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2025 FIM Awards The post Curated selection of images from the 2025 FIM Awards appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Dino’s Git Down started out as a group of friends hanging out at Dino’s place and grew into a get together that outgrew the street, the neighborhood, and the first few real event venues they moved to. This show has grown to be one of the biggest Chevy shows in the entire world. It’s nuts and everyone that goes to Dino’s Git Down talks about it non-stop. This is one of the MUST ATTEND shows of the year and the 2025 edition did not disappoint. Video Description: Dino’s Git Down 2025 was absolutely awesome! This was my first time attending Dino’s. This is the biggest classic truck show of the year everything from Lifted C30 4×4 Dually to Lowrider C10s. The Arizona Cardinal’s stadium parking lot was packed with trucks. Featuring fully restored C10s, Squarebody trucks, and OBS legends. If you love seeing custom builds, perfect paint, and the absolute best in classic GM trucks, you won’t want to miss a single minute. You want to know the best part? Dino’s is free to attend for spectators. From lifted monsters to slammed street cruisers, this is the ultimate walk-through of every generation of the world’s most iconic pickups. Which C10 was your favorite? Let us know in the comments! The post Dino’s Git Down Truck Show Video: All Chevy Trucks, All Kinds Of People, And A Whole Lot Of Awesome In Arizona appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 European Series Road Racing (ESR) The 2026 North West 200 has been confirmed for May 4–9 and will form part of the new European Series Road Racing (ESR) Superbike Championship, adding an extra competitive dimension to one of road racing’s landmark events. The NW200 is currently slated to host […] The post North West 200 to host new ESR Championship in 2026 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

More and more new cars are being assembled with high performance adhesives these days. While seem sealer was being used as early as the 1950’s, it was sparingly applied back then. As cars have become more and more civilized, the use of seam sealer has become more and more prevalent. But new cars don’t just use seam sealer to cover welded joints, as they also use it to provide resonance control and more. And if you thought there was a lot of seam sealer in brand new cars, you might be confusing some of what you see because in reality there is a lot of adhesive in newer cars as well. Panel Bond, an adhesive used to attach metal and composite panels to each other and to the car’s main body, has become more and more common over the past 10 years or so. In fact, there are lots of cars who’s body panels are bonded. Quarter panels, for example, are often glued onto newer cars. So can you use panel bond on your favorite classic cars? Could I install quarter panels on my 1969 Camaro with panel bond? Is it actually strong enough? Or as strong as a weld? Watch the video below to find out. Video Description: On this weeks episode of Restoration Revelations, we are going Myth Busters on ya. We have been getting questions on the strength of our No Weld Smooth Firewall Kits for 68 – 72 A-Body GM cars. So we are going to take the 3M Automotive Adhesive and put it up against a very common practice in automotive restoration, the plug weld. We have designed a test that will tell us just how much force it takes to failure on both the plug weld and the adhesive. Which one do you think will break first? The plug weld has been around forever, from Mopars to Fords or from Chevelles to Camaros, there is almost certainly some form of plug weld on your restoration. But lately as technology improves, so does the way we build cars. Automotive adhesive can be found on a lot of the modern muscle cars or import cars, and it’s strength is just as impressive as welding. So stay tuned and see who wins. The post A Restoration Shop Using 3M Panel Bond? How Does Panel Bond Stand Up Vs. Welding – Let’s Find Out Which is Stronger! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Every year, roughly 30% of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States involve drunk drivers. There were 12,429 drunk driving-related fatalities on American roads last year, equating to approximately 34 deaths a day. That's according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but according to BMW, such a tragic statistic need not be the norm much longer. A new patent filed with the World Intellectual Property Office (noted by CarBuzz) suggests combining existing technologies to stop inebriated individuals from getting behind the wheel, or at least, from getting a sufficiently equipped car started and moving. What BMW's Patent Proposes Many new cars are available with the option of a digital key, where the user's smartphone or smartwatch is used to unlock and lock the vehicle, remotely start the engine/electric motors, activate driver preferences, turn on climate control, and determine things like battery state of charge, among other pieces of information. As annoying as this tech can be when it doesn't work properly, when it does work properly, it removes one more item from the user's pocket, enhancing convenience. BMW's patent suggests that the phone be connected to a breathalyzer, which could be part of the car or a portable gadget. Regardless, until the user blows into the breathalyzer to confirm that their blood-alcohol level is below the legal limit, the car could remain immobilized. The patent suggests that, even if a user fails this test, their digital key could still allow the vehicle to activate the infotainment and climate control systems, minimizing the chances of a drunk user freezing or falling asleep while they sober up or wait for a non-drinker to arrive. Big Brother is Scary, but Safety MattersOf course, while such an idea could prove particularly useful in cases where a court-ordered interlock is mandated, for example, this potential technology also raises questions about how an individual's data might be used and whether their breathalyzer scores would be recorded and possibly even sold to insurance companies; GM was sued for selling customer data earlier this year. Even if a person doesn't attempt to drive in an inebriated state, recording and passing on such information could be detrimental to their premiums. Related: Study: BMW Drivers Have the Highest DUI Rate in Major U.S. Cities However, like a recent patent in which McLaren proposed limiting track-focused vehicle modes to predetermined secure environments, this patent highlights that the human race has proven time and again that it cannot always be trusted to make the safe or smart choice. And given the reputation that BMW drivers often have, perhaps a little more oversight wouldn't be so bad. After all, if traffic fatalities could be lowered by nearly a third, we'd all sleep better at night. View the full article

That Just EscalatedElectric vehicles aren’t exactly new to the market anymore, yet incidents like this one from a Lucid owner on Reddit highlight the unexpected problems future EV buyers might still face. In a post on r/LUCID, user raging_onyx shared how a simple water spill inside their 2026 Lucid Air’s trunk escalated into a $15,000 repair bill. The owner explained that they hit a pothole, causing a water container in the trunk to tip over and spill. Almost immediately, the EV threw a barrage of warnings: the car dropped into low-power mode, regenerative braking was disabled, and the system urged them to pull over. What made the situation worse was that neither the insurance (Progressive) nor Lucid’s warranty initially wanted to cover the repair. The Blame Game StartsAccording to the insurer, the damage didn’t fall within the typical comprehensive categories, such as natural disasters, fire, or theft. Meanwhile, although not explicitly stated, the warranty likely didn’t apply because the Lucid service center believed a manufacturing defect didn’t cause the issue. Faced with a massive repair bill, the owner described hearing the estimate as a “punch in the gut,” especially since they had only been leasing the EV for about two months. EVs are generally engineered to be highly water-resistant, with automakers testing their models against ingress standards (IP ratings), especially for critical electrical equipment. Because of this, an instant system meltdown from a spill could raise eyebrows, unless other pre-existing issues were already present. But without official diagnostics or documentation, it’s impossible to know for sure what exactly triggered the failure. What we do have is the repair order, which includes a replacement of the wiring harness – a job that can quickly become expensive. Water may have seeped into high-voltage components or connectors, leading to moisture intrusion, electrical faults, and potential corrosion if not addressed immediately. Some Good NewsA few days after outlining the ordeal, the owner updated the thread, saying they had received an email from a Progressive representative confirming that the repair would be covered under comprehensive coverage. The insurer had negotiated the cost with Lucid, and the adjuster told them they’d need to visit the shop to pay their deductible. This isn’t an isolated case either. A Hyundai Ioniq 5 owner went viral recently for a similar issue that climbed to a $12,000 repair bill, only for the insurance company to eventually step in after public attention. As EV adoption grows, stories like this may become more common – not necessarily because the technology is flawed, but because newer systems reveal issues only real-world use can uncover. The best thing automakers can do now is pay attention to these incidents, address vulnerabilities quickly, and strengthen future EV models so their customers don’t face unexpected, wallet-draining repairs. Ryan Brackin View the full article

A square or U engine layout is an extremely rare engine architecture that generally features four cylinders arranged in a square block with two parallel crankshafts — one for each pair of cylinders — geared together and rotating in opposite directions. The main advantages of such a layout are its compact size and the fact that shorter crankshafts offer more torsional rigidity and are less prone to twisting under load. Very few manufacturers have even attempted developing such an engine for series production, the only one of note being British motorcycle brand Ariel, who produced square four engines in various capacities from 1931 to 1959. Japanese manufacturers Yamaha, Suzuki, and Kawasaki also experimented with this layout in the 1980s, primarily for their two-stroke grand prix race bikes, but the design soon faded into obscurity. View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Fast Forward to 2025Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta, known for building some of the most exotic machines on the planet, has now revived the dual-crank U engine architecture, almost a century after Ariel first brought it mainstream. The high-end boutique brand, whose exclusive creations are often considered rolling pieces of art, revealed their creation to the world at EICMA 2025, this year’s Milan Motorcycle Show. The engine in question in a five-cylinder take on the square layout with three pistons driving the forward crank and two pistons driving the rear, so its more trapezoid than square — something that has never been attempted before. MV Agusta What We Know So FarAt the moment, this engine exists only as a concept, but MV Agusta has shared a few details, as well as their future plans for it. The company states that its five-cylinder quadrato (Italian for square) engine platform will be offered in varying displacements ranging from 850 cc to 1150 cc, and will power models across various segments, from supersport motorcycles to naked street bikes, and even tourers. MV Agusta also claims that the platform will be capable of generating over 240 horsepower and 96 lb-ft of torque, and rev to over 16,000 rpm — all while weighing under 132 lbs. MV Agusta Square Engine Pros and ConsThe square engine architecture offers several inherent advantages over more common high-performance motorcycle engine designs of similar capacity. They offer a smaller overall footprint, being narrower than an inline four and shorter front to back than a V4, allowing for easier packaging within the frame. They also offer excellent balance and refinement, while MV also states that the five-cylinder firing order will ensure a wide spread of usable torque across the rev range, eliminating the need for variable valve timing. While all of this sounds great, square engines did come with some drawbacks, which ultimately saw them fade out of existence. These included issues keeping the rear cylinders cool in the old days of air-cooling, and the complexity and cost involved with building an engine with two crankshafts and four camshafts. Of course, modern liquid cooling takes care of the first issue, and your average MV Agusta buyer isn’t really concerned with cost, so it’s quite possible that we could see this concept turn into a reality in the coming years. The Bottom LineIn an era when innovation and development in the internal combustion space seems to have ground to a halt, it’s always refreshing to see a manufacturer directing time and resources towards coming up with something that nobody else thought of trying. While MV Agusta’s new engine platform is probably years from production, it gives petrolheads hope and the promise that the days of screaming exhausts aren’t done yet. View the full article

My dad’s toolbox has always been a mix of Snap-On, Craftsman, some Mac and some other random stuff. He was a mechanic when I was little and then a service advisor, etc, etc. When he was making his living working on cars, he would shop the tool truck here and there, but he was never a single brand guy. So when I started collecting tools early on in life I got whatever anyone gifted me or that I could find cheap. And when we built our first shop, I went shopping for more tools and landed on a large Husky tool set along with some other special sets like Gear Wrench ratcheting end wrenches, after receiving a small set on Hot Rod Power Tour. The point is, I’m a fan of whatever tools are quality for the money and fit your budget. And there has never been a better time to be a tool buyer because there are so many options from a bunch of brands with great warranties at a really broad range of price points. So watch the video below to see which tool sets were tested, how they stack up, and which one you might want if you are in the mood to spend some money on tools this Christmas. Video Description: The Mechanic Tool Sets were tested for 3/8 ratchet working arc swing, 3/8 ratchet back drag, ratchet head size, ½ in open and closed end max torque, socket adapter failure load, ratchet failure load, toolbox organization, and for tool case quality. GEARWRENCH, DeWalt, Husky, Amazon Basics, Kobalt, WORKPRO, FASTPRO, DURATECH,CRAFTSMAN, and VEVOR were tested. I purchased all of the Mechanics Tool Sets to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel. The post Is This The Mechanic’s Tool Set You Should Be Buying This Christmas? Putting Several Sets To The Test! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Secret to Engine Longevity Is…You’ve heard a lot about how today's modern engines are too delicate to achieve high mileage, thanks in part to the thinning out of engine oils. While this is true, the fact remains that modern vehicles are designed to operate within very narrow parameters for optimal fuel efficiency. They simply require the proper care to achieve the type of mileage numbers older cars were able to attain with less frequent and less expensive maintenance. To see the type of high mileage that means your car lasts decades, you don’t need to be a mechanic or spend hundreds of dollars. All you need to do is use common sense and follow through on time-proven techniques from real mechanics for protecting your engine and drivetrain by being consistent with your maintenance. The Six Essential Maintenance RulesChange your oil religiously: The single most important thing you can do for your engine is also the simplest to do, even yourself. Fresh oil keeps everything lubricated and prevents harmful buildup. Follow your manufacturer's recommended intervals, but consider changing it even more frequently if you make lots of short trips or drive in extreme conditions. Part's specialist Chris from Beachside Auto Parts on YouTube recommends changing oil every 3,000-4,000 miles if you’re mainly doing short trips and idling a lot, going up to 5,000 miles for mixed driving — half the 10,000 mile service intervals many modern cars recommend. It may seem like you’re doubling maintenance costs, but the payoff is an engine that lasts longer. Quality matters too, so spring for good synthetic oil and OEM replacement oil filters. Getty Images Keep your cooling system healthy: Engines produce a lot of heat, and modern turbo-charged engines produce the most heat of all. Your cooling system works overtime to dissipate all that heat. Make sure you flush your coolant regularly and check for leaks. A failed cooling system can lead to engine failure in minutes, turning a simple fix into a complete disaster. Don't ignore the transmission: Whether you have an automatic or manual transmission, the fluid needs attention. Service it per the manufacturer's schedule, even if the manual says it's "lifetime" fluid. Transmissions are expensive to replace, but maintaining them properly is relatively cheap. Getty Images Replace filters and fluids on schedule: Air filters, fuel filters, brake fluid, and differential fluid all play crucial roles. These items are inexpensive, but forgetting them can lead to expensive damage down the road. Address problems immediately: That weird noise or warning light isn't going to fix itself. Small issues become big ones when ignored. Catching problems early saves money and prevents cascading failures. Drive sensibly: Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and constantly redlining your engine all add unnecessary wear. Smooth driving extends the life of nearly every component in your vehicle. Final ThoughtsMost people overcomplicate car care or ignore it completely until something breaks. The reality is simpler than you think. Stick to regular maintenance schedules, use quality fluids, and fix small problems before they become big ones. These basic habits separate cars that die at 100,000 miles from those still running strong at 300,000. View the full article

Madison Merchel could not have had a stronger YouTube debut. For her very first upload, she documented the discovery of a silver Ferrari 360 Modena, a yellow Porsche 986 Boxster S, and a dark blue Porsche 996 Carrera hidden in an abandoned barn. The cars had been sitting untouched for years under layers of dust and mold. In the grand scheme of barn finds, a three-car haul is tiny compared to some of the sprawling collections uncovered in recent years, yet this one still stands out as one of the coolest we have seen in a while. Three Gems From the 2000s YouTube @ Madison Merchel YouTube @ Madison Merchel YouTube @ Madison Merchel YouTube @ Madison Merchel After months of back and forth with the late owner's family, Merchel made an offer on all three cars as they sat. She knew none of them had run in ages. She also knew the risks. Still, she took the gamble. The family accepted the undisclosed amount, handing over three time capsules in various stages of decay. The Boxster had a mouse nest in the frunk, the Ferrari’s cabin showed patches of mold, and the Carrera (fitted with a K&N air intake) looked like it had hibernated for a decade. While the two Porsches are stick-shift cars, the 360 is equipped with the F1 automated manual transmission rather than the rare six-speed gated manual; however, a manual swap remains on the table. Surprising First Starts After Years of Silence YouTube @ Madison Merchel YouTube @ Madison Merchel YouTube @ Madison Merchel With a new battery and fresh fluids, each car roared back to life. Massive plumes of smoke poured from the exhausts, especially the Ferrari, which practically vanished behind a cloud as it crawled out of the barn. Viewers winced when the 360 was revved while still cold, and it looked like it had been filled with too much oil. Only future videos will reveal whether any of this causes problems later. Despite having a rough idle, the fact that all three engines ran with only basic prep suggests there's more life in them than their condition had us believing. The Start of A Promising Restoration JourneyWhile the two Porsches should be manageable projects, especially since Porsche now offers period-correct seat fabrics for older cars like the 996 to aid in the restomod process, the Ferrari might prove to be a real challenge. Despite being new to YouTube with only 2,000 subscribers, Merchel is no stranger to the autosphere, with nearly 38,000 fans following her journey on Instagram. Currently, she owns a 991.2 Porsche GT3 RS, an FD Mazda RX 7, and a 1JZ-swapped Nissan N13, and has worked on one of the most beloved M3 generations, the E36 M3. Whether these three new additions will return to factory spec or evolve into something entirely different remains to be seen. However, if history tells us anything, this will be a restoration series worth following. View the full article

A true driver's roadMost winding, mountainous roads caution you to drive slowly and remind you of the dangers surrounding you. Deep drop-offs, falling rocks, drivers cutting over lanes - you name it. The Tail of the Dragon, however, has one sign of caution, which only asks that you stay in your lane. That’s because car enthusiasts who like to tempt fate are racing up and down this scenic drive, almost constantly. It’s easy to see why Tail of the Dragon is so attractive for drivers, too. On a scenic fall weekday, I drove the Tail of the Dragon no less than seven times, and was blessed with (mostly) open road. It’s a stretch that almost seems designed to be driven aggressively. Unlike many curvy mountain roads, Tail of the Dragon seems to encourage pugnacity rather than restraint. Curves beg you to drop the nose of your car sharply with firm braking so you can speed through the rare (and short) straightaways. The Tail of the Dragon is a driver’s dream come trueAt the intersection of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest sits the Tail of the Dragon, a road dubbed “America’s most thrilling destination for motorcycle riders and sports car enthusiasts.” The road intersects the state lines for North Carolina and Tennessee, too, and the experience of driving the Tail of the Dragon between the two states is stark. Road conditions on the North Carolina side are more - let’s say “rugged” - than they are on the Tennessee side, which felt freshly paved and cared for. Approaching the road from the North Carolina side presents opportunities to eat, fuel up, or visit the restroom - but know you’re starting the drive with some of the tightest turns on the 12-mile stretch, so be on your game. The Tennessee entrance is far more scenic, with incredible views of the surrounding hills and Calderwood Lake. Choosing which direction to enter the Tail of the Dragon from can frame your entire visit, too. Entering from the Tennessee side eases you into the twists and turns; you’re almost tricked into driving Tail of the Dragon. All told, The Tail of the Dragon has over 300 turns in less than 11 miles. Coming into the Tail of the Dragon through Tennessee is thrilling, but a touch less aggressive upfront than North Carolina’s entrance, which I honestly prefer. North Carolina’s entrance has you scaling uphill almost immediately, with hairpin turns straight away. After you’re offered a chance at a pit stop before entering the drive, you’re dropped right into the thick of it all. The Tail of the Dragon doesn’t ask for your consent - you’re thrust into it. If the road itself is to be likened to an actual dragon’s tail, North Carolina is its end: whippy, sharp, and not to be taken lightly. As twisty as the road is, it still begs you to drive it at speed and encourages agility. I drove the Tail of the Dragon in several MINIs, all of which handled the road with aplomb. You can speed through less-windy sections (there aren’t many straights), and curves are well designed for those who like to slap the brakes to dip the nose into a turn so they can rocket out of it on the other side. Though we can’t know as much, it’s as if those who initially planned and built the road knew driving enthusiasts would one day seek it out. Tail of the Dragon is not a track, though. It’s a mountainous road with elevation changes and turns that present the ultimate punishment if you don’t respect them. It’s also a public road, and on the wrong day, you may be driving the Dragon in traffic. If that ends up being you, enjoy the views. When you are lucky enough to have an open road (like I was), keep your eyes forward. Either way, you’ll have a massive smile on your face. Final thoughtsEleven miles go by quickly when you’re driving fast. The Tail of the Dragon is a bit like a rollercoaster - and like a rollercoaster, you’ll want to go back for more once the ride is over. It’s a thrilling jaunt that’s worth going out of your way to drive. Because I entered through the North Carolina side, the scenery on the Tennessee side was a bit like the rollercoaster slowing to a stop. There were plenty of places to pull over and catch your breath, but I used those pullouts to turn around and head back for more. Sorry, Tennessee, but I know what a lake looks like; I had a dragon to slay. View the full article

The Ultimate Stealth TrimFollowing the debut of the Land Rover Range Rover SV Black earlier this year, the British luxury marque has officially priced the special edition at $238,900 MSRP. That figure is slightly higher than the early estimates of around $230,000, but it isn’t surprising given the extensive visual and material changes made to this trim. As its name suggests, the SV Black is built off the Range Rover SV, already the flagship specification of the full-size SUV. The Black edition takes that template and pushes the aesthetic even further, fully blacking out the exterior and interior to create a more imposing, ultra-premium presence—similar in spirit to blacked-out Cadillac Escalades and Mercedes-Benz G-Wagons often associated with high-profile owners. Land Rover Spec CheckWhile the standard SV often uses bronze-tone accents for contrast, the SV Black eliminates them entirely. Land Rover finishes the exterior in Narvik Black, extending the blackout treatment to the available 22- or 23-inch wheels, the brake calipers, and nearly all exterior trim. Inside, the monochromatic theme continues. The cabin is offered exclusively in black, though black birch veneers add a subtle two-tone contrast across the dashboard and doors. Standard amenities include the brand’s Body and Soul rear seats and the “world-first” sensory floor, which delivers synchronized vibrations based on audio input to enhance in-cabin immersion. Mechanically, the SV Black mirrors the standard SV, powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Output is rated at 607 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0–60 mph time of 4.3 seconds, which is comparable to performance-oriented SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne S Coupe. Land Rover Elegance With a Dark EdgeLand Rover also offers several add-ons for U.S. buyers, including $5,200 deployable side steps, a $1,200 towing package with Advanced Tow Assist and a tow hitch receiver, and a $350 cold climate package with a heated windshield and heated washer jets. Fully equipped, the Range Rover SV Black can climb past $250,000. For shoppers who prefer the blackout aesthetic but don’t want to spend Range Rover money, Land Rover has also released black-themed versions of the Range Rover Sport and Defender Octa. The former serves as a smaller, more affordable alternative to the flagship Range Rover, while the latter boasts rugged capability with its off-road-focused ethos. Land Rover View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Niche SUV but Highly Popular in EuropeThere are a few brands left in the automotive industry that are still able to be "expressive." More often than not, car makers are now forced to keep in line by offering run-of-the-mill models to cater to the ever-changing demands. Jeep has managed to remain free and stay the course by offering tried-and-tested off-roaders while also catering to a new demographic. An example is the Avenger model, the smallest in the whole range (offered exclusively in Europe for now), which comes with the 4xe powertrain. It's also now getting a one-off special edition treatment. Ever since the launch of the Avenger in 2022, it has become the brand's darling in the European market. With smaller roads and smaller overall cities, the pint-sized Jeep 4xe has appealed to the sensible but outgoing market. Now, it's getting a one-off special edition called the Avenger Stargazer. Reach for the SkyBanking on its popularity, Jeep Europe has used the Avenger platform to showcase a one-off model to highlight a very special segment of the outdoor lifestyle. The Jeep Avenger Stargazer is (as the name suggests) a model for those who enjoy looking up at the night sky. This model is a collaboration between Jeep and a non-profit company, DarkSky UK, as a means to encourage people to "go out and explore the night sky." Part of Jeep's reasoning for this collab is a study the brand conducted, which highlights that Brits suffer from "cosmos confusion" – with almost a third (32%) admitting their knowledge of the night sky is lacking and 33% saying they would struggle to recognise Orion's Belt. Another reason for this timely collaboration is to introduce a new trim level called the Avenger Summit SkyView, which adds a sunroof, navigation, hands-free tailgate, and passive entry. This new Summit SkyView variant will be available for order in Q1 of 2026. Serious KitThe Stargazer concept takes the brief seriously by introducing a slew of features and technology to make stargazing easier. This includes a smart telescope fitted into the sunroof (which can be controlled by a smart device inside the car), as well as a custom-built, integrated cabinet fitted into the trunk that houses the essential kits needed for a night exploring the cosmos: the telescope and mount, binoculars, red-light head-torches, touch-screen gloves, and weatherproof clothing. As another visual treat, the Avenger Stargazer body is wrapped in an informative reflective wrap depicting parts of the night sky, including recognisable planets and constellations. The cabin interior light is red instead of the usual white or yellow, as light pollution makes stargazing more difficult. It's unclear whether the Avenger or the Avenger Stargazer Concept will ever reach the US, but don't hold your breath for now as plans aren't concrete within Stellantis at this point. View the 9 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It’s time for another will it run and drive video from Sleeperdude, but this one just might be their best one yet. A 1967 Buick Riviera is a classic, and this one is no exception. But after sitting for 40 years, it is going to need some love for sure. Check out the clean up they do and let us know what you think. Can you believe it looks this good after all these years? Video Description: We are going to do a full detail on this Big Block 67 Buick Riviera that was parked for 40 years. It’s also getting new Flowmaster mufflers, front brakes, and a set of used casings before we take it on it’s first drive in four decades. The post Best Clean Up They’ve Ever Done! Sleeperdude And Family Get This 1967 Buick Riviera Back On The Road After 40 Years Parked. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A Unique Hybrid SystemNissan is approaching the growing electrified car market with the e-Power, which offers a different drivability compared to most hybrids. ProcessX shares on YouTube how this hybrid powertrain setup is made through behind-the-scenes footage at Nissan's Yokohama Plant in Japan. Related: We Drove Nissan’s e-Power Hybrid and It Really Does Feel Like an EV Without the Hassle What makes e-Power different? The powertrain setup uses an engine solely as a generator, meaning an electric motor drives the wheels. As a result, e-Power cars drive like electric vehicles, providing instant torque and smooth operation. The engine will kick in at some point, usually when recharging or when the throttle demand is significant. Nissan's e-Power is a series hybrid, with the cutesy BMW i3 REx among the select few mass-market cars using this setup. Honda’s e:HEV system, while often mistaken for the same layout, only operates in series mode part of the time before allowing the engine to directly drive the wheels at speed. Despite legacy brands like Honda sticking to that traditional hybrid system, Nissan explained that engine vibrations and adding a multi-gear transmission aren’t worth adopting that approach. What Goes on Behind Closed DoorsThe BTS footage from ProcessX covers the production of Nissan's small hatchback, the Note. At the Yokohama Plant, the coil-winding process for the stator is handled with a mix of automated machinery and manual work. Workers then perform the manual assembly of the glass tube before aligning the coil bundles with each electric circuit. The stator is then placed into its housing, followed by the rotor — the component that spins in response to the stator’s magnetic field — which completes the motor’s core assembly. Likewise, much of the combustion-engine manufacturing is automated, from piston assembly to mounting the cylinder head onto the block. The Note uses a 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, which powers the generator feeding the electric motor that produces 114 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. ProcessX on YouTube What’s Coming NextOnce completed, the e-Power units are transferred to the historic Oppama Plant, where Nissan performs full vehicle assembly. After assembly, each vehicle undergoes multiple quality inspections, including visual checks, performance verification, and water-intrusion testing. Nissan, however, plans to cease operations at the Oppama Plant by March 2028 as part of its cost-cutting measures. The Note and its e-Power system are not sold in the U.S., at least for now. The Rogue will be the first to receive the setup when its 2027 model arrives by the end of fiscal 2026. Nissan also offers a full EV with the Leaf, now in its third generation, introduced earlier this year. ProcessX on YouTube View the full article

Powercruise USA is something special, that’s for sure, and Kyle and the crew at 1320Video were there in 2025 having some fun AND catching all the action. Kyle even brought his cars out for some fun. Check out the video below, and let us know what you think. Oh, and check out the insane Honda! Video Description: We hit up Powercruise at Brainerd International Raceway and it was straight chaos — roll racing, powerskids, drifting, and full-on street car madness from start to finish. With 800+ HP street cars lining up, we saw some serious carnage and some seriously fast passes. Kyle brought out his Audi R8 and C6 ZR-1 for a couple runs, the sleeper Civic stunned a lot of people, including us! The post Sleeper AWD Civic Surprises 900hp ZR1 + TONS of 1000hp Races! Powercruise 2025 In Minnesota Did Not Disappoint! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Paying twice for the features you already ownAutomakers have spent the last few years imagining a future where every car comes fully loaded — heated seats, advanced driver assistance, even extra horsepower — and drivers unlock features through monthly payments. Investors loved the idea. Drivers didn’t. Now, New York lawmakers are stepping in. A new bill, which has cleared both chambers of the state legislature, would make it illegal for automakers and dealers to charge subscription fees for features that rely on hardware already installed in the car at purchase. That means no more paywalls for heated seats or different “tiers” of your factory sound system. Violations could trigger fines of up to $250 per sale. It’s not a massive penalty, but enough to cast doubt on the long-term viability of the business model. State Senator James Skoufis, who sponsored the bill, said the principle is simple: If the hardware is already in the car, drivers shouldn’t have to keep paying to use it. He didn’t hesitate to call the subscription model “the next wave of corporate nickel-and-diming.” Why automakers want subscriptions in the first placeThere’s a reason the industry is chasing recurring revenue. Americans are holding onto their vehicles longer than ever — nearly 13 years on average — meaning fewer new-car purchases. Meanwhile, new cars are expensive, regularly costing $50,000. Automakers can no longer rely on a steady stream of buyers to keep profits growing. Mercedes-Benz At the same time, modern cars are permanently connected to the internet. With all that software and connectivity, manufacturers see an opportunity: rather than selling you everything upfront, they can charge you over time. BMW tested subscription-based heated seats. Mercedes sold horsepower boosts for its EVs. Even Volkswagen sketched out a concept where self-driving software charges different “ticket prices” depending on your destination. To drivers, that sounds dystopian. Dealerships don’t love it either, as subscriptions kill the traditional upsell, and lawmakers worry that essential or safety-related features could eventually get paywalled. The big carve-outNew York’s bill aims to stop the most frustrating examples, but it contains a long list of exemptions. Automakers can still charge for anything requiring an ongoing data connection or software maintenance: navigation updates, Wi-Fi hotspots, satellite radio, telematics services, driver assistance and automation features, and anything that depends on cellular networks. General Motors That means Tesla can still charge for Full Self-Driving, GM can keep Super Cruise behind a subscription, and services like OnStar — including automatic crash notification — would remain paywalled, even though lawmakers cited them as systems that should arguably be free. The bigger concern is how easily exemptions could be stretched. Automakers could redesign basic features to require minimal data transmissions or periodic software checks, just enough to qualify as “connected services.” Regulators will ultimately have to decide what counts as a genuine ongoing cost. Final thoughtsThe bill won’t end in-car subscriptions altogether, but it sends a clear message: charging monthly fees for basic hardware crosses a line. With similar proposals emerging in New Jersey and Massachusetts, New York may be the first state in a broader pushback. For now, the subscription-everything future automakers pitched isn’t guaranteed — and drivers aren’t ready to pay for the privilege of using features they already bought. View the full article

Taking cues from their client's safari-style Porsche 911, Rough Crafts breaks from their tradition of all-black bikes to build a shimmering BMW R 12 nineT.Rough Crafts has mastered the art of building formidable custom motorcycles that are swathed in obsidian hues. But the Taiwanese outfit knows how... View the full article

The winds of change are blowing in Affalterbach, the home of Mercedes-AMG. Mercedes today announced that AMG CEO Michael Scheibe, who has been in the role since March 2023 (but with Mercedes since 2004), will be replaced by Dr. Stefan Weckbach on July 1, 2026. In the meantime, his predecessor, who became Member of the Board of Management responsible for Production, Quality & Supply Chain Management at the beginning of this month, will continue to manage AMG during this period of transition. Once Weckbach arrives at AMG as the new Chairman of the Management Board, he'll also assume the role of Head of the Top End Vehicle Group, which means he'll be responsible for the success of Maybach and G-Class models. Weckbach Has An Impressive Resume Porsche Weckbach began his automotive career at Porsche in 2008, holding numerous positions since, including head of the Boxster and Cayman model lines. In 2016, he became head of the Taycan model series, and in 2021, he took over the reins at the Cayenne department. The following year, he became head of the Mission X model series, Porsche's all-electric 918 Spyder successor (which now appears to be on the back burner indefinitely). "[Weckbach] combines deep product knowledge with strong strategic capabilities and brings exceptionally broad experience in developing and shaping the performance and luxury segments," said Jörg Burzer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG, responsible for Development & Procurement and Chief Technology Officer. "He has consistently demonstrated his ability to advance corporate and product projects with ease, as well as driving forward complex vehicle programs. This combination makes him the ideal choice." Weckach comes to AMG during a time of change, and his burden will be great. Numerous New Products and Ideas to Oversee Mercedes-Benz Weckbach comes to AMG when the performance brand is undergoing change in numerous areas. Next year will see the arrival of the production version of the all-electric AMG GT XX sedan, just as numerous combustion models are reportedly facing the axe. Among them appears to be the four-cylinder C63, which may get a straight-six engine instead. An all-electric C63 remains in development, however, and is due to arrive at the end of next year. Before that gets here, a new low-volume G-Class cabriolet is coming. Further down the line, Mercedes-AMG is also expected to launch a new V8 engine in 2028, so Weckbach will have his work cut out for him. The Taycan he oversaw has been relatively successful, so can he achieve similar success for the GT XX and other AMGs? Time will tell. View the full article

Raging BullThis writer will admit that he's never driven a Lamborghini Murcielago in real life. But from contemporary reviews way back in 2002, the company's Audification somewhat tamed the raging bull. Words such as civilized and refined started appearing, but its V12 wail still offered enough drama to excite. But what if what you always wanted was a wild Murcielago? One that ditched its all-wheel drive system for more sideways antics (on the race track, please) and requires quicker hands? There's the R-GT, which was literally a race car, and there's one on Bring a Trailerthat fits the bill. Bring a Trailer Think You Can Handle This?For sale on the online auction site at the moment is a rear-wheel drive converted Murcielago. Granted, it's not the first time anyone's done that, but seeing one being offered is something that's sure to draw attention. The all-wheel drive Murcie was, according to road testers at the time, safe and offered a hint of understeer. Taking out the front driveshafts would've probably cured that. The engine is left stock, according to the post, though it has a custom exhaust. Still, we're not complaining as the 6.2-liter V8 is good for 572 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. Sure, it pales in comparison to the Revuelto, but we reckon the Murciealago's analog soul more than makes up for it. Oh, and its traction control is primitive by today's standards, and it's defeatable to boot. Sounds like fun, if your idea of it is countersteering at every possible corner. Bring a Trailer Sooooo...How Much?At the time of writing, the top bid is at $160,000. It's not cheap, but if you're familiar with the Murcielago's recent price movements, it's a relative bargain. The mods probably hampered its values, but we think the owner didn't have resale in mind. A clean, low-mile Murcie would typically go for at least $200,000, so this might be a good deal if it stays under 200k. Mind you, it's still equipped with the e-Gear automated manual transmission. To whoever wins this, we'd happily suggest manual-swapping it. It's far from factory-spec anyway, so might as well have more fun with it. Bring a Trailer Bring a Trailer View the 15 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A New Chapter for Audi in ChinaAudi's newest sub-brand in China, AUDI, has officially revealed the images of its biggest SUV yet, the AUDI E7X, ahead of its debut at the 2026 Beijing International Auto Show. It's the second model under the China-only brand, following the wagon-style E5, and is aimed squarely at China’s expanding EV market. A report from Autohome via China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) revealed more information about the AUDI E7X. For quick background, AUDI is a joint venture between Audi AG and Chinese automaker SAIC. The all-caps branding is intentional, as it distinguishes this China-exclusive sub-brand from the Audi models sold globally, such as the A5, Q5, and Q7. The strategy mirrors what several foreign automakers are now doing in China, creating localized EV sub-brands to keep pace with domestic competitors. Autohome Sizing Up the E7XIn terms of footprint, the E7X slots firmly into full-size SUV territory. It measures 198.8 inches long, 78.6 inches wide, and 67.3 inches tall, figures close to the Audi Q7. The size suggests three-row seating like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Tesla Model X. However, the filing points to at least one four-seat configuration, presumably for premium cabin comfort. Performance-wise, the Quattro all-wheel-drive version is expected to deliver about 590 lb-ft of torque, comparable to the dual-motor system in the Rivian R1S. The setup consists of a 268-hp front motor paired with a 402-hp rear motor. A rear-wheel-drive variant will also be available, producing around 402 hp and 368 lb-ft. Autohome A Different Foundation for AUDI EVsDespite carrying the Audi name, the E7X does not use the Premium Platform Electric (PPE) that underpins Audi’s U.S.-bound EVs like the Q6 e-tron. Instead, AUDI models use the Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP), co-developed with SAIC. Both PPE and ADP operate on an 800-volt EV architecture, which allows for faster charging and reduced heat buildup compared to 400-volt systems. Visually, the E7X stands out from global Audi models. It features a rectangular rear lighting treatment reminiscent of the Kia EV6, while the front uses vertical digital matrix LED headlights. The usual Four Rings are gone and are replaced by an AUDI wordmark at the front and rear. The prototype also carries quirky-looking aerodynamic EV wheels and smoothed surfaces, though some details may still change before production. As mentioned, the E7X is set to appear at the 2026 Beijing International Auto Show, which runs from April 24 to May 3. Autohome View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Blue Oval LegendThe Ford GT40 is undeniably a legend not only because of its engineering but also for ending Ferrari’s reign at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1966. This particular example for sale, however, may be one of the most historically significant cars to emerge from that era. Listed on Mecum Auctions, this 1966 GT40 MkII (XGT-3) was constructed in the rare factory lightweight body style, a configuration found on only three of the 11 MkII chassis ever produced. Respected GT40 historian Ronnie Spain even described XGT-3 as the “most original MkII in existence,” citing its remarkable preservation of the original configuration. Mecum Auctions Shedding Pounds for PerformanceFor context, Ford developed the GT40 MkII as the heavy-duty evolution of the MkI, built to handle the larger 7.0-liter (427-cubic-inch) big-block V8 (from a 4.7-liter V8). The revisions proved successful after three GT40 MkIIs – piloted by drivers such as Ken Miles and McLaren founder Bruce McLaren – crossed the line in a dominant 1-2-3 finish at the French enduro race. That triumph ended Ferrari’s six-year winning streak at a playground long dominated by European marques. Three MkII chassis were built with a lightweight body construction, a change that naturally improved the power-to-weight ratio and enhanced overall racing capability. These examples featured an aluminum roof and a unique adjustable suspension. This XGT-3, meanwhile, heads to auction with its original bodywork, thin-gauge steel chassis, and period-correct Le Mans–spec fuel crossover tanks. Its big-block V8 remains intact as well. In its original factory tune, the engine produced 485 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a five-speed manual gearbox. Mecum Auctions Ready for a New BeginningAdding to its historical significance, this particular example remained in Ford Motor Company’s possession until 1977 and has had only four private owners since. Mecum Auctions will offer this car at Kissimmee 2026, taking place at Osceola Heritage Park from January 6 to 18 next year. It will cross the block as a headline attraction within the so-called Apex Collection, described as a group of “rare, high-quality, and highly coveted offerings.” Some of the vehicles in the collection include a 1966 Ford GT40 MkII Replica, a 1966 Shelby 427 Cobra, and a 2023 Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato. Mecum Auctions View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Frankie Muniz, who recently turned 40, will continue to compete full-time in the NASCAR Truck Series, again driving the No. 33 Ford for Team Reaume. Muniz revealed the news in a special announcement in New York City, which included some racing plans outside of NASCAR as well. Muniz will also compete full-time in the SRO GT4 America championship, driving a Mustang GT4 for Techsport Racing ...Keep readingView the full article

Ford CEO Jim Farley is warning that Europe could undermine its own carmakers if it keeps setting ambitious EV rules and then backing away from them when buyers do not follow. In a new opinion piece for the Financial Times, Farley argues that a mix of aggressive emissions targets, local-content demands and shifting combustion-engine bans is creating policy whiplash that makes it harder to invest in new vehicles and factories. The concern is simple: while European regulators tighten and retune the rulebook, Chinese brands keep gaining share with cheaper electric cars. Getty Images Farley’s problem with Europe’s EV rulebookFarley’s core complaint is that Brussels and key EU governments are setting “unrealistic” EV regulations, only to soften or delay them when consumer demand falls short. “‘Mandate it and they will buy it’ has failed," the Ford CEO writes. That stop-start approach, he says, leaves automakers designing products and plants for targets that may not stick, all while dealing with tariffs, content rules and rising costs. It also bumps up against what Ford is seeing in the real world, where there is huge demand for cheap base trims and price-sensitive buyers who are not ready to pay a premium for EVs. Farley’s warning is that if Europe makes it expensive and unpredictable to serve those customers, someone else will. Ford Custom Garage Chinese EVs and Ford’s two-track strategyThe backdrop to Farley’s op-ed is his repeated praise for Chinese EV makers’ low costs and fast development cycles, and his description of them as an existential threat to legacy brands. At the same time, Ford is still leaning on high-margin halo products in markets where it can, from core pickups and crossovers to headline-grabbing performance specials like the 800-horsepower supercharged Mustang package. That split highlights the bind European regulators face, they want to push automakers toward affordable, mass-market EVs just as those automakers are relying on profitable, often gasoline-powered flagships to pay for the transition. HSR/Patrick Tremblay Why Farley says Europe is “risking the future”Farley’s larger point is that Europe risks hollowing out its own auto industry if it piles on complex rules without a stable long-term path that keeps locally built cars competitive on price, saying that "Europe risks becoming a museum of 20th-century manufacturing.” If EVs remain too expensive and mainstream buyers hesitate, Chinese brands and other imports can keep taking share, then build factories inside the EU and become permanent fixtures. Ford’s own product planning hints at how carefully it is now picking its battles, from Europe-only projects to decisions like launching an electrified Bronco overseas. For European drivers, Farley’s message is that the right mix of realistic EV rules, predictable timelines and cost-focused policies will determine whether they are buying homegrown Fords and Volkswagens in a decade, or mostly imports built somewhere else. View the full article

On Monday, Alpha Prime Racing confirmed that they have signed Lavar Scott for the full 2026 NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts (formerly Xfinity) Series schedule, driving the No. 45 Chevrolet. "Don’t know what to say or type," Scott posted on social media. "Just thank you to everyone involved. Had a dream and plan since 3 years old, and it’s actually happening. INSANE feeling." The 22-year-old ...Keep readingView the full article