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2026 Dakar Rally Stage One – Yanbu to Yanbu Red Bull KTM Factory Racing’s early Dakar Rally form continued into Stage One, with Edgar Canet and Daniel Sanders repeating their prologue performance. The duo delivering another one-two result, mirroring their standings. The stage win, cementing Canet’s dominant form in the history books. Sunday’s stage one […] The post Canet and Sanders claim another 1-2 at Dakar Stage One appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

BANGshifter extraordinaire Joe Grippo was at it again this New Year’s Day for Maple Grove Raceway’s annual New Year’s No Prep where they run both frontside and backside no prep races. The action is always fun, and the folks from the northeast who don’t care if it is cold, as long as they can race, are thrilled to death to be tearing it up at Maple Grove. Track temp is always one of the things people talk about at drag races. If it’s hot outside, everyone is talking about how high the track temp is and that it is hard to get down when it’s really hot out. On the flip side, in the winter there are often folks talking about how the track temp is too low so cars won’t get down. And in a prepped scenario, the temp really does effect the traction compound. So if low 50’s start making track prep specialists nervous, you have to imagine that below freezing would be insane. So how is it in No Prep conditions at these low temps? Watch to find out. The post 2026 New Year’s No Prep Drag Racing at Maple Grove Raceway! Cold Temps Don’t Scare Racers Ready For 2026! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

These people are crazy! Motorcycles and quads are two of the things that are the scariest when it comes to hillclimbs. When things go right, which almost never happens, these are brutal runs up the hill. But when they go wrong, they take brutal to a completely new level. This video highlights some of the gnarliest hillclimb failures of 2025. Did you make the cut? The post Best of 2025: Motorcycles, Quads, and More FAILING To Get To The Top Of The Hillclimb Hill! Crazy Action! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

It’s time for some awesome pulling truck action, but this is not what you would normally expect. We’re talking amateurs and their drivers trying not to pitch the drivetrain out of it. It’s like spectator drags but on dirt and stuff. I mean what’s not to like about this? If you want to see IFS front ends so crosseyed you can’t believe they are staying together, then this is the video for you. If you want to see video of a square body Dodge giving its all, then this is the video for you. And if you want to see how a brand new Silverado keeps up, check out this video. The post 2025 ABAC Fall AET Amateur Truck & Tractor Pull-Tifton GA: Stock Diesel Trucks, Semis & Tractors Pulling Big Weight! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

If you are a regular BANGshifter then you know that we are really big fans of the Dakar Rally around here, because I’ve been watching it since the late 1990’s when television coverage was amazing. And while Schlesser buggies and factory teams of cars, SUVs, and even UTVs are pretty awesome, I think there is a special appreciation for big trucks like the one in the video below. These trucks make more than 1,000 horsepower thanks to their FPT engine combos and their shear size and suspension travel make them do things that nobody every believed they could do. Plus, most of them have three people inside, with the middle seat navigator sitting slightly higher and rearward of the traditional driver and passenger locations. It’s nuts and we love them. Watch the video below of the winning Ales Loprais driven machine doing testing for the 2026 Dakar Rally to see just how this thing handles, because it is kind of nuts that something this big can be this smooth. The post ONBOARD SHAKEDOWN – TESTING THE DAKAR INSTATRADE IVECO POWERSTAR TRUCK OF ALES LOPRAIS TEAM- THIS FPT POWERED BIG TRUCK HAULS ASS ON DIRT! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Everyone knows that if you want a car’s paint job to look nice you need to sand every body panel until it is as straight as possible. But what does “straight” actually mean when you are talking about big, long, curved panels? What about big, long, straight panels? Does it mean the same thing? There might be a bit more to this than you think. Watch the video below for more, as Jeremy Bumpus explains what straight really means when it comes to finishing bodywork. Video Description: A panel can feel straight in the shop and still look wavy the moment it hits reflection. In this video, I walk through how I approach block sanding for show-quality bodywork — not by rushing filler, but by understanding panel shape, block choice, and what the surface is actually telling you. Body filler is a refining tool, not a shortcut. If the metal isn’t as straight as possible first, no amount of sanding will save the panel — and the block will eventually expose it. This is where show-quality separates from work that only looks good indoors. What I cover in this video: • Why panels can feel straight but still read wavy • The relationship between metal shape, filler, and block choice • Why block length matters • How hand pressure creates (or hides) waves • What I’m looking for before a panel ever sees paint This isn’t about steps — it’s about judgment. The block doesn’t fix the panel. It tells you the truth about it. If you’re chasing long-term, show-quality results, this is the step you don’t rush. The post Why Most ‘Straight’ Body Panels Aren’t Actually Straight: Here’s What Really Goes Into Show Quality Sanding appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Calling Shelby's 427 Cobra a legendary car is a huge understatementIf there is one person who is regarded as a mythical figure among car enthusiasts in the United States and the world over, it would be none other than the founder and namesake of Shelby American, the late Caroll Shelby. Although key parts of the former racing car driver's automotive story have been dramatized in an Academy Award-winning Hollywood film starring Matt Damon and Christian Bale, his legacy lives on in the cars that bear his name, specifically the legendary Shelby Cobra. Introduced in 1962, the Shelby Cobra combined the body of an English AC Ace with an American Ford V8 engine; an iconic duo that sent a message to the European sports car establishment. Initially, they were equipped with either a 4.3- or 4.7-liter (260 or 289 cu. in) engine; however, in 1965, the Cobra got a significant power upgrade when it was fitted with the iconic 427-cubic-inch (7-liter) V8. Built to position Shelby American against GM's big-block Corvettes and the Ferrari 250 GTO race cars on the racetracks, the 427 Cobra became an automotive icon, as it unlocked a new upper echelon of American performance. As a natural evolution of the previous 260 and 289 V8 Cobras, Shelby extensively reworked the Cobra to fit the big-block 7-liter motor, developing a new independent coil-spring suspension, strengthening the frame, and altering the body to fit wider wheels and tires. Gooding Christie's View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article This Cobra has crossed oceansThis special 427 Cobra, which is headed to the auction block at Gooding Christie's auction at Rétromobile in Paris on January 29, has an incredible provenance that spans multiple decades and two continents. Of the few 427 Cobras built, just 260 left the factory in road-going specification. According to Gooding Christie's, this example, CSX3328, is a 1966 model that was ordered new from Shelby American in November 1966 and delivered new to Stark Hickey Ford of Royal Oak, Michigan, on July 14, 1967. Copies of the original delivery documents state that the Cobra was shipped in primer to be painted by the customer. Its first owner (ironically, a General Motors employee) bought the 427 Cobra as a gift for his son, who then painted it silver, installed a chrome roll bar, and a wide hood scoop from a Boss 429 Mustang. By 1971, the Cobra had passed to its second owner, Ralph Dempsey of Waterbury, Connecticut, who later that year sold it to Hexagon Motors in London. Per the auctioneers, this specific car appeared in an Autocar magazine road test shortly after it arrived in the UK, which left an "indelible impression" on its staff. Gooding Christie's View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article In 1972, John Charles Cooper purchased the Cobra and kept it for 14 years. During this time, he drove the car for approximately 3,000 miles and participated in several competitive events, including a hill climb at Lorton Park and a sprint at Silverstone. By the mid-1980s, this Cobra had been acquired by Ed Hubbard, who commissioned renowned Cobra specialists Autokraft to restore and repaint it in the classic blue and white livery, before displaying it in his private museum on static display. In the early 1990s, it was passed on to Kevin Pilling and later to Charles Grohe, a respected Swiss collector. Its current owner, who is based in Switzerland, has owned the car since 2002. Between 2018 and 2022, they commissioned an “extensive, concours-quality restoration” which included returning its aluminum body to the current red over black specification and a mechanical overhaul to its original 427 side-oiler powertrain. According to the auctioneers, the car has been used sparingly since its restoration and is now fit to compete in concours shows or vintage rallies. Gooding Christie's With a curb weight of just 2,350 pounds, the 427 Cobra is known for its monstrous power delivery. Famously, Ken Miles once demonstrated the Cobra's performance in a display where he pushed the car from zero to 100 miles per hour and back to zero in 13.8 seconds; a fairly impressive feat that places it among today's modern performance cars. According to Gooding Christie's, the 427 CID OHV V8 in this example features optional dual Holley 4-barrel carburetors, which help it develop 410 horsepower at 5,600 rpm. It is connected to the rear wheels via a 4-speed manual transmission and features disc brakes all around, as well as a 4-wheel independent suspension with A-arms, coil springs, and tube shock absorbers. In addition, this example is equipped with Sunburst cast-alloy wheels, a rare set prized by Cobra enthusiasts. Final thoughtsAccording to Gooding Christie's, this car is estimated to sell between €1 million and €1.25 million ($1.17M - $1.46M). It is also registered with the Shelby American Automobile Club and comes with a treasure trove of documentation, including copies of original delivery records from both AC and Shelby American, as well as the original UK logbook and an extensive filing documenting its restoration and service history. Given this car’s provenance and the incredible backstory behind its existence, this is a wonderful opportunity to own a rare piece of iconic American automotive engineering. In my personal opinion, this car deserves a spot in my theoretical "unlimited money garage," as a vehicle like this is a true example of innovation of the time period. View the full article

2026 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship Round Two – Riesa, Germany SuperEnduro Results – Points – Standings Billy Bolt opened the 2026 FIM SuperEnduro World Championship with the overall win at the opening round in Gliwice, Poland and backed that up at round two overnight in Germany to extend his lead in the 2026 FIM SuperEnduro […] The post SuperEnduro Germany: Bolt in control, Walker consistent, Garcia breakthrough appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Rolls-Royce CEO promises more electric models, despite slowing EV salesIn a recent interview published by Bloomberg on January 2, Rolls-Royce CEO Chris Brownridge stated that, despite waning sales of the Spectre, its first all-electric vehicle, the company will continue to pursue vehicles that its customers want to buy, including electric vehicles. The chief executive also emphasized that, at the same time, the brand will make significant investments in its customer experience, specifically catering to those who make use of its extensive customization options, as well as investing in its global network of private offices for one-on-one client meetings and consultations. “We will launch more electric-powered Rolls-Royces, but they’re Rolls-Royces first,” Brownridge told Bloomberg in an interview. “We see very strong demand for V12 — where the client demand continues for that engine, we will continue to produce Rolls-Royces as well.” Rolls-Royce In late 2023, the legendary British ultra-luxury brand Rolls-Royce launched the Spectre, following a 2021 commitment to discontinue producing cars powered by internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrains after 2030. However, Rolls is selling the Spectre in an environment where European automakers, notably Sweden's Volvo and Germany's Mercedes-Benz, have recently scaled back their electric vehicle intentions as demand and adoption in key markets have declined. At the same time, world governments have responded to this trend. Last month, the European Union amended the language surrounding a controversial 2035 ban on the sale of new ICE cars, while the Trump administration in the U.S. has tackled emissions regulations, giving an edge to EVs. The two-door coupe initially received a positive sales reception in 2024, its first full year on sale. However, data from the BMW Group's earnings seen by Bloomberg shows that Spectre deliveries have slumped by 45% year-over-year within the first three quarters of 2025, while deliveries of all Rolls-Royce vehicles increased by 3.3%. In addition, sales of the Spectre made up less than a fifth of Rolls-Royce’s total sales in 2025, a major drop from a third during the previous year. “If you look at a concept such as this, it has a very high demand initially, and then it stabilizes – and remains stable for its life cycle,” Brownridge said. “It’s what we saw with Wraith and with Dawn in the past.” Rolls-Royce View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Rolls-Royce's CEO says it is focusing on bespoke customizationBut despite its challenges with its EV, Rolls-Royce says that it is focusing on enhancing its customization options, a major driver of revenue for Rolls and other ultra-luxury brands like it. According to Bloomberg, the demand for brighter colors, flashier interiors with special wood, and starlight headliners has made it the top luxury car manufacturer based on the average selling price, excluding low-volume sports car brands. The average selling price of its cars has increased to over £500,000 ($673,575) from £300,000 a decade ago, with more than 20 cars delivered in 2024 costing over £1 million. In addition, Rolls-Royce is also taking advantage of the demand for a bespoke customer experience. Its CEO, Brownridge, told Bloomberg that some customers take months to design their perfect car, and that it is "looking at putting more resources into our private offices;" dedicated spaces around the world where deep-pocketed customers configure their where they can commission unique Phantoms, Ghosts, and Cullinans with personalized paint colors, special materials, and other “wishes” with direct consultation from Rolls-Royce specialists. Final thoughtsThe Rolls-Royce CEO's messaging to Bloomberg echoes a previous interview that its newly appointed president of Rolls-Royce North America, Jon Colbeth,gave to ABC in July, where he emphasized the brand's positioning with its Bespoke program. Currently, the brand is expanding its plant in Goodwood, England, to aid the program in easing bottlenecks in the current production process. “If somebody is going to buy a new Rolls-Royce, they want to make sure it’s their Rolls-Royce. The only way to do that is to personalize it," he said. “We don’t want to be the car for everybody,” Colbeth told ABC. “It’s not what we’re about. We’re investing $370 million in our [U.K.] plant extension without making more vehicles. What brand does that? Our focus is on adding bespoke capacity and allowing each commission to be more special for clients.” However, while personalization and luxury goods often go hand-in-hand, Rolls-Royce is not alone in generating major revenue from similar programs. In fact, Ferrari sold just 13,752 vehicles but grossed around €1.3 billion ($1.35 billion) from personalization in 2024, a fifth of its overall revenue. While taste may be interpreted differently, the discourse and debate on what looks good to the ultra-wealthy translates to dollars in the end. View the full article

2026 Dakar Rally Prologue – Yanbu to Yanbu The 2026 Dakar Rally has kicked off with the 22 km timed prologue giving riders their first taste, with KTM claiming three of the top-five positions, led by Edgar Canet, marking his first special victory, if a particularly short one. That does make the Spanish rider the […] The post KTM’s Canet and Sanders lead Dakar Prologue 1-2 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

If I ask you to picture a “dune buggy,” what comes to mind? Chances are you’ve imagined the shape of a Meyers Manx without even realizing it. When sailor, surfer, and fiberglass boat-builder Bruce Meyers created the first Manx, he had no idea he was launching an entirely new type of vehicle — one th... View the full article

GM’s New Seat ConceptModern car seats have become so advanced that many automakers – such as Lincoln with its Perfect Position Seat feature – offer electronically adjustable settings that allow occupants to fine-tune their seating positions and support preferences. However, a newly uncovered General Motors patent aims to push adjustability even further by enabling seats to physically grow in size. According to the report, the technology – covered under patent 20250376097, filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in July 2025 and published in December – relies on a specialized comfort layer positioned between the seat frame and the seating surface. This layer incorporates one or more air-adjustable bladders, allowing occupants to modify the seat’s shape and firmness to suit their preferences better. USPTO via GM Authority Rethinking Seat AdjustabilityAt first glance, the concept may sound similar to massaging seat functions already offered in several vehicles, such as the Ergo Motion Seat system found in the Kia EV9 and Hyundai Palisade. What appears to set GM’s patent apart, however, is its emphasis on adjustability that allows the seat itself to adapt to the occupant’s body, rather than requiring the occupant to adjust to a fixed seat design. The bladders – which are inflated and deflated by a pump system – can be individually controlled, allowing for a high degree of customization. When expanded, the bladders provide firmer cushioning, and vice versa when deflated. Firmer cushioning is particularly well-suited for long-distance driving, as it helps reduce slouching, and for more spirited driving situations where keeping occupants firmly supported is important. Softer cushioning, on the other hand, generally prioritizes comfort by absorbing road harshness more effectively and minimizing pressure points. The report also states that sensors could be integrated to automatically adjust the seat based on an occupant’s size and seating position. In addition, it notes that the technology could be applied beyond automotive use, potentially extending to other areas such as ergonomic office seating. Chevrolet Still Just a Patent—for NowIt is worth noting, however, that this remains a patent, meaning it does not necessarily signal that GM plans to bring the technology into production anytime soon. If it eventually reaches the market, it would join a growing list of modern seating innovations, including memory seat systems, the use of sustainable materials, and a heating function – a feature that BMW previously offered via a subscription-based model. Brands that could benefit from the seating technology include those under the GM umbrella, such as Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC. GMC View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

BYD Takes the LeadBYD has overtaken Tesla to become the world’s best-selling battery-electric vehicle (BEV) maker, outselling its U.S. rival by roughly 600,000 units in 2025. The Chinese automaker reported a 27.9% year-over-year increase, selling about 2.25 million BEVs, compared with Tesla’s roughly 1.63 million units (down by 9%) over the same period, BBC reports. These figures are based on each company’s respective sales reports, meaning they don’t indicate how individual buyers chose one brand over another. However, competitive pricing is widely viewed as one of the key factors behind BYD’s sales advantage. In China, for example, the Tesla Model 3 starts at 235,500 yuan (about $33,000) – roughly twice the price of its BYD rival, the Qin L EV. BYD From Underdog to No. 1Tesla - whose CEO once publicly laughed at BYD vehicles in a 2011 interview – has faced mounting challenges in the U.S. market, while its Chinese rival BYD does not sell passenger EVs there due to tariffs and geopolitical factors. Most EV makers have contended with reduced consumer incentives, including the discontinuation of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit on September 30, 2025. That shift has weakened price competitiveness at a time when internal-combustion vehicles have regained some consumer interest. Globally, BYD has also expanded aggressively outside China, including in Europe, where it outsold Tesla on a monthly basis last year. Tesla, meanwhile, has responded by introducing more affordable trims intended to stabilize demand. One example is the low-cost Model 3 variant in Europe, which starts €37,970 (roughly $44,000), representing nearly a 17% reduction from the previous entry-level price. However, it remains high compared with BYD’s pricing in the region. The Chinese automaker’s most affordable European offering, the Dolphin Surf, starts at around €22,990 ($26,100). Tesla BYD’s Extra GearBeyond BEVs, BYD’s volume advantage is further reinforced by its plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) sales. The EV maker delivered about 2,288,709 PHEVs in 2025 through its DM-i lineup – a segment in which Tesla does not compete. Combined, those figures bring the company's total 2025 vehicle sales to approximately 4.5 million units. Tesla, by contrast, is focusing its future efforts elsewhere. One of its most ambitious projects is the Cybercab, a two-seat robotaxi designed to operate without a steering wheel or pedals. Production is currently expected to begin in April 2026, with the company aiming to keep costs as low as possible. While the Cybercab could help the brand regain momentum in the EV space, the project remains in development and will still require regulatory approval for unsupervised autonomous operation. BYD View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Scotty Buys a New CarFor more than a decade, Scotty Kilmer has built an empire on a simple, often blunt message: don’t buy new cars. The veteran mechanic and YouTube personality has repeatedly warned viewers about depreciation, unnecessary tech, and wasted money, instead championing well-maintained used vehicles as the smarter long-term play. That’s why his latest revelation landed like a bombshell. At 72 years old, Kilmer admitted – half joking, half sheepish – that he had finally broken his own rule and bought his first brand-new car. The decision, he explained, wasn’t impulsive. In fact, it took decades. Kilmer framed the purchase as a practical exception rather than a philosophical reversal, citing price, longevity, and proven engineering. He also openly credited his wife, to whom he’s been married for 48 years, for influencing the choice. “She deserves a new car,” Kilmer said, noting that this was the first brand-new vehicle either of them had ever owned. For a man whose brand thrives on contrarian advice, calling himself an “official hypocrite” was part confession, part punchline. For Fans, It's Really No SurpriseKilmer’s choice was a 2026 Toyota Camry Hybrid SE, purchased for about $31,000, well below today’s average new-car transaction price. Under the hood is Toyota’s familiar 2.5-liter four-cylinder paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 225 horsepower. Kilmer emphasized how the instant electric torque makes the sedan feel quicker than the numbers suggest, while still returning roughly 50 mpg in city driving and high 40s on the highway. For him, that balance of efficiency, simplicity, and performance was the point. Equally important was Toyota’s hybrid track record. Kilmer highlighted that Camry Hybrids have been around for nearly two decades, with Prius technology stretching back more than 25 years. He praised the non–plug-in setup, arguing it avoids the long-term complexity and exposure issues of larger battery packs mounted under the car. Practical touches sealed the deal: a deep trunk, folding rear seats, an actual spare tire, straightforward controls, and an interior that favors durability over flash. In Kilmer’s view, it’s a modern car that still respects old-school common sense, which is exactly the kind he’s spent years recommending. Edmunds Not All New Cars are Made the SameRather than undermining his credibility, Kilmer’s purchase arguably reinforces it. He didn’t chase luxury, all-wheel drive, or top-trim excess. He avoided SUVs despite their popularity and dismissed pricier alternatives as poor value. In other words, he applied the same logic he’s preached for years – just to a new car instead of a used one. As he’s noted in past interviews, reliability, simplicity, and long-term ownership costs matter more than trends or spec-sheet bragging rights. Of note, the Camry is probably the only brand-new car that Kilmer has recommended in the past. Kilmer is clear that this isn’t a blanket endorsement of buying new. It’s a rare exception shaped by price parity, proven technology, and personal circumstances. If anything, the moment humanizes a figure often seen as immovable in his opinions. After decades of telling millions what not to buy, Scotty Kilmer finally found a new car he could live with, comfortably, economically, and without losing sleep over it. Toyota View the full article

Tesla is once again facing legal scrutiny over its safety technology. While the company has dealt with numerous lawsuits in recent years – particularly over its door handle designs – its Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems haven’t escaped controversy either. According to Forbes, Tesla’s driver-assistance technology has been linked to at least 51 reported fatalities since the first fatality was reported back in 2016. The latest case centers on a fatal Idaho crash involving a Tesla Model X that killed four members of a Utah family – and their dog – in September 2023. The wrongful death lawsuit, filed on August 28, 2025, alleges Tesla overstated the real-world capabilities of its driver-assistance systems, creating a false sense of security that may have contributed to the crash. More than two years after the incident, the case is now moving through Utah’s Third Judicial District Court. The Fatal Crash Tesla The crash occurred on September 1, 2023, shortly before 10 p.m. on Idaho State Highway 33 near milepost 125. According to court filings, the family’s 2022 Tesla Model X crossed the center line and collided head-on with an oncoming Kenworth semi-truck hauling grain. Killed at the scene were driver Jennifer Blaine, 46; her daughters Emily Blaine Leavitt, 22, and Denali Blaine, 11; Emily’s husband, Zach Leavitt, 24; and the family dog, Peaches. All occupants were wearing seat belts. The truck driver was not physically injured. The family had reportedly stopped in Idaho Falls to eat and charge the vehicle before continuing toward Driggs, Idaho, where they planned to camp. Claims of Defective Safety Technology David Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images Filed by Jennifer’s husband, Nathan Blaine, the lawsuit alleges the Model X was “unreasonably dangerous and defective” due to ineffective driver-assistance features. These include Autosteer, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Centering Assistance, and Emergency Lane Departure Avoidance. According to the complaint, the systems failed to keep the vehicle in its lane or provide adequate warnings, despite being marketed as capable of detecting lane markings and correcting unintended departures. The suit also claims Tesla exaggerated the maturity and safety of its technology through marketing and public statements. Attorney Lynn Shumway told The Independent that while the technology itself shows promise, it was implemented "inadequately,” particularly on what he described as a “normal and pretty simple” stretch of road. Not an Isolated Case for Tesla Corvallis Police Department Tesla has not publicly commented on the case. Whether Autopilot was engaged at the time of the crash remains disputed, though the lawsuit argues key safety systems should function regardless. But many similar lawsuits have come to light over the years. Families have previously sued Tesla over fatal Model S fires, alleging victims were trapped inside due to door handle failures. A recent Bloomberg investigation found at least 15 deaths tied to faulty electric door handles. As the Idaho case moves forward, it adds to growing pressure on Tesla to ensure its safety tech performs as promised. View the full article

BRP records massive third-quarter year-over-year profit increase, despite revenue in North America being down slightly.View the full article

New-Age HUD?Modern cars are generally dominated by tech, which has become the new barometer for how special, safe, or cool a car is. There are some technological features, though, that are not only cool but also convenient and safe. Head-Up Displays (HUDs) were invented as a means to help drivers keep their vision straight on the road without any impediments to their vision. First used in Fighter jets, HUDs display all the relevant information through a projection in the windscreen that the driver can see. It shows speed, vehicle condition, and, in some cases, even map settings. But it appears that Ford wants to take HUD tech to another level. Alongside an adjustable HUD from last year, the Blue Oval has invented another one – and it's as ridiculous as it looks. Ford's Taking It LiterallyFord has just filed a patent for its own definition of the HUD, specifically patent no.20260001397 filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on January 1, 2026. Looking through the patent, Ford's new version of the HUD will be implemented through the sun visor of the vehicle, meaning drivers will be able to deploy the HUD by lowering or attaching it directly...in their line of sight. The patent filing itself says that the whole idea of this visor HUD is "to eliminate the need to project images onto the windshield and/or to have a projector located on the vehicle dashboard. In certain embodiments, the head-up display visor is portable and is affixed to the driver's conventional sun visor by a clip, thereby allowing a driver to move the device from one vehicle to another." Looking deeper into the patent, Ford's visor HUD is trying to compress all the relevant information a driver needs and is feeding it directly into the driver's eyeline. Furthermore, this Visor HUD will come with a boatload of features, including a motion detector that detects movement outside the driver's peripheral vision, Bluetooth connectivity, a microphone, a digital camera, and a UV detector that darkens the visor when it detects increased UV light. Made to Address Current HUD IssuesWhile the idea of a visor HUD may seem absurd, Ford claims in the patent that there are specific reasons as to why it decided to look into this: "However, all such prior art systems and devices known to the present inventor have considerable drawbacks and disadvantages. For example, some drawbacks and disadvantages of various prior art systems include that they are: (a) dashboard-mounted and intended to reflect onto the glass of a windshield; (b) cumbersome and complicated to build and use; (c) not portable and not able to be moved from vehicle to vehicle. HUD systems that project onto a windshield can be difficult to read if the windshield is dirty or if there is strong glare." Another benefit of their project is the visor HUD's portability for owners with multiple vehicles. It must be noted, though, that while a patent has been filed, this is merely Ford's way of protecting its own intellectual property. There is no guarantee that this (novel idea) will ever make it into production. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Louder, More Character for the American Civic HybridDon’t get us wrong. The current Honda Civic Hybrid, or Civic e:HEV in other markets, already has a distinct, slightly gruff tone when you push it, especially under hard acceleration. But if you’ve ever thought it sounds a bit too reserved, Honda seems to agree – at least for American buyers. Speaking with CarBuzz at Honda’s Tochigi Proving Ground, an engineer openly acknowledged what many enthusiasts already know: “Americans like loud cars, so we had to make this one sound extra good for them.” Honda isn’t taking the artificial route here. Instead, the company is working on a hybrid sound profile that’s tuned specifically for the US market. Honda’s Upcoming Midsize Hybrid ArchitectureThe Prelude might be Honda’s most advanced hybrid to date, but it won’t be the first to get the better-sounding hybrid system. However, it does introduce the S+ Shift in lieu of an actual manual gearbox, a system designed to reintroduce step-like acceleration and a sense of rhythm that hybrids often lack. It’s faux shifting, yes, but done with enough intent to feel deliberate rather than gimmicky. That same S+ Shift tech is now coming to the Civic e:HEV RS, set to debut at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. It’s a good example of flagship features making their way into more mainstream models. But for the US, Honda is also focusing on how the hybrid sounds, not just how it drives. Importantly, Honda isn’t just adding fake engine noise through the speakers. Instead, engineers have tuned the actual exhaust hardware to better match what American drivers want. CarBuzz did a side-by-side video comparing the Prelude and Civic Hybrid. The difference isn’t night-and-day from the outside, but there is a noticeable improvement. Looking ahead, the next Civic Hybrid will share its midsize hybrid architecture with the CR-V Hybrid and Accord Hybrid. That makes these sound changes even more relevant, since they could affect more than just one model. A US-Focused Future, for NowIt’s not clear yet if this louder hybrid setup will end up in the Prelude. Since the model just launched, any big changes would probably come with a mid-cycle update in a few years. Even then, it looks like Honda is mainly targeting the US market with these tweaks, so it will likely be a different story elsewhere. So, if you’re reading this outside America – probably not in Europe where stricter regulations exist – and want your Honda hybrid to sound a little less restrained, it may take more than patience. A few conversations with local dealers and a chorus of like-minded owners might be the only way to get Honda to listen. Emphasis on might because there’s no guarantee, but we can all wish. Honda View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A New Take on an Old Off-Road TrickJeep and Ford have long offered truck-based vehicles with removable doors, giving passengers an open-air experience that is especially appealing for off-road use. Now, Hyundai Motor Company appears interested in exploring a similar concept, having filed a patent for what it describes as a “Detachable Modular Door.” The Korean automaker filed the patent application (U.S. Patent No. 12502938 B2) in July 2024, published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in late December 2025. The design is intended to simplify door installation and removal while preserving structural integrity, occupant safety, and proper weather sealing. It consists of a detachable outer skin and an inner trim module – housing components such as the armrest and electronics – that function much like a door system and not just a removable shell. USPTO Lock, Align, SealThis is enabled by rotary locking mechanisms that rotate into engagement with the door frame, securing the modules in place and helping ensure proper alignment and sealing. Compared with the Ford Bronco, Hyundai’s patented design would eliminate the need for a wrench to remove door bolts. Door removal on the Jeep Wrangler previously relied on a bolt-based setup, but it was updated for the 2026 model year to quick-release hinge pins, eliminating the need for tools. The Bronco, Wrangler, and Gladiator also require owners to disconnect the wiring harness when removing the doors. Hyundai’s patent, however, outlines an automatically aligned electrical connector system designed to simplify this process. The patent also places particular engineering emphasis on sealing to protect occupants from water and air intrusion. The patented setup may appear more modernized than existing removable-door systems, but it may come with trade-offs. The added complexity introduces more components, which could translate to higher manufacturing and repair costs. USPTO View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Possible Fit for Future PickupsThe technology could become increasingly relevant as Hyundai plans to expand its pickup truck portfolio, up to four models globally by 2030. Two are already on sale, including the Hyundai Santa Cruz and the Kia Tasman. Another model is expected to target markets dominated by the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger, while a fourth – reportedly destined for the U.S. – is said to be based on a body-on-frame architecture, a layout considered more robust than the unibody construction used by the Santa Cruz. While this patent could position Hyundai closer to Ford and Jeep in the lifestyle off-road space, it is worth noting that a granted patent does not guarantee a production application. Automakers file patents either to explore future possibilities or to prevent competitors from adopting similar technologies. USPTO View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

When Jeff Kline first started taking photos of race cars at his local Cecil County Dragway, he had no idea that his obsessive interest in drag racing could someday lead to a career in the sport. But by following his passion and refining his craft over the last 10 years, he’s had the opportunity to shoot some of the biggest races in doorslammer racing, all while working with industry-leading brands and drivers he grew up idolizing. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. As Kline says, he was in a baby carrier at Cecil County Dragway months after he was born. His father raced there and the family had a place on the nearby Chesapeake Bay, so he spent most summer weekends at the track. He collected racing T-shirts and even sported a wild mohawk to match the driver of the Nitro Fish Nitro Coupe, his favorite car at the time. Kline, 29, started taking cellphone photos of all the race cars he saw at Cecil County, a budding new interest that his parents noticed, then nurtured when they bought him a camera for Christmas. “That was the start of the end for me,” Kline laughs. “It sucked me into this world that I never thought I’d be a part of. I grew up watching these people that I now get to work with in some capacity.” By this point, Kline had launched an Instagram account, RacingOutlawz, where he could share his photos with other racing fans. “I think I had 70,000 followers before I even had a real camera in my hands,” Kline says. “That’s when I realized that with the followers we have, we can attract some people to sponsor us or support us in some way. That led to traveling everywhere outside of the Northeast, which has now become a routine.” Kline now travels to 15-plus events per season, including the full PDRA tour. He started working for the series in 2021 providing photos and helping to manage the PDRA social media pages. In addition to PDRA races and events at Cecil County, Kline shoots major drag radial and no-time races as well as other Pro Mod events like the Drag Illustrated Winter Series. Those who know Kline recognize that his favorite class to cover is Outlaw 10.5, which competed at Cecil County on a monthly basis at one time and toured to other tracks through the Atomizer Outlaw 10.5 Series. The program saw its ups and down before it went away completely. Outlaw 10.5-style racing has seen a resurgence in recent years through the PDRA’s Pro Street division and the DI Winter Series’ Pro 10.5 Challenge, and Cecil County is even bringing it back on a regular basis in 2026. “I wish I was born about 15 years earlier to really see Outlaw 10.5 in its heyday, but it’s been cool to cover it coming back,” Kline says. “It wasn’t that fun to see it go. I was a part of the [Atomizer] series, enjoyed it so much, knew everybody in it. It sucked at the time. But just like everything in drag racing, it’s cyclical, so it’s coming back around.” Kline has built his skillset over the year to include more than photography. He’s picked up graphic design, creating anything from logos to name-and-number decal sets. While working for the PDRA, he’s also taken on the challenge of creative writing. “It’s not easy, but if you do it right, it really makes your pictures tell the story that much better,” he says. Kline has also started expanding into videography. Inspired by others like 2015 DI 30 Under 30 honoree Corey Michalek of React104, Kline wants to bring his same passion and attention to detail that have made his photography popular to the video coverage of outlaw doorslammer racing. “I want to give our side of the sport stuff that looks like that,” Kline says, referencing Michalek’s cinematic productions. “Video seems to be where things are naturally heading, so I’m feeling alright about trying to change things up a bit.” No matter what the medium is, Kline will continue to tell drag racing’s stories through the lens of someone who is as passionate about the sport as the people who are on the other end of the lens. “My contribution is really for the people of the sport,” says Kline, who thanked his dad, Jessie Kline Jr., RacingOutlawz partners like FuelTech, and Outlaw 10.5 drivers like Jerry Morgano, who provided “aggressive guidance” early in his career. “I like what I get to do and people like what I do. As long as that’s true, I’m going to keep doing it.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Jeff Kline first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Beyond Setting Record Lap TimesBYD’s premium sub-brand, Yangwang, is taking a different approach from its parent company’s reputation for rapid growth and electrification. Over the past year, Yangwang has focused on performance and technology of the U9 supercar, producing numbers that rival established luxury brands and drawing attention for more than just its unusual name. However, Yangwang isn’t just chasing Nürburgring lap times or headline-grabbing specs. The brand is also working on luxury vehicles designed for everyday use, and the upcoming Yangwang U7 battery-electric sedan is a clear example. It still offers supercar-level power, but what stands out most is the claimed driving range of up to 625 miles. China's MIIT A Massive Battery for Headline Range FiguresAs reported by CarNewsChina, recent filings with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) reveal how BYD aims to deliver those range numbers for the updated Yangwang U7 BEV. The main change is a new 150.01 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate Blade battery, with a 135.5 kWh version also available. On the CLTC test cycle, the larger battery is rated for 625 miles, while the smaller one is listed at about 497 miles. The U7 doesn’t have the biggest battery out there – the GMCHummer EV still holds that title with about 212 kWh. What’s more notable is the U7’s range claim, which beats the Lucid Air Grand Touring’s 512-mile EPA rating. It’s important to remember that the U7’s numbers come from the CLTC test cycle, which tends to be more optimistic than the EPA standard. Even with the larger battery, the weight difference is modest. The 150.01 kWh pack weighs about 926 kg (2,041 lbs), just 44 lbs heavier than the 135.5 kWh version. BYD A Follow-Up to the PHEV VersionThe Yangwang U7 BEV comes after the plug-in hybrid version, which appeared in filings last year. That earlier model stood out for its range-extender setup using a flat boxer engine – not for extra performance, but simply to generate electricity and extend range. The BEV version gives buyers another option in the luxury sedan space in the markets where it will be sold. It uses four motors for close to 1,300 horsepower, advanced suspension and driver-assist tech for comfort and stability, and a large battery to cut down on charging stops. With moves like this, it’s clear why Chinese automakers are getting more attention from established brands. BYD View the full article

25 Years Ago, BMW Only Had One CrossoverBMW makes crossovers of every size, shape, and even propulsion these days, but that wasn't the case about 25 years ago. At the time, the folks from Munich made just one crossover model. More specifically, it's the folks from Spartanburg, South Carolina who made it — the first-generation X5. In 2001, the X3 was still a couple of years away, and those who wanted a high-riding BMW had no other choice but the X5, or swallow their pride and go for a different marque. There was, however, a third way, and that was to go to the aftermarket crowd. That brings us neatly to the AC Schnitzer X-Road. AC Schnitzer A Bavarian OutbackThe AC Schnitzer X-Road was presented as a prototype back in late 2001, which was about the same time as the launch of the facelifted E46 3 Series. Its formula was relatively simple and similar to the Subaru Outback and Volvo XC70 (before last year's revival). That's to take a popular wagon, give it a bit more ground clearance, and some cosmetic changes to further differentiate it from its lower-riding counterparts. In the case of the X-Road, it came with taller springs that raised the 3 Series Touring's body by about 1.2 inches, so there was over six inches of clearance available. It then rode on 17-inch ACS Type 3 wheels shod in all-terrain tires. Admittedly, though, it doesn't appear to wear aggressive off-road rubber in the press photos. Also present was a healthy dose of body cladding, along with a very era-correct graphics package. Surprisingly, it came with underbody protection, and there were also unique touches added to the interior. As far as we know, the X-Road had the same basic mechanics as the Euro-spec 325xi from the same era, meaning the familiar 2.5-liter inline-six (the M54B25 for you Bimmer nerds) with 189 hp. AC Schnitzer How Many Made?Yes, this wagon on stilts did reach production, although in extremely limited numbers. However, the exact figures are unknown, although it is said that only 25 were ever built in 2003. We did see a few examples for sale, none of which breached the €10,000 mark. Interestingly, the few owners on social media we saw really put their X-Roads to work. One Reddit user has one with about 186,000 miles on the clock, while Instagram page Coliba Motorsport treats them the way AC Schnitzer had intended from the start. Given its rarity, one would think it belongs in a museum, but we argue that cars are meant to be used. It's unlikely that AC Schnitzer will revisit the idea. After all, the X3 exists, and the tuning house has fettled the popular crossover over the years. At the same time, it's also the most popular model that BMW makes these days, as it's been outselling the 3 Series for quite some time already, making the concept of a lifted 3 Series Touring moot. Still, we'd rather have this over a first-generation X3 any day of the week. AC Schnitzer View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Toyota Improving on HybridsToyota’s hybrid push in the US is working. Nearly every model now comes with a hybrid option, keeping Toyota’s sales strong in 2024. There’s no sign that the result will change in 2025. Now that hybrids are the default, buyers expect more. Those looking at higher-end Toyotas or Lexus models want a car that feels right on the road, not just one that saves fuel. Balance, stability, and driving confidence are just as important. Toyota seems to get that. That thinking shows up in a new patent Toyota filed in June 2025, published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on January 1, 2026. The patent – labeled only as "Hybrid Electric Vehicle" – details a new hybrid layout aimed at better handling, crash safety, and acceleration, especially for rear-wheel-drive cars. If you want to dig deeper, check out patent no. 20260001393. USPTO A Smarter Layout, Not a New Hybrid SystemInstead of new motors or batteries, Toyota’s patent is all about how the hybrid parts are laid out. The engine stays up front. A prop shaft runs down the middle, linking to a rear transaxle that packs in the electric motor, gears, and differential. The big change is at the back. Instead of putting both the fuel tank and main battery at the rear, Toyota moves the fuel tank closer to the car’s center, ahead of the battery. The battery, which always weighs the same, sits right above the rear transaxle. This setup brings real-world benefits, according to Toyota. As you burn fuel, the weight change happens closer to the car’s center, so handling stays more stable. In a rear-end hit, the battery takes the brunt before the fuel tank, protecting the fuel system. With more weight over the rear axle, you also get better traction when accelerating. Other parts, such as control units and backup batteries, are also installed to help balance the car and protect key systems. USPTO Where This Could Show Up NextThe patent itself does not point to a specific production vehicle, but it offers some useful clues. Toyota already has a high-performance twin-turbo V8 hybrid in the GR GT flagship, though that model sits firmly at the top of the range. This new layout looks much more flexible. It could work for upcoming rear-drive Toyota sedans or Lexus models where comfort and handling matter as much as efficiency. It shows Toyota is thinking about how hybrids should feel. Of course, like most patents, there’s no promise this will hit showrooms. Car makers often patent ideas just to protect them or test out solutions without committing to production (hence, costs). Then again, this fits Toyota’s previous claims that hybrids will become more exciting in the future. And of course, the company's usual kaizen approach: keep improving what already works. USPTO View the full article

You rarely expect a Harley Sportster to fit the clean lines of a cafe racer, yet you can see how well it works when design comes first. I walk you through why this build matters and why patience and planning can beat costly parts. You will notice how balance, stance, and fit change everything. You will also hear why this project feels familiar yet fresh, and why that choice makes sense. I focus on how careful measuring and simple changes shape […] The post Harley Davidson Sportster Café Racer by Kevan Cahyadi appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Goodguys Scottsdale is always a good show, not only because much of the country is starting to get cold, but also because there are a lot of awards and competitions on the line. It’s a great location, there are a lot of folks from the colder climates who are thrilled to be there before weather starts looking real bad everywhere else, and before they head home for the Thanksgiving holiday at home. Check out John’s video below, as he works his way around the show, handles some feature photo shoots, and more. Video Description: Ok Im super late getting this video up, and I also basically took the month of December off as well so that I could spend time with the Wifey before the 2026 Car Show kicks off. This is our coverage of the 2025 ‪@GoodguysRodandCustom‬ 28th Annual ‪@speedwaymotors‬ Southwest Nationals. This is always on my top ten list of cars shows for the season because it is our season finale for what was an amazing as always car show season. You get to see all the usual suspects at this event because all the “of the Year” winners get parked front and center in special parking so everyone gets to see them up close and personal. Most of my photography for the weekend was re-shooting some of the “of theYear” cars for 2026 Gazette magazine covers and for their respective “of the Year” features if the weather may have been off when they where originally photographed. This also winds up being a great even because normally the weather is amazing, but this year we ad Rain, Sun, Wind, combinations of everything……..well except for snow luckily haha. We did have three winners to photograph that will be competing for “of the Year” in 2026. A very cool Orange Oldsmobile 442 Convertible won our “Muscle Car of the Year” The guy who owns it actually came home from the hospital in it, and its cool its still in the family. Then a Badass Custom Mercury that is daily driven was our magazine editors choice, and a super trick 56 Ford F100 received the “Truck of the Year Earlt” nomination. Again sorry for the lapse in getting content up, but Ive got a bunch lined up for the New Year, I hope you enjoy the coverage of this show as much as I enjoyed making it. JJ ‪@NotStockPhoto‬ The post John Jackson’s Last Car Show Video of 2025: Goodguys Speedway Motors Southwest Nationals in Scottsdale Arizona appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article