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Off-Road Expressionist MovementOver the past few years, the off-roading market has seen an increase in the owners' self-expression. From a hobby that used to be biased purely towards function over form, people are now finding ways to show off by looking good and performing well. One of the newest canvas people have been modifying is the new-generation Toyota Land Cruiser 250, also known as the Land Cruiser in the US. Kuhl Racing has shown an interesting build for the Toyota SUV, headed for one of the biggest aftermarket shows of the year. Added Kuhl FactorFresh off its Toyota GR86 off-road build, Kuhl has just announced and unveiled another showstopping Toyota build slated to be showcased at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon this coming January 9-11. Kuhl is known for its extreme build, and this Land Cruiser 250 build is no exception. Dubbed as the "Blocked Iron Build," a combination of some aerodynamic parts and steel guard bumpers, according to Kuhl, it is a hint of sportiness and "three-dimensionality." Centered on the idea of "blocks," steel components have been added all around the LC's body, starting with the front and rear bumpers and bash guards, while the sides feature pipe fenders to accommodate the big rims and tires. There are also subtle touches like a rear wing and a rear gate wing. Lastly, the roof features a cool roof rack with an integrated lightbar. Kuhl says the Iron Block Build is meant to highlight the steel components without being flashy. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Not Just For ShowFurther beefing up the build, the Kuhl Land Cruiser gets an adjustable JAOS suspension kit with spacers that add 3 inches of lift. Its most striking feature, though, is the extremely massive tire-and-rim combination; the mud-terrain tires measure 37 inches, while the rims are 22-inch Kuhl Verz Wheels (finished in a cut-clear color). Adding the suspension, spacers, and rims and tires gives the modified Land Cruiser a total lift of 7 inches. While this Land Cruiser build is set for a show debut, the Iron Build package is not just a concept; it will also be offered for sale. Pricing, however, wasn't disclosed yet. View the full article

Trump Trade War Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Donald Trump spent much of the past decade warning he was ready to set off a global trade war, insisting it would, among other things, help rebuild American manufacturing. When he finally pulled the trigger, the auto industry found itself at ground zero. How things will shake out remains uncertain, trade talks with key trade partners moving far more slowly than the president promised. But, for now, tariffs are adding at least 15% to the wholesale price of most foreign-made vehicles. It’s not just imports that are affected. Tariffs on imported aluminum and steel, as well as foreign-made parts and components, have driven up production costs for virtually all vehicles assembled in the U.S., as well. Related: Why Ford Says Trump's Trade War Actually Helps Japan Trump has impacted the auto industry in a variety of other ways. He’s signed a flurry of executive orders that, among other things, have restricted California’s ability to set unique emissions standards effectively mandating EVs. He’s pulled back federal support for a nationwide charging network and pushed Congress to eliminate EV tax credits. EVs Short Circuit – But Battery Power Isn’t Dead Between 2019 and 2023 EV sales grew almost eightfold and the Biden administration hopes battery-electric vehicles would account for nearly half the U.S. market by early in the coming decade. But the phase-out of those tax credits has effectively short-circuited that plan. After a September surge by buyers hoping to beat the deadline, fourth-quarter sales collapsed. Demand is expected to rebound – at bit - but where all-electric models were once forecast by AutoPacific, Inc. to top 25% by decade’s end, the consulting firm now estimates the figure will come in at barely half that. Related: Automakers Bet on Performance EVs to Revive Slowing Demand More products are in the pipeline but others are being delayed or cancelled. And several current models are being dropped, including the Acura ZDX, Ford F-150 Lightning, Nissan Ariya and Volkswagen ID.Buzz. Proponents still hold out hope that a wave of new, low-cost models - such as the upcoming Chevrolet Bolt, and the Universal EV family Ford will launch in 2027 – could rebuild momentum. Promising new battery technology also could help. And, despite conventional wisdom, public chargers are going in by the many thousands each month. Toyota While EV demand has slowed, other forms of electrification are gaining traction fast. Conventional hybrids are expected to account for 15% of the U.S. market in 2025, double the 2023 share, according to industry data. It helps that today’s HEVs are not only fuel-saving but often the most powerful option available for products like the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. Meanwhile, plug-in hybrids are becoming more common and new extended-range electric vehicle systems are set to roll out, helping overcome range and charging concerns. Ford plans to bring back its Lightning in E-REV form. AffordabilityAccording to the president, the word, affordability “doesn’t mean anything to anybody.” He’d have a hard time convincing American motorists. As recently as 2015, the average transaction price for a new vehicle – factoring in sticker price, options, and discounts – was $33,500, according to Kelley Blue Book. Currently, it is nudging $50,000, and recent industry announcements make clear the figure will be going up again in the coming months. A variety of factors, including the cost of raw materials, chips and other components catch some of the blame. Then there are those pesky Trump tariffs. Until now, manufacturers have largely swallowed most of those added duties to avoid hurting sales. General Motors estimated this will result in a $5 billion hit to its bottom line this year, the industry overall expected to feel an $80 billion impact. But more of those costs are beginning to be passed on. Porsche, for one, announced a second tariff-related price hike coming this month. America’s K-shaped economy – where there’s a widening gap between rich and poor – means low-end buyers are expected to be hit hardest, especially as manufacturers start paring back on entry models such as the Nissan Versa, the last product in the U.S. market starting under $20,000. Cox Automotive foresees manufacturers continuing to downplay lower-priced segments in favor of more luxurious products generating higher margins as affluent consumers seem more willing to absorb tariff-related price hikes. Shareholder Ready to Reward Musk, Despite Tesla’s Challenges Getty In an industry often run by anonymous executives, Tesla has built its brand on the back of its outspoken CEO Elon Musk. That helped transform the start-up into the world’s leading EV manufacturer. But Musk’s image took a hit when he become an active player in the Trump reelection campaign, subsequently becoming head of the controversial Department of Government Efficiency. Musk demonstrated his strategy when he appeared on stage with a chainsaw – and his team quickly started firing thousands of government workers while claiming a goal of cutting $2 trillion in government “waste.” Related: Tesla’s Chair Just Made a Bold Claim About Elon Musk’s Future Musk has since admitted regretting his role and a number of studies have since, found little, if any, savings were achieved. In some areas, costs actually rose. Worse, at least for Musk and Tesla, the exec’s role triggered a massive global backlash resulting in massive demonstrations – and some vandalism – at Tesla stores. And a sharp slump in sales this past year was, at least partially, due to boycotts. Whatever the reason, Tesla sales plunged by 8% in 2025. As a result, it was toppled from its role as global EV king-of-the-hill by China’s ambitious BYD which saw its own sales jump 28%, even though its products aren’t available in the U.S. market. Not all went wrong for Tesla in 2025. It finally launched its first small fleet of robotaxis in Austin, Texas, this past June, with plans to expand to other markets in the months ahead. It’s also moving ahead with its AI and robotics operations. BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP via Getty Images Musk, for all the pushback, still remains wildly popular with investors who went on to approve a board proposal that could generate an eventually $1 trillion payout for the CEO should he meet a series of targets over the coming years. And while some major shareholders voted no – and, in some cases, sold out their stock – Tesla’s stock price ended the year at more than double its $214-a-share low point last April. Nissan Struggles for RedemptionNo major automotive manufacturer has faced the challenges like Nissan in recent years, the automaker still struggling to reverse the crisis touched off by the arrest and ouster of former CEO superstar Carlos Ghosn back in November 2018. For a while, it seemed, the automaker couldn’t catch a break, its reputation in tatters it saw sales and earnings collapse while its C-suite was wracked by one shake-up after another. The year got off to a bad start when a proposed merger with Honda collapsed. Getty Images So, the mood was particularly glum when Ivan Espinosa was named chief executive last April. His first move was to press even further with his predecessor’s cost-cutting effort. Newly dubbed RE:Nissan, it called for the elimination of 15,000 jobs, while the company’s production capacity ultimately will be trimmed by a third. Related: Nissan's Car Guy Boss Wants to Bring the Silvia Back to Life But Espinoza has also acknowledged his company can’t simply cost-cut its way to prosperity, putting more emphasis on introducing desirable new products. Among other things, it will soon revive the old Xterra badge. And it is moving ahead with an updated electrification program using its e-Power technology. Espinoza hopes to see improved financial results but its last quarterly figures, covering April through September saw a net loss 22.9 billion yen, with global sales down 7.3%. Massimo Di Vita/Archivio Massimo Di Vita/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images Nissan isn’t the only big-name manufacturers with an uncertain future. Stellantis entered 2025 without a CEO, the company in the midst of a six-month search to find a replacement for Carlos Tavares who resigned unexpectedly on Dec. 1, 2024. When Antonio Filosa, then COO of the Americas, was named to replace Tavares last spring he moved quickly to shake things up. Among other things, he approved the return of the iconic Hemi V-8 engine for the Ram 1500 pickup. Filosa also radically altered the Stellantis electrification plan. Whether it all pays off could take a few more quarters to prove out. Add to the last Jaguar which, last month, ended production of the F-Pace, its last gas-powered model. The struggling British marque is preparing to become an all-electric manufacturer – despite the problems facing the EV market. It’s expected to launch its first new model, drawing from the controversial Type 00 concept, early in 2027. View the full article

The Factory Powering Toyota’s American SuccessToyota continues to battle Ford for the top spot on the list of best-selling brands in America, and one factor helping sustain that momentum is its massive manufacturing footprint in Georgetown, Kentucky. Thanks to Car Confections, we get a closer look inside the facility, which plays a central role in producing two of Toyota’s best-selling models in the U.S. – the Camry Hybrid and the RAV4 Hybrid. Spanning roughly 1,300 acres and encompassing around nine million square feet of plant space, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky (TMMK) stands as the Japanese marque’s largest factory in the world. Construction on the site began in 1986, and just two years later, the first Camry rolled off the production line. Today, the plant has the capacity to build up to 550,000 vehicles annually, along with more than 600,000 engines. Foundations of Every Camry and RAV4The tour begins in the stamping shop, where raw steel is pressed into shape to form the vehicle’s body panels. From there, the panels move to the welding shop, where a combination of skilled team members and industrial robots joins the components together to create the vehicle’s body structure. Sensors are also used throughout the process to ensure consistency and precision during welding. Car Confections also highlighted one of TMMK’s newest developments: the K-Flex Line. Based on “Line One,” which originally produced the first Camry at the plant, the updated system has been engineered to support multiple vehicle types. The flexible line can accommodate everything from sedans to SUVs, and it has also been designed with future battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in mind. This aligns with previous reports indicating that the plant will produce the two new three-row electric SUVs. Given their size, these future models are expected to compete with vehicles such as the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and the Rivian R1S. Car Confections on YouTube Smart Tech Behind the ScenesSeveral other innovations were featured in the tour, including the automated guided vehicles capable of transporting full vehicle bodies and engines throughout the plant via a Wi-Fi-based system. Toyota also highlighted its use of internal data platforms to monitor activity at each workstation, while artificial intelligence is employed to analyze the movement of team members and help develop workflows that are both safer and more efficient. The plant further supports innovation through its on-site Production Engineering and Manufacturing Center (PEMC), where engineers test, refine, and develop new manufacturing technologies before being deployed across the production network. Looking ahead, Toyota plans to reintroduce the Camry to its home market of Japan, with units sourced directly from TMMK. The midsize sedan will be one of three U.S.-built models heading to the Land of the Rising Sun, alongside the Highlander and the Tundra. Car Confections on YouTube View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Relentless Pursuit of Lap TimeFerrari is arguably the most race-oriented automotive brand, having been a constant presence in Formula 1 and competing across multiple series, including the World Endurance Championship (WEC). On the track, gains measured in tenths or even hundredths of a second can prove decisive, and the Italian marque’s latest patent could potentially give its future road cars a measurable advantage in lap times. The patent application outlines a technology described as a “predictive control system for aerodynamic appendages in a road vehicle.” According to the filing, the system relies on predictive algorithms to estimate aerodynamic load demand and forthcoming driving conditions. Ferrari submitted the application (look up no. 20250388276) in June 2025 and was published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in December. USPTO From Reaction to PredictionActive aerodynamic components themselves are nothing new in performance-oriented road cars, with the Porsche 911 GT3 RS widely regarded as one of the benchmarks in this space. What differentiates Ferrari’s patent, however, is not the presence of active aero but the logic behind it. Instead of merely responding to driver actions, the system predicts when and how aerodynamic elements should be deployed ahead of time based on estimated vehicle operation. Under conventional systems, when a driver applies the brakes, active aerodynamic components switch to a high-drag configuration to aid stability and deceleration. These elements also adjust automatically in response to throttle input and steering angle, each triggering a predefined aerodynamic setting. In this sense, most current systems remain largely reactive to driver inputs – whereas Ferrari’s patent proposes an anticipatory approach. USPTO Reimagining a Familiar Aero ToolThe patent does not specify which aerodynamic components would be controlled by the system, although the most common example would be an adjustable rear wing. In low-drag scenarios, the wing can shift to a more streamlined profile to reduce aerodynamic resistance and enable higher top speeds, similar in principle to the drag reduction system (DRS) used in F1. Under braking, the wing can move into a high-drag position, increasing downforce at the rear axle, improving grip, and allowing the car to maintain stability and cornering speed without spinning. While the idea of predicting aerodynamic adjustments in advance is compelling, a patent filing does not guarantee that the technology will ultimately reach production. But if Ferrari chooses to allocate resources toward implementing this system, it could become another track-oriented feature integrated into its road-going models – alongside existing technologies such as the active aero system found in the SF90 Stradale and the extensive weight-saving measures applied to the brand's “Speciale” variants. Ferrari View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The IHRA is launching a pro watercraft racing series with $250,000 in the prize pool, and intends to create meaningful opportunities for pro PWC racers.View the full article

At just 21 years old, Scotty Kruck has already established a reputation as a driver and tuner in the world of small-tire index racing and grudge racing. Rising out of the Jr. Dragster ranks like many racers of his generation, Kruck has emerged as one of the most formidable contenders in the increasingly popular Lil Gangstas class. Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in DI #197, the 30 Under 30 Issue, in November/December 2025. Kruck raced Jr. Dragsters until he was 13, at which point he started driving his father’s SS Camaro while his own ’91 Camaro was in the works. He won the first race he entered in his dad’s car, continuing a family tradition that began long before Scotty came along. His maternal grandfather raced, his parents, Billy and Ginger, met at the racetrack, and Scotty was born into the lifestyle. “I kind of had no other choice,” he says, laughing. “Not that I’d have wanted it any other way, but I’ve been a part of racing since I was born.” The Arkansas-based racer has competed in anything from no-time and grudge racing to index classes and heads-up shootouts. The Kruck family’s stable includes six different cars, each with its own specialty. Kruck has learned to tune them all. Between his driving prowess and tuning abilities, Kruck has turned on more than a few win lights in the last year or so. “I actually won Small Tire Gangstas, the big race [Tom Gunner and Michael Poland] put on in Texas last year,” Kruck says. “I’ve raced for $40,000 or $50,000 grudge races and won three Lil Gangstas races this year. I’ve been pretty successful and thankful for my racing career.” That success includes his most meaningful victory to date – winning the first-ever Bear Shit Only Lil Gangstas race during Big Jake’s Southern No-Time Nationals at Xtreme Raceway Park. The invitational field was stacked with previous Lil Gangstas event winners, making it something of an all-star race for the burgeoning class. “That was probably the most exciting win,” says Kruck, who followed that win closely with a semifinal finish in the quicker of two 32-car Gangsta X fields at Donald Long’s No Mercy 16 at South Georgia Motorsports Park. “There were 32 winners in that race – 32 killers. So it was pretty awesome finding yourself in the winner’s circle knowing you raced against guys like that.” Off the track, Kruck and his father recently launched a new venture together, Kruck Automotive, in Benton, Arkansas. Though they take on some performance projects like LS swaps, they largely work on daily drivers, performing work on brakes, transmissions, engines, and more. “It’s been truly a blessing because it kind of took off,” Kruck says. “It can definitely be a chore. It’s just me and my dad and one employee, and he really helps when we’re gone racing. We usually end up traveling down to Texas because the payouts are unmatched.” With multiple cars in the family’s arsenal, including his ’91 Camaro known as “Cain” and his dad’s 5.30-index car, Kruck credits his family and friends for helping make their packed schedule possible. “It’s been a process trying to race and run a business, but we’re making it work,” he says. “If it wasn’t for my family and my girlfriend, running this stuff would be a lot more challenging. They’re there every weekend.” He’s also sure to thank supporters like Nitrous Express, Prayer Plumbing, and CDS Motorsports, as well as the manufacturers behind the products he uses to race competitively: Neal Chance Racing Converters, Menscer Motorsports, Santhuff, Racepak, Naiser Racing Components, and M&M Transmission. Moving forward, expect Kruck to continue running Lil Gangstas as the class expands beyond its origins at nitty-gritty Texas tracks to dragstrips across the country. It’s a tough place to race and it’s only getting tougher, but that’s what appeals to Kruck. “It’s getting huge and we do pretty good at it,” he says of Lil Gangstas. “But it’s a real challenging class. You have to be on your game because it’s getting to the point where when you go to a race and there’s 60 cars, you might have five that are not close to the cap, but you’ve got 55 that are straight killers and hard to beat.” Even if that competition slows the roll Kruck has been on, he’s not letting up any time soon. “I’ve been racing since I was four years old,” Kruck says. “And I don’t plan on stopping, unless God’s got other plans for me.” The post DI 30 Under 30 2025: Scotty Kruck first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Story Behind the SaleThe Ford Fox Body Mustang is often regarded as one of the more polarizing generations in the model’s history, with fans either embracing it or dismissing it. However, most enthusiasts can agree that a well-documented barn find is always compelling – and this particular 1983 Mustang GT convertible, featured by WD Detailing, stood out even more because of the personal story behind its sale. The owner and his wife are staying at a rehabilitation facility, but hope to return home. That plan, however, has been complicated by an HVAC system at their house that has not worked for over 10 years. The elderly couple decided to sell the boxy-designed Mustang, which had been stored in the owner’s garage for more than two decades. Decades Without AttentionGiven that the car was a genuine barn find, its condition was understandably poor. The tires were deflated, and the interior was heavily contaminated with rat nests. The channel primarily details vehicles – often at no cost – to help owners see their cars restored to their former glory. This particular Mustang belongs to the model’s third-generation iteration, more commonly known as the Fox Body. It rides on the Fox platform, which was also shared with vehicles such as the Ford Thunderbird and Lincoln Continental. According to the owner, the car originally ran with a V6 engine before being upgraded to a 5.0-liter small-block V8. That engine was rated at approximately 175 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. While those figures may sound modest today, they were more competitive at the time, especially given that the car weighed around 3,000 pounds—roughly in the same ballpark as a modern Toyota Corolla. Power is sent to the rear wheels through an automatic transmission. WD Detailing on YouTube Turning the PageThe Fox Body generation was eventually replaced in 1994, marking a notable shift away from the sharp, boxy styling. While the SN-95 remained derived from the Fox architecture, Ford heavily reworked it – often described as the “Fox-4” – with substantial improvements aimed at rigidity and overall refinement. In addition to the Fox Body Mustang, the garage also housed a classic Ford Model A, the direct successor to the Blue Oval’s iconic Model T. WD Detailing pledged to match the sale price, effectively doubling the amount the Mustang sold for. The channel also helped the elderly couple set up a crowdfunding page and connected them with a friend who volunteered to provide free labor and installation for a new HVAC system. WD Detailing on YouTube View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Opening the Door to Entry-Level LeasingTesla has expanded its leasing program to include the cheapest Model 3 and Model Y trims. These lower-cost Standard variants were reintroduced in October last year as the automaker responded to softer demand following the expiration of U.S. EV incentives. In theory, adding leasing should help broaden access to its most affordable EVs. However, according to a report from CarsDirect, the newly launched lease offers are “surprisingly bad” when examined more closely. For the Model 3 Standard Rear-Wheel Drive, which carries an MSRP of $38,380 including destination, Tesla lists a lease price of $449 per month. That figure is based on a 36-month term with a 10,000-mile annual allowance and requires $4,145 due at signing. Once that upfront cost is spread across the lease term, the effective cost rises to $564 per month. Tesla A Stark ContrastThat effective figure is roughly 35 percent higher than the lease deal that was available on the better-equipped Model 3 Premium RWD a little over a week ago. While that promotion has since ended, the comparison highlights how sharply Tesla’s lease value proposition has shifted in a short period. The equipment gap between the two trims adds another layer to the comparison. The Model 3 Standard omits several features found on the Premium, such as the second-row touchscreen with heated rear seats, Autosteer driver-assistance functionality, and wraparound ambient lighting. Performance and range are also affected. The Standard model’s EPA-rated driving range is 321 miles, or 42 miles less than the Premium trim, while its 0–60 mph acceleration time of 5.8 seconds is 0.9 seconds slower. A similar pattern is observed with the Model Y. Tesla now allows the Model Y Standard to be leased for $479 per month under the same 36-month, 10,000-mile structure, with $4,174 due at signing. That results in an effective monthly cost of $595 – about 24 percent higher than the effective lease cost of the Model Y Premium offered before the recent pricing changes. CarsDirect noted that this disparity could give shoppers “a good reason to put off their purchase until better deals return.” Tesla Where Tesla Stands NowFollowing the holidays, Tesla raised lease prices across both models. The Model 3 Premium RWD now leases for $499 per month, the Premium AWD for $599, and the Performance AWD—which delivers a 0–60 mph time of 2.9 seconds – for $749. On the Model Y side, lease prices stand at $549 per month for the Premium RWD, $649 for the Premium AWD, and $799 for the Performance AWD. Tesla enters 2026 with these higher lease prices in place as it looks to regain momentum following a slower year. The company delivered approximately 1.63 million vehicles in 2025, representing a 9 percent year-over-year decline. That slowdown allowed Chinese automaker BYD to overtake Tesla as the world’s best-selling EV brand. Tesla View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Buttons Make a ComebackVolkswagen owners and car reviewers have been vocal about one thing: too many touch controls, not enough real buttons. Simple tasks like changing the temperature meant digging through menus or fiddling with sliders, and those haptic steering wheel controls never really caught on. Volkswagen listened, and now it's showing off what’s next for its interiors. The big news? Physical buttons are making a return. The first car to get this new interior is the Volkswagen ID. Polo, a small electric hatchback that’s set to be the entry point for the brand’s EVs. Volkswagen says this isn’t just a one-off design. The same approach will roll out across all future ID models, with an emphasis on easier controls, better materials, and more recycled content. Of note, the photos the company shared are from a near-production concept vehicle, so they’re close to what buyers will actually get when the ID. Polo hits showrooms. Volkswagen Inside the New CockpitThe new interior looks calmer and more organized than what you’ll find in today’s ID models. Two big screens sit side by side: a 10.25-inch digital cluster behind the wheel and a nearly 13-inch touchscreen in the center. The key difference is that these displays are backed up by real buttons, not just more touch controls. Right under the main screen, there’s a row of buttons for climate and hazard lights, so you don’t have to hunt through menus for basic settings. The steering wheel drops the touch pads and brings back proper buttons. There’s even a rotary knob between the cup holders and phone tray for volume and media – simple, but it makes a difference. Materials get more attention, too. The dashboard and doors use fabric to make the cabin feel warmer and less like a gadget, and recycled materials are used throughout. There’s even a retro mode for the digital gauges – press a button, and the display throws back to the original Golf – a small touch that should add some character. Volkswagen Pricing Reality CheckVolkswagen originally promised an affordable electric ID model, hinting that prices would beat most in the EV market. But now, it looks like the ID. Polo could end up costing more than planned, thanks to higher production costs, new software, and pricier materials. Final pricing isn’t set, but most signs point to a starting price around $30,000 or more, depending on the market and incentives. Volkswagen is clearly fixing one of its biggest complaints with the new interior, but the price and US availability are still up in the air. Volkswagen View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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