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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In the sprawling landscape of motorcycle manufacturing, few names carry the visceral weight and international reverence of Kawasaki. The company's journey began not with two wheels, but with heavy industries—shipbuilding and aircraft—a heritage that instilled a profound, non-negotiable dedication to... View the full article

The history of the automotive airbag dates back to 1953, but half a century later, automakers' suppliers still haven't quite perfected it. The most infamous issue was the failure of Takata airbags, one that is still far from resolved decades after it first appeared, but other manufacturers continue to have issues with the technology, as evidenced by a new recall for certain Rampickup trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the 2019 Ram 1500, the 2019-2020 Ram 2500, and the 2019 Ram 3500 may have faulty curtain air bag systems that may result in sharp metal fragments striking and injuring occupants. Fortunately, no reports of such injuries have yet reached Ram or the NHTSA. A Small Percentage of Ram Pickups Are Affected Ram Fortunately, the issue does not appear to be a widespread one, as just 1,879 vehicles are potentially affected across all three model lines, says the NHTSA recall report. Like other similar airbag faults, the problem can be traced back to the inflators potentially allowing moisture to seep into them, eventually causing corrosion. In this case, the problem can occur during supplier manufacturing, ultimately leading to stress corrosion cracking in the inflators. As of November 21, FCA US is aware of only one customer assistance record pertaining to the problem, and no field reports or warranty claims. No accidents have been reported as a result of this issue either. Related: Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler Owners Upset Over Annoying Pop-Up Ads on Their Cars’ Screens To be safe, dealers will replace one or both curtain airbags as needed, at no charge to the owners, with these featuring a new module built outside the suspect period. Dealers will be notified from today, 4 December, while owners will be informed of the remedy on December 18. For those who don't want to wait to see if their vehicles are affected, VINs are already searchable. Several Ram Issues This Year Ram It's good to know that this potentially dangerous fault has been caught early, and 2025 may not have been as bad for Stellantis as it has been for Ford, but the conglomerate has still had several issues that Ram, in particular, has suffered from. In September, 219,000 vehicles were recalled due to failing reverse cameras. The month before, 1.2 million Ram trucks were probed for a rollaway risk after earlier recall measures proved ineffective, and in October, some 292,000 Ram ProMaster vans were recalled due to a potential fire hazard related to a faulty cooling fan module. View the full article

We All Thought America Would Be NextFor years, the natural assumption was that if Ford ever built an electrified Bronco, the U.S. market, where the Bronco name carries the most weight, would be first in line. After all, the Bronco revival has been one of Ford’s biggest success stories in America, spawning both the rugged, body-on-frame Bronco and the more lifestyle-oriented Bronco Sport. With growing pressure for hybrids and EVs across the SUV segment, it seemed inevitable that the U.S. would get an electrified version of the Bronco next. But that isn’t how things are playing out. Instead, China became the first market to receive an electrified Bronco in both pure EV and range-extended (EREV) forms. Now Europe is getting its own version, a new Bronco plug-in hybrid (PHEV), before the U.S. even catches a glimpse of one. Rather than Ford doubling down on electrified off-roaders in America, it’s pivoting, redirecting resources to markets where electrified SUVs are in higher demand and where Ford’s EV footprint needs a stronger push. Ford Europe’s Bronco PHEV Is More “Escape DNA” Than Off-Road BeastAccording to Automotive News Europe, the European-market Bronco PHEV will be built in Valencia, Spain, on the C2 platform. It's the same architecture underpinning the Ford Kuga, which is basically the European equivalent of the not-so-off-roady Ford Escape. That means the Bronco PHEV isn’t a shrunken-down, electrified version of the U.S. Bronco. It’s more of a ruggedly styled crossover wearing a Bronco-inspired suit. Ford wants to tap into Europe’s booming crossover segment, competing against the Tiguan, Tucson, and Sportage, not the Land Rover Defender or Jeep Wrangler. The upcoming Bronco PHEV is expected to be slightly smaller than the U.S. Bronco. This is Ford leaning into an identity play: using what the Bronco looks like, rather than what the Bronco is, to attract European buyers. It’s the same strategy used with the all-electric Explorer, a vehicle that carries American styling cues despite sharing components with Volkswagen’s MEB platform. Ford An Electrified U.S. Bronco? Still Up in the AirSo where does that leave the American market, the birthplace of the Bronco legacy? Surprisingly far down Ford’s electrification priority list. With reports suggesting Ford may scale back production of the F-150 Lightning due to cooling U.S. EV demand, the company is pivoting toward hybrids and lower-cost electrified solutions. That doesn’t rule out a future electrified Bronco for the U.S., but it does make the timeline murkier. Ford’s global moves show there's room for electrified Broncos, but it just might not be where most people expected. China has its EV and EREV Broncos, Europe will have a Bronco PHEV built on Escape/Kuga bones, and the U.S. remains in a holding pattern. For now, American Bronco enthusiasts can only watch from the sidelines as other markets jump ahead, and that may actually be a good thing. Ford View the full article

Toyota Updates the Mirai for 2026...Sort OfWe live in a world where the top priorities for car buyers and owners revolve around either sustainability or fuel efficiency. As a result, electrified vehicles like hybrids and EVs have flooded the market, though demand for the latter is cooling. There is, however, another type of sustainable energy that's been around for a while but isn't as readily available to everyone: hydrogen. Only a few brands have gone deep into development, but Toyota is one of the few companies that actually sells a mass-produced hydrogen-powered car, and it's been updated for 2026 (well, kinda). Not A Ground-Breaking UpdateThe Mirai is actually somewhat of a halo model for Toyota. Ever since the model was introduced to the market, the brand has touted its benefits and the triumph of creating a mass-market product that harnesses power from hydrogen. Interestingly, the current-generation Mirai has been around since 2020 and will continue in its current form at least until 2026. Toyota has announced that it will receive an update heading into the new year. Take note: it will only get one new feature, which is (drum roll, please) a set of new 19-inch black aluminum wheels. In terms of the engine, the Mirai will retain the same fuel-cell electric powertrain (FCEV) that makes 182 horsepower. With the high-capacity hydrogen tanks, the Mirai has an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles. Toyota calls this engine type a "plug-less" electric vehicle because it uses an electric motor to drive the car smoothly and quietly. Still, that motor is powered by refined hydrogen that you top up at stations, rather than charge. Admittedly, in terms of looks, the Mirai still holds its own in this day and age, largely thanks to its futuristic, sleek design. Relevant to a FewWhile it may be surprising that a set of new rims is all the Mirai gets for 2026, there's actually a good reason for it. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are technically only able to operate properly in the sunny state of California, because it's the only place with hydrogen fuel stations. This is actually a touchy topic for Toyota, but it is what it is. It just means that demand for the car isn't substantial enough. Just to give you an idea, as of September 2025, only 157 units of the Mirai have been sold. So, no, we believe that that level of demand doesn't warrant a full model change or mid-cycle update just yet. As for the price, Toyota's smart to retain its 2025 pricing for the 2026 model year. It still retails for $51,795, excluding the dealer processing and handling fee of $1,195. Toyota View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The 2025 Snowbird Outlaw Nationals presented by Motion Raceworks at Bradenton Motorsports Park is officially underway with Thursday qualifying. Due to rain in the Sunday forecast, race officials moved up the event schedule. The plan is now to complete qualifying on Thursday and Friday before going into eliminations Saturday and crowning winners on Saturday night. The historic event serves as the opening race of the second annual Drag Illustrated Winter Series presented by J&A Service, a three-race Pro Mod series paying out more than $275,000 to race winners and the series champion. The event also includes Pro 10.5, True 10.5 N/T, Lil Gangstas, Limited Drag Radial, Ultra Street and more. Tune in to the official event livestream on FloRacing here: https://flosports.link/46edcdu Find additional class qualifying results on the Bradenton Motorsports Park Facebook page here. pro mod q1 This story was originally published on December 4, 2025. The post Thursday Qualifying Results – 2025 Snowbird Outlaw Nationals Pro Mod and Pro 10.5 first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

BROWNSBURG, Ind. (Dec. 2, 2025) – John Force Racing will expand to four teams for the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season and beyond with the signing of 2014 U.S. Nationals Funny Car winner Alexis DeJoria to a multi-year contract with the 24-time world championship organization. DeJoria is the only female currently competing in the NHRA Funny Car category and was the first woman in Funny Car competition to break the three-second barrier when she posted a 3.997-second elapsed time at the 2014 Winternationals in Pomona, Calif. DeJoria has earned six NHRA Funny Car event victories in 16 final-round appearances and has six top 10 finishes. DeJoria’s team will continue to have primary sponsorship from the gold medal award-winning Bandero Premium Tequila. John Force Racing’s 2026 driver lineup will consist of DeJoria, 2012 Funny Car Champion Jack Beckman, Top Fuel driver Josh Hart, who was signed by the organization to a multi-year contract in October, and a driver to be announced to drive the Cornwell Tools Chevrolet SS Funny Car. “Being asked to join John Force Racing is a huge honor and an incredible opportunity to build upon my career,” DeJoria said. “Since day one, my goal has been to become the sport’s first female Funny Car world champion, and that is what I have been working towards for many years. I’ve been fortunate to drive for some of the best teams and team owners out here. To be invited to drive for John Force Racing means so much to me and is another step forward in my career. JFR has a Funny Car program that’s unmatched and the results speak for themselves; all you have to do is look at their track record.” DeJoria’s NHRA career began in 2005 in Super Gas and Super Comp, winning one national event in the latter category. She moved to Top Alcohol Funny Car in 2006, ran her own team from 2009-2011, and became only the second woman to earn a national event victory in the category at the 2011 Northwest Nationals in Seattle. Later that same year, she earned her nitro Funny Car license and moved up to the professional category. The six-time Funny Car No. 1 Qualifier earned the first round-win of her nitro Funny Car career when she defeated John Force in the first round of the 2012 Gatornationals. She captured her first Funny Car event victory at the 2014 Arizona Nationals in Phoenix and beat Force again later that year in the final round of the U.S. Nationals for the biggest win of her career. This will be the fourth time John Force Racing has fielded four teams in the Top Fuel and Funny Car categories. The 2008-09 lineup included the Funny Car programs of drivers John Force, Robert Hight, Ashley Force Hood and Mike Neff. John Force, Robert Hight, Courtney Force and Brittany Force made up the foursome from 2013-2018 and, in 2019 and 2022-23, John Force and Hight competed in Funny Car while Brittany Force and Austin Prock competed in Top Fuel. “Alexis is a fierce competitor who has earned her place in the Funny Car ranks and it’s great to have her become the newest member of our team,” said John Force, CEO and 16-time NHRA Funny Car Champion. “I’m obviously pretty familiar with the dynamic between father and daughter competing in NHRA drag racing so I respect and admire what Alexis and her father, John Paul, have built together over the years. John Paul is a global success story who understands the importance of both family and business partnerships, which is exactly what John Force Racing has been built on. Our team just earned our 24th World Championship, but I’m already looking forward to getting started on next season.” Further announcements about the program will be made in the coming weeks. The post Silly Season Is On! John Force Racing Signs Alexis DeJoria To Drive Third Funny Car For 2026 Season appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Sometimes old racing rivalries die on the vine, but sometimes they just get stronger and more entertaining. A little age and wisdom sometimes calms the hot nerves but results in even better on-track action. During the 2025 Goodwood Revival there were some serious rivals who all showed up to race. But did those old rivalries come back to life on track? Watch to find out. Video Description: At the 2025 Goodwood Revival, we had an all-star lineup from across the pond. A rivalry that started in IndyCar over 20 years ago was brought back to life at Goodwood. IndyCar legends Tony Kanaan, Scott Dixon, Dario Franchitti and NASCAR legend Jimmie Johnson raced against each other in the St. Mary’s Trophy. Will the old rivalries re-emerge in 2025? The post Old rivalries Return at the 2025 St. Mary’s Trophy | Franchitti vs Kanaan vs Dixon vs Johnson At Goodwood Revival appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Class Action Lawsuit Over Transfer Case IssuesBMW is the target of a new class action lawsuit alleging that several of its popular models suffer from drivetrain defects that cause the vehicles to jerk or shudder, particularly during slow turns or light acceleration. Filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, the complaint accuses BMW of North America and its German parent company of selling cars equipped with faulty xDrive transfer cases that fail to distribute torque between the front and rear wheels properly. The suit claims these issues make vehicles feel unstable and diminish overall driving performance, an ironic problem for a brand that markets itself on precision handling. According to court filings, the alleged defect affects a long list of 2019–2025 model-year BMWs, including the X3, X4, X5, X6, X7, and several 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 Series models, as well as the 640i xDrive Gran Turismo. All share the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, which the lawsuit says is prone to torque-transfer issues and internal wear. M Series models are excluded from the complaint. The plaintiffs argue that BMW has been aware of these issues for years, yet failed to alert customers or provide adequate repairs outside of warranty coverage. BMW View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article BMW’s Own Bulletin Cited as EvidenceAsCar Complaints pointed out, central to the lawsuit is a BMW service bulletin issued in May 2020, which acknowledges owner complaints of jerking and shuddering in the driveline of certain XDrive vehicles. The document advised dealers that the issue might stem from transfer case oil that “does not meet BMW specifications.” It also noted that the problem could appear without warning lights or fault messages. In March 2025, BMW reportedly updated the bulletin to include more affected models, a move that plaintiffs say confirms the company knew the problem was widespread. Despite those internal communications, the lawsuit claims BMW continued selling vehicles without warning consumers of potential transfer case failures. Owners say they were left to diagnose the issue themselves or pay out-of-pocket for repairs. The complaint also alleges that because the defect is linked to factory-filled fluid, which BMW advertises as lifetime-filled, customers were led to believe no maintenance was needed. As a result, they argue that vehicles lost value from the moment of purchase due to an undisclosed driveline flaw. Expensive Repairs and Warranty DisputesRepair costs are another flashpoint in the case. A simple transfer case fluid replacement can run from $250 to $1,300, while a full transfer case replacement can cost between $7,000 and $13,000. The lawsuit contends that BMW dealerships often require fluid replacement before authorizing any larger repair, even though the automaker’s maintenance schedule does not list such service as routine. Owners say these unexpected costs add up quickly, especially once warranties expire. The plaintiffs also take issue with BMW’s warranty structure, noting that while the automaker may cover repairs under its New Vehicle Limited Warranty, it does not extend the same protection to vehicles under Certified Pre-Owned or Extended Service Contracts. The suit argues that this leaves many owners paying to fix a defect that BMW allegedly knew about for years. For customers who buy CPO vehicles expecting factory-level reliability, the lack of coverage can be a frustrating surprise. BMW What Happens NextThis lawsuit follows recalls made this year by the brand, particularly related to safety. The lawsuit, filed as a property damage product liability case, seeks compensation for repair costs, diminished vehicle value, and related damages. It also requests a jury trial. BMW has yet to respond publicly. If the allegations hold up, the automaker could face mounting pressure to address the defect through a recall or extended warranty coverage. Until then, BMW owners reporting jerking or shuddering from their XDrive systems may find themselves in a gray area, caught between warranty limitations and repair bills that can stretch into five figures. For a brand long associated with “the ultimate driving machine,” the growing legal fight over its all-wheel-drive technology could prove to be an expensive test of customer loyalty. BMW View the full article

Viking Motorsports will field two full-time teams in the 2026 NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts season. The team already runs the No. 99, recently announcing Parker Retzlaff as that car's new driver. But on Thursday, they revealed that they will now enter the No. 96 as well, driven by Anthony Alfredo. “Expanding to a second full-time car is a major moment for our organization," said team owner Don ...Keep readingView the full article

The Roots of an Italian–Japanese IconSure, the original Honda NSX – Acura NSX in America – was shaped internally by Honda's own design and engineering teams, led by Masahito Nakano and Shigeru Uehara. But the deeper origins trace back to a concept car created by none other than Pininfarina. The 1984 HP-X, penned in Italy, laid the groundwork for the mid-engine supercar Honda eventually turned into the NSX. Four decades later, it seems Pininfarina still has hangups about that early sketchwork. The design house announced before that it's working with JAS Motorsport to reimagine the first-generation NSX as a modern supercar. The project finally has a name: Tensei, Japanese for "rebirth." It was previewed quietly to a few customers at Fuji Raceway in November and is now being talked about more publicly. JAS Motorsport A Beautiful Shape, Even Without Full SpecsThere isn't much technical information about the Tensei yet, but the car's form already says enough. It's recognizably an NSX, only lower, wider, and visually sharpened. The surfaces look taut but not overstyled, the stance is planted, and the proportions remain faithful to the 1990s silhouette. It's the kind of aesthetic confidence that tends to come naturally from Italian studios. Pininfarina's carbon-fiber bodywork wraps broader tracks, bigger brakes, and wheels that hint at serious performance upgrades. JAS, a race-winning Honda partner for decades, is handling the mechanical side, and the company promises competition-grade technology rather than a simple restomod makeover. A naturally aspirated V6 and manual gearbox still appear to be the underlying formula, though how far JAS intends to push the revs remains to be seen. JAS Motorsport Not the Only NSX Tribute in the WorksMore details will surface in early 2026, when the Tensei gets a full reveal ahead of its ultra-limited production run in Milan. We'll keep an ear to the ground to catch more information as it arrives. Pininfarin's work won't be the only NSX tribute arriving next year. Another prominent Italian design house, Italdesign, is also working on its own reinterpretation, though its teaser offers almost nothing beyond a rear light signature. The two design firms now find themselves unintentionally competing to re-express one of Japan's most revered sports cars, and that alone should make 2026 interesting for NSX fans. View the full article

It’s time for big cubic inches and big power, and thankfully Pat and Frankie are dragging us along for the build of this cool 427 cubic inch LS street engine that features some pretty cool parts, including the new Pro LS block from Summit Racing. Check out the video below and let us know what you think. Would you put this bad boy into your hot rod project? We’re pretty sure we could have some fun with it. Video Description: Today, we embark on a high-powered LS adventure with Summit Racing’s new robust Pro LS block and Trick Flow induction that flows like Niagara Falls. This will be a 427 cubic inch street machine and we’ll show you how we prep and machine this ground-up build and then start clicking it together. The post Engine Build Tech: Pat and Frankie Are Building a 427 LS Short Block for Big Power – Part 1 appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Audi's Q4 e-tron first arrived four years ago, and while Ingolstadt's smallest electric crossover has been a decent proposition, BMW has since launched the iX2 for in 2024 for Europe and other overseas markets, and more recently, the iX3. More importantly, Tesla has significantly updated the Model Y. That means the Q4 e-tron and its Sportback twin need new artillery to stay in the fight for entry-level premium EV supremacy. As a relatively new model, the Q4 is not yet old enough to be replaced by an all-new model, so it's getting a facelift next year, and spy photographers have caught the updated model undergoing testing on the streets of Germany. Although there are some changes to the styling, the biggest updates will come to the cabin, with the Q4 set to adopt a similar interior to the latest A5 and A6 sedans, as well as its combustion-powered Q3 sibling. Subtle Styling Updates for the Q4 e-tron SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article At the front, the headlights of this prototype look very similar to those of the current model in shape, but they adopt new LED daytime running light graphics. Similarly, while the overall shape of the front fascia is unchanged, the lower side intakes on this example are now split in the middle. Some examples of the current model place additional lighting units in this area, but this prototype uses them as air curtains. At the rear, it's a similarly subtle story, with the taillights getting fresh graphics but remaining otherwise unchanged. As for the bumper, the diffuser appears to be a little more aggressive, while the reflectors above it are longer than before. The spoiler on this Sportback model doesn't look any different, but the camouflage may be doing its job and hiding some tiny changes. Finally, since there's some vinyl on the rocker panels, we can expect some updates to the side skirts, though these aren't obvious yet. Tech Improvements Inside SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi all favor a widescreen infotainment and driver cluster display setup in their contemporary cabins, and the Q4 e-tron will go the same way, deleting the air-conditioning vent that sits between the two screens on the current car. Instead, a large curved display will dominate the dash, with the air vents moving below to the middle of the lower dash. We can also look forward to some mild trim and finish updates, and since this is an EV, buyers will expect more range. For the record, the 2026 Q4 Sportback 55 e-tron quattro has an EPA-estimated range of 251 miles, while the Q4 45 e-tron manages up to 288 miles. The 2026 BMW iX, on the other hand, offers 290-364 miles of range, depending on trim, and the new iX3 50 xDrive manages up to 400 miles on the EPA's test cycle, though BMW engineers recently managed much more in the real world. A more direct comparison would be the Volvo EX40 or Tesla Model Y, and those offer up to 293 miles and 357 miles of EPA range, respectively. Expect the 2027 Q4 e-tron and Q4 Sportback e-tron in the middle of 2026. View the full article

We’re big fans of oil testing around here, and often share videos from our favorite oil expert, the Motor Oil Geek himself, Lake Speed Jr. He’s a big fan of oil testing as well, and uses that data to help educate us on oil, lubrication, and long engine life. The guys at Motul also test their oils after being subjected to race conditions, but they are now doing it LIVE and in person at select events! Check it out. Video Description: A few milliliters of oil can reveal everything about an engine’s health. Motul’s 300V lubricants power teams across the WeatherTech Championship and the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge—but this year, they brought something new for fans: the Motul Mobile Racing Lab. In this video, we step inside the field lab with Motul’s technical team to see how their 10-minute oil analysis works and why it’s such a powerful tool for both race engineers and everyday fans. From viscosity checks to wear-metal detection, we break down how real-time data helps teams prevent failures—and how anyone at the track can get the same pro-level insight on their own car. Watch the process, see a full report generated on the spot, and learn why oil analysis is becoming essential across the IMSA paddock. The post Motul Oil Engineer Explains Oil Testing | Free Motul Racing Lab Service at Motul Petit Le Mans appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The G-Wagen is looking to the pastThe Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or Geländewagen, commonly referred to colloquially among dedicated fans and the popular media as the "G-Wagen," is one of the brand's most iconic vehicles. For four decades, the G-Class has stood at the pinnacle among luxury SUVs, combining a unique blend of engineering, off-road capability, unmistakable utilitarian boxy styling, and a sense of luxury that only Mercedes can offer. Though it has roots as a military vehicle built at the request of the Shah of Iran, the Mercedes G-Wagen has ultimately become a status symbol for the rich and famous and a common sight in shopping avenues and posh enclaves like Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, New York City's SoHo and Upper East Side, or outside Harrods in London. However, a new update from the brand shows that Mercedes is hard at work on a highly anticipated new version. Mercedes-Benz View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Mercedes shows off the new G-Wagen CabrioletIn an announcement released early on December 2, Mercedes-Benz formally stated that it is expanding the G-Class model family following what it calls "a hugely positive response" to teaser images that it released back in September this year. Mercedes said that its engineers are beginning to subject prototypes of these new vehicles to "rigorous test drives on the road" in Austria, before conducting intense cold-weather testing out in Sweden. In its statement, Mercedes stated that its testing is part of its dedication to shaping the future of the legendary off-roader and ensuring that none of the "G-Class feeling" is lost in its latest creation. "Engineers are gathering comprehensive data to ensure that the open-top driving experience of the G‑Class Cabriolet is promising an unparalleled and unmistakable G‑Class feeling for future drivers," it said. "At a later date, the G‑Class Cabriolet will also make its way to Sweden, where it will be put through demanding winter testing. Facing icy temperatures and snowy landscapes, the newcomer’s robustness, driving dynamics, and reliability will be thoroughly proven." Mercedes-Benz View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The new G-Class Cab is a slight departure from the G-Class Cabs of yoreSince the G-Wagen launched in the 1970s, it has been available in a number of configurations, including hard-top, soft-top, and even three- and five-door variants. Previously, Mercedes has offered the G-Wagen Cabriolet exclusively in its two-door, short-wheelbase configuration in markets outside the United States, which has made it a popular gray import vehicle. Mercedes hasn’t shared any detailed technical details of the new convertible G-Class yet, or whether it'll be powered by an all-electric or ICE powertrain, but the pictures it recently released show that this new interpretation of the G-Class Cabriolet is slightly different from those in the past. Mercedes-Benz View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Although we couldn't see the front of the new drop-top G-Wagen, Mercedes' pictures show that the new G-Class Cabriolet looks very similar to the standard G-Wagen in terms of proportions. Judging by the photos it released, it appears to be based on the four-door version of the boxy SUV and features a fabric roof that stretches out past the entire roof. This new layout is a more ambitious project than its last G-Wagen cabriolet; specifically, Mercedes-Maybach's limited-production G650 Landaulet launched in 2017. True to the character of a landaulet, the ragtop allowed for open-air fun for just the rear-seat passengers, as the driver and front seat passenger lay under a metal roof. Final thoughtsDespite the limited details, the G-Class Cabriolet is hotly anticipated. In an interview with MotorTrend in September, Michael Schiebe, the head of the G-Class and Mercedes-Maybach divisions at Mercedes, stated that the brand was hesitant to relaunch the G-Class cabriolet, despite enthusiastic pleas from fans. “[The G-Class Cabriolet] is still a car that is not really rational,” Schiebe told MT at the time. “Even though for most customers it will be their second or third car, going to a G-Class convertible is like OK, is that really a car that you need? No. But maybe this is what makes it so special, and this is why there will be demand.” Mercedes is set to start selling the new G-Class cabriolet as soon as 2026. Still, it says that it "will share more details in due time" about the new G-Class cabriolet, adding that the special edition SUV "is set to redefine expectations and inspire adventure." View the full article

It’s not often that a mass-market automaker like Hyundai catches the attention of Porsche, but that’s precisely what happened last month. Frank Moser, who leads the 718 and 911 model lines, said that his team learnt a lot from spending time behind the wheel of the brilliant Hyundai Ioniq 5 N EV. One of the Hyundai’s features that stood out was its simulated gearshifts, which add a layer of engagement missing in most EVs. Porsche said it would be exploring the use of something similar in the upcoming electric 718, but now it appears as though the tech—referred to by Porsche as the “virtual transmission”—will find its way into another Porsche EV first: The full-size Taycan. 2027 Taycan First to Debut New Tech Porsche According to The Drive, Porsche’s fake gearshifts will arrive first for the 2027 Taycan, sometime late next year. The publication cited an anonymous source, who claimed that Porsche shared this plan with dealer principals in Atlanta last month. This was done to prepare sales teams for the arrival of the new technology; orders for the 2027 Taycan are expected to open next August. The source also confirmed that the simulated shifts won’t be available for 2026 and older Taycans via a software update, as these models won’t have the required paddle shifters mounted to the steering wheel. We must stress that this information comes from an anonymous source, and Porsche itself hasn’t confirmed anything yet, but the automaker didn’t deny the news, either. “Porsche continuously tests and evaluates potential new technologies as part of its research and development process,” a spokesperson told The Drive. “If and when these technologies may or may not be brought to market is decided based on the insights gained from these exploratory tests. The same applies to consideration of a potential virtual transmission in the future.” The term “virtual transmission” was used by Porsche itself, which may be the official name of the technology. Taycan is About to Get Even Better Porsche While it may be strange that the newer Cayenne Electric won’t be the first to receive the virtual transmission, perhaps it simply wasn’t ready in time for that SUV’s launch. In the Taycan, Porsche already has a proven EV that’s widely regarded as one of the most engaging vehicles to drive in its class. From the base 402-horsepower Taycan to the outrageous Turbo GT with 1,019 hp, every version of the electric sedan exhibits responsive handling and manages to mask its mass better than most EVs. The addition of simulated shifts will surely add to the enjoyment of driving the Taycan, further distancing it from more comfort-biased rivals. The transmission is expected to filter down to all other Porsche EVs over time, with the automaker already confirming that simulated shifts and virtual sounds are being explored for the next 718. What it Means Porsche Many manufacturers have now mastered the art of building EVs that are quick, refined, fast to charge, and with a useful range on a full charge. The next phase looks to be engineering EVs that recapture some of the driving joy found in gas-powered models. It would almost be strange for Porsche, one of the benchmark automakers for driver’s cars, not to be at the forefront of this trend. Besides Porsche and Hyundai, BMW is also determined to make its next generation of EVs more fun to drive. The new iX3 is a case in point with its Heart of Joy system, one of the vehicle’s four superbrains that manages multiple parameters to provide drivers with the most precise, engaging driving experience. View the full article