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When you have an idea like putting a 1,400 horsepower Coyote into a 1972 C10 and going drag racing, you need a friend like Bigun.View the full article

The QJ Motor SRK 1051 RR combines MV Agusta tech, modern electronics, and aggressive styling in a Chinese built package. View the full article

Subaru's Long-Roofed EVBefore you ask, yes, the Trailseeker is a Toyota bZ Woodland with a different badge. Think of this then as a stretched Solterra, or an EV Outback of sorts. It was first shown at the 2025 New York International Auto Show back in April, and Subaru said sales will start later this year. Now, that time has come as the company has finally announced its pricing, released all the trims, and mentioned more details. With that, the Trailseeker beats its twin in pricing announcement, but let's be honest, more people will flock to Toyota showrooms. Subaru Trims and PricingThere are three trims to choose from for the 2026 Trailseeker. It starts with the Premium, followed by the Limited, and topped off by the Premium. It follows Subaru's trim level hierarchy to keep things simple and familiar for its customers. As for pricing, the Premium starts at a hair under 40 grand at $39,995. Move up to the Limited, and that one carries a base price of $43,995 thanks to the addition of more equipment. As for the Touring, the top-spec model goes for $46,555 with all the bells and whistles attached to it. There are several options available for the Trailseeker, although that list becomes thinner the higher you go up the range. S Features and HighlightsAll Trailseekers come standard with a 14-inch Subaru Multimedia System with wireless phone connectivity, dual wireless charging pads, heated front seats, a power tailgate, EyeSight driver assist tech, and X-Mode Dual-Mode all-wheel drive, to name a few. The Trailseeker Limited then adds a Harman/Kardon audio system, a 360-degree camera, heated seats at the front and rear, plus a heated steering wheel, hands-free tailgate, and 20-inch alloys instead of 18s fitted to the Premium. As for the Touring, that one gets all the features found in the Limited, plus a panoramic glass roof, ventilated front seats, and gloss black hood accents. Other things worth mentioning? There's 32.2 cubic feet of cargo room behind the back seats, so that should make the Trailseeker a practical proposition. The roof rails are functional, by the way, and they can hold up to 700 lbs worth of static load. And for those brave enough to tow with an EV, Subaru claims a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs. S Powertrain DetailsRegardless of trim chosen, all Trailseekers use a 74.7-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. As it's all-wheel drive, that battery provides energy to two electric motors. Subaru says its latest EV crossover has fast-charging capability of up to 150 kW, allowing it to charge from 0 to 80% in 28 minutes. The estimated range is 280 miles per full charge. With two motors, the Trailseeker packs 375 hp. That said, torque figures have yet to be released, but we reckon it's got a good slug of it from a standstill. 0 to 60 mph is claimed at 4.4 seconds, fast enough for Subaru to say it's the quickest model the company has ever offered in the US. The Trailseeker won't be the only Subaru EV coming to showrooms in Spring 2026. The company will soon roll out the Uncharted around the same time. S Subaru View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Will Ramos, lead singer of the deathcore metal band Lorna Shore, loves his Honda Motocompacto EV scooter. And one fan caught him going through a drivethrough on it.View the full article

Trump Returns to America Enamored by Small Japanese CarsIt looks like Europe isn't the only continent going crazy over Japanese cute-utes. President Donald J. Trump returned from a trip to Japan, charmed by the ultra-compact “kei” cars that fill the narrow urban streets of Tokyo and other Japanese cities. Speaking at the White House on December 3, 2025, Trump told reporters: “They’re very small, they’re really cute… How would that do in this country?” He said he had authorized U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Secretary Sean Duffy to “immediately approve” production of kei-style cars for the U.S. market, signaling a dramatic shift in direction. The announcement arrives alongside a rollback of fuel-efficiency standards introduced under the previous administration. Trump and his team appear to be trying to open the door to a segment of the market that, until now, has been largely absent in America: very small, efficient, and affordable vehicles that contrast sharply with the country’s dominance of SUVs and pickups. https://www.youtube.com/live/2Ey5TwGj7Cc?si=rgyZI3hI2towR5X6 What are Kei Cars?“Kei cars”, not to be confused with Chrysler's K Cars of the 80s, is a term derived from the Japanese word for “light”, referring to a special class of ultra-compact vehicles regulated under Japan’s strict size, engine, and performance limits. Typically, kei cars measure under 3.4 meters in length, have engines no larger than 660 cc, and conform to tight restrictions on weight and power. Because of their small footprint and efficient engines, they benefit from lower taxes and are ideal for congested city driving. Over the years, Japanese automakers have produced a wide variety of kei-class vehicles, from tiny hatchbacks to micro-vans, kei trucks, and even electric kei cars. Some of the most relevant models today include compact electric offerings such as Nissan Sakura or Mitsubishi eK X EV, both aimed at the budget and urban commuter segment. There’s also growing attention to newer kei-style electric models from non-Japanese automakers, like the BYD Racco, which represents the first dedicated electric kei car from a non-Japanese maker, a sign that the concept of micro EVs may spread beyond Japan. Nissan Easier Said Than Done, ThoughBringing kei cars to the U.S. would require a complete overhaul of regulatory, manufacturing, and marketing plans already in motion. This will force agencies and automakers to pivot quickly. There’s also the challenge of converting Japan’s right-hand-drive platforms to left-hand drive, adding engineering costs that clash with the kei segment’s budget-minded nature. Beyond regulations, kei cars face a culture clash with a market dominated by full-size trucks and SUVs, not city runabouts. And because Americans often buy one or two vehicles to handle everything from the daily commute to hauling to the occasional road trip, a tiny kei car may struggle to justify its place in households outside enthusiast circles. Suzuki Which Kei Car or Truck Would You Like to See Stateside?Despite all of these hurdles, if this policy push succeeds, we'd be most excited about seeing a modern, practical kei car. Something like the Nissan Sakura or Mitsubishi eK X EV made available in the U.S. Their compact size, low running costs, and urban-friendly dimensions could fill a niche that American carmakers have largely abandoned. In dense cities, they could offer an affordable, efficient, and no-frills mobility solution. Considering the hype that surrounded the Slate upon introduction, there truly is a market here for something like a kei car. On the other hand, a kei-style truck or van, similar to those already used in Japan, might also find a niche among small businesses or urban mobility services. Their light footprint and efficiency could make them useful for last-mile delivery, city services, or even as commuter workhorses in congested metro areas. Ultimately, whether the U.S. market embraces kei cars will depend not just on regulation but on consumer appetite, and if history is any guide, we shouldn’t expect them to dominate, but they could become a small, interesting alternative. Slate Auto View the full article

300-year flooding has been ravaging some parts of Thailand and Southeast Asia, but not everyone has been thrilled about the PWC rescuers coming in from out of town.View the full article

General Motors may not be building a bike engine, but this two-stroke concept has real potential for motorcycle engineering.View the full article

Ken and Barry Horner on the Irving Vincent to Daytona project Few stories in motorcycle racing blend romance, engineering purity and sheer bloody-minded perseverance quite like the Irving Vincent. Hand-built in Melbourne by Ken and Barry Horner, the bike has conquered everything from Phillip Island to Goodwood to Daytona. And in 2026, it’s heading back […] The post Deep dive into the Irving Vincent – History – Engineering – Daytona… appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Four-time PDRA world champion Jason Harris rocketed to the top of the Pro Mod qualifying order Thursday night at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks. Competing in the first race of the three-race 2025/2026 Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service at Bradenton Motorsports Park, Harris recorded a 3.560-second pass at 211.20 mph in his Harts Charger-boosted “Party Time” ’69 Camaro to lead what is already a record-setting 32-car field with two qualifying sessions still on the Friday schedule. Thursday was originally scheduled to be a testing day leading up to Friday qualifying, but rain in the Sunday forecast led race officials to accelerate the event timeline. Pro Mod, Pro 10.5, Limited Drag Radial, and Ultra Street completed two qualifying sessions and True 10.5 N/T and Lil Gangstas ran two shakedown sessions. Harris, who owns a pair of world championships in both PDRA Pro Nitrous and Pro Boost, rolled into Bradenton with a brand-new Harold Denton “Party Time” tribute livery on his ’69 Camaro. The car also sported some changes in the mechanical department, and though it took some time to get those changes dialed in, it all worked out when Harris threw down the 3.56 at 211.20 mph in the second session. “We struggled in testing and got all our gremlins out of the way,” Harris said. “We went down the track on the first run, no big deal, and I kind of expected a .57-.58, but I think we made a good enough adjustment to where it picked up that extra hundredth. We’re still messing with this Harts Charger right now, and we’re trying to learn the fuel, but we’re getting there. It’s a badass run. What can I say? My team, Pro Line, TKM – all these guys stand behind me. It was a team effort. We’ve worked really hard in the last couple of days, and it all came together tonight.” Over two qualifying sessions, 79 Pro Mod drivers attempted to qualify for the 32-car field. Defending event champion Kye Kelley qualified No. 2 in his screw-blown Larry Jeffers Race Cars ’25 Camaro known as “Uncle Larry” with a 3.575 at 209.62. Eric Gustafson in the ProCharged Coast Packing Co. ’69 Camaro is third with his 3.576 at 210.01 from the first qualifying session, which netted him the $5,000 Pro Line Racing “Off The Trailer” Bonus for making the quickest pass of the opening session. Randy Weatherford posted a 3.581 at 210.93 in his new Harts Charger-boosted WS Construction ’69 Camaro to sit No. 4. Ken Quartuccio, the reigning DI Winter Series champion, rounds out the top five with a 3.583 at 209.95 in his screw-blown Tidwell Nesloney Racing ’69 Camaro. Jason Lee sits on the bump spot with a 3.629 at 207.56. The list of drivers on the outside looking in is just as impressive, with past NHRA Pro Mod world champion Kris Thorne, 2017 World Series of Pro Mod champion Mike Bowman, three-time Winter Series No. 1 qualifier Mark Micke, six-time NHRA Pro Stock world champion Erica Enders, two-time PDRA Pro Boost world champion Todd Tutterow, and 2023 Snowbirds winner Lyle Barnett among the drivers not yet qualified. Harris knows the target is on his back, and he knows who’s aiming at it. Plus, on top of bragging rights, the final No. 1 qualifier will walk away with a $5,000 bonus from Jerry Bickel Race Cars. If the Snowbirds No. 1 qualifier tops the charts at the other two Winter Series events, the U.S. Street Nationals and the World Series of Pro Mod, JBRC will build them a Pro Mod rolling chassis valued at more than $200,000. “I think a 3.56 is a stout run, but there’s a lot of badass people here and anybody’s capable,” Harris said. “Everybody here has the best equipment there is. I’m hoping it will stand up, but we’ll just see how everything plays out.” The JBRC Clean Sweep Challenge isn’t the only sweep on Harris’s mind. He’s also hoping to be in the conversation for the first-ever Elite Motorsports Million, which will award an unprecedented $1,000,000 prize if one Pro Mod driver wins all three Winter Series events. As a past Snowbirds winner and two-time semifinalist at the World Series of Pro Mod, Harris believes he has a chance. “I’ve been close. I’ve been real close,” Harris said. “I’ve won this race years and years ago with a nitrous car. It’d be nice to do it again and try to go after that million. I’ve won a bunch of races in a row before. But each round win feels like a winner’s circle to me against the heavy hitters that we’ve got here.” In Pro 10.5, which is also competing at all three Winter Series races, John Carinci went to the provisional No. 1 spot with a 3.879 at 209.69 in his twin-turbocharged ’04 Corvette tuned by 2018 WSOPM champion Carl Stevens Jr. Jerry Morgano qualified second with a 3.900 at 203.03 in his small-block, turbocharged “Copperhead” ’02 Mustang Cobra. Super Bowl champion Fletcher Cox drove his nitrous-fed “Training Day” ’69 Camaro to a 3.920 at 194.49 to sit third. Bradenton’s own Brett LaSala wheeled his turbocharged “Snot Rocket” ’13 Mustang to a 3.900 at 196.85 to take the provisional No. 1 spot in Limited Drag Radial. Terry Wilson is the provisional No. 1 qualifier in Ultra Street with a 4.425 at 157.80 in his ’95 Mustang. Friday’s third qualifying session will kick off with Pro Mod starting at 9:30 a.m. followed by Pro 10.5, True 10.5 N/T, Lil Gangstas, Ultra Street, and Limited Drag Radial. The index classes will then get a time trial before Pro 10.5 returns to kick off the fourth qualifying session. Pro Mod final qualifying will round out the night at 6 p.m. General admission tickets are available for $35 on Friday and $40 for Saturday’s Night of Fire. Active military and children ages 12 and under get in free. VIP packages are also available. Fans can watch the race through the official event livestream on www.FloRacing.com. This story was originally published on December 4, 2025. The post Jason Harris Leads The Way in Thursday Pro Mod Qualifying at Snowbird Outlaw Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

It’s becoming clear through four days of the 23XI Racing and Front Row Motorsports v NASCAR antitrust trial that the now defunct SRX series will play a role in determining in the outcome of the case in the eyes of the jury. In questioning NASCAR executives (president) Steve O’Donnell and (EVP-strategy) Scott Prime over the past two days, 23XI and FRM attorney Jeffrey Kessler has started to ...Keep readingView the full article

Toyota's New Performance TrinityToday lands as one of those odd days in automotive history where a brand casually drops three halo performance machines at once, reshaping its entire sporting identity in a single reveal. Toyota unveiled the Lexus LFA Concept, the GR GT, and the GR GT3 as a unified statement of intent – each positioned as a modern successor to the 2000GT/LFA lineage. We've already tackled the LFA Concept and the GR GT in separate pieces, so this one zooms in on the supercar that regular customers can actually take racing under FIA rules. That car is the Toyota GR GT3 – Toyota's new, fully fledged GT3-class race car, developed for professional and gentleman drivers alike, previewed in 2022 at the Tokyo Auto Salon. While it shares a conceptual and mechanical foundation with the road-legal GR GT, the GT3 version strips the formula back down to pure motorsport purpose. Where the GR GT blends road usability with track-first engineering and the LFA Concept imagines an all-electric sporting future, the GR GT3 is built for one job: lining up on FIA-certified grids around the world and giving private teams a genuine shot at winning. The GR GT3 stands apart as the rawest interpretation of Toyota's performance vision. Unlike the GR GT and LFA Concept, its focus isn't balancing beauty, road manners, or next-gen mobility – it's built to meet regulations, maximize grip and stability, and handle the brutal realities of endurance racing. Powertrain Derived From the GR GT, Still Under DevelopmentAt the core of the GR GT3 is the same newly developed 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 found in the GR GT. Official output figures aren't finalized, as the engine and associated systems are still being dialed in ahead of the planned 2027 debut. But based on the preliminary targets for the road car – over 641 hp and 627 lb-ft combined with its hybrid system, mated to a new eight-speed automatic transaxle – it's clear that the underlying V8 platform is starting from a place of serious potential. Item Specification Configuration 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 Displacement 3,998 cc Target Output (Road-Car Baseline) 641 hp or greater (system, GR GT) Target Torque (Road-Car Baseline) 627 lb-ft or greater (system, GR GT) GT3 Output Not finalized; no hybrid system; will vary with FIA GT3 BoP For the GT3 version, the hybrid assistance disappears. What remains is a compact, dry-sump V8 engineered for a low mounting position, reduced height, and efficient weight distribution. Toyota said that actual GT3-spec power levels may differ depending on Balance of Performance (BoP) requirements and durability testing. The engine is designed not just for peak output, but for the kind of thermal consistency and serviceability that teams will rely on through long-distance racing. Body: All-Aluminum, Aero-First, and Motorsport-FocusedLike the GR GT, the GR GT3 is built around Toyota's first all-aluminum space-frame body. This architecture aims to deliver the rigidity demanded in high-speed racing while keeping weight manageable and service operations straightforward. Large aluminum castings, structural extrusions, and selective use of carbon fiber panels create a platform tailored for both stiffness and reparability – two things that matter when your season might include eight-hour and 24-hour events. The car's exterior follows an aero-first philosophy. Instead of styling being the starting point, designers shaped the GT3's bodywork around cooling requirements, balance targets, and rulesets. Despite the shared bones, the GR GT3 has a lower overall height, wider stance, and a more aggressive ground-effect profile. If the GR GT hints at road-going theater, the GT3 strips away the romance and leaves behind the functional aggression expected in the category. Arriving in Customers' Hands in 2027Underneath, the GR GT3 carries over the low-mount double-wishbone suspension layout, tuned for predictable load transfer and easy setup changes. As with other automakers, Toyota is also preparing a dedicated customer support ecosystem – parts supply, data assistance, and engineering consultation – so teams aren't left figuring things out alone. The GT3 market is competitive and often dominated by European marques, but Toyota seems intent on offering not just a car, but a program. As with the road car, development will continue through simulator work, track testing, and the "hone, drive to failure, and repair" cycle Toyota embraces for its GR vehicles. As mentioned, the final car will arrive in 2027, but its presence today signals Toyota's clearest commitment yet to customer motorsport. Toyota View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

One of the most anticipated reveals of the year has finally happened, and it doesn't disappoint. Toyota has unveiled the GR GT, built around three key criteria of a low center of gravity, low weight with high rigidity, and strong aerodynamic performance. And it's got plenty of power, too. A dry-sumped twin-turbo V8 with a Porsche 911 Turbo S-beating 641 hp and 627 lb-ft feeds an eight-speed transaxle on the rear axle, ahead of which sits an electric motor to fill torque and minimize lag. Top speed is rated at more than 199 mph, and here's the real kicker: everything you read below is only preliminary. While the dimensions and fundamental components won't change, Toyota says the GR GT's horsepower, torque, top speed, and weight figures could improve before the production car arrives sometime "around 2027." An All-New Powertrain for the GR GTThe twin-turbo V8 under that long hood is a hot-vee engine (Toyota's first such design), with the turbochargers nestled between the two cylinder banks, and it sends power to the rear wheels and a mechanical limited-slip differential through a carbon fiber torque tube. Between the engine and wheels lies that new eight-speed automatic transaxle, and it uses a wet-start clutch instead of a torque converter. Ahead of this transmission is an electric motor, so this is a hybrid, but it's there only for performance. That said, Toyota has developed the car to meet more stringent emissions regulations. Length 189.8 inches Width 78.7 inches Height 47 inches Wheelbase 107.3 inches Weight 3,858 lbs or less Peek through the 20-inch wheels, wrapped in bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 rubber (265/35 at the front, 325/30 at the rear), and you'll find Brembo carbon-ceramic discs that promise immense and repeatable stopping power. Should one wish to turn the tires into smoke, a multi-stage stability control system will allow novices and pros to exploit the deft handling of the sports car, which comes, in part, courtesy of double wishbone suspension at either end of the chassis with forged aluminum arms. Styling, Interior, and Chassis Sculpted by PerformanceWe'll let you make your own judgments about the styling from the images, but before you make up your mind, know this. Unlike many sports cars, which start from a sketch and then evolve based on engineering requirements, the packaging of the car was decided on in consultation with aerodynamicists and World Endurance Championship engineers first, with the team deciding on an ideal layout for the all-new, all-aluminum frame and the CFRP-and-aluminum body long before stylists could have their say. Simulators were also used early in development to validate decision-making. Lexus LFA service technicians know how troublesome such an obsession with packaging and performance can be, but Toyota says serviceability was an important criterion in the GR GT's creation, too. Related: Toyota's “GR MR2” Trademark Reignites Hopes for a Mid-Engine Revival A similarly performance-focused approach was taken in the cabin, which promises exceptional outward visibility. Toyota says it obsessed over gauge width and height, as well as the positioning of displays like the upshift and gear selection indicators. Moreover, the occupants sit low, having a "roughly identical" center of gravity to the car itself. It seems the GR GT and its racing counterpart will be exceptional driving machines and fine halos for the brand, as the 2000GT once was. And because Toyota crafted components and the car in the virtual world first, this won't be a car that is nearly finished and then redeveloped all over again, like the LFA famously was. That should mean a relatively palatable asking price, and although it's much too soon to speculate on the MSRP, Toyota's philosophy of building motorsports-bred road cars seems in this instance to have the Porsche 911 firmly in its sights, both on the GT3 circuit and the road. Toyota View the 6 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Toyota's Flagship of PerformanceAnyone who still thinks Toyota is a plain vanilla brand, sacrificing performance and styling for mileage and reliability, might be in for a shock after checking out the three new models that made their debut in Tokyo on Friday morning. The Japanese giant had signaled it had some serious performance news coming in a series of recent teaser news releases. And, as many suspected, one of those three new products is a “concept” version of what’s certain to become the long-awaited replacement for the old Lexus LFA supercar. But there were plenty of surprises to come, starting with the fact that the LFA Concept goes all-electric. The other two models – the street-legal GR GT and track-focused GT GT3 spec – stick with internal combustion power and will be marketed wearing the badge of Toyota’s motorsports arm, Gazoo Racing. Toyota Lexus Gets a New SupercarLexus fans have been waiting a long time for a replacement for the vaunted LFA – the last of that generation supercar rolling off the line in December 2012. We’ve seen a number of concepts and prototypes since then, with one most recently put on display at this year’s Japan Mobility Show. Expectations clearly heated up when, late last month, Toyota sent out its latest teaser, this one signaling the imminent arrival of what it called the “GR GT.” Well, that’s also created plenty of confusion as it turns out the GT is one of three new high-performance models now taking a bow. Officially, the Lexus LFA is just another “concept,” but all indications are that this time the automaker is serious about finally giving the luxury brand the halo sports car it needs and, say fans, that it deserves. All three models “share aspirations,” but the Lexus is based on a drivetrain that is meant, says the automaker, to “demonstrate the potential of BEV sports cars.” It is, of course, by no means the only luxury brand sharing that goal, with battery-powered models also coming from brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini. Battery drive systems do have significant performance advantages, starting with their instant-on torque and mind-boggling horsepower numbers. Lucid and Tesla have both delivered products making over 1,000 horsepower, enough to launch from 0-60 in barely 2 seconds. Unfortunately, we’ll have to wait to hear more from Lexus officials. For the moment, they're declining to provide hard specs. Lexus By the Numbers There are, of course, downsides to going all-electric, especially when it comes to a sports car. Weight is one challenge, though by mounting a battery pack underneath the load floor, manufacturers have learned they can compensate by lowering the center of gravity below what even the sleekest ICE-powered sports cars can manage. Range is another challenge, and another detail Toyota isn’t ready to talk about. Vehicle dimensions would largely determine how many kilowatt-hours could be packed onboard. Sports cars typically don’t provide much space. The Lexus LFA Concept has a total length of 184.6 inches, with a width of 80.3 inches and a height of 47.0 inches. The wheelbase, at 107.3 inches, actually means the sports car could squeeze in a reasonably sized pack. Significantly, Toyota has repeatedly promised to be one of – if not the first – automaker to go into production with next-generation solid-state batteries which would be smaller, lighter and much more energy-dense than today’s lithium-ion cells.. And it has been suggested several times that these would go into a low-volume performance vehicle. A production LFA certainly seems to fit that bill. Lexus “Sculptural Beauty”The LFA Concept shares the same basic all-aluminum body frame as the GR GT and GT3-spec. But using an all-electric drivetrain gives more flexibility than designers had with those gas-powered models. It features a long, flowing nose that picks up on what Toyota described as the “sculptural beauty” of the original LFA. Inside, the carmaker suggests, the cabin “has been crafted with simplicity, with refined functional components concentrated around the driver’s seat, awakening a sense of elation once inside. The steering wheel was discerningly and suitably designed for use in a sports car, while steering operation that eliminates the need for regripping with a different hand, together with a switch layout that makes blind touch operation possible, enables intuitive vehicle control. Overall, a minimalist worldview that weaves together the appeal of mechanical design and a simple interior space creates a uniquely immersive environment.” Lexus GR GTThat “driver-first” approach carries over to the two new performance models developed directly by the Gazoo Racing team. “The two models are the result of veterans of development of the Lexus LFA transferring skills and techniques to younger members, the active adoption of new, Toyota-first technologies for enhanced vehicle performance, and the taking on of numerous unprecedented challenges,” the automaker explained. Not surprisingly, the company that now produces more hybrids than any other manufacturer is electrifying the Toyota GR GT, pairing a single-motor hybrid system with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8. The combined package is rated at 641 hp “or greater,” a phrase used for the 627 lb-ft torque rating, as well. Muscle isn’t everything, however, and the Gazoo team also targeted a low center of gravity, mass reduction, a rigid body and chassis, and wind-cheating aerodynamics. Along with the all-aluminum platform, the GR GT uses plenty of carbon fiber reinforced plastics and other lightweight materials. Lexus GT3-SpecAs for the Toyota GR GT3, it’s designed to meet the specifications of the Federation Internationale d’Automobile (FIA) GT3. That’s the governing body overseeing the top category of customer motorsports. And the track model “aims to be a car that is chosen by people who want to win yet be easy to drive for anyone.” The track model uses a non-hybridized version of the new V8; Toyota has not yet released power and performance specs. Along with the lightened body, it features a newly developed low-mounted double-wishbone system with forged aluminum arms at both the front and rear. The sports car rides on unique versions of Michelin’s Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires. Brembo carbon disc brakes are standard. The GT3, meanwhile, borrows the Vehicle Stability Control system developed by Gazoo Racing for its Nurburgring 24-hour endurance race vehicles. That “allows multi-stage adjustment of driving force and braking control, enabling driver selection of the vehicle control difficulty level based on driving skill and encountered weather conditions to help facilitate an enjoyable and secure driving experience. While Toyota has clear production plans for both GT models, it cautioned that both are “still under development,” with no release dates yet available. Toyota View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

During the second Pro Mod qualifying session at the Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks at Bradenton Motorsports Park, drivers Jeff Rudolf and Jim Halsey were involved in a top-end crash that saw both drivers impact the retaining walls in the shutdown area. Rudolf and Halsey exited their cars under their own power and were examined on site by EMS staff. Rudolf was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation. This story was originally published on December 4, 2025. The post Jeff Rudolf, Jim Halsey Walk Away From Top-End Crash at Snowbird Outlaw Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

2025 FIM Awards global broadcast The fifteenth annual FIM Awards Ceremony will take place on Saturday, 6 December in Lausanne, Switzerland. It will be broadcast around the world through the most extensive media rollout in the event’s history. This year marks the first time the ceremony has been staged in the FIM’s home country. The […] The post 2025 FIM Awards Ceremony live on Kayo this Sunday morning appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

2025 Bridgestone Motorworks 2 Hour With Bill Burford The 2025 instalment of the Bridgestone Motorworks 2 Hour endurance race was run and won over the weekend of November 29–30 at the undulating two-kilometre Baskerville circuit in Tasmania’s south. The Sport Riders Club of Tasmania once again delivered a well-run event for the 10th edition of […] The post Recapping the 2025 Bridgestone Motorworks 2 Hour from Baskerville appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

BMW rethinks long-range powerBMW may be ready to revive an idea most people assumed the industry had left behind: the range extender. The German automaker is reportedly exploring whether to add small gas engines to some of its largest electric vehicles, turning them into extended-range EVs (EREVs) that rely primarily on battery power but carry an onboard generator for long-distance confidence. According to reports from Bloomberg and additional industry chatter, BMW is studying EREV versions of the i7 luxury sedan and the upcoming iX5 electric SUV. Their size makes them prime candidates for this kind of setup, as both models offer enough room to package a small engine without cutting into cabin or cargo space, and BMW already builds the key pieces needed to make it work. That last point is important. Unlike automakers that would need to spin up an entirely new supply chain, BMW already produces batteries, electric motors, transmissions, and the small three- and four-cylinder engines that would likely serve as range-extender generators. That means BMW could develop and launch an extended-range system without massive new investment. Why range extenders are backIt might feel like déjà vu. A decade ago, BMW’s i3 offered an optional range-extender engine, but the idea faded as battery costs dropped and fast-charging networks grew. Now, though, the formula is finding fresh traction — especially in China, where companies like BYD have leaned heavily into EREVs and seen strong sales as a result. BMW U.S. interest is climbing, too. Scout says more than 80% of reservations for its upcoming Terra pickup and Traveler SUV are for the EREV version rather than the fully electric one. Ram scrapped its all-electric 1500 and pivoted entirely to a V6-powered range-extender model. Jeep confirmed that the 2026 Grand Wagoneer will follow the same path, and Hyundai has a similar setup in the works for the Santa Fe. These vehicles appeal to a specific kind of buyer: someone who wants to drive electric most of the time but does not want to map out charging stops on long road trips or rely on a public charging network that remains inconsistent between regions. A small gasoline engine that fires up only to recharge the battery — not to drive the wheels — can largely solve that problem. China is the big prizeWhile BMW may see opportunity in the U.S., China is likely the true driver behind the move. Range-extended EVs have become wildly popular with Chinese buyers, especially in large SUVs and luxury sedans. BMW BMW, like many global automakers, has increased its efforts to build vehicles tailored specifically to the region. Offering an EREV version of its flagship EVs could help the company win back market share from fast-rising domestic brands. Final thoughtsBMW hasn’t confirmed any production plans. A company spokesperson said only that it is “continuously analyzing usage patterns, customer needs and market developments” as it evaluates different technologies. But if BMW greenlights the project, it would become the first German automaker to return to the range-extended formula — and it could nudge competitors to follow. For now, BMW is simply testing the waters. But the idea of big electric BMWs backed by tiny gas engines suddenly doesn’t seem far-fetched at all. View the full article

Ituran’s all-in-one approach changes the game on vehicle theftRecent global auto theft rates are mixed, with increases in areas like Latin America and stabilization in the United States. While this crime isn’t going away anytime soon, one company’s technology is giving drivers and fleet managers more peace of mind. Ituran, a telematics/connected-car solutions company with hardware and software, has increased stolen-vehicle recovery rates for 2.6 million worldwide subscribers. Autoblog spoke with Ituran co-CEO Eyal Sheratzky about how his company is serving as a unified stolen-vehicle recovery solution amid competitors offering partial services, how his organization is meeting modern demands, and more. Ituran has 24/7 control centers in every country where it operates, along with its own enforcement and intelligence units and technology. Many of Ituran’s competitors have technology but rely on third parties for enforcement and vehicle recovery. Ituran Sheratzky expanded on how Ituran differs from vehicle manufacturers’ embedded telematics: “We are looking for a long relationship with our customers. They see us as a service provider. Somebody needs to provide a service to answer the customer to recover the car. Ituran has a dual solution for this. One, we’ll provide hardware and services, and if the hardware isn’t needed, we integrate our services with the car and units.” The numbers show that Ituran’s efforts are paying offAccording to Sheratzky, Ituran has an almost 85% recovery rate within 30 to 60 minutes — totaling $3 billion in vehicle value — while police generally succeed in fewer than 10% of cases. Ituran’s success rate is also over four times the global average without specialist tracking. Ituran is the leading original equipment manufacturer (OEM) service provider in its niche in Latin America, with Nissan as a major customer. Companies like Nissan, General Motors, and others have incorporated Ituran’s technology into their plans and production lines, and this week, Ituran signed a three-year service agreement with Renault across at least four countries in Latin America. Ituran will deliver its advanced SVR and telematics solutions to Renault vehicles across key Latin America countries, with potential for expansion to additional markets and extended service periods. Related: Gen Z Designers in Japan Have a Weird Vision for the Future of Kei Cars Ituran is also expanding into racing, as in March, the company was selected by the Porsche Cup to analyze data. Sheratzky said: “This started as a technology we brought from the street to the Porsche Cup, one of the most famous touring car categories in the world. At the start of the project, Microsoft had a digital transformation challenge for the Porsche Cup Brazil. Then Microsoft approached us, and through our technology, we were able to capture the data from the Porsche cars. We sent it in real time to the Microsoft Cloud, and this data is then processed and presented right there for the engineering team. So we can get this data from the car, from high temperatures, from low oil pressure, or even a tire that’s leaking a little bit of air. We can see all of this in advance.” How Ituran adapts to today’s thieves while leveraging AIWhen asked how automotive thieves are operating in recent years, Sheratzky replied: “So they [criminals] always have to, in order to keep their industry alive, find more solutions. For example, today they’re coming with jammers. They’re coming with alternative car computers so they can try to convert [and override a car’s original computer system].” In addition to increasing stolen-vehicle recovery rates, Ituran’s service helps police apprehend thieves, reducing repeat offenses. Ituran View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article With artificial intelligence (AI) technology becoming increasingly prevalent, Sheratzky told Autoblog how Ituran is using AI to optimize its service: “I think, the most useful thing that we’ve done recently [with AI] is that our system learns the habits of the anonymous drivers.” The Ituran CEO gave an example: the company’s system recognizes a driver’s habits, and if a thief tries to jam the driver’s unit while the driver is sleeping, it’s easier to identify the event as illegal. Final thoughtsSheratzky shared his thoughts on what lies ahead for Ituran, highlighting the car rental market, leveraging AI and big data, and carbon cash credits as three key areas of focus. The company’s app, IturanMob USA, provides a shared all-in-one mobility management service for small-to-medium car rental parties to remotely control vehicle doors, send secure links to clients for vehicle access, access detailed data reports, and more. The Ituran co-CEO said: “Small companies that trade [rent] cars have a lot of expenses, and they need customer satisfaction. So, by providing them with [IturanMob USA] technology, they can do it remotely with confidence and reliability. I think that this is something that we can do in the US because we found that there is not really sufficient technology, and those rental companies have strong means.” Ituran plans to leverage AI and big data to benefit customers, including road operators, cities and municipalities, and retail stores. Telematics data from Ituran helps electric vehicle (EV) drivers receive carbon credits that can translate into cash incentives for reducing emissions. Related: Oracle’s New Lensless Headlights Fix Every Problem You Hate About Your Headlights View the full article

Indian Challenger Venum Indian Motorcycle France has announced a collaboration with combat sports equipment manufacturer Venum, resulting in a limited-edition Indian Challenger Venum. The special model will be available exclusively for order in France. The Challenger Venum features a bespoke camouflage paint scheme influenced by Venum’s design language and custom motorcycle styling. The bike is […] The post Trick Indian Challenger Venum special edition from France appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

2026 Kawasaki Team Green Racer Program Kawasaki has opened registrations for the 2026 Team Green Racer Program, strengthening the brand’s commitment to supporting racers across Australia and New Zealand. What’s New for 2026? Dealer Supported Team Green Racers: All Kawasaki dealers can support a Team Green Racer. Open to All Disciplines: Whether it’s motocross, enduro, […] The post Kawasaki’s 2026 Team Green racer support applications open appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

KTM celebrate big 2025 on track KTM is celebrating one of the most successful racing seasons in its history, racking up 28 championship titles across road and off-road disciplines in 2025. The tally includes 16 FIM world rider championships and 12 manufacturer crowns, representing a new annual benchmark for the Austrian manufacturer. Across all factory […] The post KTM celebrate 28 world and major championships in 2025 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Going Too Far for ContentSocial media content creators The Middle Lane ignited controversy at the 2025 Los Angeles Auto Show when they released video footage of them mocking the all-electric Jeep Recon and its $65,000 price tag. The two individuals in the video called attention to what they claimed was shoddy build quality in the cabin, highlighting uneven panel gaps and loosely-fitted components. They aggressively shook the infotainment screen and passenger grab handle, and even appeared to detach the center console trim and other bits of the interior by hand, practically dismantling parts of the cabin. Their controversial video quickly gathered over a million views and thousands of comments on TikTok, prompting an official response from Stellantis. Jeep Stellantis ReactsCalling the influencers’ actions destructive and unprofessional, Stellantis made it clear in their public response that the Jeep Recon featured in the video was a pre-production show car, hand-built specifically for display at events, rather than a production-level model destined for customers. Jeep The company spokesperson, Kaileen Connelly, went on to say that these hand-built display units in no way represent the durability or quality of the final production vehicles, which are built to strict tolerances on an assembly line. "The actions taken to disassemble the all-new Jeep Recon on display at the LA Auto Show were both destructive and unprofessional," spokesperson Kaileen Connelly said to the Detroit Free Press. Luke Miani, founder of The Middle Lane, denied that there was any destructive intent behind his actions and that he just wanted to offer his viewers a realistic impression of what the Jeep Recon was like, adding that he hoped the build quality of the production version measured up. Public Opinion The clash sparked debates across social media and the automotive world. Some praised the creators for their boldness and willingness to scrutinize the cars on display, while others sided with Jeep, condemning the influencers for what they saw as disrespectful handling of a corporate display. Jeep The Bigger PictureOnline content creators and social media influencers today play a significant part in people’s purchase decisions. Manufacturers know this, but may need to consider stricter guidelines at events where pre-production models are on display. For The Middle Lane, the fallout has raised their visibility, but also triggered serious questions about boundaries and responsibility. The video has since been taken down, but the fallout may see brands reconsidering the free rein that content creators have so far had at launches and car shows. View the full article

Drag Illustrated is proud to announce that Hart’s Turbo and the rapidly growing Hart’s Charger centrifugal supercharger division have signed on as major sponsors of the Drag Illustrated Winter Series Presented by J&A Service. The Missouri-based manufacturer has exploded onto the drag racing scene in recent years – first through its industry-leading turbocharger program and most recently with the late-2024 debut of the Hart’s Charger supercharger unit, which made an immediate impact across multiple classes. More than 20 Hart’s-powered entries are expected to compete across the three-race Winter Series, joining over 80 of the toughest, quickest, most innovative doorslammer teams on the planet. “We love seeing brands this fired up to support what we’re building,” said Wes Buck, Founder & Editorial Director of Drag Illustrated. “You can feel the momentum around Pro Mod and high-level doorslammer drag racing right now, and Hart’s has been right in the middle of that energy. I’ve known Roger a long time, and I have a ton of respect for him, Dustin Hart, and the entire Hart’s crew. Partnering with companies who share our passion and our vision makes these already monster events even bigger. We’re thrilled to have them in the fold.” Based in Fayette, Missouri, Hart’s has quickly become a force in high-level drag racing after decades of dominance in the diesel world. Their involvement with high-profile racers in the Street Outlaws universe opened the door to the broader performance market, and the company has been deeply invested in the sport ever since. “The Winter Series represents the cutting edge of where drag racing is headed, and we wanted to be part of it in a meaningful way,” said Roger Conley, Director of Business Development at Hart’s. “Our turbo program has grown beyond anything we imagined, and the response to the Hart’s Charger has been incredible. Supporting the Drag Illustrated Winter Series puts us shoulder-to-shoulder with the most competitive racers in the world. It’s an honor for our team, and we’re committed to helping push the boundaries of what’s possible in this sport.” With major growth underway across both product lines, Hart’s sees the Winter Series as a premier proving ground for innovation, durability, and outright performance under the brightest lights in drag racing. This story was originally published on December 4, 2025. The post Hart’s Turbo, Hart’s Charger Join Drag Illustrated Winter Series as Major Sponsors first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

As previously announced, Ram is returning to the NASCAR Truck Series for the first time in over a decade, and they will do so with five entries fielded by Kaulig Racing. Kaulig is shutting down their NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts program (formerly Xfinity Series) in order to accommodate this massive undertaking in the Truck Series. The team will continue to operate a Chevy-backed team at the Cup ...Keep readingView the full article

The President has cars on his mindIn an announcement on the afternoon of December 3, President Donald Trump announced the administration's agenda to dramatically reverse his predecessor's fuel efficiency standards in a bid to lower new car prices for American consumers. In an Oval Office event with representatives of Detroit's major automakers, including the CEO of Jeep and Dodge parent Stellantis, Antonio Filosa, Ford CEO Jim Farley, and John Urbanic, the plant manager at General Motors' Orion, Michigan plant, Trump noted that the actions taken are a "victory" for what he deems "common sense and affordability." “Today, my administration is taking historic action to lower costs for American consumers, protect American auto jobs, and make buying a car much more affordable for countless American families, and also safer,” Trump said. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Lowering the barThe issue at hand is the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) requirements for cars and light trucks, which were tightened under the administration of former President Joe Biden. In June 2024, the NHTSA established new goals, which tasked automakers with increasing the fleetwide average fuel economy of passenger cars by 2% per year between model years 2027 and 2031, and light trucks by 2% per year between model years 2029 and 2031. Under these rules, the agency aimed for the average car to achieve a fuel economy of about 50.4 miles per gallon by the 2031 model year, a policy that Trump derided as “ridiculously burdensome” and “imposed expensive restrictions and gave all sorts of problems to automakers.” The new proposal would dramatically lower these requirements to about 34.5 miles per gallon for the 2031 model year and would also reclassify crossovers and small SUVs as passenger vehicles instead of light trucks. In a fact sheet published by the White House on its website, the administration claims that if it did not take action, the stringent fuel economy regulations under the previous administration "would have raised the average cost of a new car by nearly $1,000." Additionally, they also claim that the proposal "will save American families $109 billion in total over the next five years," and "save more than 1,500 lives and prevent nearly a quarter-million serious injuries through 2050." Joe Raedle/Getty Images Automakers welcome the rollbacksThe proposed CAFE regulations are part of a broader Trump administration agenda to untangle and streamline a set of rules he previously deemed an "EV mandate." In July, lawmakers in Congress have steadfastly pushed for the elimination of fines for car manufacturers who failed to meet the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards. In addition, through the passing of the tax and spending bill known as the “big, beautiful bill” earlier this year, they eliminated the $7,500 federal tax credits for EV purchases. In separate statements made before the Oval Office announcement, Detroit's automakers welcomed the new changes. “Stellantis appreciates the Trump Administration’s actions to re-align the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards with real-world market conditions as part of its wider vision for a growing US automotive industry,” Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa said in a statement. “We look forward to working further with NHTSA on environmentally responsible policies that also allow us to offer our customers the freedom to choose the vehicles they want at prices they can afford.” “As America’s largest auto producer, we appreciate President Trump’s leadership in aligning fuel economy standards with market realities,” Ford CEO Jim Farley said in a statement. ”We can make real progress on carbon emissions and energy efficiency while still giving customers choice and affordability.” Final thoughtsOn the flipside, environmental group representatives like Will Anderson, a zero-emissions vehicle policy advocate on Public Citizen’s Climate Program, told Automotive News that Americans are actually in favor of strong fuel economy standards. He claimed that a whopping 96% of American drivers said that "fuel economy is at least somewhat important to them when considering what vehicle to purchase or lease." Nonetheless, this development is still occurring at a time when new car prices remain at an all-time high. The latest data from Kelley Blue Book and Cox Automotive shows that the average transaction price (ATP) of a new car in the US was $49,766, a slight dip from the all-time high of $50,080 reached in September, an environment that Cox Automotive Executive Analyst Erin Keating says is led by sales of more expensive vehicles. “We’ve been expecting to break through the $50,000 barrier,” Keating said. “It was only a matter of time, especially when you consider the best-selling vehicle in America is a pickup truck from Ford that routinely costs north of $65,000. That’s today’s market, and it is ripe for disruption.” View the full article