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After over a year of back-and-forth litigation and a trial that lasted nine days, a settlement has finally been reached in the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports vs. NASCAR antitrust lawsuit. The two parties appeared outside the courthouse with 23XI co-owner Michael Jordan and NASCAR CEO Jim France standing shoulder-to-shoulder. They've also released a joint statement, which reads as ...Keep readingView the full article

A low-mile 2020 Lincoln Continental Black Label Coach Door Edition is up for auction on Bring a Trailer, giving bidders a rare shot at one of the last big American luxury sedans with rear-hinged “suicide” doors. Showing just 4,000 miles, the car is one of roughly 150 Coach Door Edition Continentals built for 2020 and part of an estimated 230-car total run that marked the end of Lincoln’s sedan era. It is being offered by a dealer in Moonachie, New Jersey, with a clean Carfax report and an open recall noted in the listing. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Stretch Wheelbase, Rear-Hinged Doors, Limo-Style Back SeatCoach Door cars start life as Continental Black Label sedans before going to Cabot Coach Builders in Massachusetts for conversion. The wheelbase is stretched by about six inches to open up rear legroom, and the conventional rear doors are replaced with long, rear-hinged coach doors that open a full 90 degrees. They use electronic latches and soft-close functions and can only be opened when the car is in Park. Inside, the rear bench makes way for two individual rear seats and a full-length center console, turning the car into more of a chauffeured limo than a typical three-across sedan. High-spec Continentals like this one share the same broad mission as classic American cruisers that came before them, from midcentury icons to later luxury coupes and sedans. Twin-Turbo V6 and Black Label ComfortPower comes from a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 rated at 400 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Adaptive suspension and power steering aim to keep the extra wheelbase feeling composed, while big wheels and all-season tires underline the car’s grand-touring role. Being a Black Label, this Coach Door Edition is fully loaded: 30-way heated and ventilated front seats with massage, individual heated and ventilated rear seats, a Revel Ultima audio system, SYNC 3 infotainment with navigation, a head-up display, and a full suite of driver-assistance features. In period, the Coach Door carried a price premium of around $40,000 over a standard Continental Black Label, pushing it into genuine flagship territory. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article A Last Hurrah as Ford Pivots to SUVs and EVsLincoln no longer sells sedans in the United States, and its parent company is refocusing on crossovers, trucks and electric models. Ford is exploring new ways to remake its European lineup, and is even weighing whether to bring back familiar badges like the Fiesta as EVs. Against that backdrop, a short-run, coachbuilt Continental with old-school rear-hinged doors looks more like a time capsule than a template. If values of rare American luxury models keep tracking upward, this may be remembered as one of the last big American sedans built in the spirit of the classic town car. View the full article

BMW has added a fully electric luxury SUV to the Vatican fleet, handing a new iX xDrive60 with M Sport package to Pope Leo XIV. The handover took place at the Vatican with BMW CEO Oliver Zipse and BMW Italy president Massimiliano Di Silvestre in attendance, and is being framed as a showpiece for both the brand’s electrification push and the pope’s public support for climate action. In Italian-market spec, the donated iX is roughly a six-figure vehicle, but unlike a bespoke popemobile it remains a regular road-legal SUV that could blend into the broader fleet when it is not in the spotlight. A High-Spec iX With Plenty Of Power And RangeThe gift car is an iX xDrive60 M Sport, BMW’s large dual-motor electric SUV with all-wheel drive and more than 500 horsepower. In this configuration it can accelerate from a standstill to highway speeds in a few seconds while still offering hundreds of miles of range on a charge, depending on conditions. Fast-charging capability allows the battery to go from a low state of charge to a healthy buffer in well under an hour on a high-power DC charger, which matters even in a city-state as compact as the Vatican if the car is used for regular official trips. BMW is positioning the iX as part of its broader transition toward electric SUVs of different sizes, from compact crossovers like the upcoming iX3 to more traditional models such as the X3. Comparisons like the 2026 BMW X3 against the 2027 BMW iX3 show how quickly the brand’s mainstream lineup is being mirrored by battery-electric alternatives. Symbolism For BMW And The VaticanThe Vatican has already accepted purpose-built electric popemobiles from other manufacturers, but this iX is described more as a general-use vehicle for the pope and his entourage than as a custom parade car. It joins a small but growing pool of zero-emission vehicles used for day-to-day transport around Rome, reinforcing the message that high-profile institutions should be seen adopting cleaner technology. For BMW, the optics go beyond a single donation. The company has been highlighting its interior and design work on electric SUVs, down to details such as the light-colored steering wheel option planned even for base versions of the iX3. Putting an iX in papal service gives that design and technology a global stage, even if it spends most of its life doing quiet, low-profile duty between Vatican meetings. View the full article

INDIANAPOLIS (Dec. 11, 2025) – Heading into its 75th anniversary season, NHRA has announced the full category schedule for all racing classes that will compete in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series at NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series national events during the highly anticipated celebratory 2026 campaign. Along with the full category schedule, NHRA also announced purse increase payouts of nearly 15 percent at national events for racers in the Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as a 33 percent increase for Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car regional championship purses in each region. NHRA also released new logos for the seven NHRA divisions. The 2026 season opens with the 57th annual NHRA Gatornationals at legendary Gainesville Raceway on March 5-8, starting what will be the 75th season of racing in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock will race at all 20 events, while Pro Stock Motorcycle will appear at 15 national events in 2025. Racing in the highly-competitive Top Alcohol Dragster and Top Alcohol Funny Car categories will take place at 13 races, including NHRA’s national event debut at Maryland International Raceway. Competition Eliminator will compete at 15 events, while Super Stock, Stock and Super Gas will all race at 19 national events, including South Georgia Motorsports Park and Rockingham Dragway, as each track will host its first NHRA national event in 2026. Super Street will be part of seven national events (Pomona 1, Charlotte, Epping, Norwalk, Seattle, Brainerd and Dallas), with Top Dragster racing at 16 national events in 2026. Top Sportsman will take part in 16 events as well. In the Mission Foods Drag Racing Series, all four professional categories will race in all six events in the Countdown to the Championship playoffs. Callout races for all four classes will return next year as well, with the NHRA Top Fuel All-Star Callout taking place in Gainesville and the NHRA Funny Car All-Star Callout thrilling fans in Indy. The GETTRX Pro Stock All-Star Callout will again happen in Norwalk, with the GETTRX Pro Stock Motorcycle All-Star Callout taking place in Sonoma. The Mission Foods #2Fast2Tasty NHRA Challenge will return in 2026, taking place at 13 regular-season events. The Super Stock/Stock Class Racing schedule will include races at Gainesville Raceway on March 13, No Problem Raceway on March 27, Firebird Raceway on May 16, Beech Bend Raceway Park on May 22, Brainerd International Raceway on Aug. 14, Indianapolis, Famoso Dragstrip on Sept. 26 and Maple Grove Raceway on Oct. 23. The full category schedule at national events is shown below. To view the 2026 schedule and for more information about NHRA, please visit www.NHRA.com. *** About Mission Foods MISSION®, owned by GRUMA, S.A.B. de C.V., is the world’s leading brand for tortillas and wraps. MISSION® is also globally renowned for flatbreads, dips, salsas and Mexican food products. With presence in over 112 countries, MISSION® products are suited to the lifestyles and the local tastes of each country. With innovation and customer needs in mind, MISSION® focuses on the highest quality, authentic flavors, and providing healthy options that families and friends can enjoy together. For more information, please visit https://www.missionfoods.com/ About NHRA NHRA is the primary sanctioning body for the sport of drag racing in the United States. NHRA presents 20 national events featuring the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series and NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, as well as the Congruity NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series, NHRA Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown, NHRA Holley EFI Factory X and Johnson’s Horsepowered Garage NHRA Mountain Motor Pro Stock at select national events. NHRA provides competition opportunities for drivers of all levels in the NHRA Summit Racing Series and NHRA Street Legal. NHRA also offers the NHRA Jr. Street® program for teens and the Summit Racing Jr. Drag Racing League® for youth ages 5 to 17. With more than 100 Member Tracks, NHRA allows racers to compete at a variety of locations nationally and internationally. NHRA’s Youth and Education Services® (YES) Program reaches over 30,000 students annually to ignite their interest in automotive and racing related careers. NHRA’s streaming service, NHRA.tv®, allows fans to view all NHRA national events as well as exclusive features of the sport. In addition, NHRA owns and operates three racing facilities: Gainesville Raceway in Florida; Lucas Oil Indianapolis Raceway Park; and In-N-Out Burger Pomona Dragstrip in Southern California. For more information, log on to www.NHRA.com, or visit the official NHRA pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. The post NHRA RELEASES NATIONAL EVENT CATEGORY SCHEDULE FOR 2026, PURSE INCREASES FOR Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series CLASSES appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Due Already?Believe it or not, the current Mercedes-Benz S-Class is already five years old. Internally known as the W223, it made its (online) world premiere in late 2020 for the 2021 model year, and has received rolling updates since. Model life cycles are pretty predictable, and after four model years, it's now time for the flagship sedan to get a nip and a tuck. The facelifted S-Class was spied just a few weeks ago wearing, er, not-so-subtle camouflage. Well, it's not really camo if it grabs attention, right? SH Proshots/Autoblog Partially RevealedWeeks after it was spotted, Mercedes-Benz has published "official spy photos" of the new S-Class. Mercedes-Benz used the car to kick off its robotaxi pilot program in Abu Dhabi, though it's still wearing wraps on the front. Those autonomous taxis will soon hit the road in the Middle East, presumably after the car has been fully revealed sometime in the first quarter of 2026. The rear appears to have less camouflage, but Mercedes conveniently didn't take photos from that angle. That said, we do see the car wearing its production headlights. We see the three-pointed star LED signature, suggesting that it'll at least get new light clusters. We could also expect new bumpers and a grille. The same goes for the rear end, although the wheel options seem to be the same as before. 2027 Mercedes-Benz S-Class: What to ExpectWhile the (covered-up) car has made a public debut of sorts, Mercedes-Benz isn't revealing any specs just yet. However, it's likely that most of the powertrain will be carried over, perhaps with a few updates to make it more efficient. That means a couple of turbocharged mild-hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and for European markets, diesels. With the company flexing its autonomous driving tech as luxury taxis soon, some of that could end up in customer cars. Nvidia is in the process of doing final touches to the car's level 4 autonomous system, making use of 9 radars, 1 lidar sensor, 12 ultrasonics, and 14 high-definition cameras. The MB.OS will also get a massive upgrade to allow for hands-free driving and more. Based on the spy shots, we're pleased to report that buttons are back in the S-Class. It is similar to the arrangement used in the CLA and GLB, and we're glad more cars in the Mercedes-Benz stable are getting it. The dashboard is also likely to get some tweaks, and it could be the same for the graphics in the infotainment system. SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

We’ve highlighted DD’s Speed Shop here on BANGshift for years, but one of the most talked about videos we’ve ever shared was the first of him plowing snow with his 1955 Chevy car. It’s happened a few times over the years, and people get really excited or really mad about it, and that just makes me laugh. Remember folks, snow doesn’t rust cars. Salted roads do. And also remember, it isn’t your car anyway. LOL I saw do what you like, because someone somewhere is going to bitch about it no matter what you do and the rest will either praise you or just not care! With all that said, what do you think? How well does the ’55 do with plowing snow? And do you think that plowing snow is ruining this car? Let us know in the comments below! Video Description: Its back! The Tri Five Snow Plow lives on! Now the opinions on this rig are always split. Some say its disrespecting a classic, others say we are using it to it’s fullest extent… and I’d have to agree with the latter. Listen- people drove these hot rods in all kinds of conditions back in the 50s, 60s and 70s: towing campers, pulling cars outta ditches, driving on salted roads. These cars were MADE for hard work, built for it. This is our way of keeping that spirit of these hot rods alive. The post DISRESPECTFUL OR AWESOME?! DD’s Speed Shop 1955 Chevy Snow Plow Gets Put Through It’s Paces Again In 2025! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The NHRA LIVE Stage is setup and rocking at the 2025 PRI Show in Indy. A familiar site at both the SEMA Show and PRI, it features your favorite NHRA TV and online hosts getting the scoop and interview drivers, crew chiefs, sponsors and more during the show hours of the PRI Show in Indy. And remember, we’ve got tons of photos to share with you all week as well as we’re on site running around shooting all the cool stuff to see, from cars to engines to parts and more! So tune in, watch the NHRA LIVE Stage coverage right here all week, and enjoy! The post NHRA PRI STAGE LIVESTREAM: Interviews, News, Rumors, And More From The PRI Show Stage In Indy! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Godzilla, ReimaginedNissan had a very limited, special edition of the R35 GT-R called the GT-R50, but it faced production woes due to factors like the pandemic. Out of the 50 planned units, only 18 were reportedly hand-built. Through FRAME, we get a look at how the team in Italy created these futuristic-looking GT-Rs a few years back. The GT-R50 was a collaboration between Nissan and Italdesign, an Italian coachbuilder founded by Giorgetto Giugiaro, who designed iconic models like the one-off Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Speciale. Celebrating the 50th anniversaries of both the GT-R (2019) and Italdesign (2018), the project may not have reached its full production potential, but the extremely limited numbers ultimately contributed to its ultra-rare and collectible status. Italian Design Blends With Japanese EngineeringThe team didn’t use machinery like big automated robots because the GT-R50 was already based on an existing R35 GT-R Nismo. Clay modeling allowed engineers to reshape the body more organically, giving the coachbuilt version a sleeker, more streamlined design reminiscent of modern EVs. The C-pillar area was also redesigned to improve airflow toward the rear, while the roofline was lowered by 54 mm (2.1 inches). Tools such as calipers, 3D scanners, computer-aided design (CAD) software, and micrometers were used to achieve precise dimensional accuracy during the build. As a proudly hand-built vehicle, the team shaped the body panels using traditional tools like hammers and chisels. The styling wasn’t the only thing that changed. Nissan also tweaked the 3.8-liter VR38DETT V6 engine to produce 710 horsepower and 585 lb-ft of torque, representing a 110-horsepower increase over the regular GT-R Nismo. That output bump was made possible through larger turbochargers, upgraded intercoolers, and strengthened internal components. FRAME on YouTube A Collector’s DreamAll of the Nissan GT-R50 examples were already sold before production began. Each carried a starting price of €990,000 (about $1.2 million), putting it in the same ballpark as coveted hypercars like the McLaren Senna and Ferrari LaFerrari. This year, the Japanese marque has officially ended production of the R35 GT-R after an 18-year run. Reports suggest that its potential successor could be an EV hinted at by the all-electric Hyper Force concept. But with the EV market currently experiencing a slowdown, that unprecedented version may not materialize anytime soon. FRAME on YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Maybe not the biggest jet show in history, but quite possibly the biggest one ever at Bradenton! Thanks to the staff at Bradenton Motorsports Park, and the Drag Illustrated Winter Series, fans of drag racing were treated to a show of epic proportions at this year’s Snowbird Outlaw Nationals in Florida. This was a huge event that had packed seats and pits with cars from all over North America putting on a hell of a show. And the jet cars wowed the crowds as part of this winter tradition in Florida. Check out the video below to see all the Night of Fire jet car action and let us know which one is your favorite! Video Description: Bradenton Motorsports Park put on the biggest jet show we’ve ever seen there with a huge fireworks spectacular to go alongside! Make sure you watch to the end for the crazy show when the last jet dragsters go down. The show featured the Hot Streak jet truck, Elaine Larsen’s jet team and two jet funny cars. Thanks to the venue owners Victor Alvarez and Cleetus McFarland for pulling out all the stops to make this the best Snowbird Nationals Night of Fire yet! Also thanks to Drag Illustrated for putting on yet another awesome Pro Modified race as part of their Winter Series and the World Series of Pro Mod. The post The Biggest Jet Show in History? Bradenton Motorsports Park Night of Fire 2025 At The Snowbirds Was Epic appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Ringbrothers debut some pretty awesome cars each and every year at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas and have been doing so for many years now. They do it right and are always pushing the envelope when it comes to fabrication and design. And while most of their cars have a theme, some of them are a bit more subtle than others. And I feel like in recent years they have embraced some of the details that some folks might miss in their builds. The 1969 Mustang that they debuted this year is one of those cars. For all the in your face changes, there is still a subtlety to this car in some ways. Which sounds weird when describing a Ringbrothers car, but it somehow resonates in this one. So when Larry Chen posted up his video of this car, and made the comment that James Bond would drive this car, we had to run with it. Check it out, and let us know what you think. Would James Bond drive this Mustang if he was American? The post If James Bond Was American, Would He Drive This Car? Ringbrother’s 1969 Mustang Takes Modern Engineering and 3D Printing Into Their Hot-Rodding Style appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Midsize Raptor That Somehow Reached the WestDespite the global nature of the automotive industry, certain models are still sold only in a specific region. This is done to spread production costs more efficiently. A slight downside to this is that if the region-specific model is so good, jealousy arises from those who don't have it. That is the case with the Ford Ranger Raptor, primarily built for the Asian regions to satisfy the performance pickup segment without the need to import the big-dog Raptor at a huge price. It became such a hit that it eventually made its way to America and Europe. Muted Models in EuropeAs we all know, America and Europe have very discerning and demanding customers, and the Raptor quickly became a hit in both territories. However, those in Europe find that the V6 engine lacks the necessary oomph. In America, the V6 makes 400 hp, while in Europe it makes only 292 hp. This is mainly due to filters to pass the more stringent emission standards in the Old Continent. This is where ZeroNine Design comes in. The tuning company is based in the UK and specializes in enhancing the performance of Ford models. Their latest project was to unleash more power from the 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 of the midsize Raptor. ZeroNine was able to eke out around 100 more hp, bumping it up to 390 hp, almost matching the American spec. ZeroNine claims this modification improves Ranger Raptor's drivability, unlocking its true potential. Proper, Non-Intrusive ModificationOf note, ZeroNine's modification is actually non-intrusive (which is a plus), almost like an over-the-air update. According to the company, it only requires an OBD port and an app to perform the power upgrade. It can even be controlled in such a way that, should you want to retain standard power, you can, and can call upon the 100 hp extra when you feel like it. Those interested in this will be happy to know that the software upgrade was released only after extensive durability testing and is offered for Raptor models from 2022 onwards. The cost is 541.66 pounds, or around $722 with the current exchange rates. Not bad for a highly effective non-intrusive power upgrade. View the full article

A new episode from the Car Wizard YouTube channel shows how a routine coffee run turned into a roughly $700 repair bill for the owner of a 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia. The driver reportedly spilled coffee into the center console, right where the cupholders sit in front of the infotainment controller. Liquid seeped into the electronics, the main rotary knob and buttons stopped working properly, and the only real fix was to pull the console apart and replace the control module. It is a small incident that underlines how fragile some modern interiors can be, even as Alfa is still trying to sell itself on emotional appeal with enthusiast specials and limited series models that sit alongside its regular sedans and SUVs. How a Simple Spill Killed the ControllerOn the Giulia, the cupholders are positioned directly ahead of the infotainment control knob, which is mounted low in the console and houses a full electronic module underneath. When coffee sloshed out of the cup, it ran straight into the seams around the knob and buttons. That liquid can cause short circuits while it is wet and leaves sticky residue behind when it dries, so the controller started to misbehave and then failed outright. Giulia owners on forums have complained about the same layout for years, pointing out that one bad speed bump or a loose lid can send a drink right into the most sensitive part of the cabin. It is a very different kind of ownership worry than you would have in something like a classic open top Alfa, for example a tidy 1960 Alfa Romeo Giulietta Spider Veloce. Why the Repair Comes To $700The part that failed is not just a plastic knob but a complete electronic assembly. It includes the rotary encoder, several buttons and the circuit board that talks to the rest of the car. Alfa sells it as a single module, so once coffee has soaked the board and corroded or glued up the contacts, the realistic solution is to replace the whole unit. That means diagnostic time, partial disassembly of the console, swapping the module, and then reassembly and testing. With labor and parts, the Car Wizard says the owner was looking at a bill around the $700 mark, which fits with what other Giulia drivers have reported when center console electronics need more than a basic clean. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What it Says About Modern AlfasFor a brand that trades heavily on design and driver appeal, a layout that funnels drinks straight into a critical control unit is not ideal. Alfa is trying to balance that emotional pull with more practical products, from high performance models, to a new business plan that leans on compact crossovers. The company’s next big gamble is staying small to survive by focusing on SUVs like the Tonale and Stelvio, which means it cannot afford many stories about fragile daily usability. The $700 coffee is a reminder that in a modern Alfa Romeo, the way cupholders and electronics are laid out matters almost as much as how the car looks and sounds on a great road. View the full article

Volvo is not giving up on the U.S.In a new interview with Automotive News Europe, Volvo Cars CEO Håkan Samuelsson expressed that despite the hurdles that Volvo and the global car industry are facing, he believes that he could reverse its slowing sales numbers and return to growth in 2026, as it shifts and optimizes production of its fully-electric and plug-in hybrid models. However, the possibility of it happening largely rests on sales performance in a key market for many major automakers: the United States, where EV sales have been hampered by the effects of recent legislation targeting incentives tied to EV purchases. Samuelsson noted that while he anticipates the sales of EVs and other electrified cars to become more challenging, he is convinced that combustion cars won't fully regain their market share, as some Americans will be converted to electrified options. Betty Laura Zapata/Bloomberg via Getty Images "It will be difficult without the incentives, but on the other hand, you should be careful about believing that the market will go back to combustion cars. Why? Because people have underestimated a big advantage of having all-electric cars and long-range plug-in hybrids, which is that you can leave the garage filled up every morning," Samuelsson said. "With a long-range PHEV, you can drive in electric mode for up to 200 km, which is about 125 miles. You very seldom need more range than that in a day, which means the driving experience would be much like an all-electric car. The backup engine would very seldom kick in." Samuelsson told AutoNews that he believes electrified cars, such as plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and fully electric cars, are "a valid solution in the U.S." due to their convenience factor, adding that "a lot of people" have the capability of keeping such cars plugged in at their homes; something that could add another dimension of convenience for many motorists. "It’s true that BEV sales have dropped because so many people purchased their cars before the incentive ended. However, when we are through that process, I think people won’t just look for a combustion car. They will look into long-range PHEVs. That’s something I’m sure will happen," he said. Photo by Josh Lefkowitz/Getty Images) Volvo saw a sales dip last month, but EV and PHEV sales stayed strongSamuelsson's remarks come shortly after the Swedish firm reported a significant decline in sales during November 2025. According to numbers released by the automaker, overall global sales for Volvo declined by 10% year-over-year, with 60,244 cars sold during the month. Sales were led by the midsized XC60 crossover SUV with 16,267 units, followed by the XC40/EX40, with 13,965 units, and the XC90 at 8,304 units. However, a more positive takeaway from the numbers is that Volvo's sales of electrified models, specifically its fully electric and plug-in hybrid models, accounted for 50% of its sales during the month. Fully electric cars like the EX90 and EX40 made up 24% of its total sales for the month, while plug-in hybrids accounted for 26%. In a statement, Volvo COO Erik Severinson noted that U.S. sales are softening following the phase-out of Federal EV tax credits back at the end of September, though its performance in the related segment is a positive in the brand’s eyes. “This performance underscores the brand’s momentum in the electrified segment,” Severinson said. “We are encouraged by the growth in sales of our fully electric cars and accelerated deliveries of the new XC70 long-range plug-in hybrid in China. This continues to expand our position in the rapidly growing electrified segment.” Volvo Volvo is leaning on its Chinese partner for PHEV and EV technologyIn September 2024, Volvo announced that it had abandoned its goal to become a fully electric car manufacturer, citing changing market conditions as the reason for retracting the commitment made only three years prior. “There is no long-term future for cars with an internal combustion engine,” former Volvo CTO Henrik Green said at the time. “We are firmly committed to becoming an electric-only car maker, and the transition should happen by 2030. It will allow us to meet the expectations of our customers and be a part of the solution when it comes to fighting climate change.” However, in his recent AutoNews interview, the current Volvo CEO noted that the company will maintain a diverse mix of its second-generation PHEVs and a lineup of fully electric cars for the near future, although it will work with a critical partner to bring them to market. "We will need this bridge technology until 2035 to 2040. But we will also have a really good lineup of BEVs by 2030. To have both options — and to do this in a smart way — we will look at what we can borrow from the Geely Group," he said. "That is what we did with the XC70. Now we are looking to expand the car to Europe. We have some ideas on how to do something similar in the U.S." Final thoughtsAlthough it may seem that Volvo has its plate full dealing with the fallout from the Federal EV tax incentives and slumping EV sales in the U.S., it is important to note that the Swedes have a more fundamental issue to address apart from its major investments in the electrified space. Recently, Volvo rolled out the XC70 in China, a plug-in hybrid crossover aimed to fill a significant hole in its lineup there. It boasts an electric-only range of 200 kilometers (124 miles) and a combined range of more than 1,200 km. When asked about the timeframe for the rollout of the XC70 long-range PHEV, Samuelsson noted that it is "working as fast as we can" to bring it to market, though it faces a major hurdle to get the vehicle to the European market, its first outside China. "We have to switch to Western-compliant electronics and software because it’s a no-no to use Chinese technology in Europe — or in the U.S," he said. "We also have to meet European safety and emissions standards." As for the United States market, the CEO says that building the XC70 in the U.S. "would be a long shot," adding that such an endeavor "would require a huge investment." Currently, it is focusing on bringing a plug-in version of the XC60 to the U.S., but he isn't ruling out any more vehicles for the U.S. market with the XC70's cool tech. "But of course, all our cars will be upgraded when it comes to performance, so I wouldn’t rule out us doing something with longer range. We will talk about this in more detail later." View the full article

We've been waiting more than three years for some meaningful information about the latest sporty middleweight from Moto Morini, the Corsaro Sport. Now it's launching in Europe.View the full article

A short-range hovercycle like the LEO Solo JetBike may not change commuting yet, but the technology behind it is laying groundwork for broader aerial innovation.View the full article

Fans will soon have access to these premium lids developed through a fresh licensing deal with the championship organizers.View the full article

Nissan may not be thought of as a leader in the area of driver-assistance technologies, but the Japanese brand has made steady progress with its ProPilot system through the years. Back in 2018, the semi-autonomous system in the Rogue was a finalist for one of our top technologies of the year. Then, in 2019, the more advanced ProPilot 2.0 system arrived. But Nissan has more ambitious plans on the horizon. It has just signed an agreement with autonomous driving technology company, Wayve, to bring AI-driven driver assistance to Nissan models across the globe—including right here in the United States. It makes Nissan the first automaker to commit to deploying Wayve AI systems at scale across multiple vehicle segments. Semi-Autonomous Driving in Multiple Scenarios Nissan ProPilot system with Wayve AI tech N View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article While many Level 2 systems are limited to hands-free driving on highways, the Wayve AI Driver software will enable driving assistance in more complex urban environments, too. ProPilot 2.0 can already handle multi-lane support and hands-off driving, but these capabilities are no longer cutting edge. Unlike Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system, which utilizes cameras primarily, Nissan will use LiDAR sensors in combination with Wayve’s AI tech. Cameras and other sensors will work in tandem with LiDAR to create a system that can easily adapt to new vehicle segments or cities. Nissan is already testing the technology in a series of Ariya prototypes, with plans to release the first model with the advanced ProPilot system in 2027 in Japan. Other markets are expected to follow thereafter. “By combining Nissan’s advanced autonomous driving expertise with Wayve’s state-of-the-art AI technology, we are setting a new benchmark for driver assistance,” said Ivan Espinosa, President and CEO of Nissan. “The widespread adoption of our next-generation ProPILOT integrated with Wayve AI will deliver safer, more intuitive and more comfortable driving experiences to customers worldwide, while accelerating the transition toward an intelligent mobility future.” Related: Nissan’s New ProPilot Assist Could Finally Beat Tesla’s Autopilot Nothing Can Match Tesla’s FSD Right Now Tesla Although Tesla’s FSD still has its safety concerns, no other automaker has an equivalent Level 2 system. FSD has the ability to manage all driving duties from one destination to the next, even finding and pulling into parking bays. After a recent series of updates, FSD is reported to be smoother than before, with a driving style that feels more natural. However, it’s still a Level 2 system that requires the driver to remain attentive at all times, ready to take over if necessary. Level 3 systems, which don’t require constant driver attentiveness, are limited to select Mercedes-Benz models in the United States. Despite being a Level 2 system, Elon Musk recently stated that drivers can text while FSD is in charge, a controversial statement, to say the least. Automakers like Nissan are taking a slower, more cautious approach to enhancing their self-driving systems. New features are added less frequently than with Tesla, and most rely on an array of sensors, not only cameras. View the full article

In 2026, it will be a milestone 250 years since the United States Declaration of Independence. Chevrolet is one of the first automakers to celebrate this occasion with the launch of the Stars & Steel Collection, comprising five Chevy models. The Corvette, Silverado EV, Silverado Light Duty, Silverado Heavy Duty, and Colorado will each get the Stars & Steel treatment, with various design elements that draw inspiration from the American flag. The collection will also spawn a one-off Corvette ZR1X that will be auctioned off for charity. Limited Run of 250 Corvettes Chevrolet Unlike the Stars & Steel pickups, only the Corvette will be limited to 250 units. The nostalgic look will be offered on all Corvettes, from the base Stingray to the record-breaking ZR1X, but limited to the 3LT and 3LZ trims. These models will be identifiable by full-length stripes in either Satin Silver or Satin Black, inspired by the American flag. There will also be special “250” flag graphics on the doors and spoiler ends. The two color options are Arctic White paint with a Santorini Blue interior or Black with an Adrenaline Red interior. Various red accents and wheel finishes will be available, including carbon-fiber wheels. Chevrolet Corvette Stars & Steel View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article The one-of-one ZR1X with the Stars & Steel design will be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Winter Auction on January 24, 2026. 100% of the hammer price will go to the Tunnel to Towers nonprofit organization that honors fallen first responders and provides support and assistance to injured veterans and their families. That price is likely to be substantial, given what exclusive Corvettes cost these days. “The Stars & Steel Collection celebrates a key milestone for the country that not only served as the birthplace of our brand but has also been its home for nearly 115 years,” said Scott Bell, vice president of Global Chevrolet. “Each vehicle in this collection is proudly assembled in the United States and honors the rich legacy of our nation.” Related: The 10 Most American-Made Cars in 2025 Proudly American Pickups Chevrolet Silverado Stars & Steel Chevrolet View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article All four pickups mentioned will receive American-inspired design flourishes, with subtle differences from one to the next. However, not all truck variants are included, but the following models will receive the Stars & Steel look: Silverado Light Duty: RST Crew Cab Short Box 4WDSilverado Heavy Duty: LTZ Crew Cab Trail Boss 4WDColorado Trail Boss Crew Cab 4WDSilverado EV RST Crew CabAll four trucks get the Satin Silver or Satin Black stripes inspired by the American flag, along with “250” graphics. Common to all are gloss-black wheels, ranging in size from 20 inches (Colorado) to 24 inches (Silverado EV). They’re also finished in either Summit White or black, with black interiors. C All four pickups are highly specified with what are usually optional packages and equipment, so we can expect their base MSRPs to be significantly higher than the standard models’. Chevy will also offer a Stars & Steel Appearance Package across its entire truck lineup, which will be a less comprehensive styling pack that’s in line with the flag-inspired theme. Production of the Stars & Steel models will begin in early spring 2026, with pricing announced closer to this date. We expect other brands to follow with similar campaigns, especially the likes of Jeep, another brand known for its patriotic special editions. View the full article

Yamaha has announced an A2-compliant version of the T7 World Raid in Europe, while the rest of us drool over this hardcore ADV machine.View the full article

Harley’s making yet another power move in the sub-500 cc space, and the X440T channels its inner XR with a sportier stance.View the full article

As the EU pivots toward renewable fuels instead of an outright prohibition, enthusiasts and industries alike gain a clearer—if still complicated—path forward.View the full article

According to Kawasaki, Corleo is a form of "offroad personal mobility," not a "robot horse," but we say tomato, tomahto.View the full article

Discount Season Is HereKia has once again increased its discounts on electric vehicles, making them some of the most affordable EVs on the market. CarsDirect reported that the 2025 EV6 and Niro are now available with up to $11,000 off MSRP under Kia's year-end Sticker Sales Event, though the offer applies only to select dealer-tagged units. The massive discount is made possible through an extra $1,000 retail bonus cash on top of the $10,000 incentive offered on every Kia EV after the federal tax credit ended. With the increased discount, buyers can bring home a base Niro Wind for about $30,000, putting it in the same price range as the Nissan Leaf and the upcoming Chevrolet Bolt EV – two of the most attainable EVs in America. Kia EV6 Buyers Win BigThe Kia EV6, meanwhile, is now available for around $33,000 for its entry-level Light trim. This version comes with a 63-kWh battery delivering an EPA-rated range of 237 miles. It also features a single electric motor mounted on the rear axle, producing 167 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The report also highlighted an additional $500 lease bonus for both the EV6 and Niro, with the former’s performance-oriented GT trim offering up to $17,000 in lease cash. That trim – although no longer shown in Kia’s configurator – is equipped with a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive setup making up to 641 horsepower (with pre-2025 models producing 576 horsepower), enough for a zero-to-60 mph sprint of about 3.2 seconds. For shoppers looking for a bigger EV, the Sticker Sales Event also increased discounts for the EV9, an all-electric, three-row model comparable to the Hyundai Ioniq 9. The offers are smaller – $500 off for a purchase or $250 on a lease deal – but still enough to bring its starting cost down to around $44,000. Kia Not All Sunshine in Kia’s EV PushPerhaps these discounts are being offered because of the discontinuation of the federal tax credit, which has made it more challenging for automakers like Ford to sell their EV models. In fact, Kia’s EV sales in the U.S. dipped last month, despite the brand setting a November sales record of over 72,000 units overall. The company sold only 603 EV6 units and 908 EV9 units, both significantly lower than the 1,887 and 2,155 units sold in the same month last year. View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

David Brinkley is bringing the Patriot back to the drag strip in 2026. The car will now use a Cynergy Composites as its new form.View the full article

In a timeline where the parties involved in the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports v NASCAR trial couldn’t agree on anything to the point they have ended up in court, it is no surprise that they could look at the same financial records and end up with two different interpretations. That is the key takeaway from much of Wednesday, which is officially Day 8, of the trial that will determine ...Keep readingView the full article