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American hypercar maker Czinger has revenge on its mind. After setting a record around Laguna Seca with its 21C earlier this year, Koenigsegg responded with a record-breaking run of its own last month with the Sadair's Spear. The Koenigsegg hypercar completed a run of the 2.24-mile track in a time of 1:24.16, and it’s this time that Czinger wants to beat. To do so, Czinger will once again turn to its 21C, specifically the California Gold Rush record car. Considering that Laguna Seca is Czinger’s home track, reclaiming the record is especially important to the brand, and CEO Lukas Czinger wasn’t afraid to admit just that. The Finest of Margins Czinger’s 21C and Koenigsegg’s Sadair's Spear could hardly be more closely matched at Laguna Seca. In August, the 21C set a record time of 1:24.39, barely slower than the Sadair's Spear, but at this level, fractions of a second are what count. That Czinger run was part of a dramatic mission by the company to break five track records in five days across California—which it accomplished. Koenigsegg The Czinger-Koenigsegg track rivalry may not matter much to the average motorist, but for the engineers working hard behind the scenes, maximizing the performance potential of these cars is what they live for. As for Lukas Czinger and Christian von Koenigsegg, the two bosses of the respected hypercar brands hold great admiration for each other. “Christian, congratulations on earning the Laguna Seca track record,” said Lukas Czinger in a video on Instagram. “That’s a hard record to take. We’ve got nothing but respect for you and the entire team at Koenigsegg.” Von Koenigsegg was quick to wish the Czinger team good luck, while welcoming the healthy competition from his rival. Related: Koenigsegg Sadair's Spear Gallery: The Craziest Koenigsegg In Pictures California Gold Rush Car To Return Czinger Lukas Czinger shared a sneak peek of the California Gold Rush car, which is currently being prepared for more Laguna Seca glory in the weeks to come, so we shouldn’t have to wait much longer to see what it can achieve this time. The 21C is a masterpiece of engineering, combining two independent front electric motors with a 2.9-liter flat-plane crank twin-turbo V8 to produce 1,250 horsepower. Capable of a 219-mph top speed, the 21C can also generate over 4,400 pounds of downforce at 190 mph. But even if Czinger breaks the record once more, we fully expect Koenigsegg to retaliate. After all, the Sadair's Spear broke the Laguna Seca record despite being under a current 90 dB noise limit, which meant it completed the run while equipped with a heavy muffler at the back. Muffler aside, it was also equipped with heavier aluminum wheels instead of carbon-fiber items. These limitations suggest we haven’t seen the best of Koenigsegg’s hypercar yet. Czinger may come out on top in this latest battle once its optimized 21C takes to the track again, but the war is far from done. View the full article

A Benchmark Worth ChasingThe Honda Civic Type R TCR (Touring Car Racing) is a good reference point for turnkey race cars for this segment. Built off the road-going Civic Type R, it won TCR Model of the Year in 2024 and remains a staple across regional TCR series worldwide. It hasn't lacked competition, though. Hyundai's Elantra N TCR and its i30 N TCR twin have carved out their own success, while Volkswagen's Golf GTI TCR has long been a familiar sight on grids. Now, there's another rival, and it's coming from China. Lynk & Co's 03+ TCR follows the same basic philosophy as the Civic Type R TCR – take a production performance sedan and evolve it into a fully compliant touring car. The approach clearly works. According to the brand's official Weibo announcement, the newly launched Lynk & Co 03+ TCR sold out its first production batch almost immediately after orders opened in China. Inside the Lynk & Co 03+ TCRThe 03+ TCR is based on the third-generation Lynk & Co 03 sedan but heavily reworked for circuit duty. The company, which is among the multitude of brands under the Geely Group, adheres to full TCR regulations, with a widened body, an aggressive aero kit, and a stripped, safety-focused cabin. Power comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing around 345 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox operated by paddles. Target weight, including the driver, is about 2,789 lbs. As for braking, there are six-piston front calipers clamping 15.0-inch ventilated discs, while the rear uses two-piston calipers with roughly 11.0-inch discs. Suspension is fully adjustable, with a MacPherson layout up front and a multi-link setup at the rear. Dimensionally, the car measures about 186.6 inches long, 76.8 inches wide, with a 108.7-inch wheelbase. Like its rivals, the 03+ TCR is strictly for closed-track use. Lynk & Co Chinese Performance Isn't a Novelty AnymorePriced at roughly $198,000 at current exchange rates, the Lynk & Co 03+ TCR sits right in line with established TCR machinery. Buyers also get more than just a car. The package includes factory-backed race engineering support for select Chinese touring series and a championship driver masterclass, adding to its appeal for privateer teams. The quick sellout of the 03+ TCR highlights how Chinese manufacturers are moving beyond road cars and into serious motorsport programs. It has been competing since 2019, proving that Chinese cars like the 03 aren't novelty entries anymore. They're designed to race, win, and stand shoulder to shoulder with long-established European and Japanese contenders. Lynk & Co View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The PDRA is gearing up for a big 2026. Here is where the PDRA plans to stop during its new and improved race schedule. View the full article

Spidi’s new motorcycle cargo pants ask the obvious question: Why let jeans have all the fun? View the full article

Reversing The JDM ProcessThree letters: JDM, it used to mean something special. It represented the holy grail for car enthusiasts around the world who couldn’t get their hands on them. Some of the most iconic cars immortalized in pop culture were reserved purely for the Japanese Domestic Market. For years, everything from supercar-beaters like the Honda NSX to quirky kei cars like the Honda S660 left everyone counting the days till these cars were legal to import into America. Over the years, Honda has quietly flipped the script. For example, the new CR-V e:HEV hybrid that just launched in Japan actually rolled off a production line in Thailand. It joins the hydrogen-powered CR-V e:FCEV, imported from Ohio. Including the CR-V, Honda now imports roughly a third of its Japanese market lineup from overseas factories. Honda Which of Honda’s Japan Lineup Are Imports?It took three years after the sixth-gen CR-V’s global reveal in 2022 for Japanese buyers to be able to choose between two powertrain versions, just as the nameplate turns 30 incidently. That itself is telling of the model’s importance in Honda’s home market. Like we said, neither is made domestically. Of the imported Hondas, the Accord is imported from Thailand, the Odyssey from China, and the compact WR-V from India. Of Honda's 19 passenger vehicles sold in Japan, six are kei cars that remain domestically produced, which makes sense considering the kei class exists purely to satisfy local regulations. The remaining 13 cars are split between Japanese and imported production, with four models now arriving from overseas factories. Honda models like the Fit, Step Wgn, Freed, Vezel, ZR-V, Civic (including the Type R), and new Prelude are still made in Japan. Honda USA Civic Type R configurator Not Made In Japan, But The Same Quality Honda's manufacturing map reflects business logic, and thankfully, not a drop in quality. Building vehicles near major production hubs and growth markets simply costs less. Thailand has been Southeast Asia's automotive manufacturing base for decades. China offers massive scale. India provides access to emerging markets. Shipping finished cars to Japan proves cheaper than maintaining excess domestic capacity for models with moderate home market demand. Honda These imported Hondas maintain the fit, finish, and reliability that Honda built its reputation on. They're engineered to the same standards and meet the same stringent requirements. The only difference is the factory address on the build sheet. Maybe it’s time for a new acronym: Japanese Delivered Models? View the full article

The “death wobble” is an ominous term most closely associated with certain Jeep Wranglers, due to their tendency to produce severe shaking through the suspension and steering wheel. But Ford has found itself in the midst of a similar issue, with an ongoing “death wobble” lawsuit for certain Ford heavy-duty pickups, with plaintiffs complaining about significant shaking and oscillating of the steering wheels, much like the issue seen in the Jeeps. Unfortunately for the 13 plaintiffs, the Ford class action lawsuit has been put on hold until the results of an appeal by the automaker are released. Ford still has a lot to do to fully extricate itself from the lawsuit, though. What Exactly Causes The Death Wobble? F According to Car Complaints, the Ford issue is caused by loosening of the track bar bushing, unusual wear of the bushing, and issues with the ball joints, steering dampers, control arms, shock absorbers, and struts. In general, symptoms of a “death wobble” affect vehicles with a solid front axle. Ford pickups implicated in this lawsuit include 2005-2007 and 2017-2019 F-250 and F-350 models—the smaller F-150 doesn't have a solid front axle and isn't affected by the same issue. The lawsuit was initially filed in 2019 and includes at least 13 plaintiffs. The wobbling issue typically surfaces when the pickup is traveling at over 50 mph. Due to the higher speeds, the sudden onset of the wobble is all the more disconcerting. The wobble generally follows the truck hitting a bump in the road, and drivers are often forced to dramatically reduce speed to eliminate the worrying symptom. The original lawsuit mentioned 12 reports of crashes involving this issue and 1,265 overall complaints. Related: 2020 Ford Super Duty First Drive Review | Big truck, bigger numbers Why Is The Lawsuit Being Put On Hold? Ford The reason the lawsuit has been put on hold relates to a 2024 decision by the judge to certify the class action for only eight states, including Maine. However, one customer from Maine did not meet the requirements for such a lawsuit, and the plaintiffs requested a replacement customer from South Carolina. Judge Anthony J. Battaglia agreed that a different Main representative could be named, but not one from another state. Ford argued against this logic and the judge agreed. “Under Supreme Court and Ninth Circuit precedent ‘a class representative must be part of the class,’ for Maine,” said Judge Battaglia. Other than this specific issue, Ford filed a petition for permission to appeal a ruling regarding common issues for implied warranty claims in Maine and South Carolina. Ford believes the judge was incorrect in the finding that common issues predominated over implied warranty claims for both these states. The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals granted Ford’s permission to appeal, and these oral arguments are set to begin this month. No further actions are permitted until a decision from the appeals court is released. Related: Jeep 'Death Wobble' class action settlement includes warranty extension, reimbursement Final ThoughtsConsidering the number of Ford heavy-duty pickups on the road, a large number of Ford drivers are potentially affected. And, while Ford may have succeeded in delaying the lawsuit with its appeals, it will likely still be challenging for the Blue Oval to find a longer-term solution for all affected customers. Not only have some crashes been caused by the wobbling pickups, but customer feedback on Car Complaints indicates how frightening the issue has been for many. Hopefully, the weary plaintiffs get a positive outcome soon. View the full article

Indian Motorcycle and MMA apparel brand Venum team up for a limited-edition Challenger that sparks debate on style. View the full article

An automotive investmentAnyone with a truck lives with a simple fact: at some point, people will ask you for a favor involving your truck. They probably need help moving, or hauling something large to the dump, or maybe they’re just behind on their Costco shopping and need a truck bed for all the paper towels they’re about to buy. A new study shows many truck owners are getting wise to this and have started using their trucks for gig work. American Trucks says 7 in 10 truck owners have used their trucks “for a paid side hustle in the last 12 months,” and are pulling in an extra $1,360 per month doing so ($13,648 per year). 62% of people using their truck as a side-hustle money-maker say it’s worth it, and 66% recommend anyone with a truck use theirs to earn extra money on the side. Next time you ask a friend to move, don’t be surprised if they give you an hourly rate. A truckload of cash to be madeUsing a truck as a side-hustle hauler is almost a second job. 38% of truck owners say they spend 10 hours or more every week doing side-gig work with their truck. Truck owners say 20% of their total income comes from side-gig work, and they average 2.6 “hustles” to earn it. Moving and furniture delivery are the biggest moneymakers, with 33% of truck owners using their rigs for side gigs, reporting that this is a hustle they pursue. 29% say junk removal is in demand, with 22% noting yard debris haul-away as a money-maker for them. 16% tow trailers, boats, RVs, and other vehicles. 15% make supply runs for contractors, 14% deliver firewood, and 11% courier goods from Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace for others. Transporting pets, farm work, and storm cleanup are also lucrative side gigs. 38% of truck owners who use trucks to earn extra money say they purchased their trucks with extra income in mind, and 13% report buying a truck specifically because they had a side gig in mind for it. 35% say they plan to turn their side hustles into a whole business within the following year. Toyota Extra income fills the gapsWe tend to think of the gig economy as a band-aid for those struggling to make ends meet, but this study proves that’s not always the case. 47% of respondents say they save their extra income or invest it. 35% report using side-gig income for leisure, such as vacations. 35% are paying down debt, and 30% simply wanted the flexibility to start their own revenue stream and be their own boss. 14% are doing it to test a business idea, while 12% needed to start a side gig because their hours at work were cut or they lost their job. The truck's brand may not matter when it comes to doing truck things, but perception does. 44% say Ford has “the best ROI for side hustles.” 38% say Toyota is best for side gig work, and 29% say Chevy trucks are the most lucrative. The TeslaCybertruck was not mentioned; we are absolutely shocked. Final thoughts61% say using their truck as a side gig is temporary for them, while only nine percent say it’s a long-term business venture. Fuel prices, maintenance costs, and time commitments are the largest blockers. Only 22% say finding clients is an issue. If you have a truck and want extra income, it’s worth posting to Craigslist or other marketplaces that you’re for hire. Who knows, your truck may end up paying for itself. View the full article

Days of Carefree Drifting May Be NumberedThe Japanese car scene has long been associated with flashy mods and drifting, famously showcased in Hollywood films like The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift. But according to a report from Japan’s automotive publication Kuruma News, the government is preparing to crack down on public-road drifting with significantly harsher punishments. Japan’s Ministry of Justice is considering reclassifying drifting as a form of dangerous driving. Because there isn’t a clear legal category for it, drifting-related crashes have often been handled under negligence charges rather than criminal charges, which carry lighter penalties. Changing this would require lawmakers to define drifting within the legal framework clearly. Cheshire Classic Cars How Drifting WorksDrifting involves intentionally oversteering until the rear wheels lose traction, causing the car to slide sideways. While it may look uncontrolled, skilled drivers can maintain precise command of the vehicle - heck, some can even do it inside a factory – and the technique is even the basis of competitive series like Formula Drift. Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) cars are ideal for drifting because they can lose rear traction more easily than front-wheel-drive (FWD) cars. Lighter, more agile Japanese RWD cars such as the Nissan 350Z and Mazda RX-7 are often favored over heavier, V8-powered American models, though angle kits, suspension tuning, and other drift-specific mods can still level up any platform. Bonhams Cars Real-World ConsequencesThe risks, however, are substantial. In 2013, an 18-year-old driver drifted through an intersection in Yawata City, Kyoto Prefecture, Japan, lost control, and slammed into a guardrail, seriously injuring five schoolchildren. Because drifting fell under negligent driving at the time, the driver received an indeterminate sentence of 18 to 30 months. Under the proposed changes, drifting could be classified as dangerous driving – an offense that can carry up to 20 years of imprisonment if someone is killed, or up to 15 years if injuries occur. People online have reportedly stressed that the law should clearly exclude accidental tire slip in snowy conditions or drifting on closed roads. In the US, police have also been stepping up enforcement against reckless stunt driving and street takeovers. Earlier this year, San Diego police even crushed two vehicles – a Toyota Chaser and a Yamaha R1 – used in illegal street takeovers to send a strong message to offenders. CBS News View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

CFMoto has hired a chief chassis designer from Ducati and a WorldSSP rider to further develop its V4 SR-RR prototype. All signs point to WSBK entry soon.View the full article

On Monday, Rick Ware Racing (RWR) confirmed that they will change manufacturers, moving from Ford to Chevrolet ahead of the 2026 NASCAR Cup season. One of the few one-car teams remaining with a charter, RWR will also form a technical alliance with Richard Childress Racing and ECR engines. It is reportedly a multi-year partnership. Ware's team finished last in points among charters teams this ...Keep readingView the full article

Kove revealed it'll launch two enduro models using its MX platform. Specs are scarce, but here's everything we know so far—there's a Dakar-spec engine involved.View the full article

The Red Line Synthetic Oil Professional Drag Racers Association (PDRA) announced today its seven-race 2026 schedule, coming off another successful campaign through the 2025 calendar year. The series will return to four familiar racetracks from last season along with a return to Darlington Dragway in South Carolina, which serves as the season opener for the first time. “Coming out of the World Finals, we knew some changes were imminent,” said Tyler Crossnoe, series director. “Change is inevitable in life – whether it is in personal, business, or your hobbies – in time, change occurs. We have decided to make a few shifts in our schedule for 2026 to adapt to the ever-changing motorsports scope in hopes to see more teams be able to compete for a full season championship. “In 2026, our goal is to put racers in a better position to chase a full season championship with the PDRA,” Crossnoe continued. “We understand the costs of the sport are not cheap and after weeks of back-and-forth discussions internally, we settled on only doing seven races this season to allow for better spacing in between events and for the hopes of an extremely competitive season.” The 2026 Red Line Oil PDRA season will kick off at Darlington Dragway in Hartsville, South Carolina, on March 25-28 – a return to a facility that has seen numerous PDRA races throughout the years will now serve as the kickoff event on tour next season. Darana Motorsports Park – Benson, NC will serve as the second stop on schedule on April 16-18 – a popular and familiar stop for the PDRA faithful will see their first of two stops in mid-April. Virginia Motorsports Park will play host to the third race on tour on Memorial Day weekend, May 21-23. Maryland International Raceway will serve as the fourth race on tour as in years past on June 25-27. After taking the month of July off for a summer break of sorts, the series will return to action at Bristol Dragway on August 6-8, returning to Thunder Valley with more exciting news to come later about this event. Darana Motorsports Park – Benson, NC will see its second event of the season on August 27-29, which will set the stage for the Brian Olson Memorial World Finals. The PDRA will yet again start the World Finals with the Summit Racing ProStars all-star race on Thursday afternoon to highlight the top eight points earners in the free entry shootout that pays over $65,000 out to the classes in contention and starts the World Finals weekend off with a bang. September 17-20 will mark the final race on the 2026 calendar, and this race will be held at Virginia Motorsports Park in Dinwiddie, Virginia, which has become a customary finishing point for the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series. “I am excited to get going again in 2026! The racer’s support is by far the inspiration for this series to continue growing,” said Tommy Franklin, series owner. “We continue to have the best-in-class racers, and the on-track performance shows that to be true race after race. I cannot wait for the BEST racing in the world to continue to prove itself over and over!” PDRA officials will be on hand during the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show, December 11-13, in Indianapolis, Indiana, along with the crowning of the series champions during the Red Line Oil PDRA Night of Champions on Friday, December 12 at the Indianapolis Downtown Marriott. 2026 PDRA Schedule March 25-28 – Darlington Dragway – Hartsville, SC April 16-18 – Darana Motorsports Park (NC) – Benson, NC May 21-23 – Virginia Motorsports Park – Dinwiddie, VA June 25-27 – Maryland International Raceway – Mechanicsville, MD August 6-8 – Bristol Dragway – Bristol, TN August 27-29 – Darana Motorsports Park (NC) – Benson, NC September 17-20 – Virginia Motorsports Park – Dinwiddie, VA The post Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series Announces Schedule for 2026 first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

In a unexpected announcement on Monday morning, Nick Sanchez revealed that he will not return to the No. 48 Big Machine Racing Chevrolet in 2026. "Over the weekend, I was informed hat I will not be driving the No. 48 for Big Machine Racing in 2026," Sanchez said in a statement. "I'm grateful to Scott Borchetta, Patrick Donahue, everyone at Chevrolet and the whole team. I am proud of all we have ...Keep readingView the full article

How Nissan’s e-Power Works (And Why It’s Different From a Hybrid)For a company that brought to market the first mainstream EV, the 2011 Leaf, Nissan has been surprisingly slow to expand its line-up of electrified vehicles. But the coming year is a big one for Japan’s second largest automaker. Not only does it have the third-generation Leaf, and a plug-in hybrid version of its best-selling Rogue crossover, but it will in 2026 finally introduce its e-Power technology into the U.S. market. Already available in Europe and Japan, among other markets, e-Power offers a unique approach to delivering the advantages of an all-electric vehicle while eliminating some of the key drawbacks. Forget about range anxiety, for one thing, and don’t worry about finding a place to plug in. To get a sense of what e-Power technology is all about, we spent a day down near Nissan headquarters in Nashville driving a pre-production prototype that made it clear the automaker is onto something that could have significant appeal in the U.S. What’s e-Power?The name might leave you scratching your head. And for good reason. There’s a growing list of electrified technologies coming to market, on top of familiar powertrain systems like conventional hybrids, plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles. We’ll soon start seeing E-REVs and REEVs, for one thing, And now comes the Nissan, e-Power system. Think of its as a cross between a PHEV and an EV. Unlike an all-electric vehicle, there’s an internal combustion engine onboard and as long as there’s fuel in the gas tank you’ll be able to keep going. That might sound like a plug-in hybrid but its not. With a PHEV, such as the new version of the Rogue, the ICE side of the powertrain serves a variety of different functions. For one thing, it can provide torque to the wheels, along with whatever power comes out of the Rogue Plug-In’s electric motor. That version of the crossover can get an estimated 38 miles range in all-electric mode. Then the gas motor can charge up the battery pack when it runs down. With the Rogue e-Power system, the internal combustion engine never sends torque to the wheels – which are solely driven by a pair of electric motors, one on each axle. The gas engine has just one dedicated purpose: it serves as a generator, constantly keeping the crossover’s 2.1 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack charged up. If you’re wondering what the advantage is, that’s simple: you eliminate the complex transmission system needed to blend power coming from two different sources. And the internal combustion engine itself can be made simpler since it doesn’t have to rev up and down very much, operating in the “sweet spot” where it’s most energy efficient, explained Ponz Pandikuthira, the chief product and planning officer for Nissan Americas. Another difference: you’ll never plug in the e-Power Rogue, unlike the PHEV package which requires 7.5 hours connected to a 240-volt Level 2 charger. How the e-Power Rogue Actually DrivesNissan offered Autoblog a chance to check out the new e-Power system during a drive through the scenic Tennessee countryside. Unfortunately, the automaker didn’t have a version of the next-generation Rogue fitted with the new system yet. Instead, we got to try it out in the Nissan Qashqai. That’s European version of what used to be known in the U.S. as the Nissan Rogue Sport. It’s a bit smaller than the current American crossover. And, more immediately, its e-Power system was equipped with a single motor which translated into a lower-powered front-wheel-drive package. That said, the Qashqai’s electrified drivetrain proved surprisingly sprite, more responsive and torquey than today’s gas-powered Rogue. The system felt entirely intuitive, with none of the lag and motorboating one often experiences with conventional and plug-in hybrids. It also was exceedingly quiet. Though the internal combustion engine ran almost all the time – the 2.1 kWh battery pack not providing any significant all-electric range. Yet, I seldom noticed any noise from under the hood. The Qashqai was nearly as quiet as I would have imagined had Nissan gone all-electric. Nissan isn’t ready to reveal specs for the Rogue e-Power. The Qashqai I drove made 188 horsepower from its single electric motor, enough to launch from 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) in about 7.9 seconds. We’ll have to wait to find out if the twin-motor Rogue matches the 248 hp and 332 lb-ft from the new Rogue Plug-in Hybrid. But Pandikuthira said the Rogue package has been specifically tuned for the U.S. market. Where Qashqai “is set up for dense traffic conditions,” the Rogue package will be better tuned for the sort of highway driving Americans are used to. Should You Buy the e-Power Rogue When It Arrives?The bottom line: while the Nissan e-Power system still requires an internal combustion engine sucking gasoline, it appears to be particularly fuel-efficient, even compared to a comparable hybrid or PHEV package. The European package gets as much as 53 miles per gallon. Even the single-motor package provides smooth, quiet and quick acceleration more in line with an EV, but without a motorist having to worry about running down the battery pack or having to charge up. And, based on what we see with the Qashqai e-Power in Europe the upcoming Nissan Rogue e-Power should be reasonable affordable – likely much more so than the new plug-in model which carries a base price of $32,600 before delivery fees. Nissan is confident enough about the Rogue E-Power package that, “We think this will eventually evolve to be 100% of (the Rogues) we sell” in the U.S., said the product planning chief. View the full article

The revived Czech manufacturer, Jawa, launched two lightweight models in France as part of its expanding European push. View the full article

Lotus Backing Down From All-EV PushNot that long ago, Lotus sounded fully committed to an electric-only future. That plan has already gone kaput as global EV demand cools and hybrid powertrains regain favor. The British marque, now under majority ownership of China's Geely, is shifting strategy, putting its all-electric ambitions into low gear rather than abandoning them outright. The first visible result is a plug-in hybrid version of the Eletre SUV. Details surfaced through regulatory filings with China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), courtesy of Autohome, offering an early look at the model under the alias "For-Me." While the name will definitely not stick, Lotus is clearly in the plug-in hybrid game, starting with its largest and formerly fully electric SUV. China's MIIT Same Design, Different Setup UnderneathAt the core of the Eletre PHEV is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine rated at 279 horsepower, paired with a still-undisclosed electric motor setup. Combined output is rumored to reach as high as 952 horsepower, putting it firmly in super-SUV territory. Acceleration claims suggest a 0-62 mph sprint in roughly three seconds, though Lotus has yet to confirm final figures. Battery options are expected to include 50 kWh and 70 kWh packs, part of a 900-volt electrical architecture shared with other Geely-backed projects. Total range could exceed 620 miles when combining electric and fuel power, making the Eletre PHEV more flexible for markets where charging infrastructure remains uneven. Externally, the PHEV mirrors the all-electric Eletre. Dimensions are unchanged, and active aerodynamic features carry over, including a deployable rear spoiler and low drag coefficient. A retractable LiDAR unit also appears, likely improving both airflow and driver-assistance capability. China's MIIT What Comes Next for LotusInterior details remain limited, but the Eletre PHEV is expected to retain the EV's tech-heavy cabin layout with large displays, advanced driver aids, and a premium materials mix. The addition of hybrid hardware is unlikely to compromise passenger space, given the vehicle's size, but we'll know when it officially arrives, reportedly happening in January 2026. Lotus' "Super Hybrid" strategy points to more plug-in models following the Eletre, potentially including the Emeya. The Emira will remain internal combustion-only for now, serving as a bridge between Lotus's past and its increasingly hybridized future. Another plug-in hybrid model will also be reportedly introduced, to slot under the Eletre in the lineup. China's MIIT View the full article

Very few helmets meet the new FIM FRHP-he02 homologation standards for 2026, but at least Arai will have a player in the game.View the full article

Jordan Takes NASCAR to CourtWhen Michael Jordan entered a federal courtroom this week, it was a pivotal moment for NASCAR. The six-time NBA champion and owner of 23XI Racing is leading an antitrust lawsuit against the sport’s governing body, claiming NASCAR’s proposed 2025 charter agreement unfairly limits team control and long-term financial stability. Alongside Front Row Motorsports, Jordan argues that the system, originally designed to give teams business security, has evolved into one that consolidates NASCAR’s power and restricts competition, CNN reports. Since launching 23XI Racing in 2020 with support from Toyota and partner Denny Hamlin, Jordan has invested heavily in the team’s growth. The Toyota Camry XSE his team fields reflects NASCAR’s enduring “race on Sunday, sell on Monday” philosophy, where track performance drives consumer interest. That same philosophy fuels rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 from Hendrick Motorsports and the Ford Mustang Dark Horse from Team Penske, proving that competition in NASCAR remains closely tied to automotive innovation and brand loyalty. Nascar Inside the Lawsuit“Someone had to step forward and challenge the entity,” the soft-spoken Jordan told the jury. “I sat in those meetings with longtime owners who were brow-beaten for so many years trying to make change. I was a new person, I wasn’t afraid. I felt I could challenge NASCAR as a whole. I felt as far as the sport, it needed to be looked at from a different view.” His statement captures the heart of the dispute over NASCAR’s proposed 2025 charter agreement, which teams claim removes the possibility of permanent charters and pressures them to sign under threat of losing guaranteed race entries. Jordan argues that this approach endangers millions in investment, limits a team’s ability to plan for the future, and gives NASCAR excessive control as both regulator and commercial operator in the sport’s financial ecosystem. Jordan’s participation brings unprecedented visibility and credibility to the case. His 23XI Racing organization, featuring drivers Bubba Wallace and Tyler Reddick, has already proven it can compete with and beat established teams. That success makes his challenge even more significant, showing that this is not a battle of survival but a stand for structural reform. His presence forces NASCAR to confront questions about fairness that many owners have raised privately for years. Nascar What's Next?What began as a surprising headline has become one of the defining business stories in modern motorsports. Jordan is not fighting for personal gain but for a model that values fairness, accountability, and equal opportunity among teams. If this case rules in favor of Jordan, leading to permanent charters, clearer revenue structures, and stronger collaboration between NASCAR and its teams, it could redefine the future of the sport. The Camry XSE, Mustang Dark Horse, and Camaro ZL1 may continue to symbolize speed and competition. Still, after this case, they could also represent a more equitable and sustainable NASCAR for generations to come. View the full article

In 2019, the wife of a US State Department official drove on the wrong side of the road when she hit and killed a UK motorcyclist. A cascade of failures happened in the months and years following the incident, a new report found.View the full article

A Crucial Model We called the soon-to-be-outgoing model a baby seven-seater done right. Okay, it didn't have the most cavernous third-row area, but as far as entry-level luxury crossovers went, it didn't feel like a bog-standard small crossover with a fancy badge for the sake of owning something with a three-pointed star. Now, Mercedes-Benz has rolled out the all-new GLB. It's the biggest of the front-drive models, and the first to benefit from the comprehensively redesigned CLA's platform. That means there's a mix of gas-fed and EV models, but in a more practical package. The Launch ModelsAs you read this, the compact seven-seater is now available for sale in Germany. It's the electric models that roll out first in GLB 250+ with EQ Technology and GLB 350 4MATIC, effectively replacing the EQB. The name's a mouthful, but one way to differentiate them from the hybrid models is the closed grille. Both are available in either 5 or 7-seat configurations. Both use an 800V architecture like the CLA, allowing for faster charging capabilities. Entry-level trims use a 58 kWh battery, while an 85 kWh pack is available. The 250+ models put out 268hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the 350 4Matic makes 359 hp and 380 lb-ft. Pretty solid figures for a mini family bus, particularly in the 350 4Matic. As for range, Mercedes-Benz claims up to 392 miles for the 250+ equipped with the 85 kWh battery. Meanwhile, the punchier all-wheel drive version can get up to 382 miles on a single full charge. The company also boasts that a 10-minute charge can add nearly 160 miles to the range. What About the Hybrids?The hybrid models will make their way to German showrooms a few months after the sales of the EV versions start. So far, we only know of one trim, namely the GLB 220, but it's expected to have three power outputs, much like the hybrid CLAs that commenced sales in Europe not that long ago. All use a 1.5-liter turbo engine, and the base model puts out 156 hp. Mid-spec GLBs, likely to have the 200 designation, make 184 hp. As for the 220, it's good for 211 hp. Most are available with 4Matic all-wheel drive, and front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain. Like the EV version, it can be specified with 5 or 7 seats. Interior and TechScreens, screens, and more screens. That's the theme of the all-new GLB's cabin, especially for those who opt for the MBUX Superscreen. It features a 10.25-inch driver's display, a 14-inch infotainment screen, and a 14-inch front passenger screen. In terms of appearance, it's similar to the CLA, and it also gets a high-set center console and some physical controls on the steering wheel. The second-generation GLB benefits from an in-house developed operating system. It's AI-enhanced and connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud to enable over-the-air updates. Google integration is also present, as well as ChatGPT4o for navigation and concierge services. With larger exterior dimensions, Mercedes-Benz says there's more room inside the all-new GLB. Improvements were made to the second and third-row areas, as well as the cargo room. EV models get a frunk to boost practicality, while five-seater versions get hidden underfloor storage. Mercedes-Benz Other HighlightsA fixed panoramic sunroof is fitted standard, and the glass can 'frost' itself opaque to keep the cabin cool. The company is also proud of the fact that there are ISOFIX child seat mounts in the third-row seats for those who go for the seven-seat version. Downloadable applications, including Disney+ and Ridevu, provide on-board entertainment. Drive modes are, of course, standard, and 4Matic-equipped GLBs get an additional Terrain Mode. Granted, it won't turn it into a G-Class, but it should help in tricky situations. Distronic adaptive cruise control is fitted standard, at least for the European market. More advanced assists are available, including level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities and autonomous parking assists. Mercedes-Benz View the 10 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The wonders of the Chinese marketThe auto industry is valued at over $3 billion, and expected to be worth twice as much in 10 years. In 2024, about 67 million passenger vehicles were produced, with major automakers like Toyota accounting for nearly 11 million. To that, making 500,000 cars in a year and a half might not seem like a significant feat, but it is - especially when you’re an upstart brand with limited reach. Xiaomi, a brand most often associated with manufacturing smartphones and other personal electronics, is now making cars. It began making EVs in April 2024 and set a sales goal of 350,000 for 2025. It blew past that in a big way, and has announced it has already shipped 500,000 EVs since its first rolled off the production line. Xiaomi Xiaomi the moneyXiaomi (pronounced “show me”) says its November deliveries exceeded 40,000 units, a massive feat given its average monthly target of 29,166. As an automaker, Xiaomi says it has already produced and shipped over 500,000 units since April 2024, when it began producing its YU7 crossover. Xiaomi has two plants: Phase 1, a smaller facility, and Phase 2, a larger plant capable of producing cars in large numbers. The YU7 quickly became so popular that Xiaomi had to relocate production to its Phase 2 factory. YU7 is seen by many as a competitor to the Tesla Model Y, though Xiaomi hasn’t quite matched Tesla’s prowess in EV manufacturing. Buyers originally had to wait up to 62 weeks for a YU7, and the current wait time is about 36 weeks. Still, the Xiaomi YU7 is beating the Tesla Model Y in China, selling 33,662 units in October 2025, while the Tesla Model Y saw only 26,100 sales, according to the China Passenger Car Association. Xiaomi Group’s third-quarter profit is 113.1 billion yuan, or $16 billion, a 22% increase over Q3 2024. Net profit was also up 81% to $1.6 billion. Total revenue from EVs and AI (Xiaomi lumps these items together on its earnings sheets) was $4.1 billion in Q3 2025. In its recent earnings call, Xiaomi revised its total 2025 EV production to 400,000 units and said it will ship EVs internationally in 2027. The issue with XiaomiWhen Xiaomi made its first smartphone, the Mi 1, it was primarily seen as a clone of Apple’s iPhone. Its hardware, software, aesthetics, and marketing were eerily similar to Apple’s efforts. Because of this, Xiaomi never came stateside as it was widely believed that if Xiaomi did sell phones in the U.S., Apple would sue the company into oblivion. You still can’t officially buy a Xiaomi smartphone in the United States. Xiaomi plans to sell EVs outside of China in 2027, but says it will focus on the European market. Given its history, and that its YU7 is stylistically very close to a Model Y - not to mention the Xiaomi SU7 sedan is head-scratchingly similar to a Tesla Model 3 aesthetically - it’s safe to assume Xiaomi EVs will never make it stateside. Xiaomi Final thoughtsChina’s EV market is booming, and Xiaomi is a Chinese company. It’s easy to see why the brand is so popular in China, and how it exceeded expectations for EV deliveries. Think of it like the “Apple Car” that never was. If Apple had followed through on making an actual EV, people would have bought it just because of Apple’s brand halo of quality. Xiaomi has a similar effect in China. View the full article

Archie McDonald to ride Joe Rascal Harley in Bagger World Cup Archie McDonald’s rise through the Australian ranks was already a compelling story by the time he started splitting his 2024 season between Europe and the ASBK paddock. That year served as his first real taste of life as a rider trying to carry momentum […] The post Archie McDonald in Baggers World Cup with Joe Rascal in 2026! appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Interview with James Tonna Joe Rascal Harley-Davidson and Ducati The motorcycle retail landscape in Victoria shifted dramatically when the Joe Rascal Group stepped in to take over Harley Heaven Dandenong, Harley Heaven Ringwood, Harley Heaven Melbourne and Peter Stevens Ducati South Melbourne. It was one of the most significant multi-dealership acquisitions in recent years, instantly […] The post Joe Rascal hit the ground running but say they’re only just getting started… appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

2025 Idemitsu FIM Asia Road Racing Championships Round Six – Chang International Circuit, Thailand ASB 1000 Race One 14 riders fronted the starter for the opening 13-lap Superbike contest, but only ten finished. Cam Dunker was among the non-finishers, as was Joe Francis, Ryo Mizuno and Azroy Hakeem Anuar. The battle for victory was a […] The post Recapping a tense Asia Road Racing Championships finale from Thailand appeared first on MCNews. View the full article