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Joe Grippo is one of BANGshift’s longest running contributors and has covered everything from junkyards to car shows and drag races to drag and drives, and so much more. He drags his lovely wife, and enthusiastic brother, along with him to some of the shows and races and he’s been contributing for years. It is kind of amazing to think that he’s been a supporter of the site since its inception, and is still going strong. Big thanks Joe, we appreciate you so much. Here’s his writeup: Well, here we are again, finishing up another trip around the sun and wrapping up the year that was 2025. Seems like a good time to revisit the previous twelve months through my photographic year in review. January started out with some indoor car show stuff where we saw the recently restored Scott Shaffiroff Pro Stock Mustang II and the A.J. Foyt IROC series Camaro. Maple Grove Raceway continued with their Winter Series No Prep races, always a wild time. And dig the Godden Speedway Bike my neighbor had just finished up, so killer! February had a trip to my favorite car collection, 3Dog Garage where Ross the owner had just added some Andy Brisio creations and a GT40. Mind blow. Another trip to the Grove for 20-degree temps and more No Prep insanity. March, we went back inside for the East Coast Indoor Nats, that Comet and that Corvette with the proper number of taillights were it for me.v April kick off our race season. I was able to get a spot in a track rental at Maple Grove with bunch of Exotic car dues. I was the loudest car there. Then it was the Spring Carlisle swap meet, where a ton of cool stuff was there for the taking is you had the scratch. Need a drum of orange Hot Wheel track or a CW Racing Phaze 1 BMX frame? Of course you do. May had a trip to Delaware for the Good Guys, where I took in all kinds of killer Rods. Fat Fender Fords, Pro Streeters channeled coupes and high zoot street rods filled the infield of Dover Speedway. June was the Carlisle All Ford Nationals and some bracket races. July, we did some big money bracket racing, again at the Grove with the Independence Shoot-Out. Next, we hit our favorite nostalgia meet, Geezers at the Grove at, of course, Maple Grove Raceway. August was a diverse month. A friend finished his restoration of J.C Baker’s DragMaster Dart and held an unveiling party. Mr. Baker was in attendance for the emotional reveal. Quite a day. I took a quick rundown to Cecil County Dragway to take in qualifying at the Yellowbullet Nats, always killer cars and racing in front of a packed house. Then on a random Tuesday evening I went to get a haircut and saw that my barber Jesse had ridden his rigid, coffin-tanked H-D chopper to the shop, had to click a few off. September was a crazy blur being the busiest month of the year. It kicked off with the NHRA Keystone Nationals at Maple Grove. Factory Stock and some bad ass Comp Eliminator cars are highlighted. Then thanks to BangShift we tagged along for DragWeek. Numidia Dragway, Maple Grove and Cecil were our stops, along with some checkpoint and roadside wildness. A few days later we loaded up my Mustang and headed to Bowling Green, Kentucky for the Holley Ford Festival. What a blast! We got to see a ton of Fords we had never seen before. Along with some old friends, like Chad who was barking into the mic all weekend. While in Bowling Green we hit the nearby Corvette Museum. Oh yeah, and Buc-ee’s. October is Hershey, more specifically the AACA Eastern Region Fall Meet, or aka, my favorite week of the year. Swap Meet and car show loaded with a variety of stuff you likely won’t see anywhere else. Fall is for drag racing, we hit some bracket races and the NHRA Division 1 Dutch Classic. And don’t sleep on Fall Carlise for additional swap meet goodness. November is when we start to slow down and go to one of our traditional last events of the year is the Pumpkin Run at Harry Flemings Junkyard in Egg Harbor, New Jersey. Support the local shows! Thanks for reliving 2025 through my adventures, more coming in ’26, starting soon. The post Joe Grippo’s 2025 Year In Review: The Best Street Cars, Hot Rods, Race Cars, Drag and Drive, and Drag Race Action of 2025! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

It feels like forever since IHRA announced a new track purchase, but they haven’t been sitting around twiddling their thumbs. Nope, yesterday they made the announcement that they had signed a lease agreement to take over operations of The Motor Mile Speedway in Virginia and were going to use the facility as the headquarter for the IHRA Stock Car Series. It was big news and the details are below. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE IHRA ANNOUNCES THE LEASING AND OPERATIONS OF THE PULASKI COUNTY MOTORSPORTS PARK, FORMERLY THE MOTOR MILE SPEEDWAY ~ Historic Virginia facility to serve as official launch site for IHRA’s new Stock Car Series and a renewed calendar of community-centered events ~ FAIRFIELD, OH – January 20, 2026 — The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) today announced it has entered into a lease agreement for the Pulaski County Motorsports Park, the landmark venue long known to racers and fans as the Motor Mile Speedway, marking a major step in IHRA’s mission to revive grassroots motorsports and reinvest in legendary community tracks. “This track is part of the racing fabric of Virginia — and the kind of place where generations of families have made memories,” said Darryl Cuttell, Owner of IHRA. “Leasing Pulaski County Motorsports Park allows us to put racing back where it belongs: in the community, accessible to local teams, and exciting for fans.” First opened in 1952 as a dirt oval, the facility evolved into one of the region’s most recognizable racing destinations. The oval was later paved and developed into a 0.416-mile asphalt track, and the complex expanded over time to include a drag racing venue, helping establish Pulaski County as a true motorsport’s hub. Under IHRA’s lease, Pulaski County Motorsports Park will once again become a year-round heartbeat for competitive racing, special events, and community engagement — with immediate focus on restoring a consistent schedule that brings fans back through the gates and supports the local economy. Home Base for the New IHRA Stock Car Series Pulaski County Motorsports Park will serve as a cornerstone venue for the newly launched IHRA Stock Car Series, a national-level program designed to bring stock car racing back to its roots through cost-controlled competition and a racer-first approach. The 2026 IHRA Stock Car Series will open at Pulaski County Motorsports Park on March 21, with a second stop at the track on July 25. “Pulaski County is excited to welcome IHRA in such a big way to our community, and to partner with them at the Pulaski County Motorsports Park to bring world-class drag and oval track racing back to the New River Valley”, stated Jonathan Sweet, County Administrator. “We feel that IHRA is a premier professional racing organization, and their focus on an array of motorsports applications closely aligns with the County’s overall sports and entertainment vision, as well as shared emphasis on community-centric events.” A Track with National Visibility — Ready for a New Era Pulaski County Motorsports Park has hosted a wide range of touring series and major events over the decades, including nationally recognized appearances as recently as 2023. With renewed operations and a refreshed event strategy, IHRA intends to bring an expanded calendar that includes: · IHRA Stock Car Series weekends and regional racing programs · Additional motorsports disciplines and touring events · Family-friendly festivals, community nights, and sponsor-driven experiences designed to reintroduce the facility to new audiences Built With the Community, For the Community IHRA emphasized that this lease is not simply about events on a calendar — it’s about rebuilding momentum around a facility that has long been a point of pride for Pulaski County and the New River Valley. The organization will work alongside local partners to support community involvement, create opportunities for local businesses, and ensure the fan experience matches the significance of the venue. “The motorsports park has been an important part of this community for decades, and I have felt that we had an obligation to do whatever we could to return it to its former glory since I arrived here,” said Tim Miller, Director of Sports & Entertainment for Pulaski County. “This partnership with the IHRA and the vision that Darryl Cuttell and his team have for the future of racing and this venue puts us in the best possible position to succeed.” About Pulaski County Motorsports Park The Pulaski County Motorsports Park is a 152-acre motorsports complex featuring a 0.416-mile paved oval racetrack and a 1/8-mile paved drag strip. Located in Pulaski County, Virginia, the facility has gone by several names in the past including Pulaski County Speedway, New River Valley Speedway, and Motor Mile Speedway. It was purchased by the Shelor Team in 2004 and later gifted to Pulaski County in April 2024. About the International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) The International Hot Rod Association (IHRA) is a global motorsports organization sanctioning and promoting competition across multiple racing disciplines. With a focus on professional standards, safety, and consistent event execution, IHRA provides structured competition platforms for racers, teams, tracks, and fans worldwide. Through national series, facility partnerships, and strategic growth initiatives, IHRA continues to expand its footprint while supporting the long-term success of motorsports communities. The post IHRA ANNOUNCES THE LEASING AND OPERATIONS OF THE PULASKI COUNTY MOTORSPORTS PARK, FORMERLY THE MOTOR MILE SPEEDWAY appeared first on BangShift.com. 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Kevin Tetz is a bad ass. We’ve said it multiple times, but some things are worth repeating. He’s been painting cars and trucks for decades, showing millions how to do it on tv for decades, and actually educating folks on paint and body through his Paintucation website and lessons for decades as well! He’s great to be around and absolutely free with his sharing of information which we love. In the video below, you’ll find him sharing more tips and tricks and techniques with a focus on eliminating orange peel in your paint projects. Check out the video below, and let us know what you think in the comments. Video Description: Trying to eliminate that bumpy Orange Peel in your painting? In this video, Kevin shows you tested techniques (proper thinning, gun settings, distance, and overlapping passes) and a safe way to smooth out your paint before you spray… to get ultra-smooth, flawless results every time. This tutorial features ‪@AxaltaCoatingSystems‬ NASON NIB single stage urethane… It’s very affordable and a good quality product. These techniques can also be used on clearcoats, and are independent of products. Please use caution when warming any sprayable coating… use common sense!! Here’s a link to PaintucationU.com for indepth training! https://paintucationu.com/ The post Paint And Body 101: How To Eliminate Orange Peel So You Can Paint Like A Pro! Kevin Tetz Walks Us Through The Process appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Dylan McCool knows how to take advantage of some good fortune. When he was offered a big boat of a Lincoln, for free, and had already been given a 460 big block Ford, for free, he knew that the horsepower gods were speaking to him. What they were saying is “let’s do burnouts with this big barge!” and he listened. If you want to see the fun, and find out just how he got both of these things for free, watch the video below. And check out his resourcefulness to do it on the cheap. We approve. Video Description: I got a 460 Ford for free, and I needed something to put it in. A year later, I got this 1978 Lincoln Continental for free, but it has a rod knock. Coincidence? I think not. Will $155 put this Lincoln back on the road? The post CHEAPEST Lincoln EVER! Will $155 Make It Run and Drive? Free Lincoln, Plus Free Big Block, Equals FUN! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

MotoGP 2026 Team Yamaha Yamaha has unveiled its Monster Energy Yamaha MotoGP Team for the 2026 season, reaffirming a long-term commitment to rebuilding competitiveness in the premier class following several difficult years of mixed results. Fabio Quartararo and Álex Rins remain as factory riders aboard the YZR-M1, while the broader Yamaha MotoGP project continues to […] The post The 2026 Yamaha YZR-M1 in high-res detail – Team Launch appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The right steering column is an important part of any project. Here are some tips to help you select the right column for your ride. View the full article

ATI Performance Products cleans up transmission wiring problem with a new sealed 4-wire pass-through system.View the full article

Why Buy Salvage Motorcycles & Where to Find Them A motorcycle purchase can be logical and exciting at the same time. The best deals usually come to riders who stay calm, ask the right questions, and think in totals instead of sticker prices. If you like the idea of getting more bike for your money, salvage motorcycles for sale can be a solid option. The discount can be real, especially on popular models that suffered cosmetic damage, a low-speed tip-over, […] The post Why Buy Salvage Motorcycles & Where to Find Them appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

As the Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service heads into its second act, Drag Illustrated founder and promoter Wes Buck believes the upcoming U.S. Street Nationals represents far more than another stop on the calendar. Following a record-setting Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks, Buck says the Winter Series has rapidly evolved into something drag racing hasn’t seen before – a trio of events that now function as the sport’s most consequential proving grounds. “These three races have very quickly become the hero races in our space,” Buck said during last week’s episode of The Wes Buck Show. “They’re the legacy makers. These are the events people will look back on and say, ‘This is where it happened.’ We’re birthing superstars from these events.” The opening round of the series in December delivered historic results. Snowbirds produced the quickest qualified Pro Modified field in history, the largest Pro Mod gathering ever held at Bradenton Motorsports Park, and the most-watched drag racing broadcast in FloRacing history. According to Buck, that weekend validated the core idea behind the Winter Series. “When you bring the best cars, the best racers, and real stakes together in one place, the response is undeniable,” Buck said. “It proved the concept at the highest level.” Now attention shifts to the U.S. Street Nationals, where the pressure only intensifies. For the first time in drag racing history, a driver enters the event with a legitimate chance to earn a $1 million performance-based prize through the Elite Motorsports Million. Jason “Party Time” Harris remains the only driver eligible after his Snowbirds victory, adding a level of tension Buck believes elevates the entire field. There’s also a brand-new Pro Mod rolling chassis on the line, as Harris is the only driver eligible for the Jerry Bickel Race Cars Clean Sweep Challenge. He needs to qualify No. 1 at the U.S. Street Nationals and World Series of Pro Mod to win that. “I don’t know that we could adequately describe the historical significance if it were to happen,” Buck said. “A drag racer – especially a Pro Mod racer – having the chance to win a million dollars purely on performance. That’s never existed in our sport before.” Beyond the headline prize, Buck emphasized what separates the Winter Series – and particularly the U.S. Street Nationals – is the competitive density. Qualifying has become a battle in itself, with elite teams finding themselves on the outside looking in. “There’s real emotion tied to simply qualifying for these races,” Buck said. “You’re seeing racers sick to their stomachs on Friday night. Crew chiefs under extreme pressure. That tension is something we haven’t consistently had in drag racing, and it matters.” Buck also pointed to the uniquely diverse makeup of the fields as a defining characteristic. NHRA champions, PDRA standouts, Mid-West Pro Mod regulars, outlaw racers, and Street Outlaws stars are all competing under the same umbrella – a convergence he says only Pro Mod can deliver. “These cars still look like cars,” Buck said. “But they’re violent and unpredictable. And the people driving them are relatable – shop owners, family teams, people grinding it out. That authenticity connects with fans in a real way.” From a broader perspective, Buck believes the Winter Series reflects a necessary evolution in how drag racing presents itself. While multi-day events still serve the sport’s most dedicated fans, he acknowledged that expectations are shifting. “The hardcore audience will always be there,” Buck said. “But if this sport is going to grow, the product has to be intense, meaningful, and consumable. High stakes. High drama. No filler.” That philosophy has guided the structure of the Winter Series from the outset, and Buck sees the U.S. Street Nationals as the critical middle chapter. “Snowbirds showed what this thing could be,” Buck said. “World Series of Pro Mod will show how big it can get. U.S. Streets is where we find out who’s real.” With championship implications, unprecedented prize money, and one of the deepest Pro Mod fields ever assembled, Buck believes the upcoming event will further cement the Winter Series’ place in drag racing history. “These are the races people will talk about years from now,” he said. “The moments that change careers, change perceptions, and remind everyone what this sport is capable of when everything is on the line.” As Buck summed it up succinctly: “It’s time to go racing – and all roads lead to Bradenton.” This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post Wes Buck: U.S. Street Nationals ‘A Legacy-Defining Moment’ for Drag Illustrated Winter Series first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

2026 Triumph Bonneville Range Triumph’s Bonneville stands as one of the longest-lived nameplates in motorcycling, its story beginning in late 1958 when the original T120 was unveiled to the public at the Earls Court Motorcycle Show. The model took its name from the Bonneville Salt Flats, where Triumph machinery had already etched itself into the […] The post 2026 Triumph Bonneville range ridden – A synopsis appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Moto News Weekly Wrap January 20, 2026 What’s New: Austin Forkner cleared of injury Justin Barcia injury update Kody Kopp returns to AFT with Latus Motors Racing 2026 FIM Bajas World Cup calendar Dakar 2026 Wrap with KTM Factory Racing Dakar 2026 Wrap with Honda HRC Billy Bolt claims Spanish SuperEnduro victory AMA Supercross Round […] The post Moto News | Dakar Review | SX | Bajas | SuperEnduro | AFT | Injury Updates appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

After an outstanding on-track debut in 2025, Small Tire Pro Stock racers are preparing to put down even more power in 2026.View the full article

US 60 Dragway has announced a leadership update as part of its continued commitment to growth and operational excellence, naming Jeb Bolyard as the facility’s new general manager, effective April 1. Bolyard brings a strong background in drag racing operations, a deep understanding of racer needs, and a proven commitment to delivering a high-quality racing experience. Known for his attention to detail and racer-first mindset, Bolyard will oversee day-to-day operations while helping elevate the overall experience for competitors and fans alike. “Jeb is exactly the kind of leader we want guiding our operations as we continue to grow,” said US 60 Dragway ownership. “His knowledge of the sport, professionalism, and passion for doing things the right way will help take US 60 Dragway to the next level. We’re confident his leadership will have both an immediate and lasting impact.” The track also expressed its sincere appreciation to Tyler Bohannon for his dedication and contributions during his tenure. Bohannon played an important role in the facility’s recent growth, and ownership thanked him for his time, effort, and commitment to the track. US 60 Dragway wished Bohannon continued success as he returns his focus to racing. In his new role, Bolyard will focus on operational efficiency, racer experience, event execution, and ongoing facility improvements as US 60 Dragway prepares for the upcoming season. The leadership update comes as the track enters the final countdown to its 2026 opening weekend. The season is set to begin in 70 days with “THE WARM UP” $5,000 Bracket Race, which is expected to set the tone for what ownership anticipates will be the most successful season in the facility’s history. With continued momentum, facility investment, and strengthened leadership, US 60 Dragway looks forward to delivering an elevated racing experience for racers and fans in 2026 and beyond. This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post US 60 Dragway Announces Leadership Update, Names Jeb Bolyard General Manager first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

In a move designed to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive motorsports market, US 131 Motorsports Park has announced the retention of long-time industry executive Steve Earwood as consultant to VP of Operations Jason Peterson. Earwood, former National Media Relations Director for the NHRA and, for more than 30 years, the owner/operator of Rockingham Dragway, will work closely with US 131 staff to develop new events and enhance existing anchor races like the Northern Nationals. “Steve brings a wealth of experience and a list of contacts in this industry that is unparalleled,” Peterson said. “He already has provided valuable insight, and we look forward to his involvement in making a great US 131 experience even better for our racers, our fans, and our partners.” Earwood, who will commute to US 131 for meetings and events while maintaining his residence in Southern Pines, North Carolina, has an extensive racing background that began in the 1970s with his promotion of outlaw Pro Stock events at tracks in Gainesville, FL and elsewhere. As a result of his independent work, he was hired as NHRA’s Media Relations Director in 1975. In that capacity, he was largely responsible for transforming drag racing into a mainstream motorsports enterprise by developing relationships with the nation’s leading motorsports journalists, among them the late Shav Glick and Jim Murray of the Los Angeles Times. That led to coverage of the sport in publications that never before had acknowledged its existence including the New York Times, the aforementioned LA Times, and Sports Illustrated. Upon his departure from the NHRA, he was retained as Vice-President of Marketing for the Texas Motorplex when it made its debut in 1986, and was president and co-owner of Atlanta Dragway during its multi-million-dollar makeover before realizing his life-long dream of track ownership with the 1992 purchase of Rockingham Dragway. For 10 years, his track hosted the NHRA Winston Invitational, an event that became a destination for sports stars despite not being officially a national event. On Earwood’s watch, in 1997, the Winston Invitational became the first drag race to pay $100,000 to its Top Fuel and Funny Car champions. Inducted into the International Drag Racing Hall of Fame in 2016 as winner of the Founders Award, he was also the recipient of an NHRA Lifetime Achievement Award and of the Jeff Byrd Memorial Award from the North Carolina Drag Racing Hall of Fame. While at Rockingham, he was recognized as the NHRA’s “Man of the Year” in the Southeast Division in 1994 and as National Promoter of the Year by both the IHRA (2001 and 2008) and the ADRA (2015). A founding member of the North Carolina Motorsports Association, Earwood serves on the Board of Directors for Racers for Christ International and, while at Rockingham Dragway, was a member of the Governor’s Motorsports Advisory Council. “We’re confident that Steve’s industry expertise and his extensive network of contacts will play a key role in expanding the park’s offerings and maintaining its standing in the motorsports community,” Peterson said. This story was originally published on January 20, 2026. The post U.S. 131 Motorsports Park Retains Steve Earwood as Consultant first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

RFK Racing will bring four cars to the 68th running of the Daytona 500 in February. Alongside the charted entries of Chris Buescher (No. 17), Ryan Preece (No. 60), and team co-owner Brad Keselowski (No. 6), the team will add an additional open entry. Corey LaJoie will drive the No. 99 Ford Mustang and will attempt to qualify for NASCAR’s biggest race. While that car number was utilized by ...Keep readingView the full article

Burt Myers will be back behind the wheel of a NASCAR Cup car in the pre-season Clash at Bowman Gray Stadium. He will again drive the No. 50 Chevrolet for Team Amerivet. In 2025, he failed to advance into the main event after a crash involving Ricky Stenhouse Jr., who was humorously part of the team's 2026 announcement video. Myers made his official Cup debut in a points-paying race when ...Keep readingView the full article

In an interview with InsideEVs, Ford CEO Jim Farley says the company’s planned $30,000 electric truck has reached the prototype stage, describing the effort as an internal Apollo style mission with little margin for error. The comments frame the project as more than a new model, because Ford is trying to prove it can build an affordable EV that works as a business, not just as a technology showcase, with production targeted for 2027. What Prototype Stage Means For FordPrototype vehicles are now running with Ford developed software and core systems, which signals the new platform is far enough along that engineers can validate how it drives, stops, and behaves in the real world. This phase also implies that key supply chain choices and design architecture decisions are largely locked, since prototype builds depend on production intent parts, packaging, and electrical structure. For a $30,000 target, that matters, because every change late in the process usually adds cost. Ford is effectively saying the hard work now is execution, making the design repeatable, manufacturable, and profitable at scale. The Cost War Ford Is Trying To WinThe $30,000 goal sits in the middle of a wider cost war, especially as Chinese automakers set new expectations for what an EV can cost. Ford has been exploring how to respond, including conversations that link to the rise of China’s leaders in batteries and electrification. Even if the affordable truck is fully electric, the broader lesson is the same, Ford needs manufacturing efficiency and component costs that are closer to what global challengers can achieve. This is also why Ford keeps stressing that its future is not a single powertrain bet. The company is trying to keep profitable internal combustion products alive while it scales EVs. The affordable EV truck is meant to expand volume without destroying margins, while hybrids protect the rest of the lineup during the transition. Ford is also aiming to strip complexity out of the platform, simplify manufacturing, and reduce component costs. A key piece of that strategy is the powertrain itself, with Ford claiming a major breakthrough on motor cost for the program. If that holds, it would address one of the big cost centers that still separates affordable EVs from mainstream pricing. HSR/Patrick Tremblay Why It MattersThe affordable EV truck is shaping up as Ford’s most important EV bet of the decade, because it targets the part of the market where volume lives. Reaching prototype stage is not a guarantee of success, but it is a meaningful signal that Ford’s low cost EV platform is moving from promise to proof. View the full article

In a world where hypercars can command seven-figure prices, the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 makes one question their value, delivering 1,064 horsepower for just $175,000. At least, that's the case if the purchase is made in the ZR1's home country. Across the Atlantic, the ZR1 is much less of a budget-friendly hypercar slayer. The first two examples of the ZR1 have just landed in Europe (well, technically, the United Kingdom) via retail automotive dealer Clive Sutton, and one of them is still available, but with an eye-watering price. The dealer says that, with sourcing, transportation, 10% import duty, 20% tax, U.K. homologation, and registration fees, customers across the pond will have to pony up at least £365,000, and possibly as much as £425,000, depending on the spec they choose. ZR1 Becomes a Half-Million-Dollar Car Clive Sutton View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Converted to dollars, this pricing puts the ZR1 at between roughly $491,200 and $572,000. That's nearly as much as a Lamborghini Revuelto, though the ZR1 makes more power than the 1,001-hp Italian bull, but the scary pricing hasn't alienated well-heeled English buyers. Clive Sutton says the black-and-red ZR1 in these images is already allocated, and so is another that will soon arrive at the dealer. The fully-specced Competition Yellow car is yet to find a buyer, but with so few examples making their way to European shores, it'll likely be snapped up soon. Related: Watch Chevy's 1,250-HP ZR1X Set a New American Production Car Record on the Drag Strip Let's not forget that big V8s are just as adored by our British cousins as they are here, and the ZR1's LT7 is one of the most extraordinary, with 5.5 liters of capacity, a flat-plane crankshaft, and two of the largest turbos ever fitted to a production car. The only drawback for Brits is that these are imported left-hand-drive cars (yes, RHD C8 Corvettes do exist), so U.K. buyers will have to lean across the cabin to explain themselves to Mr. Plod if they attempt to approach the ZR1's 233-mph top speed. Autoblog's Take Clive Sutton View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Despite such high costs, the fact that two-thirds of Clive Sutton's ZR1s have already been sold is evidence that there's a strong appetite for high-performance cars worldwide — Lamborghini's record sales figures last year are more proof thereof — and GM is poised to take advantage. A special, one-off ZR1X is headed to auction, and despite its unique paint adding complexity to the manufacturing process, Chevy has hinted that more bespoke options and variants could be in the pipeline. And let's not forget that the Mustang GTD is far from cheap, yet has attracted plenty of buyers, several of whom are willing to shell out extra on the exquisite Liquid Carbon finish. High-performance American motors are reaching new levels of excellence, and Europeans want a taste. View the full article

The all-new Nissan Sentra seriously impressed us when we took it for a first drive in Phoenix late last year. In its design and how it feels on the road, it exceeds the expectations created by its low starting price of just $22,600. If there’s anything to complain about, it’s that the sole 149-horsepower engine doesn’t live up to the rest of the package. There’s no modern Sentra Nismo to satiate enthusiasts—a Sentra Nismo was last on sale for the 2019 model year—but one Arizona dealer is taking matters into its own hands and working on a Nismo-inspired Sentra. It’ll come with a host of Nismo-inspired accessories to completely transform the compact sedan. A More Attainable Nissan Nismo N If you want a Nismo-badged Nissan straight from the factory, you’re limited to the Z Nismo (fun, but not practical) and the Armada Nismo (powerful, but essentially a tanker on wheels). Nick Raymond Scherr, a Nissan fan and salesman who goes by the name of Nismo Nick on social media, shared the plan to create the Sentra SE RS (Special Edition Rally Sport) with Pinnacle Nissan. Scherr previously defended inflated dealer markups of the Nissan Z. The concept pays tribute to the early-2000s tuner era, and will be designed as a turn-key build. Assembly of the sporty sedan will take place at Pinnacle Nissan and it will be offered for sale directly. The SE RS will be based on the stock Sentra RS trim, already the sportiest of the standard trims. This dealership-built package will come with the following extras: Nismo coiloversNismo LM-RS6 wheelsNismo cat-back exhaustNismo-inspired stripingCustom interior finishes and badgingIn a sketch of the SE RS shared by Scherr, we can see how just a few changes—including black/red striping, a spoiler, and a lowered suspension—create a sedan that looks even sharper than the Honda Civic Si. A Turbocharged Sentra Is Coming, TooScherr promised something even more exciting later this year, with plans to develop a turbocharged Sentra with a six-speed manual gearbox. That’s a world apart from the standard Sentra, which makes do with only a naturally aspirated engine and nothing else but a continuously variable transmission—hardly a combination that gets anyone’s blood pumping. Scherr didn’t say what outputs he’s after, but even another 50 hp would bring the Sentra up to par with the Civic Si, and the manual swap should make all the difference to the driving experience. “I’m going to build the cars the enthusiasts want and have been asking for for a long time,” said Scherr. In 2024, the Nissan Z finally started outselling the Toyota GR Supra, so there’s clearly still a market for high-performance Nissans. The Japanese marque also plans to expand the Nismo brand between now and 2028, so who knows, a new Sentra Nismo from the factory may come to fruition. Even if that doesn’t happen, true fans of the brand like Scherr are around to remind us of the brand’s sporting heritage with new builds like the Sentra SE RS. Related: Nissan Plans Major Expansion of Its Nismo Performance Brand View the full article

Rivian’s next big product is getting closer to customers. In a post on X, the company says it has begun building manufacturing validation units of the R2 at its Normal, Illinois plant, a key milestone that typically signals a program is moving from prototype work to production readiness. Rivian has been targeting the first half of 2026 for initial R2 deliveries, and validation builds are the stage where factory processes, parts fit, and build quality are stress-tested before full volume assembly begins. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What Manufacturing Validation Builds Really MeanValidation builds are not show cars and they are not hand-made prototypes. They are pre-production vehicles assembled on the intended production line using production intent parts and tooling, with the goal of catching issues that only appear when a car is built the way customers will receive it. This phase is where manufacturers confirm repeatability, verify that suppliers are delivering consistent components, and ensure the plant can hit quality targets at speed. If something is off, this is when it gets corrected, because every small problem becomes expensive once mass production starts. R2 manufacturing validation builds are rolling off the line in Normal! 12 months ago, this was a grass field — incredible work by our teams to get our R2 plant built so quickly! pic.twitter.com/1GsRCsKpyQ — Rivian (@Rivian) January 15, 2026 For Rivian, it is also a proof point that the company can execute a second major vehicle program while it continues building R1 models. That matters because Rivian’s growth story now depends on the R2 reaching a much broader audience than the R1T and R1S ever could. Why The R2 Timeline Matters So MuchVolumes fell year over year, and the company needs the R2 to expand demand while supporting a healthier cost structure. Moving into manufacturing validation is a tangible step toward that pivot, because it indicates Rivian is no longer just designing the R2, it is actively proving it can build it. Hitting a delivery window is only half the battle for them, the other half is ensuring the product is robust when it reaches real owners, especially as Rivian’s growing fleet is now being watched more closely for recalls and design decisions. Early 2026 has already brought attention to Rivian’s first recall of the year. Owner behavior also shows how customers respond when usability questions emerge. Those stories show why validation builds matter, because production readiness is not only about speed, it is about getting the details right before scale amplifies them. Why It MattersRivian’s R2 is the make or break volume play for the brand, and manufacturing validation builds are the clearest signal yet that the launch is entering its final stretch. If Rivian can translate this milestone into a smooth production ramp and solid early quality, the R2 has a real chance to reset the company’s trajectory in 2026. View the full article

The Charity Hammer Drops AgainFord has a sort of tradition of auctioning the first production example—VIN 001—for charity. After auctioning the first Mustang Dark Horse unit in 2024, the Blue Oval brand is once again following the same playbook, this time consigning the new Dark Horse SC to Barrett-Jackson. The example heading to auction comes equipped with the Track Pack. Like the original Mustang Dark Horse, proceeds from the VIN 001 Mustang Dark Horse SC will benefit Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), helping fund research into type 1 diabetes. While Ford has yet to disclose every detail surrounding the new Mustang variant, whoever ultimately secures the vehicle will benefit from its significant performance upgrades. Ford Born From the TrackThe Mustang Dark Horse SC builds on development insights from the S650 Mustang GT3 racecar and the Mustang GTD halo model. The “SC” designation refers to the use of a supercharger, with the forced-induction system mounted atop a 5.2-liter V8. Ford has not released official power figures, though expectations are that the SC will be deliberately positioned below the Mustang GTD’s 815-horsepower output. Enhancing its track-focused credentials further is the Track Pack, which adds a host of high-end performance hardware. This includes a distinct MagneRide damper calibration, lightweight carbon-fiber wheels, and carbon-ceramic brakes derived from the GTD program, among other upgrades. The package also brings aerodynamic revisions, such as a ducktail decklid and an exposed carbon-fiber rear wing, developed to generate up to 620 pounds of downforce. Ford Wildest Dark Horse For the RoadPricing for the Dark Horse SC has not yet been announced. For reference, the standard Mustang Dark Horse—powered by a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 producing 500 horsepower—starts at approximately $64,080. In many ways, the Mustang Dark Horse SC can be viewed as the S650 generation’s equivalent of the Shelby GT500. It stands as one of Ford’s latest performance-oriented initiatives, alongside the brand’s imminent return to Formula 1 and the ongoing development of a Hypercar-class entry for endurance racing. Beyond winning over car enthusiasts, it’s also worth noting that the company continues to leverage highly coveted VIN 001 examples as a means of giving back to the community. This VIN 001 2026 Mustang Dark Horse SC, equipped with the Track Pack, is scheduled to cross the auction block on January 24. Ford View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In the early naughts, Pierre Terblanche ruffled the feathers of Ducatisti worldwide with the radically redesigned Ducati 999 and 749. While both bikes’ engines evolved from their predecessors, aesthetically they were a bold departure from the Italian marque’s well-established playbook.Aside from the... View the full article

Emerging Safety Crisis in the Used Car MarketThe National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a warning after faulty replacement airbag inflators have been confirmed to be behind multiple deaths in car crashes that were deemed ‘otherwise survivable’ by investigators. The inflators in question, not manufactured or approved for use by carmakers, appear to have been installed as replacement parts after an airbag deployment during a prior crash. The NHTSA says that these inflators were never approved for sale in the U.S. and were likely imported illegally. What’s scarier is that the agency believes that as many as 10,000 of these faulty inflators may still be in circulation, fitted to cars as replacement parts after prior crashes. Joe Raedle/Getty Images Deadly Failures Investigations into 10 crashes so far have revealed that the replacement airbag components ruptured catastrophically during collisions, sending metal shrapnel into the passenger compartment with deadly force. Eight of these crashes, deemed ‘otherwise survivable’ by the NHTSA resulted in fatalities, while the other two drivers received life-altering injuries. The cars involved were used Chevy Malibu and Hyundai Sonata sedans that had been repaired with these faulty parts after previous accidents. The deadly inflators were manufactured by Jilin Province Detiannuo Automobile Safety System Company, a Chinese company commonly referred to as DTN. The questionable parts seem to have been fitted to several cars currently in the used market, particularly vehicles with salvaged or rebuilt titles. Chevy Malibu in the SpotlightThe majority of these deadly incidents involve older, used examples of the popular Chevrolet Malibu sedan, where the original airbag had been replaced after a previous deployment. While GM did not supply or authorize these replacement parts, the NHTSA is urging used Malibu buyers to have vehicles with a history of airbag deployment inspected to ensure the use of legitimate replacement components. The Agency has also issued an alert to auto repair businesses to remain vigilant when sourcing replacement airbag components. Investigation Still UnderwayFederal regulators are now working on tracing how the Chinese inflators entered the U.S. supply chain and where they may still be installed. Officials are coordinating with various law enforcement agencies and industry partners to identify distributors, remove the faulty components from circulation, and prevent further installations. View the full article

Hidden GemsOne of the first major automotive shows covered globally is the Tokyo Auto Salon, annually held in January. It serves as the opening salvo that the new year has begun for auto enthusiasts. Given the scale of the show and major manufacturers taking part, it's no small wonder that some incredibly unique builds are often overlooked. Tucked away in one of the many event halls and displays is a car now just hitting the spotlight, something worthy of not just attention but proper recognition. Someone has just modified an Autozam AZ-1, and it isn't the usual build, either. Wide, Rotary BoyBuilt as a project by the Japanese tuner Goda Bankin, this red Autozam is making waves because of its (very) wide-body exterior modifications. Specifically, it seems Goda Bankin wanted to make the Autozam's stance imposing by giving it one of the biggest fender flares ever seen, let alone on a car as small as the AZ-1. A closer inspection of the photos also reveals a revised front fascia and larger rims. There aren't any clear interior shots, but it has aftermarket seats and steering wheel updates. For the uninitiated, Autozam is one of Mazda's brands that specializes in kei cars, with the AZ-1 one of its coolest creations from the '90s. The AZ-1 has always had its fair share of cult following; it was built as a sort of super mini supercar designed as a kei car. At the time of its relevance, it went up against other notable two-door kei cars like the Cappucino, and the kei car classification means the OEM spec engine was regulated to just 657cc. Goda Bankin decided that a motor swap was in order; it decided to go with something just as unique as the car itself – a rotary engine. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article One-Off ShowcaseNot all the engine specs have been publicized; all we know about this build is that it uses the legendary 13B rotary engine with upgraded fuel injection and an ECU. It also has the rotors from a Mazda RX8, a 6-speed transmission from a Mazdaspeed 3, and a special-order clutch and diff. No power output has been announced, but it should be considerably more than the stock engine. Lastly, the brakes and the suspension were also modified, hinting maybe at possible performance testing? As unique as this build is, sadly, Goda Bankin says it will remain a showcase piece only and isn't even road-legal, let alone for sale to the public. View the full article

Proving Range the Hard WayWith range being a crucial selling point for electric vehicles, some automakers have pursued 24-hour endurance test records. These tests demonstrate not only how far an EV can travel continuously, but also how effectively it manages heat – an important factor influencing sustained performance. Recently, Xiaomi – known globally for its Apple-rivaling smartphones – completed a 24-hour endurance run covering 4,264 km (2,649 miles) with its updated SU7. That figure surpasses the previous benchmark set by the Xpeng P7, although the endurance crown remains with the Mercedes-AMG GT XX Concept, which recorded 3,405 miles in a single day. Xiaomi The Science Behind Staying on TrackThese figures are made possible by ultra-fast charging technology. Mercedes’ GT XX is said to support charging rates of up to 900 kW—well beyond the more common 350 kW benchmark—allowing up to 250 miles of range to be added in just five minutes, according to the WLTP cycle. Per CarNewsChina, the Xiaomi SU7 can recover up to 670 km (416 miles) of range in 15 minutes under CLTC standards. In both cases, an optimized thermal management system is critical to ensuring that such extreme fast-charging performance can be delivered safely and consistently – particularly in the context of a 24-hour endurance test. However, the SU7 is no slouch. The high-performance SU7 Ultra variant edged out the Rimac Nevera at the Nürburgring, posting a lap time of 7:04.957 – just 0.341 seconds quicker. Notably, the 1,527-horsepower SU7 Ultra carries a price tag slightly north of $70,000, a fraction of the seven-figure cost associated with the Rimac. Xiaomi Road to ProductionThe Mercedes-AMG GT XX, by contrast, has so far only been spotted undergoing testing at the Nürburgring. Its focus has instead been endurance, with the German marque claiming new benchmarks across runs lasting up to 168 hours and covering approximately 25,000 miles. Production is expected to begin later this year. The final specs have yet to be confirmed. What is clear is that the Xiaomi SU7 is unlikely to arrive stateside in the near term due to regulatory constraints, tariffs, and geopolitical concerns. However, Chinese EVs may eventually find pathways into parts of North America – particularly Canada – after the country reportedly lowered tariffs on a limited number of imports. How that develops remains to be seen, but for consumers, it could ultimately translate into more choice, especially as Chinese automakers continue to offer increasingly competitive capabilities at comparatively lower prices. Mercedes-AMG View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article