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Crime Trends Shift GearsA report from Mercury Insurance, citing data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), states that U.S. auto theft declined by 23 percent in 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. That follows a 16.7 percent drop in the previous year, after thefts peaked in 2023. The improvement reflects a more proactive approach by automakers in addressing vehicle theft, particularly Hyundai and Kia, which had faced criticism after some of their models were found to be especially vulnerable to theft. More recently, the two Korean marques agreed to retrofit about seven million U.S. vehicles with zinc-reinforced ignition cylinder protectors, while also committing to fit engine immobilizers on all future U.S.-market vehicles. Hyundai Going High-TechHowever, the risk has not disappeared. California is reportedly still grappling with elevated auto theft rates, with Los Angeles County remaining one of the hardest-hit areas. Moreover, the report states that thieves are increasingly bypassing traditional “smash-and-grab” break-ins in favor of exploiting keyless entry systems, relay attacks, and on-board diagnostic (OBD) port vulnerabilities, which are often quicker and quieter to pull off. As such, Mercury Insurance has outlined several measures to help reduce the risk of vehicle theft, including the use of steering wheel locks. These devices not only physically prevent the wheel from turning but also serve as a visible deterrent to would-be thieves. Other recommendations include securing key fobs, never leaving a vehicle running unattended, and installing anti-theft devices such as kill switches and tracking devices like Apple AirTags. Kia The Most Targeted ModelsJustin Yoshizawa, Product Management for Mercury Insurance, said, “While the number of auto thefts has been declining, incidents of crime still remain high, especially in California.” He added, “It remains important that vehicle owners stay vigilant in protecting their investments.” In the first half of 2025, four of the 10 most stolen vehicles in the U.S. were either a Hyundai or a Kia. These included the Hyundai Elantra, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, and Kia Soul. Their repeated presence on theft rankings even sparked a viral TikTok trend known as the “Kia Challenge,” in which users demonstrated how easily certain models could be stolen using simple methods. As expected, some of the country’s best-selling vehicles also appeared on the list, including the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado, and Honda CR-V. Other models ranked among the most stolen were the Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and Toyota Camry. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Rethinking EV Packaging, Toyota-styleToyotararely takes the obvious route when it comes to EVs. While most of the EV world has settled into the standard skateboard layout, Toyota keeps looking for smarter ways to fit batteries, motors, and wiring – without just making cars bigger or heavier. Earlier, Toyota filed a patent for moving batteries and wiring to free up cabin space and simplify layouts. This time, the focus shifts from space to safety – specifically, what happens to EV batteries in a crash. Toyota’s latest patent, filed in August 2025 and published just days ago (patent no. 20260054558 if you want to check), takes a different approach to battery protection. Instead of locking the battery down like a solid block, Toyota is asking if letting it move – just a little – could actually make EVs safer in a crash. Cole Attisha How a Moving” Battery Could WorkThe core idea is to mount the battery into the lower part of the car, but not bolt it down like a structural beam. Instead, the pack sits inside the frame, surrounded by suspension parts and reinforced sections that are meant to handle crash forces. In a real-world side impact, those suspension and frame components would deform first, absorbing and redirecting energy away from the battery. Rather than taking the hit directly, the battery is allowed a small amount of controlled movement, reducing peak loads that could crack the casing or damage internal cells. It’s a bit like how crumple zones or breakaway engine mounts work in regular cars. Everything stays solid during normal driving, but in a serious crash, the structure is designed to give way in a controlled fashion. The point isn’t to let the battery bounce around, but to keep crash energy from focusing on one vulnerable – and costly – part. Toyota’s patent also puts extra attention on side impacts, which have always been tough for EV battery safety because there’s so little space between the door and the battery pack. Versus Other EVsMost EV makers go the other way. Tesla, for example, uses very rigid battery packs that double as part of the car’s structure, counting on stiffness and strong side rails to keep things out. Hyundai’s E-GMP platform relies on reinforced underbodies and fixed battery mounts, focusing on shielding and brute strength. In contrast, Toyota’s approach focuses on managing crash energy. It’s a more flexible way of thinking, and it could be easier to use across different types of vehicles, not just pure EVs. Of course, a patent isn’t a promise. Automakers file these to protect ideas, not to guarantee what ends up in showrooms. Designs change, budgets get in the way, and rules shift. So there’s no guarantee we’ll see moving battery packs in future Toyotas, but this does show how the company is thinking about EV safety beyond the usual answers. Getty Images View the full article

A new patent filed by McLaren just feels illegal. The automaker has filed to protect an innovation that adds a new dimension to the launch control system, using similar ideas to improve acceleration and response when a hybrid car is already rolling. You might know similar systems as rolling anti-lag. Why does this feel illegal? Well, if the supercar is on a twisty circuit, there's no use for the system, so it only seems applicable for straight-line racing, and if you're drag racing a McLaren, you're probably starting from a dead stop. If not, it's most likely that you're racing on a public freeway. Of course, McLaren will argue that the tech should only be used on a closed course, but if you're roll racing a McLaren in a competitive event, it's probably modified and has custom ECU settings for just such an eventuality. Regardless, the innovation is still worth discussing, and since McLaren has a way to prevent reckless driving on public roads, it might not be so bad after all. Let's take a closer look. McLaren Develops Anti-Lag for Hybrids McLaren The system's concept was filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and first discovered by CarBuzz, which describes the innovation as little more than a few lines of code used to control electric motors in hybrid vehicles. In a traditional launch control system, the driver holds the brake pedal down while also applying the throttle. Naturally, this is not feasible if the car is already in motion, so instead of using the brakes, this system recognizes when a driver activates the rolling launch (likely with a button on the steering wheel) and uses an electric motor to hold the vehicle at that speed while the driver increases the revs of the engine. According to the patent, the electric motor can maintain speed by applying negaive torque to the output shaft or gearbox, thus counering the positive torque developed by the engine while still allowing the revs to climb to an ideal level. This can be useful on a car with large turbochargers or even a naturally aspirated engine with a steep torque curve. Once the driver is ready to set off, possibly by releasing said button on the steering wheel (JB4 users know exactly how this works), the electric motor stops applying the negative torque. This means minimal lag, if any, in acceleraton. Stumbling Blocks to McLaren's Rolling Anti-Lag Ronan Glon/Autoblog This system clearly adds a layer of complexity that might make production challenging, and those developing the code would need to be cognizant of initiating wheelspin on various surfaces, which would be especially dangerous at higher speeds; in 1st or 2nd gear, it would surely be simpler to just mash the throttle, so this patent appears to be practical only for 3rd gear and higher. A traditional anti-lag system seems more straightforward, but there may be a hidden benefit. With the electric motor developing negative torque, the McLaren of the future may be able to replenish its battery using regeneration more quickly. It seems, then, that McLaren may simply be trying to negate the negative effects of a heavy battery. Still, this is only a patent, and automakers tend to file these for anything they come up with, even if the idea is never intended to reach production. View the full article

When James Hinchcliffe decided to enter the St. Petersburg NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race, he likely didn't imagine it going the way that it ultimately did. Driving the #77 Spire Motorsports Chevrolet with the name 'Jimmy Hinch' above the driver's door, the Canadian racer planned to take part in his first ever NASCAR race. After starting third with minimal practice due to rain cancelling ...Keep readingView the full article

Safety Tech Under ScrutinyHyundai is known for vehicles with the most safety and driver-assist features – often as standard - while other brands keep them locked behind pricier trims. Automatic emergency braking is one of those headline features, meant to spot cars, people, or cyclists ahead and hit the brakes if the driver doesn’t react quickly enough. For the 2025 Tucson, this tech comes bundled as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, complete with pedestrian, cyclist, and even junction-turning detection. It’s supposed to be your backup plan – the system that only steps in when a crash is about to happen. However, that same feature is now at the heart of a class-action lawsuit, with owners saying it sometimes slams on the brakes for no good reason. The lawsuit, filed in California, comes from a Tucson owner who says his SUV has repeatedly braked hard out of nowhere. The complaint doesn’t spell out every incident, but it claims Hyundai pushed this tech to market too quickly and cut corners with cheaper radar and sensors. What the Lawsuit AllegesThe lawsuit says the real problem is the system kicking in when the road ahead is clear, causing the Hyundai Tucson to slow down suddenly and putting drivers at risk of being rear-ended. It also points out that the barrage of warning lights and sounds can be just as distracting, even if the brakes don’t fully grab. Hyundai’s owner’s manual is cited extensively. It lists numerous scenarios where Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist may not operate properly or may operate unexpectedly, ranging from lighting reflections on wet roads to tunnels, construction zones, unusual vehicle shapes, and extreme temperatures around the camera or radar. The lawsuit argues that these disclaimers show Hyundai knew about the system’s weak spots from day one. It also says the company’s language glosses over how serious sudden braking can be, especially at highway speeds, and doesn’t spell out what 'unexpected operation' really means for drivers. Hyundai Certainly Not an Isolated CaseOutside the legal filings, Tucson owners are sharing similar stories online. In one Reddit thread, a driver of a 2025 Tucson describes the collision system bringing the SUV to a full stop, even though they were following at a safe distance. Both times, there was another car right behind – turning what should have been a safety feature into a near-miss. That owner also points out that you can only turn the system off temporarily – it comes back every time you restart the car. The thread also shows similar complaints from other Tucson owners, which means this isn’t an isolated case. For Tucson owners dealing with this, the worry isn’t just about annoying alerts – it’s about whether a safety feature could actually cause the kind of accident it’s supposed to prevent. Hyundai View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

At Circuit of the Americas in NASCAR O'Reilly Series Auto Parts, all eyes were on teammates Shane van Gisbergen and Connor Zilisch. They shared the front row, and were the clear favorites for the win. While SVG drove off with the race win, Zilisch limped home to a 21st place finish. That followed a race where he struggled with brake issues, spent an extended period in the pits, and then got ...Keep readingView the full article

A Modern HomageThe Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale is undeniably a stunning modern creation from the Italian marque. While it shares its underpinnings with the Maserati MC20, the car was styled and handcrafted by Italian coachbuilder Touring Superleggera as a tribute to the iconic 1960s 33 Stradale – a model long celebrated as one of the most beautiful cars ever built. Alfa Romeo limited production to just 33 units worldwide, and FRAME on YouTube shared behind-the-scenes footage of how these hand-built cars come together, offering a closer look at the model before it evolves into the finished product. Taking Shape in ItalyThe assembly process is carried out at Touring Superleggera's facilities in Milan and Turin. The footage shows several examples mounted on a blue assembly jig secured with yellow toggle clamps, allowing engineers to access critical components from multiple angles. Technicians can also be seen fitting the clamshell body sections onto the chassis and installing the multi-spoke wheels, which feature Alfa Romeo’s signature five-hole design – a cue also seen on models like the 4C. Inside, workers use an inspection LED light to examine the machined aluminum center console, offering a closer look at the toggle switches and rotary knobs – subtle details that pay homage to the analog era of sports cars. The 33 Stradale is offered with two powertrains: a twin-turbocharged V6 and a fully electric setup. The combustion variant produces over 620 horsepower – less than the EV’s 750-horsepower output – but it is significantly lighter, by roughly 1,300 pounds. Its carbon-fiber monocoque chassis and Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes further enhance performance by reducing weight and improving braking consistency. FRAME/YouTube 33 and DoneEach example is extensively customized through Alfa Romeo’s exclusive “Bottega” program, comparable to Ferrari’s Tailor Made division and McLaren Special Operations. The automaker has not disclosed how many units were allocated to the U.S., though all 33 examples reportedly sold out within a few weeks of the project’s early customer consultations, which began around the 2022 Monza Grand Prix. The situation is different for everyday enthusiasts. While the 33 Stradale was always destined for a small circle of collectors, Alfa Romeo has extended production of the performance-focused Quadrifoglio versions of the Giulia and Stelvio through 2027 – though only for Europe, leaving U.S. buyers with the 280-horsepower variants. Stellantis Media View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

BMW is taking another step toward a more automated future by testing humanoid robots on a European production line for the very first time. The first batch of robots is being deployed in April at BMW Plant Leipzig, located in Germany, where a small group of machines is being integrated into real manufacturing work. In its official press release, BMW says the project is meant to bring what it calls “Physical AI” into everyday vehicle production while studying how the technology could scale across its global plants. "Physical AI" Hits The Assembly Line BMW BMW The robots come from Hexagon Robotics and are being evaluated in areas such as high-voltage battery assembly and component manufacturing. These tasks can involve repetitive movements, strict safety requirements, and heavy protective equipment for workers. BMW makes it clear that humanoid robotics is intended to support employees rather than replace them, particularly in jobs that are physically demanding. BMW says its robots will learn from real experience and gradually take on more complex tasks. Systems like this can also help manufacturers react faster to unexpected disruptions. For instance, BMW recently recalled nearly 59,000 cars over a potential fire risk, and more flexible AI-driven production could make responding to – or preventing – situations like that easier in the future. BMW Already Tried This Once BMW BMW This European test isn't the first time BMW has dabbled in the art of using humanoid robots, either. In 2025, at the BMW Spartanburg Plant in South Carolina, robots worked regular shifts on the production line, supporting the manufacture of more than 30,000 units of the BMW X3. It handled tasks related to positioning sheet metal components for welding, a process that requires both precision and endurance. BMW says the trial showed that robots trained in controlled environments could transition into real factory conditions faster than expected. That experience is now helping guide the rollout in Europe. Just imagine the possibilities if factories like BMW's Regensburg Plant, which recorded a production high of 356,901 vehicles in 2025, had help from “Physical AI.” BMW's AI-Assisted Balancing Act BMW BMW The Leipzig test is only one part of a much larger transformation happening across BMW’s manufacturing network. BMW definitely needs no help from humanoid robots to keep its head above water; locations like the Hams Hall Plant have survived for more than two decades and built over 7.6 million engines without the need for any AI-assistance. But with more EVs like the upcoming BMW i3 on the way, and more than 40 new models planned by 2028, having robots involved in the production process will give BMW an advantage among the German giants. That said, this strategy will only pay off if these robots serve to complete routine and dangerous tasks to increase efficiency, without making factory work redundant. View the full article

Shane van Gisbergen now has five wins in the NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series, and eleven victories on road/street courses across the top two divisions. The New Zealander started from the outside of the front row, and the only driver who could keep up with him throughout the day was JR Motorsports teammate Connor Zilisch. However, brake issues and a late-race incident took the rising star ...Keep readingView the full article

From Niche to Best-SellerOver 30 years ago, the idea of a car-based SUV was a novelty. For the most part, SUVs had ladder-frame chassis, and the few unibody examples were built as SUVs from the get-go. But then that all changed with the Toyota RAV Four concept, which eventually became the RAV4. Eventually, all Japanese carmakers followed suit, with Honda being the first to respond to Toyota. The first-generation CR-V made its world premiere in Japan in late 1995 and eventually reached America for the 1997 model year. Based on the Civic from the same era, it would later define the crossover SUV genre and become Honda's best-selling product. Honda From the Design ArchivesBefore the first-generation we all know and love was revealed, there were several styling proposals that came before it. While we're unsure when Honda started plotting out ideas for its first in-house SUV, it's safe to say that the initial design looked very different from the final product. As part of the CR-V's 30th anniversary celebrations last year, Honda shared early sketches of every generation made for the first time. There, we saw some pretty wild ideas for both the interior and exterior of the first-generation model. Honda Aztek VibesThe look of the original CR-V looks conventional by today's standards, but it was groundbreaking all those years ago. In Honda's own words, they set out to 'create a new genre that is neither a wagon nor an off-road vehicle,' and one with a 'living room feeling package.' That said, Honda could've easily taken a more daring approach if sanity hadn't prevailed. They wanted a wagon-like vehicle with a very generous glass area, and the first set of sketches followed that to a tee. From the side, it looked like a Pontiac Aztek with the tent permanently attached to the back. The sharp and pointy nose also reminds us of the ill-fated crossover, and we're glad the awkward rear end didn't reach the next design phase. Oh, and that front end is reminiscent of a Fiat Multipla. Honda Ovals in the CabinAlso looking dramatically different from the eventual product was the interior. Forget everything you remember about the gen-one's cabin, as the first sketches showed a more playful and ovoid design. One sketch showed a pod-like center stack, a rather conventional set of dials, and a floor shift automatic. If you ask us, it wouldn't look out of place in a '96 Ford Taurus. Later designs were less rounded, and we can see some elements of it in the production version such as the center stack layout and the column shifter. Interestingly, a center-mounted digital speedometer was also proposed. Honda Taking ShapeAs the design studies progressed, more familiar design elements emerged. The round headlights gave way to squarer units, and the tail lights were eventually moved to the pillars – a trait the CR-V carries to this day. Speaking of pillars, those were made less upright, and there's far less body cladding present. The interior now featured the now-familiar black housing, and the signature dimpled surfaced have appeared. Also present is the swing-up center console and additional storage areas, and the column shifter for automatic models remained. Honda The ResultAfter years of development and several revisits to the drawing board, the Honda CR-V made its world premiere at the 1995 Tokyo Motor Show. What's interesting about the entire design process is that Honda never released a concept version to preview the model. It just...appeared on the company's show stand, ready to be sold to Japanese consumers in a few months. The CR-V, quite literally, burst onto the scene and has been a huge seller since. It's interesting to see how the CR-V's initial design concept evolved to what appeared in October '95. It started out as a rather wacky-looking proposal for one of the most impactful cars ever made during the decade. Of course, it could've easily gone south, but we're glad the CR-V ended up looking the way it did. Let's not forget about that built-in table, too. Honda Honda View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Layne Riggs captured the checkered flag in the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series' first street course race, winning at St. Petersburg as part of IndyCar's opening weekend. Riggs had to hold off Ben Rhodes and then Ty Majeski in the final laps, while also worrying about how much fuel he had in the tank for his #34 Front Row Motorsports Ford. "First thing I'm going to say, thank you to Joey ...Keep readingView the full article

In his quest to become the first driver in NASCAR history to win the first three races of a new season, Tyler Reddick will start from pole position at the Circuit of the Americas. The 23XI Racing star will be joined on the front row by a Trackhouse driver, but not the one we all expected... Ross Chastain will start second, while his teammate Shane van Gisbergen will start 13th in his effort to ...Keep readingView the full article

Driving Into the Data AgeWith increasingly advanced in-car technologies, vehicle owners benefit from a wide range of features, including automatic emergency notifications in the event of a crash. However, these systems may also raise privacy concerns. According to a report by WHO13, General Motors allegedly collected driving data from certain OnStar subscribers and shared it with third-party data brokers. This might ring a bell, as Toyota previously faced a lawsuit over similar allegations involving users of its Connected Services. This time, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird has filed a lawsuit against General Motors, alleging that the company sold driving data belonging to thousands of Iowa residents. According to the complaint, the information was ultimately sold to insurance companies, which may have used it to increase rates, deny coverage, or cancel policies. Buick The Core ComplaintThe lawsuit alleges GM led some customers to believe OnStar – an in-car telematics and connectivity system comparable to FordPass Connect – was required for certain safety-related features to work. It further claims that the company failed to adequately disclose that data related to vehicle speed, seatbelt usage, driving behavior, and location had been shared with third parties, including Verisk Analytics Inc. and Wejo Limited, beginning in 2015. OnStar is available across GM’s brands, including Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. It offers a range of connected features, allowing owners to control certain vehicle functions through a smartphone app, access an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot, and run vehicle diagnostics that can alert them to potential issues and help connect them with a nearby dealer or service provider if needed. While these features are designed to be convenient, concerns arise if they come at the expense of data privacy. In this case, the lawsuit alleges that such practices would violate data protection laws, including the Iowa Consumer Fraud Act. OnStar Iowa Pushes BackSpeaking about the lawsuit filed in the Polk County District Court, Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird said, “Iowans deserve to know who is collecting, using, and selling their data and why.” She added, “They should also be able to trust a company as large and well-known as General Motors. GM was not honest with Iowans who were spending their hard-earned money on a dependable vehicle, and it did so to generate more profit.” While the case is ongoing, it raises broader questions about how automakers manage vehicle data, particularly as in-car technologies continue to advance. Many modern features, including advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), rely on sensor inputs and vehicle data to function properly, supporting safety technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Automatic Emergency Braking. Pressure could mount as IIHS moves to tighten Top Safety Pick+ criteria. As part of its “30x30” vision, the group says it plans to add requirements for technologies that address risky driving — including driver attention systems — by 2030 in an effort to reduce traffic fatalities by 30 percent. Buick View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Legend on the Road and at the TrackThe Mercedes-Benz 190E is a legend in many ways. The Baby Benz was uncompromisingly engineered as a miniature S-Class and renowned for its durability, dependability, and reliability. It was a time when Mercedes-Benz truly built cars that were engineered like no other in the world. It was a brilliantly smooth car on the road, but on the race track, it was absolutely savage. The 2.3-16 and 2.5-16 models drew countless wins in touring car racing, with the Evo II being the most successful. It gave Mercedes-Benz the constructor's title in DTM in 1991 and 1992, helping Klaus Ludwig clinch his second title in '92. HWA Back to the 'RingIt's been over 30 years since the 190E competed in motorsports in full capacity. Of course, it doesn't have to do much anymore as it's cemented its legacy since then. We love a comeback story, though, and the Baby Benz will be racing in the 2026 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Okay, it's not a 190E per se, though, but rather, the HWA EVO.R. It looks like the iconic Baby Benz from the outside, but it shares little in common with the road car. The middle bit is based on the 190E, but everything beyond that is custom. That makes the EVO.R a bespoke, carbon-fiber bodied track weapon that's hunting for wins this year. The Nürburging 24 is a great way to get things started. HWA What's It PackingHWA isn't mentioning how much power the race car makes, but we do know it has a heavily reengineered version of the M276 twin-turbo V6 engine from the previous-generation S-Class. It's a far cry from the original 190E 2.5-16, which had a high-revving, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. In road car form, the HWA Evo makes 444 hp with the option to bump that up to 493 hp. We reckon the race car will blow past the 550 hp mark. There are double wishbones at the front and rear, with special springs and dampers for good measure. The engine is pushed further back to give it a front-midship layout for sharper handling. We're certain that HWA has more tricks up its sleeve for the competition model. The race cars will compete under the ‘SP-X’ special vehicle class. More information will be revealed before the Nürburgring 24. Lastly, don't you dare call it a restomod — it's an entirely new vehicle from bumper to bumper. If you're interested in one of these, the road version starts at about $760,000. You have to be quick, though, as only 100 were built, and a good number of them have already been spoken for. HWA HWA View the 11 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

As part of its five-truck program, Kaulig Racing has one all-star truck with a rotating roster of drivers throughout the 2026 season. The #25 was driven by Tony Stewart at Daytona (36th) and Ty Dillon at Atlanta (11th), while IMSA veteran Colin Braun pilots the truck this weekend at St. Petersburg. Corey LaJoie will be the next driver to take the wheel when the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series ...Keep readingView the full article

Gunther Werks Delivers First East Coast Turbo CommissionGunther Werks has completed delivery of its first Turbo Coupe commission for a U.S. East Coast customer, debuting the build at the 9th annual Miami Concours. Known as the “Alchemy” commission, the car is the latest example from the company’s limited-production Turbo program, capped at 75 units worldwide and focused on extensively reengineered air-cooled Porsche 911 models. Developed with Prestige Imports and Gunther Werks Miami, the project highlights the growing demand for ultra-bespoke restomods as high-end buyers seek greater personalization. While Gunther Werks has previously emphasized performance upgrades, this commission places equal focus on materials, finishes, and customization without departing from the program’s performance-driven foundation. Color-Shifting Paint Headlines the Miami BuildThe Miami Commission’s primary distinguishing feature is a one-off color-shifting exterior finish developed over a five-month period. Gunther Werks’ Color, Material, and Finish (CMF) and paint teams tested multiple formulations before finalizing a green-based paint that reveals copper, gold, and bronze tones depending on lighting conditions. The exterior package also includes forged magnesium Turbo Twist wheels finished in bronze and fitted with center-lock hubs. Weight reduction remains a core priority, with the car retaining a full carbon-fiber body structure and aerodynamic revisions derived from the Turbo program, including widened bodywork and enhanced cooling airflow. Facebook - Gunther Werks View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article Twin-Turbo Power Remains the Core FocusDespite the extensive cosmetic customization, the Miami Commission retains the mechanical specifications of the Turbo Coupe restoration program. Power comes from a hand-built 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged air-cooled flat-six producing more than 840 horsepower and 600 lb-ft of torque, sent exclusively to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential. Inside, the cabin features Italian leather upholstery finished in a tobacco-toned dye, contrasted by red motorsport accents. Several interior components, including the shifter and steering wheel controls, are plated in 24-karat rose gold. With a claimed curb weight of approximately 2,750 pounds, Gunther Werks says the Turbo achieves a power-to-weight ratio exceeding that of a Bugatti Veyron, reinforcing its positioning as a performance-focused restomod despite its luxury-oriented specification. Facebook - Gunther Werks View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

GM Specialty Vehicles (GMSV), the General Motors-owned venture that specializes in the import, conversion and sale of iconic GM vehicles in select left-hand-drive markets, has announced its expansion to the United Kingdom. Before entering the UK market, GMSV has been operating in Australia and New Zealand, where it launched as a successor to Holden Special Vehicles (HSV) in November 2020. From now on, UK buyers will be able to place orders directly to GM for some of its most desirable and powerful vehicles, including SUVs and pickups from the Cadillac, Chevrolet and GMC brands. In doing so, they will benefit from full GM customer support, including warranty, homologation, finance, aftersales and nationwide servicing. Priced Like Luxury and Super Luxury Cars GMC UK buyers will be able to orders premium models like the Cadillac Escalade and GMC Yukon Denali full-size SUVs, as well as their mainstream cousins, the Chevy Tahoe and Suburban. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 pickup trucks are also available to order on GM Specialty Vehicles’ UK website. As you can imagine, these big American SUVs and pickups are offered with a significant price premium in the UK. The most "affordable" is the Chevy Silverado LT Trail Boss, which starts at £79,200, which is the equivalent of roughly $107,000; in the U.S., the same truck starts at $58,800. The most expensive is the Cadillac Escalade-V, listed in the UK with a starting price of £199,950, which equates to $270,000 in U.S. currency. In its home market, the performance luxury SUV starts around $171,000. At these prices, we certainly hope that a right-hand-drive conversion is included. Curiously, the press release and the GMSV UK website make no mention of that whatsoever. Three Years' Warranty With Unlimited Mileage "We're excited to be working with Clive Sutton to bring to UK customers our iconic North America vehicles. We've selected incredible vehicles from our global brands – Cadillac, GMC and Chevrolet – through a dedicated GM facility in North West London and the nationwide network of retailers that is set to follow," said Jean-Pierre Diernaz, GM Europe’s managing director. GMSV says the vehicles will be supplied directly by GM and delivered in a first phase via Clive Sutton's new London premises and later on through the wider retailer network the automaker is currently working on rolling out. Retailers will also offer a wider range of services, including accessory packages, paint protection film, specialist finishes, paint treatments, tracker and security installations, and part‑exchange services. Every GMSV UK-market model comes with a comprehensive three-year, unlimited-mileage warranty with two further years’ cover as an optional extra. GMSV will start UK deliveries this spring. You may have noticed that the Chevy Corvette is missing from GMSV's list of products for the UK, and that's because America's sports car is already available in Britain in right-hand-drive configuration through select dealers. View the full article

Pressure MountsAudi is in a tough spot right now, as it does not operate a U.S. manufacturing plant that could shield it from the Trump administration's tariffs on imported vehicles. That exposure may have weighed on its performance last year, when the brand recorded its weakest U.S. sales result in this decade. Deliveries fell 16 percent in 2025 to 164,942 units. By comparison, key rival BMW sold 388,897 vehicles in the country over the same period. Now, Audi is opening a new chapter in the U.S. with the announcement that Vito Paladino will take over as president. Paladino joined Audi Canada in 2013 in sales operations before being named president in 2020. During his tenure, he helped guide the four-ring brand to its first-ever position as Canada’s top-selling premium automaker in 2022 – an achievement the U.S. arm would likely welcome right now. Audi No U.S. AnchorThe brand’s best-selling model in the U.S. is the Q5, a compact luxury crossover that competes with the likes of the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class. However, the Q5 is assembled in Mexico, while most other models are shipped from Europe. There have been multiple reports outlining potential strategies to mitigate that tariff exposure – including building the all-electric Q4 e-tron at parent company Volkswagen’s Chattanooga, Tennessee plant – but none of those plans have materialized so far. That said, Paladino – who also assumed additional responsibilities as president and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada in 2024 – will face significant challenges when he officially takes office on April 1, 2026. In a press release, he stated, “I’m honored to lead Audi of America at such an important time for the brand. Having spent much of my career within the Audi family, I know the passion, innovation, and dedication that drive our teams and our customers.” Reorganizing the Front LinesOutgoing Audi of America president Daniel Weissland will take on a new role as president of the FAW Audi Sales Company in China – one of the German marque’s largest markets, alongside the U.S. and Europe. Audi operates multiple manufacturing plants in China and has even introduced a separate sub-brand, AUDI, which focuses on all-electric models such as the E5 Sportback. Khaled Soussi – currently responsible for Commercial Strategy and Customer Experience at SEAT – will replace Paladino at the helm of Audi Canada. Meanwhile, Edgar Estrada, currently president of the Volkswagen brand in Canada, will become president and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada. Audi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

MinimalistManufacturers have slowly adopted the idea of removing as many interior buttons as possible. They think these buttons represent clutter and, as such, are trying to integrate all features and settings into the touchscreen or infotainment screen. Such settings that have been removed are vital to driving and ergonomics. Push start buttons, airconditioning settings, and many more are now being buried into screens. While this does allow a cleaner-looking interior design, there are some instances where it puts the driver and passengers in danger. Case in point: a crash in China caused by the driver's voice command. Un-Common MisunderstandingIn a dashcam video posted on Weibo, a Chinese social media website, the owner of a Lynk & Co Z20 EV experienced firsthand that some new features still have a ways to go in terms of refinement. The video has gone viral, where the driver and owners of the said vehicle asked their voice command to turn off all cabin lights. The feature instead misinterpreted this request as a request to turn off all lights, prompting the system to switch off the car's headlights while driving on a highway at night. As you can surmise, that error caused the accident. Thankfully, nobody got hurt, but it could've easily been a different story. The problem was that the driver realized what had happened and tried again to use the same feature to turn the lights back on, but the car refused. This also ties into the fact that there is no physical button or stalk for the headlights, not give the driver enough time or even the option to manually turn them back on quickly before an accident can occur. Following the incident, Lynk & Co, a brand under the Geely umbrella, immediately released a software update that will ensure this incident doesn't repeat itself. In the updated software, the voice command feature will be unable to turn off the headlights while driving; the only way to do so is for the driver to manually turn them off by digging into the touchscreen and finding the setting. Safety Over FormSome owners who also have the same type of features in their cars have posted about their experiences with the tricky voice commands. Some have said that it's easier for the system to understand the command to turn off all lights than to turn off all cabin lights. While we can all appreciate automakers for trying to simplify interior designs and add more convenience features like voice commands, safety should never be put into question. As cars become increasingly complex, maybe some physical buttons should return to the cabin to prevent untoward accidents like this. View the full article

Enforcement BeginsThe state of Kansas has ordered transgender residents to surrender their driver’s licenses following a new law that took effect Thursday. According to Erin in the Morning, a letter from the Kansas Division of Vehicles states that Kansas-issued driver’s licenses must now reflect “the credential holder’s sex at birth.” The new law took effect after the Kansas Legislature overrode Governor Laura Kelly’s veto of Senate Bill 244, which requires all state-issued IDs to reflect a person’s sex assigned at birth. Kelly had previously described the measure as “poorly drafted.” Driving with an invalid license may constitute a Class B misdemeanor under Kansas law, carrying penalties of up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Notably, the law does not provide a grace period for compliance. Erin in the Morning Mandatory ReplacementAffected drivers must surrender their current credentials to the Kansas Division of Vehicles to be issued a new one reflecting the gender designation required under state law, according to the letter. It also states that individuals may appeal the decision, but doing so will not preserve the validity of their existing credentials. The outlet notes that Kansas may be the first state to go so far as to invalidate previously issued documents. States such as Florida, Texas, and Indiana have also stopped permitting gender marker updates, though transgender residents in those states have not been required to surrender their existing driver’s licenses. The Law’s ReachIn addition to changes affecting driver’s licenses, the law is also restricting transgender individuals in Kansas from using bathrooms that align with their gender identity and allows private citizens to file civil lawsuits seeking at least $1,000 in damages for alleged violations. These measures come amid broader policy shifts during the Trump administration, as well as changes to federal passport policies requiring passports to reflect the sex assigned at birth. Beyond social policy, the administration has also introduced regulatory changes across other sectors, including the automotive industry, where certain federal electric-vehicle incentives, such as the $7,500 tax credit, have been scaled back. Reports have pointed to signs of slowing growth in EV sales and adoption, a segment strongly supported by states such as California. The administration has also moved to roll back or eliminate policies implemented by previous administrations, including Obama-era greenhouse gas standards aimed at addressing climate change. Chevrolet View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Corvette Grand Sport Is Next in LineThe Chevrolet Corvette C8 family is about to get a new addition, and all signs point to the return of the Grand Sport badge. One of the latest clues comes from a Mid Engine Corvette Forum member who spotted a black, manufacturer-plated C8 test mule rolling through Michigan. The car’s stance sits right between a Stingray and a Z06 – noticeably wider than the base model, but not quite as aggressive as the full track-ready version. If the guesses are right, this is the next Corvette Grand Sport – a model that’s always filled the space between the entry-level cars and the hardcore track specials. The test mule already looks more like a Z06, thanks to its widebody and quad exhausts tucked under the license plate. There’s also a detail worth noting: the rear bumper still has unused exhaust cutouts on the sides, hinting that this prototype is still in the middle of its development. GM covered up the rear glass, which usually means there’s something new under the hood. This time, the focus is on what might be a brand-new naturally aspirated V8 – making the Grand Sport more than just a styling package. Mid Engine Corvette Forum What We Know So FarThe real story here is the engine. Rumors point to a 6.7-liter naturally aspirated small-block V8, possibly called LS6 – a name that means a lot to Corvette fans. This engine first popped up in a leaked GM parts book last December, showing both direct and port fuel injection and a bigger displacement than the Stingray’s 6.2-liter LT2. If that’s true, the Grand Sport would slot above the standard Stingray in terms of power, but still stay below the high-revving Z06. The test car also wears carbon-fiber wheels like the Z06, which backs up the idea that this model is meant to bridge the gap between trims, not blur the lines. There’s talk about a manual gearbox, but that’s probably wishful thinking. The C8 was built around a Tremec dual-clutch, and bringing back a manual would mean extra cost and engineering headaches that GM likely won’t take on. Like past Grand Sports, this one should stay rear-wheel drive, which helps it stand apart from the all-wheel-drive E-Ray. Mid Engine Corvette Forum Not the First SightingThis isn’t the first time the Grand Sport has shown up in the wild. Earlier, two similar Corvettes were spotted on California’s Angeles Crest Highway, apparently set up for a photo shoot and hidden behind support vehicles. Around then, leaked paint codes for the 2027 model year included Opulent Blue Metallic – better known as Admiral Blue, a classic Grand Sport color. The California car also wore red stripes – a signature Grand Sport touch – even if the placement isn’t exactly like older versions. With the Corvette now mid-engined, even the classic design cues are getting reworked. Put all these clues together, and it’s clear the Grand Sport isn’t just forum chatter anymore. It looks like Chevrolet is getting ready to add a well-judged option to the C8 lineup – one that gives buyers more performance than a Stingray, but without the full-on commitment of a Z06. Mid Engine Corvette Forum View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Running 24 hours a day, Kia’s West Point, Georgia assembly line rolled out about 360,000 vehicles last year, making it one of the most productive automotive plants in the country. Somehow, the challenge will be to squeeze out even more in 2026. That’s because demand continues to grow for one particular model line among the six currently produced at the 2,200-acre site: the Kia Telluride. Nicknamed the “Selluride” inside the company, it’s far outstripped initial sales forecasts and the automaker is betting it could see another 50% surge with the launch of the second-generation SUV in the coming year. More precisely, it’s expecting a flood of demand for an all-new version of the Telluride being added to the line this year. So, it was no surprise that when the Georgia plant celebrated the production of its 5 millionth vehicle this week it chose a 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid to mark the occasion. What’s New Kia First launched in time for the 2020 model year, Kia quickly took the triple crown of automotive awards, the original Telluride named not only North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, but MotorTrend SUV of the Year and one of Car & Driver’s 10 Best. For 2027, the Korean carmaker is back with a second-generation Telluride launching the new 3-row crossover at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November. The 2027 Telluride is 2.3 inches longer than the outgoing model, with a 3-inch stretch of its wheelbase. It gains about an inch in height, as well. Inside, it delivers more head, leg and shoulder room, especially in the third row. Related: 2027 Kia Telluride Configurator Goes Live—We Pick the Trim Worth Buying The second-generation Telluride doesn’t stray far from the original winning formula, though the grille carries over only the faintest elements of the traditional Kia “tiger nose” grille. It adopts a bolder, more squared-off look, framed by vertical bar headlights, said designer Kurt Kahl, in order to “frame…and sharpen the Telluride’s face feature Kia's Star Map lighting graphic. The amber-hued DRL lighting returns with this sleeker, more modern expression.” But the biggest news for 2027 is the launch of a first-ever Telluride Hybrid. Better Mileage = Bigger Share Hybrids, in general, have scored a big surge in demand over the last several years, reaching 12.7% of all new vehicles sales in 2025, according to the U.S. Energy Information Agency. That was up from 10.8% the year before. Better mileage equals bigger sales, it seems. And that’s what Kia is counting on. Telluride Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four with two electric motors, power going through a six-speed automatic to all four wheels. The biggest draw: a combined fuel economy rating of 35 mpg, 13 more than the six-cylinder package. But Kia also takes advantage of the snappy torque electric motors can deliver. The hybrid package delivers a combined output of 329 hp and 339 lb-ft, -- enough to tow up 4,000 pounds. By comparison, the carryover 3.5-liter V-6 manages to deliver just 287 hp and 260 lb-ft. Tripling Sales Kia When Kia first laid out plans for the Telluride it had modest ambitions. After all, it was known as more of a bargain-basement brand with products like the Rio hatchback starting at $16,100 in the U.S. The Telluride was not just bigger – introducing Kia’s first three-row SUV – but had a starting price of $31,600 for the 2020 model year, well above anything to come before. Related: 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid Price Makes Palisade Look Tempting That didn’t seem to matter. Backed up by rave reviews and an assortment of awards, sales quickly surpassed the automaker’s modest 60,000 target. On sale for only part of 2019, Kia still managed to deliver 58,604 of the SUVs. The following year the number jumped to 75,129 and has grown every year since, reaching 123,281 Tellurides in 2025. Going forward, Kia believes it can hit a target of 180,000 sales this year – which would be a full 300% more than the original target for Telluride back in 2019. Significantly, the newest version of the SUV is expected to drive that surge. “Our early indications are that consumers are interested in the hybrid,” said Stuart Countess, president & CEO of Kia Georgia. Though the West Point plant can quickly shift output to meet demand, Countess said it currently expects the Telluride Hybrid will account for anywhere from 55 to 58% of the SUV’s sales going forward. View the full article

When looking at the field for Saturday's first-ever street race for the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series (NCTS), one name in particular may jump out at you -- Dario Franchitti. The 52-year-old Scotsman has won four IndyCar titles, three Indianapolis 500s, and is even a winner in prestigious endurance racing events like the Rolex 24 and Sebring 12 Hours. And now, he will be part of the first ...Keep readingView the full article

General Motors has long leaned into the classic American idea of "bigger is better." The company, which includes brands like Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC, is once again at the top when it comes to sheer truck size. According to the latest data from the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)'s Automotive Trends Report, GM still builds the biggest trucks on sale in the US, marking the second year in a row it has led the category. GM’s Trucks Are Officially The Biggest In America\The EPA measures vehicle size by footprint, calculated by multiplying wheelbase by average track width. It may sound like an insignificant number, but it matters because US fuel economy rules scale with footprint, i.e. large trucks have different regulations than tiny hatchbacks. For the 2024 model year, GM’s average truck footprint came in at 60.2 square feet, with preliminary 2025 data increasing that up to 60.4 square feet. That keeps GM ahead of rivals like Ford (58.3 square feet) and Stellantis (58.0 square feet), while manufacturers such as Toyota and Nissan remain closer to the industry average of 54.2 square feet. America’s Truck and SUV Obsession Keeps Growing GMC Newsroom The same EPA report shows just how dominant trucks have become. Pickups, vans, and truck-based SUVs now account for roughly 66% of new vehicle production in the U.S. In fact, people's love for luxury pickup trucks is one of the main drivers behind why the average new car price sits at $50,326. That demand has helped GM become the best-selling automaker in the US for 2025 with around 2.85 million vehicles sold, up 6% year over year. That said, the best-selling pickup title still belongs to the Ford F-150, with the Chevrolet Silverado finishing in second place. A Large, Gas-Powered Future For GM Chevrolet EV interest is dimming across the industry, and brands have admitted an all-electric future might have been unrealistic. In fact, GM incurred an $8.5 billion expense last year, due to all the EV-related programs it cancelled. Therefore, while GM will continue to produce EVs, it won't be as intense as before. Judging by the sales numbers and the EPA’s findings, GM’s formula is still working, and we wouldn't be surprised if they continue to build massive, gas-powered trucks and SUVs for many years to come. View the full article

A Workhorse With a Question MarkBy now, you should know that Kia has an entry in the midsize truck segment called the Tasman. It’s aimed squarely at established names like the Ford Ranger, and early feedback has been mixed – styling and tough competition are both part of the conversation. A recent test in Australia probably won’t help the Tasman’s image right now. While the Tasman is actually a capable off-road machine, a pickup’s main job is to carry heavy loads in the bed without drama. If something as basic as closing the tailgate becomes an issue when the truck is loaded, as this recent test exposed, it calls into question how well the Tasman lives up to its workhorse image. A Pickup Should Do Truck Things Easily, Right?In routine testing, Australian outlet Carsales loaded up the Tasman with two 717-pound lead boxes – 1,434 pounds in total – and strapped them down using the lower rear-side-wall hooks. On paper, that load shouldn’t trouble the Tasman. The truck’s gross vehicle mass is 7,165 pounds, and lighter trims can handle up to 2,478 pounds of payload. Even the top-spec X-Pro, which was tested, is rated for 2,234 pounds. According to the publication, in both the X-Line and X-Pro, the tailgate fouled on the tub when closing. It could be forced shut, but it rubbed against the body, leaving marks. No other pickup tested the same way reportedly showed this issue, Carsales indicated. The likely culprit is inward flex from the ratchet straps pulling on the rear wall-mounted hooks, which slightly distorts the tub. According to an experienced automotive engineer Carsales spoke with, floor-mounted hooks are generally better because they direct the load to stronger parts of the structure. Mounting them higher on the tub walls can put stress on areas that aren’t as robust. Of note, the publication claimed it tried various methods of securing the load. Diagonal straps still led to the same issue. Running straps front-to-rear on the same side helped a bit, but the tailgate was still tighter than when empty. That method also only works if your cargo has top-mounted rings. Kia Australia told Carsales that its technical and R&D teams in Korea are looking into the issue. So far, there haven’t been any customer complaints in this exact situation, but Kia says it will take action if needed. Looking Toward AmericaAll of this comes as Kia is working on a separate midsize pickup for the US market. At the Seoul Mobility Show, CEO Ho Sung Song confirmed that the Tasman was never meant for the American market. The upcoming truck, which is expected to be built in Georgia, will go up against mainstays like the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, and the North American Ford Ranger. If Kia wants to be taken seriously in the truck segment, especially in America, structural strength isn’t optional. A pickup needs to carry weight in its bed without losing basic functionality. If this tailgate issue sticks around, it chips away at the core promise of what a truck should deliver. View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article