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Now You Can Cut Your Pizza The Suzuki Way. With A Katana
Some designs are just a little sharper than others; we don't make the rules. Is this the cheapest Suzuki Katana you're likely to ever find?View the full article
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Ducati's 'Expedition Masters' Travel Programs Sound Like My Dream Vacation
A new set of countries play host to Ducati's Expedition Masters travel program this year, including one that sounds like a bucket list destination. View the full article
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Honda's Boring New Patent Just Made UTVs Even More Practical
A newly filed patent from Honda shows a mechanical under-bed storage solution that opens only when the dump bed is raised.View the full article
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Ready Enough!! Prepping A Classic Ford F250 So It Is Ready for Camping and 2800 miles Of Road Trip!
Expedition rigs seem to be bigger and badder than ever, with more offerings and options for building them than you can even imagine. And their popularity seems higher than ever as well. With all that said, do you really need ALL the bells and whistles if you are going for some road trip miles and camping with friends? Like most things, need and WANT are two totally different things and sometimes not critical for sleeping comfortably and having a good time. In the video below, our friend Dave Chappelle is taking his vintage F250 Ford pickup on a road trip to King of the Hammers and needs to make a few modifications so that it can be the camping AND road trip machine he needs it to be. Check it out below. Video Description: A roof top tent rack, power steering pump, and wiring up an ARB fridge freezer. The Firetruck f250 is getting ready for a 2800 mile camping trip. The post Ready Enough!! Prepping A Classic Ford F250 So It Is Ready for Camping and 2800 miles Of Road Trip! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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Moroso Has Your Gen 3 HEMI Oil Pan Needs Covered
Moroso now offers a wide range of Gen 3 HEMI oil pans. They offer both wet and dry sump oil pans for multiple applications. View the full article
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Inside the New FIM Racing Motorcycle Museum Opening in Switzerland
FIM Racing Motorcycle Museum opens in Switzerland with World Championship icons The FIM Racing Motorcycle Museum will officially open its doors on February 18, giving race fans a new permanent home for some of the most important machines in motorcycle racing history. Located in Mies, Switzerland, at the former headquarters of the Fédération Internationale de […] The post Inside the New FIM Racing Motorcycle Museum Opening in Switzerland appeared first on MCNews. View the full article
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Blow by blow recap from AMA SX Round Five – Glendale
2026 AMA Supercross Championship Round Five – Glendale 450 Vince Friese launched his Kawasaki to the front on the run through turn one with Ken Roczen and Hunter Lawrence flanking him, but it was Lawrence who found the superior exit. The Honda rider sprinted clear to seize the early lead on a fast and flowing […] The post Blow by blow recap from AMA SX Round Five – Glendale appeared first on MCNews. View the full article
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BYD Sues the U.S. Government Over Tariffs That Block Its Cars From America
Questioning the Basis for TariffsHistorically, Chinese automakers have had little to no presence in the U.S. market, largely due to steep import tariffs and geopolitical tensions. That could begin to change, however, as a report by Caijing via CarNewsChina says BYD has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. government challenging several tariff-related executive orders. Filed on January 26 by four U.S.-based BYD subsidiaries, the lawsuit (case number 26-00847) argues that the use of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) – a federal law that grants the president emergency powers over foreign economic transactions – exceeds the authority provided by the statute and should therefore be invalidated. A ruling in BYD’s favor could, according to the report, lower tariff barriers and potentially pave the way for the company’s passenger-vehicle lineup in the U.S. BYD Demand Meets the GatekeepersWhile a study from AutoPacific found that more Americans say they are open to buying a Chinese vehicle, U.S. dealers largely support policies that prevent Chinese automakers from entering the market. The National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA) has warned that Chinese OEMs could undermine fair competition due to state-backed industrial advantages. Chery, for instance, has recently launched its first all-electric pickup truck in China with a starting price of about $18,300 – highlighting the stark contrast with electric pickup options currently available in the U.S., such as the Chevrolet Silverado EV. So, how strong is BYD’s case? There is precedent suggesting it has a chance. A New York–based wine importer, V.O.S. Selections, won in a similar challenge last year. The U.S. government has since appealed that decision, and related cases have been stayed pending a final ruling in the V.O.S. Selections matter to resolve the scope of executive authority. BYD A Legal DominoIf the court rules in BYD’s favor, the report says the company’s factories in Brazil and Mexico could serve as gateways for its products to enter the U.S. market with lower tariffs. BYD has shown a strong sales performance after dethroning Tesla in global battery-electric sales last year. Aside from affordable, daily drivers like the Seagull, the automaker also taps into the performance segment with the Yangwang U9 Extreme, which clocked a sub-7-minute lap at the Nürburgring in Germany. For now, however, the company remains focused on its energy storage systems and commercial vehicles, which are produced at its manufacturing facility in Lancaster, California. BYD View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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The 5 cheapest gas stations in Texas today
Texas has always been a state of extremes, and gas prices in 2026 are no different. While West Coast drivers are practically taking out second mortgages to fill their tanks, the Lone Star State benefits from its massive refinery network and its status as a primary hub for the Gulf Coast energy corridor, which usually delivers low gas prices. In a state where a "quick drive" often involves two hours on the highway, finding the floor for gas prices is critical. To help Texas drivers, we've scoured real-time data to find the locations where you can actually get change back from a twenty-dollar bill after filling up. From the piney woods of East Texas to the suburban sprawl of San Antonio, these stations are routinely undercutting the state average of $2.49. If you happen to be passing through these areas, it might be worth the detour—just make sure you've got your membership card or cash ready, as many of these "rock-bottom" prices come with a few strings attached. Sam's Club (Longview - $1.89 per gallon)Address: 3310 N 4th St, Longview, TXNearby Gas Stations: Fresh by Brookshires (3121 N Eastman Rd) at $1.91 and Murphy USA (301 E. Loop 281) at $1.94.This Sam’s Club is near the Longview Arboretum & Nature Center, a 26-acre sanctuary just a short drive away if you need a break from traffic or just want to walk around for a while. At $1.89, this Sam’s Club has some of the lowest prices we've seen for Texas today, and is well below the state average of $2.49. Getty QuikTrip (Katy - $1.97 per gallon)Address: 23169 Morton Ranch Road, Katy, TXNearby Gas Stations: Sunoco (22643 Morton Ranch Rd) at $2.52 and Valero + Circle K (3959 N Fry Rd) at $2.46.Right near the Katy Mills Mall and the Typhoon Texas Waterpark, this QuikTrip location is bustling unless you visit in an off month, like February. Currently listed at $1.97 per gallon, this QT offers a significant discount on gas compared to other stations in the area. Related: These 4 California gas stations are the cheapest in the state Valero (San Antonio - $2.07 per gallon)Address: 900 W Hildebrand Ave, San Antonio, TXNearby Gas Stations: Sam's Club (5055 NW IH-410) at $2.11 and H-E-B (9255 Grissom Rd) at $2.15.This Valero is perfectly located for filling up after a family day out. It’s just a few blocks from the San Antonio Zoo and Brackenridge Park, two great places to take the kids when they need to let loose. At $2.07 per gallon (the cash price), it’s the lowest per-gallon price in the city today, easily beating the San Antonio average of roughly $2.44 per gallon. Getty Images Sam's Club (San Antonio - $2.11 per gallon)Address: 5055 NW IH-410, San Antonio, TXNearby Gas Stations: Murphy Express (9530 Culebra Rd.) at $2.15 and Walmart Neighborhood Market (9005 FM-1560 N) at $2.16.Adjacent to the Ingram Park Mall, this Sam’s Club location is a convenient pit stop for those doing some bulk-grocery shopping. With a per-gallon price of $2.11, this station consistently ranks among the most affordable membership-based options in the area. Costco (San Antonio - $2.15 per gallon)Address: 11210 Potranco Rd, San Antonio, TXNearby Gas Stations: Valero (11050 Potranco Rd) at $2.34 and Shell (12845 Potranco Rd) at $2.40.Just east of SeaWorld San Antonio, this Costco is a popular "last stop" for tourists heading home - so long as they have a Costco membership. At $2.15 per gallon, it is undercutting nearby competitors by nearly 20 cents. Disclaimer: All prices cited in this article are based on publicly available user-generated feedback. Gas stations do not provide daily reports on gas prices, and prices can change at any time. Autoblog is not responsible for the accuracy of pricing listed with user-generated reporting. Related: The 5 cheapest gas stations in New York View the full article
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Road Tested: The Malle Expedition Backpack
Motorcycles, adventure, nostalgia, and impeccable taste—these are the hallmarks of Malle London. Run by Robert Nightingale and Jonny Cazzola, the British company not only produces stylish moto gear, but also runs myriad events and rallies to put that gear through its paces. So every piece they make ... View the full article
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Genesis Passed Infiniti In Sales, Is Lincoln Next?
Genesis is on the warpathHyundai Motor Group has been on a rampage in recent years, and with 2025 now behind us, it’s clearer than ever that Genesis is no longer chasing after its luxury competitors. Hyundai’s luxury brand has posted consistent sales increases since 2021, thanks in part to its reputation for safety, quality, and affordability. Genesis surpassed Infiniti in 2025, and now it looks like the Korean marque is setting its sights on another luxury automaker. Genesis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Genesis sold more than 80,000 vehicles in 2025While some luxury automakers are struggling, Genesis isn’t among them. The automaker’s sales declined in 2020, but things have been on the up since. In 2021, Genesis sold 49,621 vehicles, followed by 56,410 in 2022, and 69,175 in 2023. In 2024, Genesis moved just over 75,000 vehicles off dealer lots. With more than 82,000 vehicles sold in 2025, the Korean luxury automaker is now rivaling more established premium brands. Kyle Edward It’s no secret that Nissan saw its fair share of struggles in 2025, and Infiniti, its luxury marque, didn’t perform well either. The premium brand sold just 52,846 vehicles in 2025, putting it well behind nearly every other luxury automaker. All in all, Genesis sold nearly 30,000 more vehicles than Infiniti. At a glance, outselling a struggling brand doesn’t seem all that important, but surpassing 80,000 vehicles sold in a single year is a major milestone. The Korean brand’s consistent growth has brought it within striking distance of better-known luxury brands, such as Lincoln. Ford’s luxury brand sold 106,868 vehicles in 2025, a two percent increase from the previous year. If Genesis manages to continue pulling off near-10% year-over-year increases, Acura, with a little over 133,000 vehicles sold in 2025, could find Genesis hot on its heels in just a few years' time. Genesis While Genesis may be able to surpass Lincoln in due time, segment leaders, like BMW and Lexus, are still miles ahead of the Korean brand. Lexus moved more than 370,000 vehicles, while BMW sold nearly 389,000 models. Brands with more name recognition are also well ahead of Genesis. Audi, which saw its sales decline 16% year-over-year, moved more than 164,000 vehicles in 2025. Related: This Luxury Car Concept Looks Like It Came Straight Out of a Video Game Genesis shows no signs of slowing downThere are currently eight models available on the Genesis lineup, including two EVs and six ICE-only vehicles. The G70 sedan serves as the brand’s entry point, priced from $43,450. The GV60 is the most affordable of the two luxury EVs, from $52,525. 2026 will mark the launch of the brand’s first hybrid, the GV80, as well as an extended-range EV based on the GV70. Genesis also plans to launch a hybrid GV70 in late 2026 or early 2027. Cole Attisha View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Genesis ended production of the G80 EV, leaving just the GV60 and all-electric GV70 in its wake. Much like sister marques Hyundai and Kia, Genesis is pushing forward with new EVs, regardless of their controversial place in the market. The luxury brand also plans to release the GV60 Magma, its first performance EV, as well as the full-size GV90 electric SUV. The GV90 will serve as the brand’s new flagship model, with a focus on elegance and premium quality. The upcoming EV is based on the Neolun concept and will likely feature three rows of seating. If it follows a similar path to the GV70, the full-size GV90 will feature dual electric motors with a total output near 500 horsepower. If the upcoming GV90 uses the same platform and battery configuration as the Hyundai Ioniq 7 and Kia EV9, expect around 300 miles on a single charge. Getty Images Final thoughtsThe 2025 model year marked the Genesis brand’s 10-year anniversary, and outselling a more established rival is a great way to celebrate. While Infiniti has its own issues, Genesis is now staged to take on more adept rivals. Considering Hyundai Motor Group’s track record on design and innovation, Genesis is likely to continue its hot streak. Now the only question is whether the premium Korean automaker will surpass Lincoln in 2026. Related: These Are the Last V12 Cars You Can Still Buy New in America View the full article
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This Low-Mileage Ferrari 458 Spider Is About to Become the Most Expensive Ever Sold
The Ferrari 458 has become one of the most desirable modern Ferraris, especially in Spider form, which is roughly twice as rare as the coupe. A low-mileage example currently being auctioned on Bring a Trailershows just how quickly demand is rising. As the final naturally aspirated V8 Ferrari and one of the last models designed by Pininfarina, the 458 marks the end of what many enthusiasts see as Ferrari’s golden era. This particular 2015 car, the final model year of production, has covered just 1,400 miles, and bidding has already climbed to $370,000 with two days still to go – surpassing the most expensive 458 Spider ever, which topped out at $357,000 in 2019. If it holds, this 2015 458 Spider will become the most expensive Ferrari 458 ever sold, excluding the ultra-rare Speciale. A Final-Year 458 That Captures Ferrari's Peak Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Refreshingly, this 458 Spider is finished in Bianco Avus over a Blu Scuro interior, remains unmodified, and has allegedly spent its life in warm climates to help preserve its condition. Its original window sticker read $322,766 and was optioned with Ferrari’s Carbon Fiber Racing Package, 20-inch wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, and the SCM2 magnetic suspension system, though it notably lacks a front lift. The only imperfections the car seems to have are a sagging roofliner, old tires, and a few scrapes on the bottom of the rear bumper. Power comes from the high-revving 4.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 producing 561 hp, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission driving just the rear wheels. Also worth noting is that the seller has applied paint protection filmto the entire exterior, making this Spider even more desirable. Why The 458 Stands Apart From Modern Ferraris Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Let's address the elephant in the room first. No, the 458 isn't as quick as any of its successors. But to many enthusiasts, that doesn't matter. To Ferrari fans, the 458 represents the moment Ferrari peaked, before turbocharging, downsized engines, and increasingly complex hybrid systems took over. Today’s lineup, including cars like the controversially named 849 Testarossa, 12Cilindri, and the 458's descendant, the V6-powered 296, simply doesn’t spark the same excitement. Ferrari seems to be hyper-focused on spec sheets, claiming its new V6 is “superior” to the V12 that came before it. In turn, Ferrari has lost their design magic after parting ways with Pininfarina. With all that in mind, it becomes clear why so many praise the 458’s timeless design and naturally aspirated soundtrack. Confirming The Ferrari 458 As A Future Classic Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids Cars and Bids According to Classic.com, the average selling price of a 2015 Ferrari 458 Spider sits at $268,965, making this auction’s current $370,000 a record-breaking high. The $100,000 premium reflects just how strongly collectors value low-mileage, final-year examples, especially in original condition. That said, 458 values have been steadily on the rise, and nowadays, even modified 458 Italias still sell for north of $200,000. With days remaining before we near the end of the auction, this Spider could set an entirely new benchmark for the model by the time the auction closes, if it meets reserve, of course. View the full article
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2026 UTV Hammers Championship (and Our Thoughts About How to Make the Race Even Better for 2027)
By Jon Crowley King of the Hammers celebrated its’ 20th year with some incredible racing. Ending the week with the Race of Kings was an epic race that will inspire many new racers to suit up and head to Johnson Valley to take on the toughest “one-day race in the world”. I have been on the lakebed every year since UTVs were involved in 2009 – as a racer, a co-dog, a media guy or a live show commentator. The UTV Hammers Championship was a quick sprint in the desert with a few rocks tossed in until 2013. For the next few years, the UTV rock race lasted a full day and had a finish rate of about 10%. In my opinion, we need to get back to this! History of the King of the Hammers UTV Race Since about 2019, when I co-dogged for Mitch Guthrie Jr. (and we took 1st Place), the race has been dominated by factory teams and finish times by lunch. The vehicles are so much better than what we raced 10 year ago and the skill of the drivers has also grown considerably. But the other thing that happened is bypasses were created on some of the most iconic Hammers trails making them so much easier than in years past. In 2025, Ultra4 Racing instituted and enforced more RCPs (Rock Check Points) than ever before. This helped keep racers in the rocks on several trails, but more was needed. For 2026, the technology advanced further and more RCPs were added which made many of these trails more difficult again. The 2026 UTV Hammers Championship was one of the most exciting races to date with lots of lead changes, breakdowns and bottlenecks. And for the first time since 2009-2010-ish when Mitch Guthrie Sr. started his winning streak as a privateer, another non-factory backed racer won the race! Jeffro Martin takes the overall win at the 2026 UTV Hammers Championship in his Can-Am Maverick X3 While the race was one of the most exciting races to date to watch, I would still like to see a few changes to make it even better! In my opinion, not just the Race of Kings, but also the UTV Hammers Championship should be able to say it is the hardest one-day race in the world. While the 2026 Race of Kings can certainly hang its’ hat on that, the UTV Hammers Championship has some work to do. While I agree with Dave Cole taking out a few tough trails or sections of trails that were early in lap 2 (Kings Veto and the upper part of Outer Limits), we need more tough trails so the race doesn’t end with the first competitor crossing the finish line in under 5 hours! Upper Outer Limits was removed from the race the day before race day! Racing Hammers should be hard and there are so many UTV teams that absolutely suck when tough things happen and alternate lines and/or winching is required. I predicted a traffic jam would happen on Jack Hammer, and it was a mess on race day. 2026 UTV Hammers Championship – Jack Hammer Parking Lot Jack Hammer Course Preview This was my 5th year commentating for the Ultra4 Racing Live Show since 2020. You can watch the full show below. 2026 UTV Hammers Championship Live Feed Ronnie Anderson was leading the race when he got the news that he was DQ’d for going the wrong way on course while coming into Hammertown at the end of lap 1. Cole Clark would go to sleep thinking he won the race based on penalties applied to Jeffro Martin, only to learn the next day that he would get 2nd place. Last year’s king, Brock Heger would get 3rd place after breaking two axles while leading the race in Jack Hammer 2026 UTV Hammers Championship Race Results [See image gallery at utvguide.net] Here are my suggestions to “Make the UTV Hammers Championship Race Great Again”: Design a course where first finisher would be expected to cross he line no earlier than 3PM. Eliminate several classes so we don’t have “everybody wins a trophy situations. No more than 3 classes would be great! Just put Polaris RZR Pro R in with everyone else and get rid of the Open class. Get rid of custom chassis, adding turbos and certain suspension changes in the UTV class. UTVs should “look” like something you can get at your dealer, not some Mad Max contraption. Try to design the lap 2 course so harder trails/obstacles are further into lap 2 so bottlenecks are less likely to impact the race for people coming from the back. Add a few spots where 90-95% of racers will have to winch, but add them further into lap 2. Kings Veto seems like a great trail to add in late in lap 2. Try to add in more RCPs near Lazer Nut Alley & Her Problem. These are great spectator locations and RCPs can be placed in spots to create new difficult lines. Don’t be afraid to end the race with going up Back Door and Resolution (with RCPs). Every UTV can make it up Back Door with a good winch – don’t be afraid! Figure out how to dependably and quickly check RCPs and VCPs so race results don’t have to wait until the next day. The post 2026 UTV Hammers Championship (and Our Thoughts About How to Make the Race Even Better for 2027) appeared first on UTV Guide. View the full article
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EU and China Take Massive Step Toward Truce on EV Tariff Battle
The EU's way or the highway.After months of politically motivated trade tensions between the European Union and China, the former is considering a dramatic retreat of its policies targeting electric vehicle manufacturers in the People's Republic after just a year and a half. According to new reports published on January 12 by The New York Times and the South China Morning Post, the European Commission, the executive arm of the European Union, and China’s Ministry of Commerce announced new guidance that would replace steep tariffs on imported EVs from China. These new policies would allow automakers with factories in China, as well as Chinese automakers, to voluntarily limit the number of units they ship from China to Europe. In addition, the Commission's new documentation also outlines that Chinese exporters would set minimum prices for said cars; a figure that the EU will calculate based on the ability to "eliminate the injurious effects of the subsidies and provide equivalent effect to duties." The commission also implored Chinese EV brands to state their plans for future investments in the EU. Automakers who play ball with the European Commission on its price control and import restriction scheme could be exempt from the anti-subsidy tariffs of up to 35% that it first proposed in 2024 on imported Chinese EVs. In a statement to the Times, European Commission spokesman Olof Gill noted that the European Commission had been flexible with its counterparts in the People's Republic on this matter, with this measure being an example of such. “We have said from the start, as the European Commission, as the investigative authority in this case, that we’re willing to look at alternatives to the anti-subsidy duties we put in place,” Gill said. In a separate statement seen by the SCMP, China’s Ministry of Commerce said the new proposal "fully reflects the spirit of dialogue and the outcomes of consultations between China and the EU," adding that "It shows that both China and the EU have the ability and willingness to properly resolve differences through dialogue and consultation under the framework of WTO rules and maintain the stability of automotive industrial and supply chains in China, the EU and the whole world." Xie Guiming/VCG via Getty Images Amending the EU's sliding-scale tariff rulesThe rules come as the two economic superpowers have been at odds with each other due to conflicting policies. In October 2024, the European Union published details of an investigation into government subsidies to carmakers in China, which it claimed gave them a competitive advantage over their European rivals in the electric vehicle market. Much like the proposed new ruling, the tariffs were based on the amount of subsidies each automaker in China received, ranging from 7.8% for Tesla Shanghai (the division of Tesla that produces CN-exclusive Model Y variants) to 35.3% for SAIC Motor, the state-owned automaker that owns the British heritage brand MG. In response to these tariffs, officials in Beijing launched counter-probes into certain products it believed the EU was flooding, namely European brandy and cognac (i.e., Rémy Martin and Hennessy), pork, and dairy products. Although these measures were intended to protect the European auto market from juggernauts such as BYD, the measures also affected Western automakers that made cars in China for Europe, including BMW, who made the EU-bound iX3 there and Volvo, who moved production of EU-bound EX30s from China to Belgium to decrease its exposure. At the time, then-Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares said that the tariffs were counterproductive. “There should be no mistake these short-term actions will have negative mid- and long-term implications,” Mr. Tavares said at the time. “The best way — the only way — to protect ourselves, our industries, our workers is to compete with the newcomers and raise ourselves to their game.” Honda The proposed rules echo similar sentiment between the U.S. and Japan during the 1980s.The proposed rules from the EU and the Chinese government aren’t entirely new, as a similar measure had been tried during trade tensions between the U.S. and Japan during the early 1980s, as the visual dominance of Japanese companies in key industries like electronics, steel, shipbuilding, textiles, and especially cars led American politicians, workers, and the general public in middle America to lament the land of the rising sun. During this time, the rise of smaller, imported Japanese cars caught Detroit automakers not paying attention, as sales figures showed that between 1978 and 1980, U.S. automakers lost more of their share in the market when sales of small cars in the United States increased by a third. In February 1980, UAW President Douglas Fraser traveled to Japan to persuade Japanese automakers to impose voluntary export restraints and to consider setting up operations in the U.S. However, the Japanese companies were reluctant to enter the unfamiliar American business environment. By July, the UAW and Ford urged the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) to investigate whether the influx of Japanese cars was harming the domestic auto industry. Despite their claims, in November the ITC ruled that the economic troubles were primarily due to the recession and the U.S. industry's inability to meet the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles. The narrative of doom regarding Japanese imports took hold, influenced by the political climate during the 1980 presidential election. At a campaign stop in Michigan, Ronald Reagan assured auto workers, “There is a place where government can be legitimately involved, and this is where I think government has a role it has shirked so far, and that is to convince the Japanese one way or another, and in their own best interest, the deluge of cars into the United States must be slowed while our industry gets back on its feet.” Despite the strong urge from a bipartisan group of lawmakers to implement trade restrictions, nothing significant occurred initially. During Reagan’s early administration, pressure was applied to Japan's Ministry of International Trade and Industry, resulting in the Voluntary Export Restraint (VER) agreement that took effect on May 1, 1981. Under this agreement, Japan set its own quotas on car exports to the U.S., starting with 1.68 million vehicles per year from 1981 to 1983, which later increased to 2.3 million by 1985. Related: How Honda and Other Japanese Redefined the American Car Final ThoughtsIt is important to recognize this small detail in the EU's proposal, where it asks Chinese automakers about "planned future investments in the EU," as it could have consequences for both the EU and China, based on what has happened in the United States as a result of the similar policy it enacted to combat Japanese imports. This period in the 80s led Japanese automakers to explore U.S. local manufacturing to avoid export restraints. Honda came first to Marysville in 1982, followed by Nissan's opening of its Smyrna, Tennessee assembly plant in 1983. Toyota opened its Georgetown, Kentucky assembly plant in 1988, and Subaru followed with the opening of its Lafayette, Indiana plant in 1989. The impact is undeniable. According to the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, over 110,000 people are directly employed by Japanese automakers. Since 1982, Japanese automakers have produced over 100 million vehicles in the US, and one in three cars made in the country bears a Japanese brand badge. If they play ball, Chinese automakers have an opportunity to redefine the face of the European car and, hopefully, revitalize Europe's industrial core if they meet eye to eye on all fronts. Related: Watch A Chinese EV Beat Ferrari When Conditions Are Not Perfect View the full article
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I Spent a Week With the MG Cyberster—Here’s What Living With the World’s Only Electric Roadster Is Really Like
What Is It?Electric performance cars are everywhere now, but electric roadsters? That list is basically empty. Tesla has been teasing its next-gen Roadster for years, but it has yet to materialize as a model anyone can buy. Right now, if you want a real, buyable, open-top EV two-seat sports car, there’s exactly one answer. This is the MG Cyberster. I spent time behind the wheel, and it’s one of the more interesting EVs I’ve driven – not because it’s perfect, but because it tries something genuinely different in a market full of samey electric crossovers. Before we get into it, one important caveat for American readers: you can’t buy this car in the US – at least not yet. Following its global debut in 2022, it is now available in Europe and Asia. Still, as a glimpse of where EV sports cars could be heading, the Cyberster is worth paying attention to. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog The Cyberster is MG’s first fully electric sports car and its boldest statement since the brand was reborn under China’s SAIC. Historically, MG built lightweight, affordable British roadsters. The Cyberster doesn’t pretend to be that. Instead, it’s a modern electric grand tourer that borrows the idea of an MG roadster – two seats, rear-drive proportions, open top – and filters it through a very 2020s, very tech-heavy lens. It looks like a concept car because, frankly, it kind of is. Scissor doors, dramatic surfacing, a wide stance, and a cabin dominated by screens all signal that MG wasn’t aiming for subtlety. This is a car designed to stop people mid-scroll on Instagram and mid-step in parking lots. And it does. Everywhere. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog The SpecsUnderneath the dramatic bodywork, the Cyberster runs a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup paired with a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery. Combined output sits at 536 horsepower and 535 lb-ft of torque, which explains why the car feels genuinely fast the moment you press the accelerator. MG claims a 0-62 mph time of around 3.2 seconds, and based on real-world experience, that figure feels entirely believable. The weight is where things change. At about 4,376 pounds, the Cyberster is much heavier than classic roadsters, and you feel that in how it drives. It’s also bigger than a Miata, measuring 178.5 inches long and 75.3 inches wide, with a 105.9-inch wheelbase. Even so, it doesn’t feel bulky or hard to handle from the driver’s seat. A smart feature is the selectable two-wheel-drive mode, which disconnects the front motor. In places where you don’t need all-wheel drive, this helps save energy and still gives you plenty of performance for daily use. It’s the setting you’ll probably use most often. Official range is about 313 miles, but in real-world driving – especially in AWD mode – it’s closer to 250 miles. If you switch to 2WD and drive more gently, you’ll see better efficiency. Charging depends on the market and spec. The car I drove only had a GBT port and no fast charging, but MG says customer cars get Type 2 AC and DC fast charging, so a 10 to 80 percent charge takes about 38 minutes on a 150 kW charger. Depends on the market, I guess. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog What’s It Like?The Cyberster looks expensive, dramatic, and unapologetically flashy. The scissor doors are the obvious party trick, but they’re not just for show – there are built-in sensors to prevent you from opening them into obstacles. The downside is that those sensors are very cautious. Park on a sideways incline, and the doors refuse to open entirely unless you’re on flat ground. Clever, but occasionally annoying. Now, the soft top is excellent. It opens or closes in about 10 seconds and can be operated at speeds up to roughly 31 mph. If rain suddenly hits while you’re moving, you don’t need to pull over or crawl to a stop. That’s a genuinely useful feature. Despite its dimensions, the Cyberster doesn’t feel huge from the driver’s seat. The hood is long, yes, but the car shrinks around you once you’re moving, especially in city driving. One nitpick, though – arrowheads for turn signals do look as corny as this car’s name, but it has its charm (according to some strangers who found it cool). Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Inside, the Cyberster is all about screens. There’s a curved, driver-focused display with a 10.25-inch digital cluster and two 7-inch side screens. There’s also a fourth screen for settings and HVAC controls. All these screens are powered by Qualcomm hardware and Unreal Engine graphics. The visuals are sharp and quick to respond, but all those screens pick up fingerprints fast. You’ll be wiping them down often. The red leather interior looks upscale, though not everyone will like it. Storage is decent for a roadster: you get door bins, a center console, cupholders, and a small space behind the seats. The trunk is there, but it’s tight, and the opening to the cabin storage is smaller than it looks from the outside. One surprising miss at this price point: no auto-hold function. In heavy traffic or long stoplights, especially with button-based gear selection, it’s something you really feel the absence of. It does have Adaptive Cruise Control, but it’s not as refined and advanced as what other automakers offer, so there’s that. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog In a straight line, the Cyberster is genuinely quick, but not as quick as you’d be switching off its artificial sound in the cabin, with a choice between a combustion engine and sci-fi. They just sound too cringey, at best. The steering lets you adjust weight, but feedback is limited. It’s accurate enough, but it doesn’t talk to you the way a true sports car does. This is where the Cyberster shows its grand touring bias. Ride quality is on the softer side, and that’s intentional. The suspension prioritizes comfort over razor-sharp handling. On highways, it’s almost excellent – stable and genuinely relaxing for a convertible, though I wish it were a little quieter. Then again, it’s a soft-top, so that’s a given. On twisty roads, the weight becomes apparent. It’s fun, but it’s not playful in the way lighter roadsters are. Efficiency depends heavily on how you drive. In AWD mode, the range drops quickly if you lean on the performance. Switch to 2WD, and things improve noticeably, making it the mode you’ll likely use most of the time. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog VerdictThe MG Cyberster is a unique car that does not fit neatly into any category. It is not a lightweight purist’s roadster or a dedicated track car, but it is a fast, open-top EV with character. As tested, the sole Cyberster variant in the Philippines is priced at P4.5 million, which converts to about $80,000 to $85,000. At that kind of figure, you’re not just competing with warmed-over crossovers; you’re in the territory of well-equipped sporty EVs and performance cars. For that money in the US, you might be weighing things like a Mustang Mach-E GT, a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, or even lightly used Porsche 718s. None of those are open-top electric sports cars, though – which is the Cyberster’s real claim to fame. The closest competitor, however, is the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore, but that’s a 2+2 electric roadster priced at a staggering $121,700, with deep discounts already factored in. Sure, the Cyberster has compromises, but what it does have is presence, pace, and an open-air driving experience that electric cars have largely ignored. The Cyberster isn’t perfect, and that’s part of what makes it interesting. For now, before the long-promised Tesla Roadster becomes a reality, the MG Cyberster stands alone as proof that electric sports cars can be bold, emotional, and genuinely fun. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Jeep Doubles Down on the All-Electric Recon as EV Sales Slide
Time's a Changin'2025 was a turning point year for EVs, not just globally but, more importantly, in the United States. While the rest of the world stopped buying due to other concerns, one major reason the U.S. stopped was the removal of the $7,500 tax credit for EV purchases just before Q4 of 2025. This saw panic buying in Q3, following a major sales slump in Q4. Numbers don't lie: EV sales dropped 46% in Q4 compared to the previous quarter. More alarmingly, in 2025, EVs accounted for only 5.8% of U.S. sales in Q4, a level not reached since 2022. Stellantis Doubling DownThis sales decline has continued into early 2026; some brands have pivoted, and others have become more conservative. Jeep, meanwhile, seems to still be going in on EV. In a recent interview with CarBuzz, Jeep CEO Bob Broderdorf was asked whether the current market conditions and recent developments would affect the launch of its all-electric off-roader, the Recon. Broderdorf quickly and unequivocally responded by saying, "If the car wasn’t cool, or I didn’t love it, maybe I would be thinking about [canceling] it. But I can’t wait to get you in a Recon. It’s legit. You’ll like it. It’s fun. I can sell that car, the brand; people love the car. We’re all-in on Recon. So no, it’s not going anywhere." Bob's enthusiasm for the Recon seems to stem from the fact that it is a true Jeep, built for enthusiasts, with the benefits of EV technology. What makes Mr. Broderdorf's statements shocking is that sister company Ram has already announced that it'll be cancelling its all-electric pickup project. Not to mention, the Recon comes with a steep price tag starting at $66,695, including destination charge. Stellantis Cool FactorSet for a Summer of 2026 arrival, the Jeep Recon will be a trail-rated mid-size SUV. Some of the key features include a dual-electric motor system that delivers 650 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque, despite the heft, enabling the Recon to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. Range is expected to be around 230-250 miles, and it'll come with the customary off-road features like an e-locker, skid plates, tow hooks, and 9.1 inches of ground clearance. All of these headline specs and the retro-modern design are what keep Broderdorf committed to the project. In the same interview, he said the Recon is "awesome" and that he "loves it." We can't help but admire his optimism despite the hardships; only time will tell whether the gamble pays off. Stellantis View the full article
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Toyota's New Boss Has No Idea About the Celica's Current Development
Toyota’s Top Job Gets a Numbers GuyToyota is set to appoint Kenta Kon as its new CEO, a move that has left some enthusiasts cautious, given his background in the company’s finance division. That concern was underscored after Kon admitted during a recent press conference that he was not aware of any current development surrounding the Celica project. The incoming CEO did acknowledge admiring the nameplate for a long time, particularly after seeing the sports car in 1987’s Watashi no Ski ni Tsuretette (Take Me Out to the Snowland). What he told the fan who asked the question, however, was that he assumes development is progressing (skip to 1:11:45). https://www.youtube.com/live/LvKatNWgrzw Not a Newcomer to Toyota’s Inner CircleTo be fair, Kon served as Chairman Akio Toyoda’s secretary from 2009 before moving into senior accounting and finance leadership roles in 2017. While his focus may lean toward the financial side, Toyoda and outgoing CEO Koji Sato continue to spearhead the development of enthusiast-focused performance models under the Gazoo Racing (GR) banner. But now that he’s set to represent Toyota – a brand closely associated with enthusiast models like the GR Corolla – he will likely become more directly involved in vehicle development, especially as the company has positioned itself as enthusiast-friendly. Toyota has even committed to keeping internal-combustion models alive, at a time when other automakers, such as Volvo, have made significant shifts toward electric vehicles. Kon will officially take office on April 1, with Sato transitioning to a vice chairman role, where he will oversee broader industry trends. Toyota What the Next Celica Might Actually BeAs for early rumors about the Celica, the model could return as an all-wheel-drive (AWD) coupe, setting it apart from the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) GR86 and GR Supra. Given Toyota's aggressive push toward hybridization – which has seen the RAV4 become exclusively hybrid in the U.S. – it wouldn’t be surprising if the Celica, or perhaps a GR Celica, uses electric motors as part of its powertrain. As long as new directives at Toyota don’t conflict with its enthusiast-focused programs like motorsports, the Celica project should remain on track. Some argue that Toyota may begin tightening costs as competition intensifies from Chinese automakers, such as BYD, which have built a reputation for affordable vehicles. That sounds like an area that aligns closely with Kon’s finance-first background. But if all goes to plan, reports suggest the Celica nameplate could return within the next year or two. Toyota View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Sick Week Day 4 Video: A Full Day of Racing Brings NEW Leaders, WRECKS & Blown Engines For Veterans And Newbies Alike
After a long drive, and a rained out day of crappy weather the past two days, racers were really looking forward to Race Day 4. Unfortunately for some they pushed it just a bit too far and that means there are broken parts and bend bodies to deal with today. Ouch. Unfortunately, driving in the rain sucks but, not as badly as it sucks to show up to the race track and have rain. Everyone was excited to get some racing in on Day 4. Will Day 4 seperate the men from the boys? Video Description: Day 4 kicked off in Orlando with a full day of racing, and it ended up being the best day of the week so far. We saw new leaders emerge, a wreck that shook things up, and plenty of unexpected moments that changed how the standings look moving forward. After racing wrapped up, teams loaded up and hit the road for the drive to Gainesville where they will finish after submitting one last time-slip tomorrow. The post Sick Week Day 4 Video: A Full Day of Racing Brings NEW Leaders, WRECKS & Blown Engines For Veterans And Newbies Alike appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article
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TOM’S Turns the Toyota Century Into a $200,000 Japanese Luxury Statement
Japan's Final Boss CarWe keep talking about cars from China that we can’t have. How about a Japanese model instead? The Toyota Century is Japan’s ultimate expression of automotive opulence. It is a chauffeur-driven flagship that blends advanced engineering with generational craftsmanship. The design is restrained and formal, and its presence is quiet yet commanding. In Japan, it is the car of statesmen, industry leaders, and, yes, the final boss. Then there is TOM’S. Corolla fans know the name. TOM’S built its reputation through motorsport and factory-backed tuning programs. It has modified Supras, Corollas, and even prior Century models. The company understands Toyota's performance at a fundamental level. It has now applied that expertise to the brand’s most luxurious and dignified sedan. Toms Racing View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The TOM’S Century: Bespoke Craft Meets PerformanceTOM’S calls this the “Complete” version. It begins with a carefully selected used Century sedan. Vehicles with accident damage or frame repairs are excluded. Each unit is inspected and refreshed at the Toyota Gotemba factory. Worn components are replaced or restored before modification begins. The exterior is fitted with hand-laid fiber-reinforced plastic components. These include a new front bumper, side diffusers, rear under diffuser, trunk spoiler, and TOM’S barrel exhaust with exposed tailpipes. The look remains elegant but gains visible tension. Optional BBS RZ-D ultra-super duralumin forged wheels add a sharper stance and reduced weight. Inside, quilted nappa leather and Alcantara define the cabin. Buyers can specify leather color, stitching style, piping, and embroidery. Pricing starts at approximately $201,000. That figure includes the donor vehicle and TOM’S standard specification upgrades. This Complete package includes warranty support. The car undergoes a Toyota dealer inspection equivalent to a 12-month mandatory check. It retains the manufacturer’s new car warranty. The general warranty covers most components for three years or 37,000 miles. The special warranty covers critical systems for five years or 62,000 miles. TOM’S bodywork carries a one-year or 12,000-mile warranty. Delivery across Japan, and ONLY Japan, takes approximately two to three weeks. Toms Racing View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The Final Boss Does Not Come CheapAt roughly $201,000 and up, the TOM’S Century does not pretend to be attainable. It sits far above ordinary luxury sedans. The pricing reflects the donor car, the hand-built components, and the bespoke interior work. This is not a catalog body kit. It is a curated transformation backed by factory-level inspection and warranty support. That cost is intentional. A final boss car should demand commitment. It should feel rare, and it is, but at the same time, it feels earned. The TOM’S Century embodies that philosophy. It blends dignity with discreet aggression and craftsmanship with performance intent. In the hierarchy of Japanese luxury sedans, this is the top-tier encounter. Toms Racing View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article
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Major Automakers Have Written Off $55 Billion After Overestimating EV Demand
Scaling back electric vehicle investments amid the EV sales slump does not come cheap for automakers. That’s actually putting it mildly as companies are in fact taking a massive financial burden, having been forced to reduce, delay or cancel many EV projects. As the auto industry pivots from earlier EV growth plans to slowing demand in key markets and unfavorable political climate, global automakers have recorded billions of dollars in losses—a total or around $55 billion, according to Reuters. Stellantis Leads The Pack With $26.2 Billion Write-Down Stellantis is the latest automaker to announce how much over-estimating the pace of the energy transition has cost it, disclosing $26.2 billion in write-downs during the second half of 2025. The announcement vaporized more than 20% of the value of Stellantis shares, with the stock reaching its lowest level in six years. Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa blamed shifting consumer demand, evolving emissions rules in the U.S. and a need to reorganize the company’s portfolio as key factors behind the massive write-down. The automaker is significantly pulling back on its electrification strategy in North America, canceling the Ram 1500 REV all-electric pickup and entry-level Dodge Charger Daytona R/T EV, shelving the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT Banshee electric muscle car, and dropping all plug-in hybrid Jeep and Chrysler models for the 2026 model year. Ford Is A Close Second With $19.5 Billion But the Franco-Italian carmaker is not the only one to make such an announcement. Ford said in December that it would take a $19.5 billion write-down tied to its EV operations, the cancellation of several electric models (most notably the F-150 Lightning) and fresh investments in gas and hybrid vehicles. In January, a similar announcement came from General Motors, which revealed a $6 billion charge in relation to a reduction in EV investments. The automaker said that included $4.2 billion in cash costs stemming from contract cancellations and settlements with suppliers. The General had already taken a $1.6 billion EV write-down in the third quarter. Europe’s largest automaker, Volkswagen Group, also revealed a $6 billion hit in September because of a far-reaching product overhaul at its Porsche subsidiary. The luxury brand had to delay and even cancel some EV models in favor of hybrids and combustion engine cars. The sum included an impairment charge of around $3.5 billion. How Did It Come To This? Stellantis There are many factors that have led to this situation, with the most important being the discontinuation of the EV federal tax credit at the end of Q3 2025, the Trump administration’s rollback of Biden-era fuel economy standards in December 2025, and a big disconnect between automakers' projections of EV adoption and the reality in showrooms. At an international level, another big factor was the European Union’s cancellation of its 2035 EV mandate in December 2025. On top of all these problems, legacy carmakers are also struggling to keep up with newcomers, mainly from China. In Europe, for example, the combined market share of Chinese automakers rose to 6.1% in 2025, nearly doubling from 3.1% in 2024, according to Automotive News Europe. In December 2025, their market share almost hit 10%. In Mexico, Chinese-made vehicles reached almost 20% of total new vehicle sales last year, according to Mexico News Daily, making China the top supplier for the Mexican automotive market. View the full article
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Scout Is Calling Out Modern EV Design With Something as Simple as Door Handles
Volkswagen’s Scout brand is getting closer to production of its Traveler SUV and Terra pickup truck, with these tough EVs set to reach showrooms next year—assuming the brand can extricate itself from some legal drama over its direct sales model before then. With both fully electric and range-extender versions of the vehicles coming, Scout is now emphasizing its models’ shunning of gimmicky, overly high-tech controls. In a not-so-subtle dig aimed at rivals like Rivian, Scout put out a post this week highlighting its use of “real door handles, real buttons, and real knobs”. Scout Keeps It SimpleTried and true. Real door handles, real buttons, and real knobs. Innovation matters. Elements that work for you, even when your hands are wet, muddy, gloved, or full. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it#ScoutMotors #TheWorldNeedsScouts pic.twitter.com/oaoD0YRXWw — Scout Motors (@Scout_Motors) February 4, 2026 In a post on X, Scout showed off more of its EV’s interior and exterior design, and there’s a lot to like. Scout said “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”—this is a reference to its use of physical buttons and knobs. Its vehicles will also use conventional door handles, not the flush-mounted, electric pop-out door handles that have been the subject of much controversy in recent months. Late last year, the owner of a Rivian expressed serious concern about how difficult his vehicle’s doors were to open if the electric handles failed in an emergency. He specifically said his kids would be unable to escape the car in an emergency, as the manual override handle was far too complicated to access. Scout EV interior controls S View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Scout has obviously been keeping an eye on all of this, turning something as rudimentary as a normal door handle into a selling point. The manufacturer highlights that its vehicles’ controls can be operated even if your hands are full, muddied, or gloved. In new pictures posted by the brand, the physical controls extend to the roof-mounted panel. The steering wheel also eschews silly capacitive panels for large scroll wheels and real buttons. Scout hasn’t teleported back to the 1990s, though; its EVs still get modern, crisp displays for driver information and the center touchscreen. Related: China Has Officially Banned Tesla-Style Flush Door Handles A Turning Point For Modern Car Design? Scout Motors The futuristic, obsessively minimalist design trends influencing car design may have finally reached its peak. Scout’s little post marks a return to the sensible functionality enjoyed in vehicles until around the 2010s. This doesn’t mean we have to shun tech like screens, in-car gaming, and over-the-air software updates; rather, Scout is reminding us that new and old can seamlessly co-exist. Other brands are moving in a similar direction. Audi reintroduced proper steering wheel buttons in modern EVs like the A6 Sportback e-tron, and Kia recently committed to retaining key tactile controls for its models’ interiors. Furthermore, Scout’s specific mention of normal door handles will avoid it running into future regulatory challenges. China has just banned electric door handles, as found in EVs like Teslas and Rivians. We can expect local safety authorities to adopt similar rules in the near future, as this tech has been linked to several deaths as occupants become trapped in vehicles. For Scout, usability is being sold as the new luxury, and that’s no bad thing if it makes for safer vehicles. View the full article
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Horsepower Wars C10 Shootout: the 100-Mile Cruise and the Race (Ep 6)
The Horsepower Wars C10 Shootout is coming to its natural conclusion with a 100-mile cruise and then race, where the best 1/8-mile time wins.View the full article
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A Trike Stark Varg? Sure, Why Not
The fine folks at CBoysTV are at it again, building wild machines and tearing things up. But their latest build, a Stark Varg converted to a trike has to be one of their wilder builds. View the full article
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China’s Safety Rules Put an End to the Hidden Door Handle Trend
The End of Hidden Door Handles?The sleek, flush door handles that Tesla popularized have become automotive design's equivalent of form over function, taken too far. China's new safety regulations explicitly prohibit these hidden mechanisms, marking the first time a major market has drawn a regulatory line in the sand, with more markets likely to follow. It’s not hard to see why there’s backlash against hidden door handles. In certain crash scenarios involving power loss, these mechanisms may fail to operate as intended, potentially delaying or complicating occupant egress when time matters most. What began as a clean design flourish has increasingly revealed itself as a point of vulnerability rather than progress. Cadillac When Minimalist Design Philosophy Meets RealityThere’s no denying the visual appeal of hidden door handles. They help improve aerodynamics and drag coefficients to a minor extent, and just look futuristic, right? However, they’re also powered by electricity, have added mechanical complexity, and are potential points of failure. Simple mechanical levers have been reliable for over one hundred years and counting at this point. Interior emergency release mechanisms located beneath speakers or in the door pocket (where occupants may not even think to look) indicate that designers knew that these systems had some issues with reliability. Manufacturers apparently think that most owners would remember plan B to open their doors in moments of panic. This optimism has been shown to be less-than-ideal at best, deadly at worst, and one that safety regulators are increasingly unwilling to accept. Volvo View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Regulatory Domino EffectAutomakers now have to decide if they want to continue to manufacture two types of door handles for two distinct markets – including a third of the world’s vehicle sales in China - and pay for the increased cost and complexity of manufacturing. Or, they could go back to traditional exterior/interior door handles that work regardless of the situation. Nissan Since automotive regulations never seem to reverse themselves once safety data builds up, it looks like the writing is on the wall for electrically-operated door handles. The next generation of electric vehicles will likely feature door handles that look like door handles again – and prove that sometimes the old ways are just better than the new ones we come up with. View the full article
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Toyota Wants EVs That Keep Running After a Motor Failure
What Happens When an EV Motor BreaksIn most modern EVs, a major motor or inverter problem leads to one of two outcomes. Either the car stops completely, or, if you’re in an all-wheel-drive (dual-motor) setup, it just switches off the failed motor and keeps moving with the other. Tesla drivers have seen this firsthand: a Model 3 or Model Y can lose a front or rear motor to a fault, but as long as one motor is still working, the car keeps going – just with less power. This setup gets the job done, but it depends on having backup hardware. If your EV only has one drive motor, or if the other motor can’t handle the extra work, you’re out of luck. The broken part is shut down entirely, and your only option is to get it fixed – there’s no smart trick to keep you moving. Toyota’s new patent takes a different approach. Instead of asking what happens if you add another motor, it asks: what if a single motor didn’t have to give up completely when something inside it fails? Toyota’s Latest IdeaSubmitted to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in March 2025 (you can check it out yourself using patent no. 20260034888) and published February 5, 2026, Toyota’s filing outlines a fault-tolerant motor drive system for electric vehicles. Put simply, the patent describes a motor controller that can spot certain internal problems, like a short or open circuit in part of the inverter, and then change how it sends power to the motor. Instead of shutting everything down, it cuts off the damaged part and keeps the rest running. The motor might run with fewer working phases, less power, and lower efficiency, but it keeps spinning. The point isn’t to keep full performance – it’s to give you enough control to pull over safely, get to the side of the road, or limp home, rather than being stuck. This is more like a true hardware-level limp mode, not just software that limits speed or power. Not Headed to Showrooms... YetThe main difference with Toyota’s idea is where the backup actually sits. In Teslas, redundancy means having more than one motor. If one fails, it’s turned off, and the car relies on the other to keep moving. Toyota’s patent is about building a backup into a single motor. Even if part of the inverter fails, the motor isn’t dead weight. The system adjusts how it powers the motor windings and keeps going, just with less capability. Of note, this doesn’t guarantee longer-lasting motors or cheaper repairs, and it doesn’t mean Toyota EVs like the bZ already have this feature. Patents are often just ideas, and plenty never make it to production. But it does show Toyota is thinking about ways to avoid total breakdowns and make failures less painful for drivers. If this ever shows up in a production car, it could change how EVs deal with problems. Instead of ignoring a fault or shutting down, the car would keep fighting to get you home. View the full article