rotary-powered drivetrain that, the automaker claimed, is capable of capturing CO2 so that it can leave the air cleaner, “the more you drive.” As Autoblog reported from Tokyo, that technology is more than just the typical flight of auto show fancy, Mazda insisted. It is getting ready to put the Mobile Carbon Capture system through a real-world test in a particularly challenging environment, fitted onto a Mazda Spirit Racing car competing in the upcoming the Super Taikyu endurance racing series. Finding an Audience Mazda has had a roller-coaster history when it comes to both sales and profits. It nearly collapsed when early versions of the Wankel proved to have major technical flaws. It survived for years as a vassal of Ford Motor Co. It today has made good use of its close ties to Toyota. Not only does the bigger automaker provide technology and powertrain assistance but the two manufacturers launched the Toyota-Mazda Joint Assembly Plant in Alabama in 2021. It currently rolls out the CX-50, and strong demand has allowed Mazda to keep boosting production. The target is 130,000 this year, said Donnelly, with a goal of eventually boosting that to 150,000, the capacity on the Mazda side of the plant. The automaker is in the midst of a 10-year plan first put in place by global CEO Masahiro Moro when he was running U.S. operations. It’s been paying off State-side. For years, the company struggled to grow much beyond 200,000 annual sales. It fell just short of 280,000 in 2019 and 2020, as COVID hit. But with new offerings, like the CX-50, launched in 2022, followed by the CX-90 and CX-70, demand came out of the pandemic with strong momentum. It surged to a record 424,382, a 16.8% increase, in 2024. Last year saw sales dip 3.3%, to 410,346. A variety of factors led to that slowdown, including the Trump tariffs which led it to adjust production plans for models like the Mexican-made CX-30 crossover and Mazda3. Addressing AffordabilityWhile Donnelly doesn’t call it a shift in “strategy,” he said, “We’ve adjusted our mix and how we want to go to market.” Notably, it moved production of the Mazda3 from Mexico to Japan. Ironically, because of the quirks of the Trump tariff program, that brought down the duties on the subcompact nameplate from 25 to 15%. That’s critical when it comes to targeting entry-level buyers, of course, and Mazda3 is now playing a key role in how the automaker addresses the challenge of affordability. Mazda The average transaction price of a new vehicle topped $50,000, an all-time record, in December, according to Edmunds. That has led to a growing crisis pricing millions of Americans out of the new vehicle market. For its part, the strategy Moro put in place is designed to cover a broader range of the market. While that means drawing in more affluent buyers with products like the CX-70 and CX-90, Mazda wants to provide a refuge for buyers on a budget, as well. There is, said Donnelly, “no question this is an issue. Affordability concerns are very real and providing a limiter on the industry,” which could see a noticeable slump in sales in 2026, Mazda is forecasting. As a result, “We’re focusing more on Mazda3 to really address the affordability issue.” In its sedan form it carries a base price of $24,550. The Mazda3 hatchback starts at $25,550. Related: I Drove the Slowest Mazda MX-5, Here's My Honest Review More Sedans?Over the past two decades, sedans have rapidly lost traction in the U.S. market. Several manufacturers have effectively walked away from that market segment, Ford Motor Co., in particular. But the affordability crisis has some brands rethinking that trend, Ford CEO Jim Farley recently saying he would “never say never” to the idea of returning sedans to the line-up. For his part, Donnelly said that’s been obvious to Mazda. “There's an opportunity there. Definitely a market there.” But when asked if that suggests more sedans and hatchbacks might be in the works, he replied, “Not in the near-term.” But longer-term? “There’s clearly a portion of the marketplace that sedans are still the right solution for.” Mazda The Japanese automaker has other ways to address affordability, he noted. As part of a multi-billion-dollar investment in its retail operations, the company has worked with its dealers to boost not only new vehicle sales, but service retention – keeping owners coming back to Mazda service bays after their warranties expire. It’s also put a sharper focus on certified pre-owned vehicles, the CPO unit reaching a record 70,000 sales last year. That, said Donnelly, “has kept people in the Mazda family,” and makes it easier to win them over to the brand’s new products when they have the budget in the future. Related: The Mazda CX-5 Has Achieved a Milestone Only Two Other Mazdas Ever Have View the full article

Cheaper LiDAR Makes Mass Adoption PossibleA decade ago, LiDAR was mostly limited to experimental autonomous vehicles. Early systems, such as those mounted on Waymo robotaxis, could cost as much as $50,000 per unit. These sensors were large and were often installed on the vehicle's roof. They also required significant computing power to process the detailed data they produced. At the time, lidar was considered essential for autonomy research but far too expensive for production vehicles. China changed that equation quickly. According to Automotive News, automakers there began installing LiDAR in production EVs and pushed suppliers to scale manufacturing. Companies such as Hesai and RoboSense increased output and drove prices down dramatically. Some compact units now cost roughly $200. Millions of sensors are produced each year. As a result, a growing share of Chinese EVs now feature LiDAR as part of their advanced driver-assistance systems. Getty Why Automakers Are Suddenly Embracing LiDARLiDAR prices are falling while vehicle computing power continues to improve. This combination is pushing Western automakers to reconsider the technology. LiDAR stands for light detection and ranging. The system uses laser pulses to create a detailed 3D map of a vehicle’s surroundings. Cameras rely heavily on lighting conditions and visual contrast. LiDAR works reliably in darkness, glare, and poor visibility. It also measures distance with high precision. Several automakers now see LiDAR as a key step toward more advanced driver assistance and future automation. Rivian plans to introduce LiDAR on its upcoming R2 crossover. Ford Motor Company and General Motors are developing systems designed to support Level 3 automated driving later this decade. Lucid Motors already offers LiDAR as part of its driver-assistance package. Automakers see it as an added layer of redundancy alongside cameras and radar. Rivian Tesla’s Skepticism and the Road AheadOne of the most prominent critics of LiDAR is Elon Musk. His company, Tesla, relies on a camera-based system for its driver-assistance technology. Musk has repeatedly argued that advanced artificial intelligence and cameras are enough to achieve autonomy. In his view, LiDAR adds unnecessary cost and complexity to the system. Recent developments highlight the uncertainty surrounding autonomy technology. Tesla acknowledged that many vehicles may require upgrades to support future unsupervised, self-driving capability. This could affect customers who already purchased the Full Self-Driving package. The situation reflects the larger industry debate. Some companies continue to pursue camera-focused systems. Others believe that LiDAR's falling costs and precise environmental mapping will play a major role in building safer, more capable automated vehicles. Marc Piasecki/Getty Images View the full article

The BMW 7 Series has long been one of the most revered luxury sedans on the road, competing with cars like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and even its more expensive, more opulent brother, the Rolls-Royce Ghost. The people riding in the back of these cars are often high-profile executives, government officials, or VIPs who require their own security personnel. That’s where armored vehicle specialists like INKAS come in, transforming already luxurious sedans into discreet security vehicles that look identical to the standard model from the outside. They've been in business for more than 25 years and have transformed cars like the BMW X7, Toyota Land Cruiser, Bentley Bentayga, and many more. Turning a Flagship Sedan Into a Security Vehicle The armored version is based on the V8-powered BMW 760i, which produces 536 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. It also happens to be the top of the 7 Series lineup today, especially since future generations will no longer receive a V12. INKAS integrates armor directly into the structure of the sedan, reinforcing the body and key components while keeping the design and driving feel as close as possible to the original car. While the company doesn’t publish exact weight figures, vehicles armored to this level typically gain a few thousand pounds over their standard curb weight, which is why sufficient power plays such a crucial role. What BR6-Level Security Actually Means The car is rated up to BR6 ballistic protection, which is designed to defend occupants from up to two hand grenades and assault rifles that use 7.62x51mm NATO, 5.56x45mm, and 7.62x39mm rounds. The interior is surrounded by armored steel and thick ballistic glass, while vulnerable components such as the battery, engine electronics, and fuel tank receive additional protection. Reinforced suspension helps the sedan handle the extra mass, and a runflat system allows it to continue driving even after tire damage. Buyers can also specify a range of upgrades depending on their needs, including engine bay protection, heavy-duty wheels, night-vision systems, and even a roof escape hatch. A Growing Market for Discreet Armored Luxury Armored luxury sedans remain a niche, but demand appears to be increasing, according to INKAS CEO David Khazanski, as clients look for vehicles that offer both security and everyday usability, but in an undetectable fashion. Even automakers themselves have begun offering protected models, such as the Mercedes-Benz S680 Guard that debuted as a factory-armored luxury sedan. Instead of driving around a 12-foot-tall military vehicle, the wealthy can drive around in armored luxury cars without attracting any unwanted attention to themselves. View the full article

Jeep has solved the biggest safety problem of the Wrangler and Gladiator, and that is the off-road SUV and truck’s tendency to roll over. Interestingly, the news doesn’t come courtesy of the automaker but the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which recently crash-tested the 2026 Jeep Wrangler 4-door off-roader. During the driver-side small overlap crash test, the vehicle remained upright, with the independent safety watchdog noting in a statement that this is a sign Jeep has resolved “a longstanding issue with the popular SUV.” Jeep's Fix? Changes to the Frame RailAccording to the organization, the Wrangler’s improved result in the crash test “came after changes were made to the frame rail.” It’s worth pointing out that the automaker made the same modifications to the frame rail on the 2026 Jeep Gladiator. This is a major improvement for the Wrangler and Gladiator after earlier IIHS tests saw the SUV tipping onto its passenger side after striking the barrier. “The frame rail reinforcement acts as a structural enabler to support an enhanced impact strategy for this test mode. It acts as a deflector when the wheel and tire are engaged in this particular crash mode,” a Jeep spokesperson said in a statement to Road & Track. IIHS first identified the rollover issue in a test of the 2019 model, and the problem repeated with the 2022 model despite an earlier round of modifications. The problem resulted in the Wrangler being awarded a marginal small overlap rating. Wrangler and Gladiator Now Get Acceptable Small Overlap Rating IIHS After the most recent test, IIHS has given Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles built after October 2025 an acceptable small overlap rating—driver-side and passenger-side tests combined. Why didn’t the two models earn a higher rating given the significant improvement? Well, while the Wrangler offers solid protection overall, the passenger-side test revealed a high risk of injury to the front passenger’s right foot and leg, IIHS said. The IIHS small overlap test simulates a vehicle’s front corner colliding with another vehicle, tree, or utility pole. The vehicle being tested hits a rigid barrier at 40 mph with 25% of the driver or passenger side front end, making it highly relevant for accidents happening in the real world. Sports utility vehicles with a high center of gravity and short wheelbase like the Jeep Wrangler commonly have a higher rollover risk than most SUVs, but the Wrangler developed a strong reputation for tipping. R&T notes that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) calculated the Wrangler’s tip-over risk at around 26.7% in 2020, shortly after the debut of the current JL generation. That’s a higher percentage than most SUVs. View the full article

Buick’s US Lineup Looks Very DifferentBuick has quietly shifted to an all-SUV roster in the US, with the Envista, Encore GX, Envision, and Enclave covering the bases. There’s no full EV in the mix, and none of these models really stretch the boundaries when it comes to tech. Over in China, Buick plays a very different game. The brand still carries significant prestige there, and the company has used that market to experiment with more ambitious products and interior concepts. Case in point: earlier this year, Buick showed off a minivan with a tech-laden, lounge-inspired interior that felt more concept than production. The upcoming E7 SUV is the next step in that direction. Official photos of the E7’s interior show a cabin that’s worlds apart from anything wearing a Buick badge in the US market. Buick A Lounge-Style Cabin Packed with TechStep inside and the E7 leans into Buick’s so-called “Aquatic Aesthetics” design language, borrowing cues from nature to create a bright, open space. The five-seat layout is roomy, and Buick’s floating-layer seats add to the lounge-like vibe. All four main seats come with three-stage heating and ventilation, while the front pair add multi-point massage and full electric adjustment. Rear passengers aren’t left out either, with power backrests that recline up to 125 degrees. Most surfaces are finished in leather, giving the cabin what Buick describes as a 270-degree wraparound feel. The front passenger seat takes things further, acting as a zero-gravity recliner inspired by the Eames lounge chair. Cushion, backrest, and leg support are all electrically adjustable, letting you dial in a near-weightless position with up to 120 degrees of recline. The cabin isn’t fixed, either. It can switch between several setups, from zero-gravity relaxation to a so-called boss mode, and even layouts that turn the interior into a makeshift bed. Rear passengers have access to a 15.6-inch cinema screen, while the sound system packs 20 speakers with Dolby Atmos, including overhead units and a dedicated driver’s headrest speaker. There’s also a rear table, plenty of charging ports, soft ceiling lighting designed to reduce eye strain, and a temperature-controlled storage box that keeps items between 36 and 122 degrees Fahrenheit. On the outside, the E7 borrows cues from Buick’s Momenta concept, including split star-shaped headlights, a shark-inspired front end, and a roof-mounted lidar sensor for advanced driver-assist features. Size-wise, the E7 stretches 191 inches long, 75 inches wide, and 66 inches tall, with a 112-inch wheelbase, which is close to the Buick Envision's. Buick What’s Next for BuickUnder the skin, the E7 runs Buick’s True Dragon Plug-in Hybrid Pro setup, combining a 1.5-liter turbo engine with about 154 horsepower and an electric motor good for 221 horsepower. Buyers can choose between 20.4 or 32.6 kWh battery packs, which translate to an electric-only range of about 66 to 104 miles. Total range is expected to top 994 miles on China’s CLTC cycle. The E7 also gets a continuously variable damping suspension that adapts to changing road surfaces. The E7 is set to make its official debut in China later this March, with no report of the model ever coming to America. Meanwhile, Buick’s near-term plans in the US remain more conventional. Instead of introducing a new EV right away, the brand is preparing to shift production of the Envision to America. The move focuses more on manufacturing strategy than technology, highlighting the very different paths Buick is currently taking in its two largest markets. Buick View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Electric 3 Series Taking ShapeBMW’s electric 3 Series is finally taking shape. With its official design premiere set for March 18, the German marque has shared the first technical details of the i3 sedan – the second production model on the next-generation Neue Klasse platform. The i3 follows the iX3 crossover, but while the SUV gets the early spotlight, it’s the i3 that carries the real legacy. The 3 Series has always been BMW’s benchmark for sporty sedans, and now the i3 is set to bring that DNA into the electric age. BMW Winter Testing and First Official SpecsTesting is happening at BMW’s winter facility in Arjeplog, Sweden, where engineers are putting the i3 prototypes through their paces on frozen lakes and snow-packed roads. These low-grip conditions are perfect for dialing in traction control, suspension, and stability software – giving BMW a chance to fine-tune how the car responds when things get slippery. One of the big stories here is a new computing system BMW calls the 'Heart of Joy.' It’s one of four main control units in the Neue Klasse platform, working with Dynamic Performance Control to manage everything from power delivery to braking, steering, and regen. BMW claims it processes commands ten times faster than before, which should mean sharper responses and smoother handling, even when the road turns icy. For now, BMW is focusing on the i3 50 xDrive, one of the first confirmed variants in the lineup. Powertrain Dual-motor all-wheel drive System Output 469 hp (345 kW) Torque 476 lb-ft (645 Nm) Architecture 800-volt electrical system Peak Charging Capacity Up to 400 kW Motor Layout Rear EESM motor + front ASM motor Production Start Second half of 2026 Under the skin, the i3 50 xDrive uses an electrically excited synchronous motor at the rear and an asynchronous motor up front – a combination aimed at balancing efficiency, performance, and stability. BMW is also touting a new Soft-Stop braking feature that uses the motors to smooth out the last bit of deceleration and reduce brake noise. According to BMW, it’s the most refined stopping feel ever in a 3 Series. BMW A Wagon Version Is Coming, but Not for AmericaOfficially, BMW is only talking about one version for now, but if the insider info from Bimmer Post forums is to be believed, the electric 3 Series lineup could get a lot bigger. The sedan, known internally as NA0, is reportedly set to start production around July 2026 and will remain in production until about 2035. Production is expected to kick off with a non-US i3 50 xDrive, with North American versions and more trims following later. The rumored lineup covers everything from the i3 20 and i3 40 to the i3 50 and a hot i3 M60 xDrive. That last one could debut around 2027, bringing upgrades like adaptive M suspension, larger brakes, and sportier wheels. There’s also talk of an i3 Touring wagon, coded NA1, which could start production in July 2027 and eventually match the sedan’s range of variants. The catch? It might not make it to North America, at least not yet. Production is expected to start in Germany, with the possibility of BMW’s Mexico plant joining in about a year later. As always, take these insider details with a grain of salt until BMW makes it official. BMW View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

What Triggered the RecallHonda is recalling 65,135 units of the 2024 Honda Prologue and 2024 Acura ZDX electric vehicles due to a software fault that could leave drivers flying blind, without their rearview cameras, instrument clusters, or warning lights. The problem has been traced to the vehicle’s Radio Control Module (RCM), where six independent software defects can trigger a processing error that prevents the module from transmitting data to the vehicle's displays. Honda began investigating as far back as June 2024, but was unable to replicate the issue until it had already received 148 warranty claims. The Prologue is built on GM's Ultium architecture and the BEV3 platform, which it shares with the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Acura ZDX, and Cadillac Lyriq. GM supplied the frame, suspension, chassis, powertrain, and electrical architecture, while Honda handled everything above the chassis, including the design and interior. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Why a Software Bug Counts as a Safety DefectThis is not a cosmetic glitch or a minor infotainment annoyance. Because of these faults, the affected vehicles do not meet the requirements for Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards dealing with control display systems, rear visibility, and electric vehicle safety. Losing your speedometer at highway speed, or reversing without a camera in a crowded parking lot, creates real collision risk. The fact that a line of faulty code can now trigger a federal safety recall tells you everything about how fundamentally the nature of automotive defects has changed. Mechanical failures were once predictable, physical, and visible. Software failures are invisible, intermittent, and can affect thousands of vehicles simultaneously with a single bad build. Honda View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Fix, and What Comes NextThe good news is that software bugs are, by definition, fixable without replacing a single physical part. Authorized dealers will push the updated software package through the OBD-II port at no cost, with owner notification letters going out by April 20, 2026. Honda has also confirmed that the corrected software was already rolled into Prologue production at the start of the 2025 model year, meaning newer buyers are in the clear. That kind of rapid, over-the-counter fix would have been unthinkable in the era of mechanical recalls. In a way, the Prologue/ZDX recall ironically makes the case for why software-defined vehicles, for all their new risks, may actually be safer in the long run. When the remedy is a download, not a part, automakers can respond faster, cheaper, and at scale. View the full article

The Storm System Shifts EastThe severe weather system that battered the Central Plains on Friday is now pushing eastward, bringing a fresh wave of hazards for Saturday morning commuters and weekend travelers. As the cold front sweeps across the country, the primary threat zone for intense thunderstorms is moving directly into the Ohio and Tennessee Valleys, extending down into the Deep South. This system is packing a significant amount of moisture and energy, setting the stage for a highly disruptive and potentially dangerous weekend on the roads. Severe Crosswinds and Hail HazardsFor drivers on interstate highways and local routes through eastern Kentucky, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, the immediate threats include sudden, violent weather shifts. Forecasts indicate a high likelihood of sudden downpours that will instantly reduce visibility to zero. Accompanying these torrential rains are damaging straight-line winds that can easily destabilize high-profile vehicles. Furthermore, large hail remains a significant risk within these storm cells, posing a direct threat to windshields and making highway speeds exceptionally perilous. Photo by Florian Gaertner on Getty Images Flash Flooding and Hydroplaning RisksThe most widespread and life-threatening hazard for motorists this weekend is the potential for flash flooding. The storm system is expected to produce training thunderstorms, where repeated heavy downpours track over the exact same locations. Areas stretching from Dallas and Fort Worth all the way up through Nashville are bracing for up to four inches of rapid rainfall. This volume of water will quickly overwhelm drainage systems, leading to deep pooling on major highways and a severe risk of high-speed hydroplaning. Driving Safety and Route PlanningNavigating through these conditions requires extreme caution. Drivers must drastically reduce their speeds to prevent hydroplaning and increase following distances to account for slick, waterlogged brakes. The most critical rule of storm driving remains unchanged: never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. It only takes a few inches of moving water to sweep a vehicle away or stall an engine. If you are traveling through the Ohio or Tennessee Valleys this Saturday, actively monitor local weather alerts and be prepared to pull over safely if visibility drops or water begins to cover the road. Pre-Trip Vehicle Checks for Wet WeatherBefore turning the key this weekend, take five minutes to inspect your vehicle's rain readiness. Visibility and traction are your only lifelines in a severe deluge. Check your wiper blades for any tearing or streaking, and ensure your washer fluid reservoir is completely topped off to clear away muddy road spray. Most importantly, verify your tire tread depth. Tires nearing the end of their life will drastically increase your risk of hydroplaning at highway speeds. Finally, make it a habit to manually turn on your headlights in heavy rain, as automatic settings often fail to activate during daytime storms, leaving you nearly invisible to the drivers behind you. View the full article

Joe Gibbs Racing on Friday night outlined to the Western District of North Carolina its legal reasons for believing an expedited fact discovery against Chris Gabehart and Spire Motorsports are necessary. Typically, the discovery process begins after both parties participate in a Rule 26(f) conference, where all parties involved in litigation meet to discuss settlement options and negotiate the ...Keep readingView the full article

A Deceptive and Dangerous CommuteThe Northeastern United States is facing a highly deceptive weather event as a new winter system moves through the region. With Winter Weather Advisories currently active across New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Vermont, drivers are facing a treacherous mix of precipitation. Unlike a traditional snowstorm, this system is bringing a messy and highly volatile combination of sleet and freezing rain, turning the Friday commute into a significant hazard for anyone on the road. The active advisories will not extend into Saturday. A significant warming trend is expected to move into the region over the weekend. By Saturday, a milder air mass will push high temperatures into the mid 40s across much of New England, completely removing the threat of freezing rain. Freezing Rain and Ice AccumulationsThe primary threat for motorists is not snow volume, but rather the rapid accumulation of ice. Forecasters are predicting up to a quarter inch of ice accumulation, particularly in areas like the southern Adirondacks and western New England. When rain falls into subfreezing surface air, it creates a sudden and nearly invisible glaze on the asphalt. Even a fraction of an inch of ice is enough to completely eliminate tire traction, making vehicle control nearly impossible, regardless of whether you have All Wheel Drive or winter tires. Photo by picture alliance on Getty Images Impact on Infrastructure and BridgesThis wintry mix is especially dangerous because of how it interacts with highway infrastructure. Elevated surfaces, such as bridges and overpasses, will flash freeze significantly faster than the regular roadway. Drivers may be cruising at highway speeds on wet pavement, only to suddenly encounter a sheet of solid ice upon crossing a bridge. This dramatic shift in road conditions is the leading cause of accidents during freezing rain events, meaning defensive driving and drastically reduced speeds are mandatory. Photo by Julia Dorian on Getty Images Preparation and Extreme CautionNavigating freezing rain is arguably the most dangerous winter driving scenario. If travel is absolutely necessary, motorists must prepare for drastically increased stopping distances and the likelihood of sudden traction loss. It is critical to leave massive gaps between vehicles and avoid any sudden braking or steering inputs. However, given the severe threat posed by a quarter inch of ice, the safest course of action is to delay travel entirely until temperatures rise and road crews can effectively treat the asphalt. View the full article

The general consensus is that it will take a top-three seed to contend for the NASCAR Cup Series championship come the start of the Chase for the Championship so is William Byron the least bit concerned with 13th through three races? Drivers talk about it. “Yeah, it’s funny. (Christopher) Bell and I were talking about this at driver intros last week,” said Byron during a Friday press ...Keep readingView the full article

The Tesla Roadster has been coming "soon" for so long that when Elon Musk announced an April 1st reveal date, the internet couldn't decide if it was a joke or not. Given the car was first unveiled way back in 2017 with a price tag sitting around $200,000 and promises that have been delayed ever since, skepticism is fair. But a patent quietly published recently, discovered by a patent analyst on X, suggests things might actually be moving. And what it describes is genuinely unlike anything Tesla, or really anyone, has put in a production car before. Tesla View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article One Frame to Rule Them AllTraditional car seats are an assembly of dozens of components, with metal brackets, recliner mechanisms, headrest stalks, and bolster frames, all bolted or riveted together. Tesla's new patent throws that entire approach out. The design is built around a single continuous composite frame where the seat base, backrest, headrest, and bolsters are all thermoformed as one unified piece. Tesla is calling it a monolithic structure, and it's the same philosophy behind their giga-casting push - fewer parts, fewer failure points, less weight, cleaner manufacturing. It's closer in concept to the carbon tub chassis you'd find at the core of a hypercar like a McLaren than anything you'd expect to find under a seat cushion. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Smarter Than It LooksThe engineering goes well beyond just making it one piece. The frame is divided into up to six distinct stiffness zones, each tuned differently for ergonomics and structural support. Rather than a mechanical recliner, a built-in flexible hinge made from fiber composite material handles movement. Four pairs of actuators give the seat six degrees of freedom, and an ECU manages all of it through software, meaning the seat is essentially programmable. Ventilation channels are molded directly in. Airbag deployment paths are shaped into the bolsters. Even the soft trim attaches without separate hardware. All this goes to say that Tesla’s given this seat more thought than just bolting in a plastic poolside chair, a thought we're sure has entered the minds of many reading this. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Seat That Could Change How Cars Are BuiltThe implications go beyond just the Roadster. If this manufacturing approach scales, it could meaningfully simplify seat production across Tesla's entire lineup, cutting assembly complexity and weight in one move. For now though, it's one more sign that the Roadster is closer to reality than it has ever been. And if the April 1st reveal turns out to be no joke at all, this might just be the seat that takes you from 0 to 60 in under two seconds. View the full article

With the Volkswagen ID Buzz and Audi A6 E-Tron skipping a model year in the US and the ID7 cancelled for the North American market altogether, it would be easy to assume that the Volkswagen Group is facing the same struggles selling electric cars as plenty of other brands – and that, to some extent, is true. However, following news just a few days ago that the VW brand has sold its 2 millionth all-electric car, the wider group has celebrated another major EV moment: across its entire portfolio of brands, it’s now sold 4 million battery electric vehicles since launching its first 13 years ago. While it’s undoubtedly a big milestone to reach, it still sees the manufacturer lag behind the global EV sales leaders coming out of China. Europe Leads the Charge Skoda To accompany its announcement of this milestone, the VW Group has provided some stats around the 4 million fully electric cars it’s sold since first launching the little e-Up electric city car back in 2013. Unsurprisingly, it’s VW’s home market of Europe that accounts for the biggest market for the group’s EVs – some 68% of the overall number, or around 2.7 million, have been sold there. That's not surprising given that brands like Skoda and Cupra are hugely popular on the continent but have relatively minor presences outside it. What VW calls the other two ‘core markets’ for EVs – China and the US – make up for a further 20% and 8% respectively, with the remaining 5% of its EV sales so far coming from other parts of the world. ID4 and ID5 are Leaders Volkswagen VW has also dug into the models that make up its 10 biggest-selling EVs, and comfortably sitting at the top is the VW ID4, plus its not-for-the-US 'coupe' version, the ID5. Between the two, roughly 901,000 units have been shifted since the ID4 went into production in 2020 – nearly a quarter of all the group’s EV sales. Following them in second is the VW ID3 with around 628,000 sales, while the Audi Q4 E-Tron and its Sportback variant round out the top three with 387,000 sales. Notably, the Porsche Taycan occupies the sixth spot with 177,000 sales, outselling more mass-market propositions like the newly-refreshed Cupra Born. Also of note is that the e-Golf, a car very much aimed at early adopters of EVs, remains the group’s eighth best-selling electric car despite having been discontinued for over five years. What Comes Next? Volkswagen 4 million is undoubtedly a big, significant figure for the VW Group to have hit, but the figures also show the scale of the challenge it’s facing from China. It’s taken VW 13 years of building electric cars to hit 4 million, while BYD – now the world’s biggest manufacturer of EVs – sold 2.2 million in 2025 alone. It’s not just Chinese brands that represent a challenge, either – even as Tesla starts to face increasing market pressure, the roughly 8.5 million EVs it’s sold since its inception dwarfs Volkswagen’s numbers. While dropping EV demand in the US means America likely doesn’t figure too heavily into the VW Group’s short-term electric plans, that market competition plus regulatory pressure in other parts of the world mean electric cars are set to keep playing a very big role at the company. That includes a quartet of small, affordable electric models to be rolled out in Europe during 2026 – the VW ID Polo and ID Cross, Cupra Raval and Skoda Epiq. Other lower-end models coming include the city car previewed by the VW IDEvery1 concept, an EV revival of the Audi A2 and eventually, an all-electric ninth-generation Golf. The upper end of the market is still set to play an important role, too, with the recently-revealed electric Porsche Cayenne soon to be joined by Bentley’s first electric car. China represents perhaps the biggest challenge, where rapidly growing domestic brands now have a market stranglehold. VW is responding by developing a range of China-specific EVs in partnership with local companies, although if the initial sluggish sales of the China-only AUDI sub-brand are anything to go by, even that’s no guarantee of success. View the full article

This weekend isn’t about Anthony Alfredo but is instead about Alex Bowman, Blake Harris and whatever the Hendrick Motorsports No. 48 team needs in a substitute role at Phoenix Raceway. Like, Alfredo is not oblivious to the fact that a chance to fill-in for the ailing Alex Bowman is an opportunity to show up and show out in one of the best prepared cars in the NASCAR Cup Series but that would ...Keep readingView the full article

Maserati is in trouble, but according to new spy shots, it's not taking drastic action to try initiate a turnaround, at least not when it comes to the styling of the GranTurismo luxury coupe and its drop-top GranCabrio sibling. The spy shots captured during winter testing in the cold of northern Europe show that the GTs will soldier on for at least another model year with a minor facelift, gaining updates to the front and rear bumpers. Although it's possible that the headlights could get new graphics in the same housings, such alterations are not evident here, and given Maserati's troubles, we doubt it wants to spare too much expense polishing the brass on a sinking ship. The furthest it seems willing to go is a set of new clear taillights (seen on the coupe), which, admittedly, look pretty good. Cheap Changes for 2027 Maserati GT Siblings SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The M189-generation second-generation GranTurismo debuted in October 2022 for the 2023 model year, so a mid-life update is due. The spy shots reveal that the front bumpers will gain larger, more square lower side intakes and a revised rectangular central intake, not unlike the MCPura, which is effectively an updated MC20. The rear of one of the prototypes also dons camouflage to conceal a lightly refreshed diffuser panel, but the rest of the bodywork has been left exposed, so there won't be any changes to the fenders and their trio of side vents. The wing mirror housings and the rocker panels will also carry over from the current car, and we doubt much will change inside, either. Related: Alfa and Maserati Factory Closes in Italy as EV-Only Bet Backfires Though our spies could not get close enough to snap any pics of the cabin, fitting larger screens or placing them in a new layout would require substantial changes to the dash, and we doubt Maserati has the financial bandwidth to splurge. We exect little more than new color and trim options, and we doubt there'll be substantial changes to the powertrains. Why are we being so harsh, you ask? Let's look at the last year. Maserati Is Ailing SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Stellantis has repeatedly been forced to quash rumors of plans to sell Maserati, and after Maserati's sales fell by a shocking 30% in 2025, one can't help but wonder how long Stellantis will keep the Italian brand on life support. Maserati bet big on the electric revolution that never came, and investing in EVs hasn't worked out, but hybrids haven't been popular, with the Grecale dropping four-cylinder hybrids in favor of V6s in a bid to win buyers back through emotional engines. Although journalists the world over love the all-electric Folgore variants, buyers have mostly shunned them, forcing Maserati to offer huge discounts—as high as $85,000 for 2026. Last year's sales (7,900, down from roughly 11,300 the year before) were lower than even Ferrari's, and Maranello intentionally limits production of several models. Clearly, problems at Maserati are bigger than any one model, but if Alfa Romeo can grow in these troubling times, perhaps Maserati can find a way back. If you've made it this far in the article, you probably care about Maserati, so how would you fix the brand?Let us know in the comments below. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Approved before BMW's ownership of the Alpina naming rights was processed on January 1, this is the final product developed by the Bovensiepen-founded Buchloe-based company. This is the 2026 BMW Alpina XB7 Manufaktur, and only 120 will be made, exclusively finished in hues never before offered on the model. After this, no more XB7 X7-based SUVs will be made, and no more will Alpina be considered a separate entity from BMW. What makes this particularly special for us is that it will only be offered in the United States and Canada, making the end of an era a strictly North American affair. Why us and not Germany? Because when the first XB7 was assembled at BMW Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina back in 2020, it was the first time that an Alpina vehicle had ever been completed outside of Buchloe, so this special edition brings the story full circle, celebrating a special collaboration. 2026 BMW Alpina XB7 Manufaktur: Never-Before-Seen Luxury BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The 2026 BMW Alpina XB7 leaves buying customers only one option, and it's the paint: Frozen Alpina Green or Frozen Alpina Blue, with the classic Alpina pinstriped applique running along the shoulders of each example. Both matte finishes are new for the XB7, but their coloring pays tribute to the historic colors of the Alpina brand, helping bridge the transition from private company to BMW entity. Providing contrast are Shadowling gloss black accents, appearing around the glasshouse, on the grilles, on the badges, and even on the tailpipes. Glossy black is also the finish of choice for the 20-inch forged 20-spoke wheels, whose design will evolve as BMW leaves its mark on future Alpina-branded vehicles. If the matte isn't enough to set the final XB7s apart from previous iterations, a unique XB7 Manufaktur tailgate badge subtly reminds onlookers that it's something special, while a "MANUFAKTUR" wordmark on each B-pillar does the same. BMW Inside, all of these limited-edition send-off XB7s will be upholstered in Tartufo Full Merino leather with Alpina scripts embroidered on the front-seat headrests. This luscious leather is complemented by Alpina Walnut Nature Black interior trim and a "1 of 120" plaque on the front section of the center console, while the floor mats get silver Alpina badges. Anodized black shift paddles are another nice touch, and even the carpet in the trunk is special, with a subtle wordmark matching those on the B-pillars. Here, customers will be treated to a pair of handmade weekender bags in brown Lavalina leather with blue and green Alpina scripts to match the headrests. Those who acually use the SUV rather than store it as an investment will also enjoy a Bowers & Wilkins Diamond Surround Sound system. 2026 BMW Alpina XB7 Manufaktur: Big on Performance and Price BMW View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Under the hood of the XB7 Manufaktur is BMW's famililar S68 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, with the engine tuned to deliver 631 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. This is paired with an Alpina-specific version of the eight-speed automatic transmission and integrated 48-volt starter-generator, and together, these components enable 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds. The performance is as comfortable as possible thanks to Integral Active Steering with 2.3 degrees of rear-axle movement and air-suspension, again with Alpina-specific tuning, with the ability to raise the vehicle by 1.6 inches for better clearance or drop by 0.8 inches for a lower center of gravity. In Sport+ mode (joining Comfort and Sport modes) above 155 mph, it drops by as much as 1.6 inches, meaning a total range of 3.2 inches. Related: Alpina’s Next Chapter: BMW Plans To Reinvent Its Most Elegant Performance Brand All of this comes at the not inconsiderable cost of $180,000, plus $1,550 for destination and handling, and all 120 customers will have to wait some time for their builds to be produced, with assembly beginning in South Carolina in September and deliveries expected to commence shortly thereafter, in the final quarter of the year. Thereafter, the newly formed BMW Alpina can begin its challenge to Mercedes-Maybach. It's the end of one era of luxury and the beginning of another. BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Triple DutyMatt McAlear will be a very busy man this year. Currently the CEO of Dodge, Stellantis has appointed McAlear not just one more role, but two. Effective immediately, McAlear is now the CEO of Chrysler, as well as the head of Alfa Romeo North America. Some key highlights of McAlear's career? Well, he's been with the company for 13 years, coming from the days of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. He was responsible for launching the Pacifica way back in 2016, and also led the launch of the all-new Dodge Charger. With three brands under his wing, he has an entirely different challenge ahead of him. Chrysler The State of Alfa Romeo and ChryslerChrysler actually had a steady 2025 sales rally. It sold more Pacificas and Voyagers than in 2024, but growth was ultimately hampered by the discontinuation of the 300. By the end of the year, the company had sold 126,373 vehicles, representing a 1 percent gain over 2024's numbers. Chrysler shifted 110,006 Pacificas, 15,792 Voyagers, and 574 300s last year. As for Alfa Romeo, it's a mixed bag. The good news is that global sales are up by 20.1 percent, with rapid growth in Europe further aided by expansion in Asia. The bad news is, U.S sales could've easily plunged the company into deeper trouble if it wasn't for sales abroad. While other markets gained, U.S sales dropped by 36 percent. Alfa Romeo sold just 5,652 vehicles last year, consisting of 2,414 Tonales, 1,872 Stelvios, and 1,366 Giulias. Alfa Romeo The ChallengesOn Chrysler's end, the company can't just survive on one model alone. Okay, it's technically two, but they're essentially two peas in a pod at this point. That said, there will be three all-new models planned for the brand, namely a hybrid minivan, a crossover, and an EV. It's now up to McAlear to actually get the production of those vehicles up and running after a series of costly cancelled products. As for Alfa Romeo, McAlear will be working with one hand tied behind its back. Despite critical acclaim, the Giulia and Stelvio are staying glued to showroom floors, and the age of these models are defenitely not helping. Tonale sales haven't exactly taken off, either, and its association with the discontinued Dodge Hornet might have hurt its chances. But hope is not lost as successors for the Giulia and Stelvio are underway, but it'll be a couple more years before we see them. Stellantis View the full article

The first week of March has been full of recalls for Ford, from separating driveshafts causing a recall of over 11,000 Super Duty trucks, to almost 605,000 crossovers and SUVs being recalled for faulty windshield wipers. Now, two new recalls announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have impacted many of the same crossovers and SUVs mentioned earlier in the week, along with every model year of the current U725 Bronco and several Edge crossovers. Each recall spans over 800,000 vehicles, with the first affecting 849,310 examples of the 2021-2026 Bronco and the 2021-2024 Edge. The second recall names 889,950 examples of the 2020-2022 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair, along with the 2020-2024 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. If you add up each model year, a grand total of 1,739,260 vehicles over 26 associated products are affected, and although the causes are different, both negatively affect the rearview cameras of these vehicles in unique ways. Let's take a closer look. Two Ford Recalls, Two Issues, One Result Cole Attisha/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The first recall, for the Bronco and Edge, says that the Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) could overheat, reaching temperatures as high as 105° C (221°F) and shut down, causing the rearview camera to stop displaying images as intended. In fact, the entire touchscreen becomes inoperable until the system cools. The second recall for the EscapeExplorer, Corsair, and Aviator states that the image on the center display could flip or invert, which would no doubt be confusing for a driver trying to avoid something on the rear left or rear right of the vehicle. Either way, the problems make affected vehicles noncompliant with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111 for Rear Visibility. Related: Ford Wants to Fix Your Car the Same Day The first recall's overheating APIM problem is "the result of a stack-up of certain, specific vehicle and hardware configurations," reads the recall report, which is translated as a problem with the proximity of HVAC ducts and the audio head unit to the APIM module. Essentially, these components naturally heat up, but they're too close together for the existing software. The second recall report says the touch integrated circuit on the display printed circuit board may cause a pulse on the inter-integrated circuit data bus during startup, which can rewrite a register in the display microcontroller, inverting the graphics and even the buttons on the screen. Customers Must Wait for a Fix to Be Developed Ford View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The first recall's problems were first brought to the attention of Ford's Critical Concern Review Group in November last year, while the second was earlier, in September 2025. Sadly, while Ford expects both recalls to be addressed with new software, updates for either are not yet available. Ford expects Bronco and Edge customers to get their remedy by the end of March, with a planned remedy owner notification date set for March 30-April 3, but the other recall doesn't have an expected remedy owner notification date, so it could be months before that issue is resolved. Lincoln View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Stellantis is one of the world’s largest automakers, with manufacturers like Ram, Jeep, Chrysler, and Dodge all part of its portfolio. But the company has had a mixed reputation for quality in recent years. In last year’s J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study, Chrysler and Ram ranked well below average, while Dodge and Jeep were above average. To address this inconsistency, Stellantis is enhancing its focus on vehicle quality and has hired over 2,000 engineers to support this. It’s part of a “deep reset” inside Stellantis as it launches a series of new models. A “Global Offensive” To Improve Quality Stellantis According to dealers, cost cuts made by previous leadership have resulted in some of the quality mishaps experienced by Stellantis in recent months and years. This includes the Charger Daytona, which was riddled with software issues when it first arrived. But current CEO Antonio Filosa has put the company on a “global offensive” to enhance quality. “We are resetting execution and improving quality management processes to address previous operational issues triggered by past decisions,” said Filosa in a February earnings call, according to Automotive News. A key player in making this happen is Chief Quality Officer Sebastien Jacquet, who is part of the brand’s strategic leadership team. Stellantis In the aforementioned J.D. Power study, which tracks problems experienced with new cars over the first three months of ownership, Dodge ranked highest for all Stellantis brands, placing seventh with 180 problems per 100 vehicles. Jeep was 11th, but Chrysler was only 23rd and Ram was 25th. Ram’s 218 problems per 100 vehicles contrast sharply with top-ranked Lexus, which had just 166 problems. Some blame the Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S’s troublesome launches on cost cutting under the tenure of Carlos Tavares, Stellantis’ previous CEO. That’s according to Sean Hogan, chairman of the Stellantis National Dealer Council. “Antonio knew he needed to staff engineers, and he spent the money and he hired them in order to fix quality,” said Hogan. “When you make those cuts that Tavares did, and you still want the same quality, it’s just not going to happen.” Related: Dodge Charger Daytona and Jeep Wagoneer S EVs Recalled for Rollaway Risk New Platforms, New Problems Stellantis Part of Stellantis’ challenge has been launching vehicles on all-new, unproven platforms with advanced technologies. Models like the Charger Daytona and Wagoneer S have already been recalled, while Consumer Reports accused the Jeep of feeling unfinished. “When you launch new vehicles, when you redesign vehicles, when you add new technologies, this is the time that you have the most problems,” said Jake Fisher, the director of Consumer Reports’ Auto Test Center. “You look at the automakers that are very reliable, they’re the ones that are very stable. They have carryover platforms, they carry over powertrains.” Fisher specifically pointed to Subaru and Toyota, brands that often carry over many components from older models to new ones. The new RAV4, for example, uses the same TNGA platform as the old one. He said he’s interested to see if the return of the trusted Hemi V8 to the Ram 1500 and Stellantis’ scrapping of several plug-in hybrids improves the company’s overall reliability record. What It Means After posting a $26.3-billion annual loss for 2025, partly due to overestimating the demand for electrified models, Stellantis can’t afford another major setback. Prioritizing quality control is important to retain brand loyalty. This is particularly key for Jeep and Ram in the U.S., as the two brands combined for over a million vehicle sales in 2025. By being transparent about its quality challenges and plans to address it, Stellantis is taking a page out of Ford’s book. The Blue Oval has struggled with a high number of recalls for years, but has introduced its own internal strategy to address this. Even the largest auto brands risk losing customers if reliability slips. For Stellantis, addressing quality urgently is as important as new model launches. View the full article

The Celebration Expands Across the LineupJeep turns 85 this year, and the brand is leaning into its legacy of building vehicles for people who want to get outside and go further. The anniversary kicked off with the Twelve 4 Twelve campaign, which means we’ll see a new special-edition Wrangler every month until the end of 2026. One of the first big moves was bringing back a HEMI-powered Wrangler. The Moab 392 puts a V8 under the hood again, and Jeep says it’s because customers kept asking for it. That decision set the stage for a year that’s all about heritage and giving enthusiasts what they want. The Wrangler and Gladiator were first in line for the 85th Anniversary treatment, picking up design cues that call back to Jeep’s rugged, American roots. Now, Jeep is rolling out the celebration to more of its SUVs. Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Grand Wagoneer, and Compass Join InNext up are the Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Grand Wagoneer, and Compass. Each gets its own set of design tweaks that nod to Jeep’s history but keep things modern and understated. Outside, you’ll spot Steel Oxide wheels and Agave Blue anniversary badges. These touches set the special editions apart, but the overall Jeep look stays familiar. Inside, the anniversary models get their own color accents and materials. Look for seat tags in Blue Agave and Mayan Gold, plus contrast stitching that stands out across the cabin. Plaid interior elements appear across the anniversary lineup, referencing Jeep’s history of outdoor and workwear-inspired design. This pattern connects the models to the brand’s longstanding focus on adventure and utility. Jeep A Brand Built on 4x4 HistoryJeep’s history began with the Willys vehicles developed during World War II. These models were first built for military use before evolving into civilian off-road and utility vehicles. The 1949 Willys Wagon combined four-wheel drive with all-steel construction, a rare combination at the time. Jeep continued to innovate, launching the 1963 Wagoneer, which is often considered the first modern SUV for its mix of passenger-car comfort and off-road ability. Jeep introduced the Quadra-Trac system in 1973, then added the 1984 Cherokee, one of the first SUVs with unibody construction. The Grand Cherokee followed in 1993, helping to establish the modern premium SUV segment. Today, Jeep covers everything from compact crossovers to full-size luxury SUVs, but off-road capability is still at the heart of the brand. Jeep is also moving into new territory with electrification. The upcoming Jeep Recon is set to be the first fully electric model with a Trail Rated badge. Jeep View the full article

EV Range and Charging Speed Have Always Been the Biggest HurdlesFor all the progress electric vehicles have made over the past decade, range anxiety and charging speed remain two of the biggest barriers to wider adoption. Automakers have repeatedly promised breakthroughs that would make charging an EV nearly as quick and convenient as filling up with gasoline. Some companies are even developing ultra-fast charging systems that could dramatically reduce waiting times, but these technologies are still slowly making their way into production vehicles. Now, Chinese EV giant BYD claims it has taken a major step toward solving both issues with the introduction of its next-generation Blade Battery 2.0. Revealed during the company’s “Disruptive Technology” event, the new battery promises more than 1,000 km (621 miles) of pure electric range under CLTC testing, along with extremely rapid charging speeds. According to the company, vehicles equipped with the new battery can charge from 10% to 70% in just five minutes and reach 97% in around nine minutes, potentially bringing EV charging times closer to traditional refueling than ever. BYD BYD Says Its New Battery Solves the Range-Charging TradeoffThe new Blade Battery 2.0 represents a significant improvement over the original Blade Battery introduced in 2020. BYD says the updated system combines a 150 kWh battery pack, a high-voltage architecture, and upgraded thermal management to overcome the long-standing tradeoff between performance, range, and fast charging. The technology will debut in the Yangwang U7, BYD’s luxury flagship EV, which reportedly delivers 1,006 km (625 miles) of CLTC range on a single charge. Fast charging has long raised concerns about battery longevity, as higher charging speeds can accelerate degradation over time. Battery manufacturers have been working to address this issue, with some claiming modern packs could handle extreme fast charging for over a million miles with minimal degradation. Meanwhile, other EV owners have also experienced the opposite end of the spectrum, with some models criticized for extremely slow charging that can take up to 24 hours under certain conditions. BYD says the Blade Battery 2.0 has also passed strict safety tests, including nail penetration and bottom impact tests designed to demonstrate its durability. BYD A Step Forward While Solid-State Batteries Remain DistantDespite the impressive numbers, the Blade Battery 2.0 still operates within the limits of current lithium battery technology. For years, solid-state batteries have been considered the ultimate solution for EVs, promising dramatically longer range, faster charging, and improved safety. However, many automakers admit that widespread commercialization of solid-state technology may still be several years away due to manufacturing complexity and cost. In that context, incremental improvements like BYD’s new battery could play a critical role in closing the gap. While a 1,000 km (621 miles) range and sub-10-minute charging may not yet match the theoretical capabilities of solid-state batteries, advances like these show how quickly lithium battery technology is evolving. However, the hardware outside the car also matters. Even if vehicles can accept extremely high charging speeds, many charging stations, particularly in the United States, still lack the power delivery or infrastructure to support that level of electricity. Rather than a sudden technological leap, the future of EVs may arrive through steady improvements across both batteries and charging networks. BYD View the full article

Recalls Often Start with a Supplier ProblemRecalls can sound scary, but a lot of the time, the root cause isn’t the automaker – it’s a part from an outside supplier. Today’s vehicles are built from thousands of components, and if just one supplier has a hiccup, it can set off a chain reaction that affects more than one model. That’s exactly what’s happening with Ford’s latest Super Duty recall. This one covers 11,431 trucks from the 2025 and 2026 model years – specifically, F-250 and F-350 units built between May 31 and December 22, 2025. According to the recall report published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some trucks were delivered with a rear driveshaft that doesn’t meet Ford’s specifications. Since these weren’t built in a neat VIN sequence, owners will need to check their truck’s status through Ford’s recall tool or at a dealership. In total, 9,280 F-250s and 2,151 F-350s are affected. All of them came with specific aluminum driveshafts from Dana Incorporated. Ford What Went Wrong with the DriveshaftThe heart of the problem is the friction weld that connects the driveshaft tube to the end yoke. In some cases, the weld just isn’t deep enough because of a glitch during production. Ford traced it to a worn-out spindle on one of the supplier’s welding machines. That spindle couldn’t spin fast enough to make a solid weld. If the weld fails, the driveshaft could separate while driving. That means the truck could lose power while moving, which is a serious safety risk. There are warning signs before things get serious. Ford says you might hear a loud pop, then feel vibration, noise, or roughness if the driveshaft starts to let go. Ford first spotted the problem late last year during final testing at the Kentucky Truck Plant. Three trucks had their driveshafts separate during inspection. Digging deeper, Ford traced it to a single production batch linked to one specific welder at the supplier. So far, Ford has received six warranty claims and five field reports regarding this issue. The good news: no accidents, fires, or injuries have been reported. Dealers will check affected trucks and swap out the driveshaft if it matches the suspect batch. The fix is, of course, free for owners. Ford Another Ford Super Duty Truck RecallThis isn’t the only recall hitting Ford’s heavy-duty pickups right now. There’s also a separate issue with axle shafts that could break under certain conditions. That earlier recall also targeted some Super Duty trucks, so it’s possible a few vehicles are affected by both issues, depending on when and how they were built. If you own a Super Duty, your best bet is to check your VIN with Ford’s recall tool or talk to your dealer. If your truck is on the list, the fix should be quick once parts are in stock. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

BMW has never been a company to lean too heavily into nostalgia, generally preferring to have one eye focused firmly on the future when it comes to design and engineering. That doesn’t mean it hasn’t ever allowed itself the occasional bit of retro indulgence, though, whether that’s the sporadic revivals of the CSL badge or a throwback special edition like the M2 Turbo Design Edition. Peak retro BMW, though, has to be the Z8, the gorgeous and rare early 2000s roadster that was once a little misunderstood by the world’s press but now seems all but guaranteed to follow the car that inspired it into being a certified classic. Now, just in time for spring and proper top-down driving weather, we’ve found one up for auction. A Retro Cruiser With an M5 Heart Foreign Cars Charlotte / eBay The Z8 was an unapologetic throwback to the BMW 507, the rare and jaw-droppingly gorgeous V8-powered roadster that arrived in 1956 with a view to capturing the wealthy American market. Though the 507 was not a financial success, it became an icon thanks to its looks and its association with famous owners like Elvis Presley and Ursula Andress. In the 1990s, BMW began working on a spiritual successor to that car, another two-seater, V8 roadster. The exterior styling was led by Henrik Fisker, later to join Aston Martin before founding two ill-fated electric car manufacturers, and it referenced the 507 with details like its wide, slender kidney grilles and vents set into the front fenders. The new car sat on a bespoke spaceframe chassis clothed in aluminum bodywork, and borrowed the 4.9-liter, 395 HP S62 V8 from the contemporary E39 M5. Power was sent to the rear wheels by way of a six-speed manual. 0-62 MPH was quoted at 4.7 seconds, and top speed was limited to 155 mph. Initially produced between 1999 and 2002, it was followed up by a run of Alpina-tuned versions, which used a different 4.8-liter V8 and swapped the manual for a five-speed automatic. Overall, 5,703 were produced, 555 of which were Alpina versions. Misunderstood When New Foreign Cars Charlotte / eBay When it launched, neither the media nor buyers were quite sure what to make of the Z8. The car gave off rather mixed messages with its full-fat M division engine and manual transmission but its soft, relaxed suspension setup and laid-back steering. Its muted press reception wasn’t helped by the high price being asked – at launch, the Z8 cost around $130,000 – not far off $250,000 in today’s money. As such, the Z8 was a slow seller, and spent plenty of time not being fully understood or appreciated by enthusiasts. The Modern Appeal Foreign Cars Charlotte / eBay That’s no longer the case, as the appeal of the Z8 has only grown over time. With naturally aspirated V8s and manual gearboxes ever rarer in new cars, the Z8’s boulevard cruiser attitude has become far easier to forgive, and its retro styling has aged beautifully. It’s the sort of car for wafting about in on a sunny day with the roof down, enjoying the soundtrack of one of the greatest V8 engines of all time. Naturally, the market has noticed this, and Z8s are now worth serious money. This one that’s currently up for auction on eBay with North Carolina-based Foreign Cars Charlotte has covered a healthy 27,000 miles, and with around 20 hours to go on the auction as we write this, bidding is up to $50,100. With Z8s now often comfortably cresting $150,000, we don’t doubt that price is going to surge before the auction ends. View the full article

Glass Half FullMuch has been said about the Honda Prelude, particularly its pricing. With a base price of $43,195, the coupe has garnered some comments about it being on the pricey side. The Prelude arrived in American showrooms in November 2025, with a target of 300 units per month. However, sales pickup was slow, and the first few months fell far below sales targets. However, February has been the best month for the Prelude o far, showing a small up upward trajectory. Last month, the company managed to shift 299 Preludes, just one shy of the monthly sales goal. We'll look at this as a 'half glass full' situation — at least Honda's closer to its initial plan. Glass Half EmptyThat said, the Prelude is still the slowest-selling model in Honda's American lineup. Its 299-unit figure is far lower than the next-lowest-selling car in the brand's portfolio. That model is the Prologue, itself suffering a massive 63.6 percent sales decline compared to January's tally. The EV crossover saw just 1,067 sales last month. Granted, the Prelude is a niche model, and small sporty coupes aren't a hot market right now. Still, there was a lot of buzz and fanfare surrounding its premiere, and the reception in America has, so far, been the opposite of that in Japan. Worse still, a discontinued Honda product outsold it last month as well. Larry Printz Beaten by 21 UnitsOkay, we'll be more specific: it's a discontinued Acura product that has beaten the Prelude in sales. That model is the TLX, and it still managed to find 320 new customers in February. It's ahead of Honda's coupe by 21 cars, and considering production stopped in mid-2025, it's not a bad showing for the axed sports sedan. Yes, the target demographics for the TLX and Prelude are miles apart. However, it's rather amusing that a car that's finishing up inventory still outsold an all-new car with loads of hype. Still, given the upward trend in Prelude sales, we reckon it can finally breach the 300 units-per-month target that Honda had set for it. Save the CoupesAs it is, compact coupes from non-luxury brands are hard to come by. Sales for them usually peak in the first few years, then decline sharply as those who have already bought them have them. Keeping interest in them is difficult, especially given that people flock to crossovers and SUVs these days. Despite being $6,000 more expensive, the Prelude was virtually tied with Subaru BRZ sales last month. However, it's worth noting that the Subaru has been around for quite some time and is currently in the middle of its life cycle. There's a good chance that the Prelude could finally surpass it since it's a newer model. Either way, people need to buy more coupes to at least give automakers some incentive to keep building them. Back to the Prelude: if Honda maintains the model's slow but steady growth, it might be on track to reach its annual sales target of 4,000 units. Nonetheless, it will be a tough ask, especially with sportier and more powerful options available for less. Honda View the full article

Horse Powertrain’s Latest Push for Hybrid EfficiencyHorse Powertrain isn’t a household name yet, but it’s quickly becoming one of the more intriguing brands in the hybrid and combustion world. With backing from Renault Group, Geely, and Aramco, the company’s approach is simple: help automakers achieve greater efficiency from existing electrified powertrains without forcing a complete redesign. Its latest development continues that approach – a new “Amorphous Motor,” a dedicated hybrid transmission motor that claims an efficiency rating of 98.2%. According to the company, that figure puts it among the most efficient electric motors currently designed for hybrid powertrains. Horse designed the Amorphous Motor to slot into hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and range-extended EVs. For automakers, it’s another way to boost fuel economy and cut emissions, all without having to overhaul their existing platforms. Horse A Motor Built Around Amorphous SteelThe secret sauce here is amorphous steel. This isn’t your standard alloy – it’s tougher, handles magnetic fields better, and has unique electrical properties. That lets engineers rethink one of the motor’s most important parts: the stator. Normally, a stator is made from stacked steel laminations about 0.25 mm thick. Horse’s version uses amorphous steel sheets just 0.025 mm thick – about a tenth as thick as usual. That change helps guide magnetic fields and generate torque more efficiently. Going thinner means less energy wasted as heat, especially from stator iron losses. According to Horse, its amorphous-steel setup slashes those losses by around half compared to a typical motor. The end result? A hybrid motor that puts out up to 188 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, all while holding onto that 98.2% efficiency figure. In real-world terms, that efficiency boost actually shows up at the vehicle level. Drop this motor into a hybrid, and Horse says you’ll see about a 1% drop in total fuel and energy use compared to older motor designs. A 1% bump in fuel savings might not sound like much, but at this stage, squeezing out even small gains is tough. Today’s hybrids are already running near the top of their game, so most improvements come from fine-tuning specific parts instead of reworking the whole setup. Horse Powertrain Part of a Broader Hybrid StrategyThe Amorphous Motor is just one part of Horse Powertrain’s bigger plan to make electrified powertrains better. They’re looking for ways to squeeze more efficiency out of both electric and combustion tech. One earlier project is the H12 hybrid engine, built with Repsol. It aims for a peak brake thermal efficiency of 44.2%, thanks to a high 17:1 compression ratio, updated turbocharging, and better exhaust gas recirculation. Horse claims the system could achieve fuel consumption below 3.3 L/100 km under WLTP testing, equivalent to about 71 mpg. The engine is also designed to run on 100% renewable fuel, potentially lowering a midsize vehicle's annual CO2 output. Horse Powertrain View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article