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Reinventing the Door HandleDesign-wise, flush exterior handles look sleek and help reduce aerodynamic drag slightly. At the same time, electronic handles have made their way inside cars, too, ranging from buttons to, again, electronic handles. We're now at the point where the simple and reliable door pulls are getting electronically assisted. It's forced manufacturers who make such doors to make emergency door openers in case of emergencies, such as fires. However, there have been some serious concerns about it, particularly in an emergency situation with fire. A Major ConcernIt goes without saying that getting away from a fire as quickly as possible is of utmost importance. Every millisecond counts, and easy access to any escape route is key. Getting trapped is the worst possible thing to happen to anyone faced with a car fire situation. A growing number of EV fire incidents have resulted in deaths, with some allegedly linked to occupants being unable to open the doors. Bloomberg has reported that Tesla has some of the most high-profile cases of such incidents. Tesla Model X configurator The ReportPer Bloomberg, its report focused on accidents in which the occupants survived the initial impact but perished in the fire that followed. So far, the publication has tied at least 15 EV fire fatalities to Tesla's vehicles. One case Bloomberg pointed out was an accident in Easton, Massachusetts. After slamming into a tree, the driver was able to call emergency services but was unable to exit his Model Y. The police report noted "he was trapped inside of the vehicle after a crash and the vehicle was now on fire." At the time of writing, the government noted 140 cases of door handle malfunction in the Model Y. Another crash in Wisconsin also had occupants survive the crash, but were unable to escape the burning vehicle. The vehicle involved was a Model S, and five perished in that accident. These cars are equipped with emergency openers that manually override the electronic switches, but it's hard to determine if those failed to work or if the mental state of the victims was at play. The families of the victims have since sued Tesla. Tesla Regulations Coming Soon?Now, Tesla isn't the only automaker with electronic door handles. Some notable examples include Rivian, Ford, Lexus, and even Volvo. Loads of Chinese automakers are in on it as well, and they're not spared from the same incidents that Tesla vehicles have encountered, either. The fiery accidents have caught the attention of the National Highway Transport and Safety Administration (NHTSA). Back in September, NHTSA had requested Tesla to "provide a detailed list of consumer complaints and reports involving crashes, injuries, fatalities, or fires." The company has previously said that it takes safety seriously and that its vehicles comply with federal laws, citing that the cars come with emergency door releases. So far, there's no word about US regulators stepping in regarding the matter. However, Europe and China have begun taking the first steps toward helping minimize EV fire fatalities by looking into it. More recently, the Chinese government has new mandates for standardized door handles, and it's possible that other countries can follow suit. Tesla View the full article

If you love the Triumph Scrambler style but your inseam doesn't agree, you really need to try the new Scrambler 900 for a very pleasant surprise.View the full article

You can buy AAA batteries for pennies each, or you can spend dollars each, and I always wonder if the cheap ones are actually worth buying or not. And then the cheap ones you get included in something you buy on Amazon sometimes don’t even have a label, and yet they seem to last forever in whatever they came in which doesn’t help me think I need to buy name brand batteries. In recent years I’ve gotten to where I mostly buy Kirkland batteries from Costco because they are supposedly Duracell batteries. But are Duracell really all their cracked up to be? Or is there another brand that is the most powerful? Video Description: Lithium and Alkaline AA batteries compared for total milliamp hour capacity, internal resistance, initial voltage, performance in subfreezing temperature, and performance in a flashlight over a 5.5 hour test. 26 brands, including Duracell, Energizer, Rayovac, Harbor Freight Thunderbolt, and many more. I purchased all of the batteries and test equipment to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel! The post Does A Battery That’s Better Than Energizer And Duracell Actually Exist? Putting Batteries To The Test To Find Out What’s Best! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

For Immediate Release: RustSeal Easily Stops Rust, Delivers a Beautiful Finish, and Stands Out with 11 Color Options RustSeal makes it easy for DIYers and professionals alike to permanently stop and prevent rust and corrosion while still getting a durable, great-looking finish that’s available in a choice of 11 colors. This rock-hard yet flexible coating fully seals bare metal—or even lightly rusted or corroded surfaces—to lock out moisture, salt, and other contaminants. RustSeal prevents new rust and corrosion from forming and stops existing oxidation from spreading. The result is long-lasting protection that provides peace of mind. RustSeal’s 1K moisture-cured urethane formula uses premium materials and Advanced Cross-Linked Coatings Technology to form a tough, non-porous barrier that resists impacts and abrasion without cracking, chipping, or peeling. It cures with moisture—actually drying faster when exposed to it—to create a hard yet flexible finish that bonds tightly to metal and stays bonded as the metal expands, contracts, or takes a blow. RustSeal is ready to use and can be applied directly to bare metal, treated surface rust, primers, and most existing paints and coatings. Its excellent flow-out and self-leveling characteristics create a beautiful, smooth finish that can stand alone or serve as a rust-preventive primer for any paint system, body filler, or putty. Rated for temperatures up to 600°F, RustSeal also works great as an engine block sealant. RustSeal applies easily by brush, roller, or spray equipment. For best results, prepare metal surfaces with KBS Klean and KBS RustBlast before applying RustSeal. Note: If RustSeal will see repeated or extended exposure to direct UV light, applying a topcoat is recommended to prevent cosmetic changes to color and sheen. Its guaranteed rust-protective properties will remain unchanged. KBS Coatings are proudly made in the USA. For more information, visit kbs-coatings.com/rustseal, or call (888) 531-4527. The post Featured Products: KBS RustSeal Easily Stops Rust, Delivers a Beautiful Finish, and Stands Out with 11 Color Options appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A railroad speeder is one of those little tiny cars that ran on the train track back in the day to do repairs, check on track conditions, etc. Remember the ones in cartoons where two guys were hand cranking one to get it to cruise down the tracks? That’s a speeder, except later models actually had engines and could cruise down the tracks at speed. In the 1980 and 1990s speeders went away as the railroads changed over to road rail vehicles, which are those pickup trucks with the narrow wheels and little steel wheels that sit down on the tracks. The advantage of the road rail trucks is that they can drive on the street and get onto the tracks anywhere where there is a crossing, but they certainly aren’t as cool as speeders! Check out this great group who gets together in Oregon every year to spread some Christmas cheer while driving their speeders on tracks that are only used by freight trains. It sure looks like fun to me. Video Description: Once a year, enthusiasts drive vintage railroad speeder cars across the Oregon Coast Range and down the coast, getting to see gorgeous places few people see — all while delivering gifts to kids in need. There are speeder runs across the Northwest, but this annual run is often cited as the most scenic. It goes across trestles and through tunnels, over bridges and sloughs, and past the Oregon Dunes. The post These Railroad Speeders Got A Unique View Of The Oregon Coast While Spreading Christmas Cheer! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Kevin and the KSR Performance and Fab crew headed out to Bradenton for Cleetus McFarland’s Christmas Tree Drags, but like most folks in the motorsports world it was with a heavy heart after the unfortunate death of Greg Biffle and his family. He wasn’t alone, as he and many of the other racers at the Christmas Tree Race were friends with Biffle or raced with him in a variety of races at Bradenton and the Freedom Factory. But even though Greg’s death put a big of a dark cloud over the weekend, the race went on like he’d have wanted. Watch the racing action and see just how well KSR and Soccer Mom did with a Christmas tree strapped to it. The post Racing With Heavy Hearts…..The KSR Crew Heads To Bradenton Motorsports Park’s Christmas Tree Drags 2025! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

I’ve seen some personalized or vanity plates that I was surprised made it through the approval process, but then I’ve also heard about others getting kicked that I didn’t think were bad. To be honest, I wonder who it is that actually approves or denies all the ones that people come up with and submit. I’ve had several personalized plates over the years, but none of them were anything controversial. With that said, I’ve seen a ton I laughed at and wondered how they got approved. Watch the video below and let us know which one was denied that you thought should have been approved. The post Illinois Puts Out A Video Every Year Of Some Of Their More Entertaining Rejected Personalized Plates And Here It Is! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The unfortunate and tragic death of Greg Biffle made news worldwide but for Garrett Mitchell, aka Cleetus McFarland, the news hit home much harder. Biffle and his family were on their way to Florida for some birthday and racing fun with Garrett and his family and friends when they had issues and were forced to turn back to the North Carolina airport they had just taken off from. Their crash landing has been discussed thoroughly over the last few days, but the video below is a fitting tribute to a good friend. We’ve said it before, but our hearts go out to all the family and friends of those poor folks on the plane. This Christmas will be very different for these poor families. Video Description: Well guys. I don’t have much to say. We lost our brother Greg Biffle, his wife Cristina, Son Ryder, Daughter Emma, his best friend Craig, his Pilot and their son in a horrific crash last week. It’s been rough. This video is some of our best memories. I’ll miss my brother forever. The post The One and Only Greg Biffle: A Fitting Tribute From His Friend, Fellow Racers, And Family Man, Cleetus McFarland. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We love barn finds, and I know you guys do too, and part of the fun of a barn find is seeing what it looks like after the first wash. With decades of dust, dirt, and bird poop, this 1970 Chevrolet Suburban needs a bath in a big way, and the 90 year old man who owns it hasn’t seen it clean in at least 40 years. 40 years! Watch WD Detailing work their magic on this thing. Video Description: War Veteran Surprised With His Truck Cleaned For The First Time in 40 YEARS! EMOTIONAL REACTION Today, we tackle the interior & exterior of a 1970 Chevy Suburban owned by a 90 Year Old War Veteran that we’re going to completely surprise that are covered in dirt and debris that haven’t been detailed in years that will require us to pressure wash the entire exterior, followed by a wash, clay bar and then polishing the paint to bring back its shine and a full interior detail including mold removal! The post First Wash In 40 Years! Surprising The Owner As He Sees His Truck Cleaned For The First Time in 40 YEARS! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A Clash of Modern Performance IconsThe Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 has delivered since its introduction last year, already racking up multiple performance benchmarks – including a Nürburgring lap time that beat the Ford Mustang GTD. But how does America’s most extreme production Corvette stack up against the tech-forward Ferrari 296 GTB in a straight-line battle? Thanks to DragTimes, we now have a real-world drag race between the two modern performance cars. The Corvette ZR1 lines up at the quarter-mile with a 5.5-liter twin-turbo flat-plane-crank LT7 V8 producing a staggering 1,064 horsepower. Power is routed exclusively to the rear wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). DragTimes noted that the ZR1 tips the scales at around 3,800 pounds, giving it roughly a 300-pound weight disadvantage compared to the Ferrari. America vs Italy on the StripHowever, the 296 GTB makes less power, producing a combined 820 horsepower from its 3.0-liter twin-turbo hybrid V6 – the powertrain Ferrari says offers advantages over a traditional V12. The engine itself carries genuine motorsports credibility, with architecture closely related to the V6 platform Ferrari uses in its Le Mans-winning 499P. But the big question is whether that pedigree translates into outright straight-line performance. During the first run, the Corvette ZR1 won, completing the quarter mile in 9.291 seconds at 153.20 mph. The 296 GTB followed with a 9.737-second pass at 146.08 mph. While the margin may appear small on paper, a difference of nearly half a second in drag racing terms is considered a commanding victory. A second run was necessary to rule out external variables such as driver reaction time. Yet the rematch told a similar story. The Corvette once again came out on top, posting a 9.315-second run at 151.70 mph, while the Ferrari recorded a 9.746-second pass at 145.66 mph. DragTimes on YouTube When Price Enters the EquationBeyond performance, pricing adds another layer of context. According to DragTimes, the tested 296 GTB carried a price tag of around $405,000 – roughly $174,000 more than the Corvette ZR1. Much of that premium comes not only from hardware and engineering, but also from Ferrari’s exclusivity-driven brand positioning. The Italian marque even operates under a loosely hierarchical ownership strategy, where customers often begin with entry-level models such as the 296 GTB before becoming eligible for ultra-exclusive offerings like the Daytona SP3. Chevrolet, by contrast, has stated that it does not plan to cap Corvette ZR1 production, though real-world output will remain constrained by manufacturing capacity and component availability. Ultimately, determining which car is “worth it” comes down to individual preferences. Nevertheless, head-to-head tests like this high-octane drag race provide valuable insight, helping buyers better understand what they’re getting for their money. DragTimes on YouTube View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Kia Tasman is a midsize pickup, and that should mean it's automatically a smash hit, right? Kia's reliability and practicality in a segment that always has plenty of buyers sounds like a winning recipe for the brand, but the Tasman's quirky design appears to be the one big thing counting against it. And yet, Kia is in no rush to redesign the truck, despite sharing renders of a better-looking Tasman on its own website. Speaking with local publication Drive, Kia Australia general manager of product planning Roland Rivero said, "If there's any rumor or if there's any suggestion that we are going to fast-track a PE [product enhancement], or a facelift, that is completely incorrect." Why Kia Won't Facelift the Tasman Yet Kia Over the course of this year, there have been several reports and rumors claiming that Kia will restyle the Tasman very soon, but Rivero said that a facelift would, as usual, "fall within the milestones of the product lifecycle plan, and there's no fast-tracking of any sort." Yes, sales of the Tasman have been disappointing, even with the improvements made by upfitters. But if Kia were to redesign the Tasman so soon, not only would it send a message that the automaker would be admitting the pickup is ugly, but such an exercise would be enormously expensive - especially since a facelift would normally come with interior updates, too. Rivero added that customers who have taken delivery of a Tasman are "very, very positive about their purchase, and they speak very highly [of the truck]." He noted that Kia just needs more Tasman customers, but unfortunately, it seems unlikely that any of those customers will be American. Kia Tasman Remains Unlikely for America Kia View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Rivero went on to say that Kia begins working on the concept for a vehicle's facelift immediately after launching a brand-new vehicle, but whenever that happens, we likely won't see the result in the metal because tariffs are making the Tasman and other Kia products considerably more expensive than expected. Kia said earlier in the year that a Tasman-based SUV is coming, but that likely won't make it to American shores either, as this will be produced in South Korea at the automaker's Hwaseong plant. The impact of tariffs is not unique to Kia, however. Mazda is likely to increase pricing and could be forced to move production of certain vehicles, and in the premium space, Porsche has confirmed price increases starting in January, while BMW is set to raise its MSRPs for 2026 again. View the full article

I have lots of friends who drive winter beaters, and while some of them drive the same one for several years I also have friends who buy something every year or two and drive them like assh@les because it puts a giant smile on their face. So anytime I see someone buying some winter machine, I think about how much fun we can have with them. I’m not alone obviously, as the Grind Hard Plumbing gang just bought this 1970s Snowcat and they are throwing a new engine in it that makes three times the power that the stock engine made new. What could possibly go wrong? The post The Boys Found A Rare Snowcat and Trippled the Power! What Could Possibly Go Wrong? This Is Going To Be Fun appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Tesla’s “Robotaxi” fleet is getting a lot bigger on paper, but the rollout looks very different from the fully driverless future Elon Musk has been pitching for years. In California, the company has registered well over a thousand vehicles for paid Robotaxi service in just a few months, yet every one of those cars still needs a human driver behind the wheel. At the same time, Tesla is testing dedicated driverless prototypes and showing off future designs, from a Model S–based Robotaxi mule to a Cybercab concept that recently hit a showroom floor. The gap between those experiments and the service ordinary riders can actually use is where the story lives. Getty View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article A Fast-Growing, Human-Driven “Robotaxi” FleetIn the Bay Area, Tesla’s Robotaxi program operates under a Transportation Charter-Party permit, the same basic category used by chauffeured ride services. That allows it to carry paying passengers in FSD-equipped cars, but only with a human driver in charge. Since launch, Tesla has quietly ramped up its CPUC-registered fleet from just a few dozen vehicles into the low four figures, with hundreds of drivers approved as “AI operators” to run shifts in Model Y crossovers. On the ground, the experience feels more like a Tesla-branded ride-hail than a sci-fi pod with no one in the front seat. The cars run the latest Full Self-Driving software, but regulators still treat it as driver-assistance that needs supervision. That legal framing is a long way from Musk’s older predictions about owners turning their personal cars into fully autonomous robo-fleets while they sleep. The tension is that California’s Robotaxi service today still relies on conventional cars with human drivers. In Texas, Tesla has begun small-scale testing of driverless runs, but those pilot fleets are counted in dozens of vehicles, not thousands, and they operate under a different regulatory climate. Until Tesla secures and uses full autonomous permits in key markets, the Cybercab will remain a showroom promise rather than something you can actually summon on your phone. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images Expectations, Reality, And Tesla’s Track RecordMusk has been promising coast-to-coast self-driving, a million Robotaxis, and fully unsupervised FSD “next year” for quite some time. Right now, it seems like a sensible middle ground: expand a supervised fleet, collect data, and continue developing the hardware and software for driverless operations simultaneously. Critics say that labelling a human-driven service as a “Robotaxi” only adds to the confusion that regulators have already expressed concerns about, particularly as California examines how Tesla promotes Autopilot and FSD. On the other hand, Tesla does have a track record of eventually delivering on some things that once sounded far-fetched. The Cybertruck, for example, took plenty of heat for its polarizing shape and stainless steel body, yet it just secured a top safety rating after many said that would never happen. The open question is whether Robotaxis will follow a similar path from overpromise to eventual execution, or whether the gap between branding and reality will keep widening as more “Robotaxis” hit the road with human drivers still firmly in charge. View the full article

New engines are significantly better than older engines in many regards, but not in all of them. And new engines being better than old engines doesn’t mean that old engines aren’t good. Another important thing to remember is that better and good are not technical descriptors when it comes to anything that has to be quantified with data. So you might be able to look at data and then describe one engine as “better” than the other in a particular test, but saying that something is “good” doesn’t actually give any real information on the quantifiable elements used to make that decision. If I’ve lost you, don’t worry, it’s not critical for understanding this video at all. Just watch, and listen to our friend Lake Speed Jr. as he explains what new data has come available on why modern engines have been making news with their failures. Video Description: The Hemi Tick, Roller Camshaft failures and bearing problems, let’s face it, modern engines aren’t just built the same anymore. There is something common about all of these modern engine mechanical problems that relates to motor oil. OEM recommended viscosity and oil change intervals are part of the problem, but probably not for the reason you think. Motor oil does more than just lubricate the engine. It protects against rust and corrosion. It Cleans, Cools and help Seal the engine. We’ve mentioned these important functions in previous videos, but there’s another function that motor oil provides in modern engines – hydraulic force. You see, Variable Valve Timing and Displacement On Demand systems utilize the motor oil as hydraulic fluid, and this is where the problem lies. Here is the proper framework for making decisions regarding oil. Step 1 – Utilize the OEM recommended oil and do two early oil changes during the break-in process (500 to 1,000 miles and again between 3,000 and 4,000 miles). Step 2 – Take used oil samples at each oil change to establish the trend analysis. Step 3 – Go 5,000 miles on the third oil change and take a used oil sample. If the wear rate per 1,000 miles is below 5 ppm, you are good. If the wear rate is between 5 ppm and 10 ppm per 1,000 miles, go another 5,000 miles on the OEM recommended oil and resample. If the wear rate is still greater than 5 ppm per 1,000 miles, then move to step 4. Step 4 – Review the used oil analysis data to see if the OEM recommended oil is falling short in any aspect (low viscosity, additive depletion, higher wear rate). If it is falling short, try a different oil of the same viscosity that meets the OEM spec. Go 3,000 to 4,000 miles on that oil and then refill with that same oil and go another 5,000 miles before taking another sample. See if the change in brand drops the wear rate per 1,000 miles below 5 ppm. If it does, you are good. If it does not, then move to Step 5. Step 5 – Since the change in brand did not get the wear rate per 1,000 miles below 5 ppm, use next higher viscosity grade of whichever oil had the lowest wear rate per 1,000 miles. If it was the non-OEM brand, resample at 5,000 miles to check the wear rate per 1,000 miles. If it was the OEM brand, you will need to use it for 3,000 to 4,000 miles to flush the non-OEM oil out of the system before going 5,000 miles on the higher viscosity OEM oil to take another sample. If either higher viscosity oil brings the wear rate down, then stay with that viscosity grade. If the wear rate per 1,000 miles is still above 5 ppm, go back to Step 4 and repeat. If the wear rate per 1,000 miles is below 5 ppm, you are good. You can then use the oil analysis results to fine tune the oil change interval. For more about Oil Analysis, check out: https://www.speediagnostix.com The post Bad Parts? Wrong Oil? NEW Data Reveals WHY Modern Engines FAIL Prematurely! This Info Might Scare You. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Living Up To ExpectationsIt's hard to follow up on a "great," and more often than not, it might be better to just have the one iteration and let the lore stay that way. That wasn't the case for the Acura/Honda NSX, an ambitious project that involved the very best of Honda in the '90s and even a certain F1 driver named Aryton Senna; it became the antithesis to the European idea of a sports car. The follow-up act came in 2015, and it was supposed to have the same core ideals as the first generation, but now with revolutionary hybrid power and all-wheel drive. Let's say critics were divided, and sales weren't as stellar, leading to its demise. With no new NSX in sight, some fans are looking to the second-hand market, and one has just hit the sale block. Bring a Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Low Miler GaloreJust listed on Bring-a-Trailer is a 2017 Acura NSX. This particular NSX is notable for a few things, but mainly for the fact that, over its 8-year life, it has only clocked an incredible 956 miles. If being a low-mileage example of a model that isn't in production anymore is enough to garner attention, this NSX also has some pretty extensive modifications. The list of modifications is quite long, but it includes a Fi exhaust system, 20- and 21-inch Vossen multi-spoke wheels, and an Air Lift Performance suspension. The exterior looks have been modded with Jewel Eye LED headlights, carbon-ceramic brakes, an ELS sound system, and carbon-fiber engine bay trim. The body is finished in Silver, and the body kit from AimGain gives this NSX a wider stance. Bring a Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Betting on the FuturePerformance-wise, this NSX is untouched. It still has the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 paired with dual electric motors, with power rated at 573 horsepower and 476 lb-ft of torque. This Acura NSX with all the upgrades is currently being bid at a high of $69,696 and has six days left on the auction block. While this example may have modifications that might turn people away, the less than 1,000-mile odometer is hard to ignore, and even if this isn't the coveted NSX generation, getting it now might reap higher rewards and returns in the future. Bring a Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Brooklyn is home to a great many strange, hip, modern, and trendy new businesses that can feel cartoonishly stereotypical against the constantly shifting landscape of the legendary NYC borough. For all the cucumber milkshake parlors and Croatian Black Metal concert venues dotting Brooklyn, there is ... View the full article

'Tis the season!With the holiday season in full swing, crunch time has arrived for anyone still searching for that elusive gift for the gearhead in their life. Whether they’re into cars, trucks, racing, or simply anything mechanical with wheels, automotive enthusiasts can be notoriously difficult to shop for. To help ease the pressure, here are five simple, but genuinely thoughtful, gift ideas that are likely to land well. Automotive enthusiasts, gearheads, petrolheads - call them what you will - are often challenging to buy for. That’s especially true if you’re not one of them, but still want your gift to feel personal and meaningful. Sure, the easy route might be something generic, like a small tool kit (and yes, we do love those), but a little extra thought and originality can go a long way. Not every gearhead turns wrenches on weekends. Some may not even own a vehicle yet. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all gift when it comes to automotive passion. Before shopping, try to learn a bit about their interests. A favorite automaker, racing series, race team, or even tire brand can help narrow the field and make your gift feel targeted rather than transactional. Gift idea #1: Automotive outerwear & apparel (Pricing: $9 – $90) View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article This is one of the easiest - and safest - routes if you want something personal without overthinking it. Automotive-branded apparel taps directly into someone’s passion, much like wearing your favorite sports team’s colors. This is one of the easiest gifts to find in this category, no matter what the recipient's age. Hats, shirts, hoodies, socks, and even belts are easy to find online. If you’re unsure about sizing or style, accessories like keychains, wallets, or beanies are safe bets. And yes—underwear counts. I personally own a few pairs of Italian automaker-branded boxers that I treasure far more than I probably should. Gift idea #2: Air compressors, tire gauges & roadside repair kits (Pricing: $15 – $300) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Having tools on hand for a flat tire or roadside issue isn’t just for gearheads; it’s useful for any driver. Still, many automotive enthusiasts somehow manage to overlook basics like a tire gauge, repair kit, or portable air compressor. Modern options are compact, lightweight, and easy to stash in a glove box or trunk. I’m a big fan of the latest wireless tire inflators, some of which are barely larger than a soda can and can double as power banks. Canned tire inflators might seem old-school, but they’re lifesavers for vehicles without spare tires. Repair kits range from simple plug tools to full roadside safety packages. Gift idea #3: Cleaning & detailing kits (Pricing: $40 – $250) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A surprising number of people prefer to clean and detail their own vehicles. Many gearheads take pride in maintaining their ride, saving money while staying hands-on. It’s worth noting that cleaning and detailing aren’t the same thing. Cleaning kits typically include soap, interior wipes, upholstery cleaner, glass cleaner, and maybe an air freshener. Detailing kits focus more on paint correction and finish enhancement, often including wax, polish, microfiber towels, and sometimes buffers. Some kits also include interior detailing products. Both options make practical, appreciated gifts, especially if your recipient enjoys keeping their vehicle looking its best. Gift idea #4: Coffee table car & truck books (Pricing: $25 – $150) Singer Vehicle Design View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Yes, we live in a digital age, but a well-chosen coffee table book still has real impact. High-quality automotive books filled with stunning photography, illustrations, or historical insight can be both decorative and deeply personal. Even if you don’t know their favorite automaker or racing team, books centered around exotic cars, motorsport history, or iconic vehicle classes are safe bets. Nearly every automaker has at least one book dedicated to a halo model, and plenty of race teams have beautifully produced retrospectives. Used books, if in good condition, can also be a budget-friendly way to score something special. I recently received a compact book on the history of muscle cars. It usually lives on my coffee table, but it often finds its way into the guest room when visitors start flipping through it. Gift idea #5: Tools (Pricing: $10 - $1,000) View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Local auto parts stores and online retailers carry tool kits for every budget. From ratcheting screwdrivers and wrench sets to multitools and full emergency kits, most gearheads will gladly accept tools, even if they already own similar ones. My personal go-to gift is a compact ratcheting screwdriver kit with interchangeable bits and sockets. Pair it with a quality set of pliers, and you’ve got a genuinely useful combo. Many kits come in flimsy cases, but upgrading to a well-made, aesthetically pleasing toolbox adds a nice finishing touch. A toolbox can be a fine gift on its own as well! I firmly believe every vehicle should carry both an emergency kit and a basic tool kit. Packaging them together thoughtfully makes the gift feel intentional rather than last-minute. Final thoughts PAUL CHIASSON via Getty Images View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Yes, it’s the thought that counts, but it’s even better when that thought aligns with something the recipient truly appreciates. From scale models and dash cams to race tickets and driving experiences, the possibilities are nearly endless. Gearheads may seem hard to shop for, but with a little insight and creativity, you can deliver a gift that resonates long after the holidays are over. Happy holidays and happy shopping! View the full article

EVs Match or Beat ICE on Radiation SafetyMost people picture an electric vehicle as a massive battery pack on wheels, packed with high-voltage wiring and powerful electric motors. While that isn’t too far from the truth, the mental image does cause concerns about electromagnetic radiation exposure. As it turns out, those fears are less rational than one would think. Research conducted by Germany's ADAC automobile club showed that electric vehicles produce extremely low levels of electromagnetic radiation that remain well below international safety thresholds, and in some cases, even lower than conventional combustion vehicles. The test, while by no means exhaustive, included 11 battery electric vehicles, several plug-in hybrids, and one internal combustion vehicle. Chevrolet View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What the Numbers Actually MeanThe German study used rigorous testing methods that involved placing ten measuring probes in seat dummies and evaluating vehicles under realistic driving and charging conditions. What researchers discovered contradicts popular belief. Electric vehicles actually emitted less electromagnetic activity than the single ICE car included in the study. The electromagnetic fields that were detected appeared primarily in the footwell area near high-voltage cabling, while measurements around the head and torso remained minimal. Tests on Chinese electric vehicles showed cabin electromagnetic radiation ranging from 0.8 to 1.0 μT in the front row and 0.3 to 0.5 μT in the rear. To put this in perspective, electric blankets commonly emit between 10 and 50 μT, making warming up under a heated blanket more radioactive than sitting inside a modern EV. Nissan More worryingly, heated seats produced some of the strongest electromagnetic readings across EVs, hybrids, and ICE-powered cars. The study also examined whether charging increases radiation exposure. Brief spikes occurred during hard acceleration or when electrical components were used, but none approached concerning thresholds. Interestingly, DC fast charging actually generated weaker electromagnetic fields than slower AC charging, meaning sitting inside a charging EV shouldn't be cause for concern. There was no relation between a motor's power output and magnetic field strength either. Why EV Buyers Can Stop Worrying About RadiationTraditional gasoline and diesel vehicles contain their own electromagnetic field sources that many people never consider. Components like alternators and ignition systems all produce electromagnetic radiation during normal operation. Because electric vehicles eliminate many of these conventional parts, the total electromagnetic exposure inside the cabin can actually be lower. The German Federal Office for Radiation Protection concluded that no health-relevant effects are expected based on current scientific knowledge. Anyone who already drives an electric vehicle or is considering making the switch need not worry about electromagnetic radiation exposure. Well, at least, not any more compared to common household appliances or even conventional combustion vehicles. View the full article

While the obscenely heavy (5,368 lbs) 717-horsepower G90 BMW M5 has enormous kidney grilles, at least they're not longer than they are wide, like on an M3. And with the 2027 Life Cycle Impulse, or facelift, the so-called supercar in a suit may be even better dressed, thanks to some Neue Klasse design influence. Spy shots captured in Germany reveal revised headlights and taillights, and there may be some changes to the front bumper and its grilles, too. It's tough to be certain exactly how much will change, given the extent of the false body cladding applied to this development mule, but things definitely seem to be improving. More Elegant Front End for the 2027 G90 BMW M5 SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article At the front of this prototype are likely placeholder headlights, not the production units, but we can see that the shape is changing, with the outer edges now slanted downward instead of up. In this writer's opinion, the update makes the M5 look more like the classic Sharknose E34 M5, giving the super sedan a more aggressive look. Moving inward, the grilles appear to be a little thinner, making them look wider, but we can't be sure because the cladding underneath still bears a resemblance to the current model, whose grilles almost meet the lower intake at the middle of the bumper. SH Proshots/Autoblog Still, moving to shallower grilles would seem like a logical choice that would help the M5 blend in with the rest of the Neue Klasse family. As for those lower intakes, they appear to retain the shape and sizing of the current vehicle, and we can probably ignore the cladding on the hood and fenders. Not much of note is apparent on the sides of the M5, either, with rocker panels, glasshouse, and wing mirrors unchanged. Slightly Softer Taillights for the Refreshed G90 M5 SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article At the back, the outer edges of the taillights have also been mildly revised; the line that leads to a downward slant aimed at the rear wheels is no longer a straight edge but a subtle curve, and inside the clusters, the graphics have been updated to align with vehicles like the next 3 Series. The rear bumper of this updated M5 is a placeholder item, but it appears that the massive dual diffuser panels will be retained, allowing a tow bar to deploy and hide again without hindrance. In the cabin, we can expect the new Operating System X version of iDrive, with Panoramic Vision, just like the iX3, and a reliable source on the Bimmer Post forum reports that Alcantara will be generously applied to various surfaces. Under the skin, the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 hybrid powertrain as the current car will reappear, and it's unclear whether this will see a performance bump, but aftermarket tuners have proven that the setup can easily handle well beyond 800 hp. The current model was launched in November 2024, so don't hold your breath for the facelift until late 2026. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jerry Bickel Race Cars, an industry-leading builder of Pro Modified-style race cars, will now serve as the presenting sponsor of the Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous division within the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series in 2026, series officials announced today. Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars will compete at all seven national events on the 2026 PDRA schedule. “We’re proud to welcome Jerry Bickel Race Cars as the new presenting sponsor for Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous,” said Will Smith, marketing director, PDRA. “JBRC has built some of the most competitive cars in the class going back to the beginning of the series, and under the new ownership of Rick Hord, I’m sure many more championship-winning, record-setting cars will come out of the JBRC shop. Like Switzer Dynamics, JBRC is committed to providing a top-notch product and service for our racers, making them a perfect partner for the class and the series.” This partnership reinforces JBRC’s long-standing commitment to supporting racers and series that prioritize competition, innovation, and giving back to the racing community. PDRA has built a reputation for fostering a family-oriented environment while continually reinvesting into its racers – values that align closely with the core philosophy of Jerry Bickel Race Cars. “We’re extremely excited to partner with PDRA and to serve as the presenting sponsor of Pro Nitrous under Switzer Dynamics,” said Rick Hord, who acquired JBRC after years of competing in Pro Mod himself. “PDRA has consistently proven that they are focused on the racers first, and that’s something we believe is critical for the long-term growth of the sport.” The Pro Nitrous class has become one of the most competitive and technically advanced categories in professional drag racing—and it’s a class where Bickel-built machines have consistently set the standard. During the 2024 season, 59% of the Pro Nitrous field competed in Jerry Bickel Race Cars chassis, underscoring JBRC’s engineering excellence and on-track performance. That dominance was further highlighted at the championship level where several of the top 10 poisitions were claimed by drivers competing in Jerry Bickel Race Cars, including newly crowned world champion Marcus Butner, as well as three-time world champion Tommy Franklin, who finished second. “As a chassis builder, it’s incredibly rewarding to see so many racers choosing our cars and succeeding at this level,” Hord said. “Pro Nitrous is one of the most exciting classes in the sport, and we’re proud to support a category where our customers continue to lead the way.” Jerry Bickel Race Cars looks forward to working alongside PDRA and Switzer Dynamics throughout the season to further elevate the Pro Nitrous class and continue supporting the racers who make it one of the premier categories in professional drag racing. The Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series will kick off the 2026 season March 25-28 at Darlington Dragway in Hartsville, South Carolina. The post Jerry Bickel Race Cars Named Presenting Sponsor of PDRA’s Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

After competing at the World Series of Pro Mod for the past two seasons, Pro 10.5 officially joined the full three-race Drag Illustrated Winter Series lineup – and Ohio doorslammer veteran Bill Lutz wasted no time making the moment count. Lutz entered the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals with something to prove and left Bradenton Motorsports Park with a $10,000 Pro 10.5 victory, capping the weekend by outrunning Super Bowl champion Fletcher Cox in a pressure-packed final round. For Lutz, the win wasn’t just about numbers on a timeslip. It was about timing, belief, and finally capitalizing on a car that had been capable of winning this race for years. “We’ve had a car to win here multiple years and either the driver messes up or something happened to the car,” Lutz said. “The car was just phenomenal from the day we unloaded it, and I told them after the first run, I was like, ‘This is our weekend. We’re going to win this damn thing,’ and here we are.” Driving his screw-blown “Big Boost” ’67 Camaro, Lutz qualified third before turning on win lights round after round. He opened eliminations by setting low E.T. of the first round, ripping off a 3.935 at 192.66 to defeat Jerry Morgano. A quarterfinal bye run kept the momentum rolling, followed by a decisive semifinal win over Nick Agostino, where Lutz laid down a 3.969 at 183.24. The final round paired Lutz with Cox, whose nitrous-assisted “Training Day” ’69 Camaro added a layer of intrigue – and intensity – to the matchup. Cox left first, but Lutz never wavered, charging past with a 3.886 at 193.88 to seal the victory. “To race somebody of his caliber, obviously, he’s an elite athlete, and I don’t care what anybody says – that all transfers over into this type of deal,” Lutz said. “He’s felt pressure, he knows pressure, and I have too. I’ve raced in every type of racing you can do, and I feel we can excel at anything, so I don’t never let pressure get to me. But to beat the guy that is quite possibly one of the best NFL linemen ever? It still means more than just outrunning a typical guy.” As meaningful as the final-round matchup was, Lutz was quick to put the weekend into historical context. Among a career filled with marquee moments, this one stands tall. “I tell you, it ranks right up there with winning Shadyside’s King of the South,” he said. “That was a massive race to win, but I’m telling you, this is right there with it.” Equally important to Lutz was the team effort behind the scenes. With son Kenny leading the charge and Patrick Miller handling tuning duties, the operation delivered exactly when it mattered most. “I never do it without my crew,” Lutz said. “It’s a team effort, and without them, I’m nothing.” Beyond the win itself, Lutz sees Pro 10.5 as a class worth investing in – literally. Rather than chasing the path of least resistance, he’s committed to helping grow the category within the Winter Series. “Honestly, if I had any brains, my car should be running in the True 10.5 class because it’s so light,” Lutz admitted. “I’m here on a 33×10.5 to support the class, and I’m willing to put money into it to help grow it. I think at the U.S. Street Nationals, we will have 16, maybe even 20 cars.” For a racer who has spent decades chasing big moments, the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals delivered more than a trophy. It delivered validation – of the car, the team, and the belief that when preparation meets opportunity, everything finally clicks. “We more or less follow with the money anymore,” Lutz said. “But to win this is phenomenal. It’s a lifelong dream.” This story was originally published on December 22, 2025. The post “It Was Our Weekend”: Bill Lutz Delivers Long-Awaited Breakthrough at Snowbird Outlaw Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Garrett Mitchell, a popular YouTuber more commonly referred to as Cleetus McFarland, had only known Greg Biffle for about 1.5 years, but they had quickly become close friends, and they were planning to spend the day together when the fatal plane crash occurred. Biffle, his wife Cristinia, their son Ryder, and his son Emma were among seven killed in a tragic plane crash last week. The accident ...Keep readingView the full article

A new class action lawsuit claims 2022–2023 Kia Carnival minivans still have dangerous power sliding doors, even after a recall that was supposed to fix them. Filed in federal court in Maryland, the case argues the recall didn’t address an allegedly defective pinch sensor and that every affected Carnival is now worth less because of it. Kia, for its part, has fired back with a motion to dismiss, saying the suit is built on worries, not real-world damage. It’s a sharp contrast to the value-forward image the brand has tried to build with other models, from midsize sedans like the K5, to budget-friendly newcomers like the K4. Recall, Investigation, And A Pinch-Sensor ProblemPlaintiffs Rachel and Andrew Langerhans bought a new 2022 Kia Carnival SX in November 2021. Within a few months, they say they noticed the power sliding doors weren’t reacting properly when they hit obstacles or people while closing, and they weren’t alone. By early 2023, complaints to federal regulators had triggered a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into the 2022 Carnival’s sliding doors, focused on the auto-reverse function that’s supposed to stop and back the door up if it hits something. Kia responded with an April 2023 recall covering roughly 51,000 2022–2023 Carnivals. The fix, documented under campaign SC266, involved a software update that slowed the doors as they approached the latch and added extra warning chimes, giving people more time to move clear. NHTSA closed its investigation based on that remedy. The Langerhans had the recall work done and told the dealer they were worried about the door’s pinch sensors, but technicians said the system was working as designed. Owners Say The Fix Didn’t Change The ForceThe class action, Langerhans v. Kia Corporation, argues the recall didn’t change the underlying problem. According to the complaint, the pinch sensors along the door edge still require too much force to trigger, meaning the door can keep closing on a child, pet or adult before it finally reverses. The lawsuit calls the software update a “band-aid” that does nothing to reduce the force needed to activate the sensors. Because of that, the plaintiffs say they have to closely supervise their kids whenever the doors operate and that their Carnival, and every other recalled Carnival in the country, is now worth less on the used market. It’s a familiar theme for a brand that also leans heavily on aggressive pricing pitches elsewhere in the lineup. Here, though, the focus is on alleged lost value rather than value for money. Kia Calls The Case HypotheticalKia’s motion to dismiss takes a very different view. The company points out that the plaintiffs don’t claim they or their children have suffered any injuries from the sliding doors. Instead, they say they “have concerns” about what could happen. Kia also notes that the Langerhans don’t allege any post-recall malfunctions and haven’t gone back to the dealer after the recall work if they truly believe it failed. Without a current defect showing up on their own van, the automaker argues, the lawsuit asks the court to rule on hypotheticals. The company also raises a procedural defense, arguing the case doesn’t belong in court at all because the buyers signed a binding arbitration agreement when they purchased the Carnival. For us, none of this stops the minivan from remaining on sale. View the full article

The 2026 Can-Am Maverick R Xrc pushes the high-performance Maverick R platform into new terrain with a dedicated focus on rock-crawling domination. Built from the ground up to tackle the toughest technical trails, this purpose-built machine pairs the Maverick R’s potent turbocharged 240 hp Rotax engine and rugged chassis with rock-ready features like Smart-Lok with Rock mode and oversized 35-inch XPS Hammer King tires, giving drivers unparalleled traction and capability where others stall. With premium tech such as a 10.25-inch touchscreen, front/rear cameras, and available Smart-Shox adaptive suspension, the Maverick R Xrc blends cutting-edge performance with everyday usability for serious off-road enthusiasts. We spent two days rock crawling at Southern Utah’s premiere rock crawling destinations, Sand Hollow, with three different drivers behind the wheel on three different trails. First up, Jon Crowley took on Double Sammy. Then Chad Hughes hit up Milt’s Mile. And finally Justin Kee traversed West Rim. Watch all the action and get all of our feedback in the video below: The Can-Am Maverick R X rc package includes a range of rock-crawling-specific features like an Extra Low gear range (with transmission from 4 seat Maverick R) and ROCK mode for the Smart-Lok differential, optimizing rock-crawling capabilities. Other features include: 35-inch XPS Hammer King tires FOX steering damper HMW skid plate, rock sliders and arm guards Intrusion bar High clearance radius rod Audio system LED light on the hood Front and rear cameras Can-Am Maverick R X rc Can-Am Maverick R X rc Can-Am Maverick R X rc Can-Am Maverick R X rc The King of the Rocks: the Can-Am Maverick R X rc The post Can-Am Maverick R Xrc Rock Crawling Review appeared first on UTV Guide. View the full article

A Nameplate We All Once LovedFor years, the Honda Fit earned a devoted following in the U.S. because of its remarkable fuel efficiency and cleverly designed practicality. Its hallmark “Magic Seat” system gave the subcompact hatchback near-mythical versatility, allowing owners to configure the interior for bulky cargo, long items, or even a quick nap. Critics praised the Fit for punching above its size, delivering a level of interior space and usability that embarrassed larger, pricier competitors. It became especially popular among urban dwellers, college students, and anyone who valued smart engineering over sheer style. But that chapter closed after the 2020 model year, when Honda discontinued the Fit in America as buyers gravitated toward SUVs and crossovers. The Fit’s fate reflected a broader market shift away from small cars, combined with rising costs tied to emissions and safety standards. Overseas, however, the Fit nameplate continued to evolve, though in forms that have increasingly diverged from the approachable, efficiency-first model U.S. drivers once knew. Minisitry of Industry and Information Technology China A China-Only Fit With a Radical New FaceThe latest iteration of the Fit story now unfolds in China, where GAC-Honda is preparing to launch a heavily restyled version of the current-generation model. While the car’s proportions and side profile remain recognizable, the redesigned front end marks a striking departure from tradition. Leaked images from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, as reported by Autohome, show a split-headlight design and a sharper, more angular front fascia, replacing the friendly, rounded look of past Fits. The new styling pushes the car closer to the aesthetic of rivals like the Toyota Yaris, with slim upper LED strips, separated main beams, and a bold lower grille that gives the hatchback a more aggressive stance. Rear updates are subtler, retaining much of the JDM Fit's look, limited to a revised bumper that mimics a diffuser, but the overall effect is a distinctly edgier Fit. The car stretches slightly longer, to 165 inches, but mechanically, it stays firmly in familiar territory. Minisitry of Industry and Information Technology China Powertrain and Market-Specific DetailsUnder the hood, the Chinese-market Fit carries a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, producing 122 horsepower. That’s a modest bump from the Japanese version, but the formula remains classic Honda: front-wheel drive paired with a CVT, and no hybrid or all-wheel-drive options. It’s a straightforward setup aimed at keeping costs and complexity low, appealing to first-time buyers in a value-driven segment. Interior details remain under wraps, leaving questions about whether Honda plans a more substantial refresh inside. Similarly, the brand has not confirmed whether the Crosstar or Sport trims, which previously added rugged or sporty styling, will return. Alongside this GAC-Honda version, China will also continue selling the Dongfeng-Honda Life, a close twin with more conservative styling that is expected to receive its own update soon. Despite sharing a familiar name, the odds of this newly styled Fit making it to American showrooms are virtually zero. Honda’s earlier decision to retire the model reflected a strategic realignment toward small crossovers like the HR-V, which now serves as the brand’s entry-level offering. View the full article