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From Vague Talks to a Clearer TargetLast November, Nissan let slip that it was talking with Honda about teaming up in North America. Back then, CEO Ivan Espinosa kept things vague – just hints about working together on products or powertrains, nothing nailed down. Now, things are starting to take shape. Espinosa says the talks are still alive, but this time the target is clearer: the D-segment. That means midsize SUVs, crossovers, and maybe even bigger electrified platforms – where the costs (and risks) are higher, and teaming up actually pays off. Getty Images Still No Deal, But Talks ContinueIn a recent interview with Automotive News, Espinosa confirmed that discussions with Honda remain active, even if nothing concrete has been finalized. “We continue talking about what we could do in North America, particularly around the D segment, larger vehicles, not C segment, but above the C segment,” he said. When asked about the slow pace, Espinosa did not point to any behind-the-scenes drama. According to him, it is simply about timing and priorities. “We will announce when we are ready and we finished talking. Maybe it should not come as a surprise that they are also having some other things to do at the moment. But we continue very, very active and very constructive talks with them,” Espinosa said. That last part matters. Despite the failed merger attempt between the two Japanese marques, both of them are still at the table, albeit working on a different approach. Bloomberg/Getty Images So, What Can We Expect?So what does Honda actually bring to the table? Most signs point to hybrid tech. That fits with where Nissan is right now. Nissan has its own e-Power system coming soon to models like the Rogue, but that’s a series hybrid, not a series-parallel setup like Honda’s. That difference is key. Espinosa has already confirmed that a new V6 hybrid system is on the way, and it will use a parallel setup. This is an area where Honda brings a lot more experience to the table. This is where models like the returning Nissan Xterra start to make sense. It’s confirmed to use a V6 hybrid setup, which makes it a strong candidate for joint development. The Pathfinder is another likely fit. It launched in 2021 and just got a facelift, so Nissan is likely already planning the next version. A hybrid system with Honda’s input could be a smart move as fuel economy becomes a bigger priority. In return, Nissan could offer its body-on-frame platform to Honda – a segment that’s currently missing in the latter’s portfolio. For now, these are still informed guesses. What is clear is that Nissan and Honda are not done exploring ways to team up, even after last year’s rough patch. The door is not shut, but it is not wide open either. Nissan View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Brad Pitt is producing a feature movie about the Isle of Man TT, starring Channing Tatum, and they're about to start filming at this year's event.View the full article

Novelis Fire IncidentsThe Ford F-150's unique selling point is, ironically, the reason why it's in a spot of trouble at the moment. Granted, it's still selling well, but the pickup's body is mostly aluminum, and there's been a bit of a shortage lately. That's mainly due to the successive fires from Ford's supplier, Novelis. Three fires broke out over two months last year, and the affected facilities are still not at 100%. Production disruptions have been the theme of the F-150, and sales have taken a hit. The PinchAutomotive News recently ran a piece about the F-150 supply issue. One dealer, the publication spoke, said that its 'Truck Month' inventory went from about 700 units, down to just nine. "It's a heap of a mess. Outside of COVID, I’ve never seen an F-150 shortage like this," said Nick Anderson, general manager of Chuck Anderson Ford in Kansas. Chuck Anderson Ford isn't that far away from the Kansas Truck Plant that builds these pickups. If a closed dealer is having trouble, imagine what the rest of the dealers are going through right now. Per the publication, stocks and inventory are down by a whopping 43%. Ford Costing More Than SalesIt's not that Ford has stopped production of its best-selling product in the world (no exaggeration) because of the domestic aluminum supply shortage. It's still ongoing, although it's not at the pace the company would like. But because of the pickup's construction, Ford has been forced to source aluminum from abroad. The trouble is, imported aluminum is subject to a 50% tariff, so Ford is facing a massive bill for it as well. If Ford builds more, it will need more of that imported aluminum, and that bill will keep getting higher. On the flip side, building less would entail massive opportunity costs, effectively handing sales to GM and Stellantis. The company had asked for relief from those tariffs, but has been rebuffed by the White House. Ford Supply Will Normalize, But When?It's been over half a year since the fires, but supply is still not back to normal levels. Speaking to the publication, Rick Wainschel, vice president of analytics at CatalystIQ, said, "The longer-term repercussions of this are pretty profound. There’s been a lot of churn in the segment. F-150's supply advantage is gone." That said, Ford aims to get things back in order by the second half of the year. By then, the company hopes that the Novelis facility it sources aluminum from will be fully operational. To make up for lost time, the automaker will continue churning out F-Series models throughout the summer. Ford's lead in the full-size pickup sales race is still there, and we wouldn't be too surprised if it still manages to retain its crown by the end of the year. However, the gap between it and its rivals could narrow as long as the aluminum supply issue isn't resolved. With the next-generation F-150 coming in 2029, there may be lessons to be learned from this crisis. Ford View the full article

The Electric Truck Slowdown ContinuesDetroit’s electric truck push is running out of steam. Ford’s F-150 Lightning took a back seat to hybrids last year, and Ram’s 1500 BEV never even made it to showrooms. Now GM is following suit, though not pulling the plug entirely. According to reports, GM has put its next wave of full-size electric trucks on indefinite hold. These were supposed to be the more budget-friendly, updated EV pickups and SUVs. The original 2028 launch window is out the window, and there’s no new date in sight. Chevrolet Not Dead, Just Pushed BackAccording to Crain’s Detroit Business and reported by Automotive News, GM recently told suppliers to stop work on the next-generation program. The latter reportedly doesn’t expect movement until at least 2030, if at all. The program includes successors to models like the Chevrolet Silverado EV, GMC Sierra EV, Cadillac Escalade IQ, and GMC Hummer EV. These vehicles will continue to be produced in their current form at Factory Zero in Detroit-Hamtramck. Of note, GM isn’t walking away from electric trucks completely. They’ve poured a lot into their EV platform, and there’s no sign they’re scrapping that investment. What’s changing is the approach: more flexibility, less all-or-nothing. Now, GM is shifting resources back to gas and hybrid trucks, including a new T1-2 platform that’s coming to Orion Assembly. There’s also buzz about plug-in hybrid Silverados and Sierras, and maybe even extended-range EVs, much like what the competition is cooking up. GM isn’t making any promises about when the next EV trucks will show up, or even what they’ll look like. For now, it’s a waiting game, with market demand, shifting policies, and rising costs all playing a part. General Motors Startups Hold the Ground—For NowWith Detroit easing off the gas on EV trucks, it’s the newcomers holding down the fort. The TeslaCybertruck and Rivian R1T are still the most visible all-electric pickups in the US, both from brands that have been all-in on EVs since day one. The difference is starting to show. Legacy brands like GM are juggling profits, changing rules, and what buyers actually want – especially when it comes to their cash-cow full-size trucks. EVs are still in the long-term picture, but the timeline keeps getting pushed out. Right now, this feels like a reset. People still want electric trucks, but not in the numbers automakers were betting on. If anything, GM’s latest move hints that the next chapter for EVs is about hedging bets and keeping options open until the market is ready to catch up. Cadillac View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The couple that races together stays together. Nick Cole-Mann and Sarah Jaeger have built two quick stick-shift GM trucks. View the full article

Coming Soon Nissan Motor has done it, at least to its standard. The company has announced that it is closer to mass-producing solid-state batteries by 2028, which is on track with other brands like Toyota and Honda to bring solid-state cells to market. Nikkei Asia has the scoop, stating that Nissan's 23-layer solid-state battery tech is close to planned mass production for 2028. The company achieved its performance goals for commercialization. The story comes from a technical briefing that highlights battery, charging, and AI software technologies that the Japanese brand is looking to commercialize in the coming years. Nissan Solid-State over Lithium-Ion If you've been following EV and technology news, you might find that there's bound to be a tectonic shift happening soon in the world of batteries. Portable power over the last 20 years has become exceedingly important in everyday life. Smartphones, cars, and even the laptop I'm using right now to write this article all use batteries. The most widely used battery technology in almost all devices right now is lithium-ion. In terms of energy density, lithium-ion technology is reaching a plateau. Enter solid-state batteries, which can hold double the energy density compared to a comparably-sized lithium-ion cell. Donut Lab Double the Capacity, Double the Range Now that each individual solid-state cell can hold more charge than a lithium-ion cell given the same footprint, it's safe to say that future EVs will offer double the driving range. Nowadays, getting 300 miles out of a single charge is great (like in the 2026 Nissan Leaf), but what if that could go to about 600 miles on a single charge on nothing but battery power? Currently, that figure can only be achieved by range-extended electric vehicles. On top of all that, solid-state batteries can withstand high-output charging, reducing charging time by about two-thirds compared to industry standards. Even Faster Charging With battery technology being pushed to the absolute limit by Chinese automakers like BYD, with its Flash Charging, and Geely, with its Energee Golden Brick, clocking in sub-5-minute charge times, we could see this number go lower and lower as long as the right charger is in play. Nissan has developed a new bidirectional charger that will launch in the market by 2028. On top of charging, the bidirectional design of the charger means it can also plug into a house's power grid, providing emergency power should the lights go out. The brand is also aiming to sell its new charger at a much lower price than what's available. It's estimated that some chargers can cost about $10,000, but Nissan aims to make its charging technology more affordable to put it in more homes. Nissan also plans to sell surplus power back to the grid as soon as 2030 with its charging technology. AI Software that Writes Itself Finally, software-defined vehicles for Nissan in the near future. The brand plans to adopt an in-house platform this year, aimed at promoting the development of vehicle software. Essentially, it's software that writes itself, using data collected from vehicles. Nissan will use this software to roll out artificial intelligence-powered autonomous driving features by 2027. We might also start seeing an "AI-Partner" feature in new Nissan models, which covers areas like navigation and other activities by monitoring in-car conversations (creepy, but kind of cool, I guess?). As for the spread of this software, Nikkei Asia reported that the brand will equip around 90% of its models with AI autonomous driving capabilities, which is a part of the brand's long-term strategy. As stated by Takashi Yoshizawa, a corporate executive at Nissan, "We'll advance the integrated development of AI-Drive, AI-Partner and AI software and promote the intelligent transformation of our vehicles." Nis View the full article

If you were tracking the Pacific storm that buried Donner Pass overnight, it's not done. The same upper-low is now progressing into Montana, and the National Weather Service has upgraded its earlier Winter Storm Watches to full Winter Storm Warnings across the mountains of southwest and south-central Montana. Two NWS offices are coordinating on this one: Great Falls and Billings. The window runs from Wednesday evening through Friday morning, and this is not a light spring dusting. Same Storm, Different Exit The Weather Prediction Center has been tracking this system as a single mid-level closed low since it slid off the California coast Monday. On Tuesday, it parked over the Sierra Nevada and dropped snow rates of one to two inches per hour on Donner Pass and Echo Summit. It is now progressing inland, and will reach the northern Rockies later in the day, which is where Montana comes in. WPC's own Probabilistic Heavy Snow Discussion spells it out: as the California system moves inland, snow spreads initially across Nevada and eastern Oregon tonight, then reaches central to northern Idaho, western Montana and western Wyoming beginning late Wednesday and continuing through Thursday. Snow levels that start near 9,000 feet at onset fall steadily to 4,000 to 5,000 feet by Thursday morning. Two Warning Zones, Two Different TimelinesNWS Great Falls issued a Winter Storm Warning late Tuesday night for the Gallatin, Madison and Centennial Mountains. Five to twelve inches of heavy wet snow with higher amounts over the peaks, wind gusts up to 40 mph, in effect from 6 PM Wednesday to 6 PM MDT Thursday. Named locations include Big Sky, West Yellowstone, Raynolds Pass and Targhee Pass. NWS Billings issued its own Warning for the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, including Cooke City. This one runs longer — 6 PM Wednesday through 6 AM MDT Friday. Eight to fifteen inches of snow with gusts up to 60 mph, strongest east of the Stillwater River Valley. Both warnings specifically call out heavy wet snow, which means power outages and tree damage are on the table, not just slick roads. The Roads That MatterThis hits the main routes into Montana's ski and gateway towns. US-191 through Gallatin Canyon is your primary route from I-90 south through Big Sky to West Yellowstone, and it climbs right into the warning zone. US-20 over Targhee Pass is the western approach from Idaho. For Cooke City, the Beartooth Highway stays closed until late May — you're going through Yellowstone's North Entrance and across the park. Expect conditions to deteriorate Wednesday evening, with the worst overnight into Thursday. Montana's mountain passes have been active this spring. Easter weekend saw similar warnings across Wyoming and Montana as late-season Pacific systems continue to track through the northern Rockies. If You Still Have to DriveMontana DOT will call for chains when they need them. AWD doesn't get you out of that requirement. Standard mountain kit applies: chains, emergency supplies, full tank. If you get stuck, stay put and keep the exhaust clear. If you're shopping for something more capable for regular mountain drives, the 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness brings 9.5 inches of ground clearance, X-Mode terrain software, and all-terrain tires standard. It's the kind of setup that makes sense when Gallatin Canyon is part of your regular commute, not just a vacation route. Subaru Check 511mt.net before you leave. Yellowstone road status is at nps.gov/yell. The valley floors around Bozeman and Livingston get rain and wind. The warnings are for the mountains above. But if you're driving up into those mountains, you're driving into the warning. Make sure to plan around it, not through it. View the full article

Three rounds into the 2026 MotoGP World Championship and Aprilia has emerged as the early benchmark, with Ducati under pressure, Yamaha still searching for answers, Honda trending upward and KTM showing both promise and inconsistency ahead of Jerez. The post MotoGP Form Guide – What we learned from the first three rounds before Jerez appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Motorcycle Recall Notices Honda CB1000SP Hornet Recall Recall number – REC-006584 Campaign number – 3RK Original published date – 7 April 2026 Supplier details – HONDA AUSTRALIA MOTORCYCLE AND POWER EQUIPMENT PTY. LTD. Contact name – Honda Customer Relations Team Contact phone – 1300 559 846 Contact email – [email protected] Contact website – https://motorcycles.honda.com.au/contactus Honda […] The post Recall Round-Up: CB1000SP, CRF250/450, and Outlaw ATV appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A powerful Pacific storm system is slamming the Sierra Nevada right now, and conditions on California's mountain highways are about to get significantly worse. The National Weather Service has Winter Storm Warnings active from Lassen County south through Yosemite, Kings Canyon and Sequoia National Parks, with watches also covering Mono County and the greater Lake Tahoe region. The warnings run from 2 AM Tuesday through 5 PM Wednesday, and this is not a system to try to outrun. The StormA mid-level closed low off the California-Oregon coast is pushing inland tonight and will grind through the Sierra over the next 36 hours. The Weather Prediction Center is forecasting snow rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour across the higher terrain, with the heaviest accumulation expected Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. Snow levels start at 6,000 to 7,000 feet tonight, then drop steadily. By Wednesday they will be sitting at 4,500 to 5,500 feet, which pulls accumulating snow down to elevations that many drivers associate with rain, not winter conditions. At the highest terrain, 1 to 2 feet of snow is forecast. The southern Sierra above 7,000 feet could see 12 to 18 inches, with a few inches possible as low as 4,500 feet. Wind is the force multiplier. Sierra crest gusts could reach 75 to 90 mph, with 40 to 50 mph at lower elevations. That combination of heavy snow and high wind will produce extended whiteout conditions on exposed passes and ridgelines. The NWS is warning that visibility could drop below a quarter mile at times. The HighwaysI-80 over Donner Pass, US-50 over Echo Summit and US-395 along the eastern Sierra are all in the direct path. Chain controls are virtually guaranteed, and full closures are on the table once snow rates peak overnight Tuesday into Wednesday. This is the third Sierra storm in two weeks to threaten these corridors. I-80 closed in both directions during the April 12-13 storm after multiple spinouts on Donner Summit. Drivers should expect the same scenario this week. As of early Tuesday afternoon, more than 24,000 Californians were already without power, and the storm has not yet reached peak intensity. What Makes This One UnusualThis is a late April system bringing mid-winter conditions. The snow level drop from 7,000 feet to 4,500 feet over 24 hours means communities that rarely see accumulation in spring will be dealing with snow on the ground by Wednesday morning. Forecasters also warn that embedded thunderstorms are possible as the cold core of the low moves overhead, and AccuWeather senior meteorologist Dave Houk said a brief tornado cannot be ruled out in the Sacramento Valley on Tuesday. The storm arrives at a critical moment for California's water supply. The state's April 1 snowpack measurement came in at just 18 percent of average, the second-lowest on record. When surveyors checked Phillips Station in El Dorado County, they found no measurable snow at all. Late-season April storms have since helped considerably. Palisades Tahoe has received close to 6 feet of snow this month alone and could approach 7 feet by month's end. This system may be one of the last meaningful opportunities to boost the snowpack before summer. What To CarryCaltrans will require chains on most vehicles above 4,000 to 5,000 feet, and AWD with snow tires may still need chains under R-2 and R-3 controls. Carry tire chains and know how to put them on, plus a blanket, flashlight, portable phone charger, water, food and a full tank of fuel. If you get stranded, stay with your vehicle, run the engine in 15-minute intervals and crack a window for ventilation. Late-season Sierra storms catch many drivers off guard because winter gear has already been stowed for the season. For a full breakdown on handling snow and ice at speed, review Autoblog's guide to best practices for winter driving. If your vehicle is not ready for a sudden return to winter, our winter car readiness checklist covers tread depth, emergency kits and everything in between. Check Caltrans QuickMap for current highway conditions, chain controls and closures before attempting any Sierra crossing. View the full article

Ducati has launched the heart of its 2026 centenary celebrations at Borgo Panigale, unveiling the Superleggera V4 Centenario Tricolore and outlining a wider anniversary program centred on World Ducati Week. The post Ducati details centenary plans, unveils 100-unit Superleggera V4 special appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Moto News Weekly Wrap April 21, 2026 What’s New: USA reveal Junior World MX roster Metnitztal to host Austrian Hard Enduro Spezial Bou tops Tarragona X-Trial – Marcelli runner-up Aprilia Tuareg Racing top Tout Terrain Rally Cup in Spain The Dukes GNCC Report Australian ProMX Round Two – Canberra Race Wrap Australian ProMX Round Two […] The post Moto News Weekly | GNCC | MX | SX | Enduro | X-Trial appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

In the world of automotive manufacturing, automation has traditionally referred to massive robotic arms bolted to the floor, safely enclosed in steel cages, performing strictly defined duties. These machines are fast and precise, but also immovable and rigid. As automakers pivot toward these robo-friendly production methods, old-school rigidity is becoming a bottleneck. BMW is looking to lead the way in the context of robotic implementations of AI in manufacturing processes. After a successful pilot program at its Spartanburg, South Carolina plant, the German automaker is deploying a new generation of AI-powered humanoid robots—called AEON, designed in collaboration with Hexagon Robotics—directly into its production lines in Leipzig, Germany. BMW Machine Discipline with Human ReasoningUnlike the stationary robots of the past, the AEON units are designed to move, operate, and solve problems much like we do. Standing at roughly human height and utilizing advanced AI-based motion control, these robots don't just follow a pre-programmed path; they perceive their environment and work according to a set of constantly updated production models managed by the back-end of the design. This back-end, also known as project "Insight", was designed by doctoral candidates at the University of Zagreb in Croatia, aimed at optimizing battery production at the Leipzig plant, which is rapidly becoming the hub for BMW's EV production. The robots combined with the production models designed by the University of Zagreb produce robots that do not simply freeze when an expected parameter changes; they assess the current status of the production line, and move on to an appropriate job. BMW The push for humanoids is a calculated response to the homogeneity and planned obsolescence that often plague the EV market. American consumers are increasingly vocal about their desire for soul and variety. To stay competitive, manufacturers need to keep costs down while maintaining the ability to update designs rapidly - here’s where the robots come in. BMW claims that they have reduced production material wastage by a claimed 50 percent, as well as reduced production time per vehicle by a significant amount. Standard automation is expensive to move and slow to adapt. A humanoid robot, however, can theoretically perform any task a human can. For robots to move from the production of one model to another, they just need a software update, or essentially a new set of instructions. The iFactory InitiativeThis rollout is a cornerstone of BMW’s iFACTORY initiative, a global strategy focused on making production "lean, green, and digital." By successfully integrating these robots into a real production environment—one that has already contributed to the building of over 30,000 vehicles—BMW is proving that AI in manufacturing is moving out of the lab and onto the floor. As we see the industry undergo a profound correction, the winners will be the companies that can produce high-tech vehicles with the leanest, most adaptable infrastructure. BMW is betting that the future of the assembly line isn't larger facilities, it is smarter coworkers. View the full article

The Supercar That Started It AllThe Lamborghini Miura isn’t just another classic. It’s the car that set the template for what we now call a supercar. When the Raging Bull brand rolled it out in the 1960s, the mid-engine layout and those unmistakable proportions changed the game. Call it oversimplifying, but it made every other car at that time look ordinary. That legacy still matters, so a factory restoration isn’t just about making an old car look good. For this 1972 Miura SV, Polo Storico focused on getting every detail right rather than reimagining or updating it. After three years of work, it’s obvious they didn’t take shortcuts. Lamborghini Rebuilding a Legend, One Detail at a TimeThe restored Miura SV showed up for its first public outing at the Anantara Concorso Roma in the heart of Rome. But what really matters here are the details you don’t see at first glance. When the car landed in Sant’Agata Bolognese in 2023, it was far from original spec. That kicked off a deep dive into production records, and from there, the team either fixed, restored, or rebuilt every part that didn’t match the original build – nearly three years in the making. Lamborghini Polo Storico brought back the right front fender grilles, handle fins, and rear louvers, all to match the original specs. Even the octagonal center-lock hubs and the unique 'Bob-type' exhaust tips, named for test driver Bob Wallace, returned. Inside, factory features like air-conditioning prep and hazard lights are back, along with a smaller steering wheel and a longer handbrake lever. Getting the colors right took extra effort too: the car now wears Luci del Bosco brown paint with a Senape interior, both matched to the exact shades used in that year. The end result isn’t just about looks. Polo Storico basically turned back the clock to 1972, with the car now officially certified as historically correct. Lamborghini Why the Miura Still MattersThis restoration comes at the right moment. The Miura turns 60 this year, and its influence is still obvious. If anything, more brands are looking back to move forward. At the same event, another Miura – the one from the opening of The Italian Job – won its class. That just shows how deep the Miura runs in car culture. It’s more than a car; it’s part of the story. There are hints that Lamborghini isn’t finished with the Miura name. Rumor has it a special Revuelto could show up soon, bringing some Miura-inspired design into the hybrid age. If that happens, expect the same approach as in this restoration: stick to what made the original special, even as you move into new territory. As this Miura SV shows, real perfection takes time, but it’s worth it. Lamborghini View the 12 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Euro NCAP Pushes Back on “Safety Equals Higher Prices” NarrativeEuro NCAP is pushing back against a familiar industry refrain: that advanced driver-assistance systems are driving up vehicle prices. In an interview with Australia's Drive, secretary-general Michiel van Ratingen stopped short of directly accusing automakers, but made it clear the organization does not design its protocols to inflate costs. “Costs are a very important aspect of the whole discussion,” he said, emphasizing that Euro NCAP’s 2026 and 2029 roadmaps are deliberately shifting away from simply mandating more hardware. Instead, the focus is now on system integration, getting existing sensors and safety features to work cohesively. Van Ratingen noted that many modern vehicles already carry the necessary hardware; the real gains lie in optimizing software and coordination. That pivot, he argues, should reduce the need for costly additions while still improving safety outcomes, thereby undermining claims that stricter crash-test criteria inherently lead to price hikes. Euro NCAP/YouTube Debunking the Cost MythThe interview aligns with a broader industry analysis, which argues that blaming safety tech for rising car prices is overly simplistic. While features like AEB, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring do add cost, they are only one variable in a much larger equation. Vehicles today are larger, more complex, and packed with infotainment, electrification components, and connectivity systems, all of which contribute significantly to pricing. There’s also a financial dimension. As buyers increasingly accept longer loan terms, automakers and lenders gain more flexibility to push transaction prices higher without immediately shocking monthly payments. Combine that with global factors like supply chain volatility and currency fluctuations, and the narrative that safety tech alone is responsible for the situation starts to look more like convenient scapegoating than economic reality. Nissan Democratize Safety, Don’t Monetize ItVan Ratingen’s most compelling argument is rooted in scale economics: safety tech should get cheaper, not more expensive, as adoption widens. “Democratize it,” he said, stressing that widespread implementation across brands will naturally drive costs down. This is consistent with how most automotive technologies evolve, from premium-only features to standard equipment once production volumes rise and supplier costs fall. There’s also evidence that safety tech can offset costs elsewhere. A study cited by Mazdasuggests advanced safety systems can reduce insurance claims, which in turn lowers premiums for owners. That creates a downstream financial benefit that rarely enters the pricing debate. If anything, positioning safety as a cost burden ignores its potential to deliver long-term savings. The more credible stance is that automakers should absorb early development costs and scale the tech efficiently, because using safety as a justification for perpetual price increases doesn’t hold up under scrutiny. View the full article

Well, That Was QuickZacoe is back at it again, and this time it has its sights set on the all-new Lamborghini Temerario. The tuner has previewed a full carbon fiber body kit that looks like it could pass for a factory-born Lamborghini Huracan STO successor, except Lamborghini had absolutely nothing to do with it. Based on early renders, the kit leans heavily into track-inspired theatrics, adding a deep front splitter, aggressive intake shrouds, and a vented hood that dials up the visual drama. Along the sides, extended skirts sharpen the Temerario’s already angular profile, but it’s the rear where Zacoe really commits. A roof scoop channels air into the engine bay, while a towering fixed wing with swan-neck uprights works alongside a pronounced lip spoiler and a massive diffuser. Everything is crafted from lightweight carbon fiber, and crucially, the entire kit is bolt-on with no cutting required. It’s reversible, which is rare at this level of visual aggression. And if this feels familiar, it should: Zacoe previously made waves building a pseudo-Lamborghini Revuelto SVJ before Lamborghini even got there. Zacoe View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Lamborghini’s Momentum Makes The Temerario A Prime TargetThis kind of aftermarket attention feels like Lamborghini making a victory lap even before they cross the finish line. Lamborghini is coming off its strongest year ever, riding a wave of demand that has pushed production and brand visibility to new heights. Against that backdrop, the Temerario, one of the most anticipated Lamborghinis in recent memory, steps in as a key pillar of the brand’s electrified future. Even before customer cars have fully hit the streets, the tuning scene is already circling. Spy shots of upcoming variants, including a likely Spyder version, suggest Lamborghini itself is still expanding the lineup. Yet Zacoe has wasted no time offering an alternative vision, one that effectively turns the volume up to 11 straight out of the gate. It speaks to both Temerario’s design potential and buyers' appetite to stand out, even in a segment where standing out is the baseline. Zacoe View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Does The Temerario Even Need This?Here’s the thing: the Temerario is already shaping up to be a monster. A twin-turbo V8 hybrid setup with a rumored 10,000 rpm redline is about as far from “needs more drama” as it gets. Visually, Lamborghini has nailed the brief too; it’s sharp, futuristic, and unmistakably a Raging Bull. For purists, that raises a fair question: why mess with it? But that’s missing the point. Kits like this are all about expression. Zacoe’s take pushes the Temerario into full track-day cosplay territory, borrowing heavily from STO DNA and amplifying it for maximum presence. Will most owners ever exploit the claimed aerodynamic gains? Probably not. But will they appreciate the added theater every time they glance back at it in a parking lot? Absolutely. And in this segment, that’s often reason enough. Zacoe View the full article

Growing PainsTesla is a major car manufacturer nowadays, with a global reach and a more diverse lineup. In the not-so-distant past, Tesla was still trying its best to convert people to its budding electric vehicle-first mindset. It did eventually catch on, but not without issue. A lot has come out against Tesla over the years regarding the safety and longevity of the cars and batteries it makes. One lawsuit filed against Tesla has just been settled. This one targets the safety of the car, since two out of the three occupants of the vehicle were killed during the accident. Tesla No EscapeIn 2018, two teenagers were killed in a Tesla when it crashed in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The parents of 18-year-old Edgar Martinez, one of the two teenagers who perished, sued Tesla and the family of the driver, Barrett Riley. The lawsuit cites negligence as the main point of the case in the accident that tragically took both teens' lives weeks before their graduation. Martinez was a passenger in the 2014 Tesla Model S, while his friend Riley was driving, along with another passenger. It was revealed that Riley was driving 116 mph in a 30 mph zone, causing him to lose control of the car, which eventually slammed into a concrete wall. Upon impact, the car immediately burst into flames, killing Martinez and Riley. The third passenger was ejected from the vehicle and survived. The Martinez family argued that Tesla bore full responsibility for the accident, claiming the battery of the Model S was defective and ultimately contributed to the fire that killed their son. Furthermore, the lawsuit alleged that a speed-limiting device was removed by a Tesla technician during servicing without the Rileys' consent. A speed limiter was installed by Riley's parents after he was caught speeding. The limiter was said to cap the car at just 85 mph. ResolutionAccording to the judge, Tesla had reached an agreement with the suing parties last week, although details of the settlement weren't disclosed to the public. What isn't clear is the status of the case against the Riley's, with both families deciding not to make any comments. Jury selection had been underway for the Martinez case when they reached an agreement with Tesla. View the full article

The Nürburgring is open for industry testing pool evaluations, and Lexus has been spied taking advantage by giving its upcoming electric full-size three-row SUV a workout around the Nordschleife. It's called the Lexus TZ, and it's widely expected to be an upmarket version of the Toyota Highlander BEV, giving the award-winning Kia EV9 yet another rival to contend with. According to trademarks uncovered in 2023, it will be available in TZ450e and TZ550e forms, but before we discuss predicted output and range, let's take a closer look at the new spy shots to try unpack its styling. 2027 Lexus TZ Looks Smart Despite Camouflage SH Proshots/Autoblog With plenty of vinyl camouflage disrupting the lines, it's tough to get a clear understanding of the styling, but the rear three-quarter angle is particularly attractive, showing a slanted window behind the C-pillar, indicating that those in the third row will have a decent view out. From this angle, the slant of the window gives a bit of Escalade IQ flavor, and like that vehicle, the rear windshield is relatively small, thanks to a sudden sloping of the roof. This helps create a sporty feel, but it appears that there'll be plenty of headroom and cargo space. Muscular rear haunches draw the eye to a full-width taillight bar, but the side indicator lights are placed lower down and nearer the extremities of the rear fascia. Also apparent is a low tailgate opening that will make loading easy. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article Up front, it's even tougher to make out details, but we needn't guess because the Lexus BEV SUV concept (not a particularly inspiring name, but it gets the job done) previews what to expect. Revealed in 2021, the concept shows angular lines and a sheer front end framed by small headlights that are not connected by an LED strip of lighting. Flush door handles also carry over from the concept to this prototype, but the wheel arches are more rounded than on the concept. We can also see a panoramic glass roof, and given how resolved this development mule looks, it likely won't be long before the end result is revealed. Until then, the image below shows the aforementioned concept. Now, let's talk about power and range. Toyota 2027 Lexus TZ SUV Coming in Two FlavorsAccording to the rumor mill, the TZ450e is likely to produce in the region of 338 horsepower, and the TX550e is expected to make up to 420 hp. The former figure is the same as the AWD Highlander EV, which gets a 95.9kWh battery pack rated at up to 320 miles. We expect at least that, but more is also possible given how quickly EV technology advances. Either way, the figures should be competitive with others in this segment; the Hyundai Ioniq 9 manages up to 320 miles in AWD form, and the Kia EV9 achieves up to 305 miles. Expect more info on the Lexus TZ to be revealed in the coming months, with a reveal before the end of the year. SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

NHRA announced today that “Chasing Speed,” a six-part docuseries that recently aired on VICE TV, will debut in full on NHRA’s YouTube pageon Wednesday. All six episodes of the docuseries will be available immediately for fans, giving them an opportunity to watch all at once or at their convenience. It also marks the first time it will be available to NHRA fans internationally. The well-received show debuted on VICE TV on January 21, and a new episode aired each week heading into the kickoff of NHRA’s 75th anniversary season in Gainesville. Chasing Speed was the first offering of its kind in the NHRA world, giving a genuine, unfiltered look at the biggest stars in the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series. The six-part series pulled the curtain back on the raw speed, pressure and personalities in the NHRA, giving fans a glimpse of competing at the highest level in drag racing. From 340-plus-mph record runs to championship battles, the series followed teams and drivers for the full 2025 season. It featured all the drama behind the scenes, the stakes on the starting line and the culture that’s fueled 75 years of NHRA action. Each episode offered something thrilling, including Austin Prock’s rise and second straight world championship – and dramatic departure to Tasca Racing in the off-season – to Antron Brown’s run to repeat a Top Fuel title, the standout females who make NHRA the world’s most diverse motorsport, racing legend Tony Stewart’s second year in the class and the championship chases in every category. The full episode lineup includes these highlights, plus so much more: Episode 1: “The Road to Force” helps start the series with a bang, focusing on John Force’s incredible legacy in the sport, Brittany Force’s record run and career, and Prock’s rise as Funny Car champion at John Force Racing. Episode 2: “Full Bore” dives into Blake Alexander’s quest to compete, Tony Stewart and Leah Pruett’s drive for success in the NHRA and a look back at Wally Parks and the NHRA legends who shaped the sport. Episode 3: “The Price She Pays” showcases the immense female talent in the sport, starting with trailblazers like Shirley Muldowney and current stars Force, Pruett, Erica Enders, Ida Zetterstrom, Maddi Gordon and Jasmine Salinas. Episode 4: “The Summer of Chaos” looks at a wild regular season in 2025, as Matt Hagan and Prock duel in Funny Car, star drivers in Top Fuel and everyone looking to leave their mark heading to the Countdown to the Championship. Episode 5: “The Countdown” drives home the mounting pressure for drivers at Indy and in the Countdown. There’s plenty of chaos on and off the track with championship battles forming. Episode 6: “The Season Ends” features the finale of the championship battles, with Doug Kalitta, Prock, Dallas Glenn and Richard Gadson all claiming world titles, along with a shocking team shake-up in the offseason heading into 2026. To view the NHRA’s YouTube page, click here. For more information on NHRA, including the 2026 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com. The post “Chasing Speed” Docuseries Set to Debut on NHRA YouTube Page first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

BMW and Mercedes are stepping back from Level 3 autonomy. Both had bet heavily on eyes-off driving, but high costs, limited use cases, and weak demand killed the push. In walking away, they've handed a quiet vindication to Tesla, the company the industry spent years mocking for refusing to go down the same road. Tesla held firm at Level 2+ and built its system around cameras rather than expensive LiDAR sensors. That last point drew particular ridicule. Cameras struggle in fog, heavy rain, and low-visibility conditions, but LiDAR does not. The consensus was that Tesla was cutting corners. It's now looking more like Tesla read the market correctly, and everyone else got ahead of themselves. Mercedes-Benz Why Level 3 Costs a FortuneThe SAE's autonomous driving scale runs from Level 0 (fully manual) to Level 5 (fully driverless). Most cars on the road today sit at Level 1 or 2, meaning the system assists but the driver remains responsible. Level 2+ systems, like Tesla's Full-Self Driving, can steer, brake, and accelerate independently but still demand constant human attention. Level 3 is the tipping point, where the car takes over, and the driver can legally disengage. View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article According to a McKinsey study, software development, testing, and validation cost four to seven times more at Level 3 than at lower autonomy levels. For BMW's 7 Series, the Level 3 option was priced at roughly $7,000 on top of an already expensive vehicle, and understandably, few buyers chose it. A BMW spokesperson confirmed this, telling Automotive News that although the company brought the technology to production-ready status, no Level 3 function would feature in the revised 7 Series, because system costs and validation expenses remain very high. Why the Roads Aren't Ready, and When They Might BeThe harder truth is that the world's infrastructure simply wasn't built for autonomous vehicles. Mercedes’ Drive Pilot was initially capped at 60 kmph or 37 mph (later 95 mph or 60 mph), required a vehicle ahead of it to function, and only operated in clear weather on specific mapped motorways. Inconsistent lane markings, unpredictable road users, and fragmented regulations across countries make Level 3 autonomous driving difficult to guarantee. Nissan The original promise of self-driving was compelling. Road accidents kill over 1.3 million people globally each year, and human error accounts for the vast majority. Autonomous driving could, eventually, change that. But most experts now place meaningful mass-market Level 4 deployment somewhere between 2035 and 2040, and only in well-mapped, well-regulated urban environments. Not everyone is retreating in the meantime. General Motors is still pressing forward, testing an eyes-off, hands-free system in a fleet of 200 vehicles, with Level 3 targeted for its Cadillac Escalade IQ by 2028. On the whole, the destination remains worthwhile. It’s just that the road there looks increasingly like the one Tesla mapped out years ago. View the full article

Somewhat unexpectedly, the new 2027 Mercedes-Benz C-Class EV has been revealed with a fastback bodystyle rather than a traditional three-box sedan shape, and it seems that Stuttgart made this decision to make up for the fact that a station wagon version won't arrive. Mercedes has confirmed that this C-Class will be the first not to be offered in longroof form, and it's because of American and Chinese buying habits that other markets are missing out on a practical C-Class wagon for the new generation. Speaking with Autocar, Mercedes designer Robert Lesnik said that while journalists and other designers like station wagons, the business case simply no longer exists. C-Class Wagon Would Be Too Expensive with Too Few Buyers Mercedes-Benz Discussing why Merc skipped the wagon, Lesnik said, "In the end, nobody is buying them. We have three regions. Nobody is buying them in America; we tried the shooting brake CLS, and nobody bought it. The Chinese don't understand [wagons] and don't buy them. Then Europe is left, and if you look at a Mercedes E-Class [which is offered as a wagon], it's pretty expensive - so who can actually buy a car like that in Europe?" Basically, American and Chinese indifference towards wagons means that the economies of scale in developing such a vehicle simply do not make sense, particularly given how much competition legacy automakers are facing from the likes of Chinese brands. The designer did add a "never say no" to his disappointed explanation of the current state of affairs, probably because Mercedes is watching its closest rivals keenly. Compatriot BMW has teased a longroof version of the new i3, and should this prove successful, Mercedes may well adjust course to make the C-Class more useful, but until then, the GLC crossover will have to do. It's also worth mentioning that BMW wants to sell more wagons in America, but there's a key caveat: the status that comes with high performance. American Buyers Like Wagons, But Only When They're Fast Fabian Kirchbauer Photography View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Last month, BMW Senior VP of Brand and Product Management, Bernd Koerber, revealed that wagon buyers in America aren't all that interested in the added usability of a wagon. "The reasons for buying a Touring [BMW parlance for wagon] in the U.S. are totally different. It's purely the shape," he said, adding that, from his perspective, the BMW wagon buyer (who has the M5 Touring available) views the bodystyle as a lifestyle choice. Perhaps a fast wagon (such as the new RS 5 Avant) is seen as more performance-minded than a hot crossover, but a "regular" non-M/non-AMG/non-Audi Sport wagon still has a whiff of the 20th century about it. Offered a crossover or SUV for similar money, most everyday buyers find greater security in the taller bodystyle. Related: The 5 European Wagons That Redefined Practical Performance With Volvo also shutting the door on wagons for now and Subaru turning the Outback into an almost-SUV, wagon-loving buyers in America have fewer choices than ever, and with nothing to choose from, the likes of Mercedes can't show the bean counters that there's a demand worth satisfying. Unfortunately, it's a chicken-and-egg scenario that is unlikely to change anytime soon. View the full article

This weekend Fords, Chevrolets and Dodges competing in the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series will converge on zMax Dragway for the 16th annual 4-Wide Nationals. The factory stock class is a fan favorite category, and the unique nature of the four-wide nationals ensures that racing will be fast and furious. Last years winner Jonathan Allegrucci will be looking for his first win of the 2026 season driving his Ford Mustang Cobra Jet and the prospect of going back-to-back has the driver from Scott Township, Pa. motivated and excited. “I’m excited but nervous, you know how that goes,” said Allegrucci. “I really do enjoy the four wide format, and I thought it was cool last year. Not just because we won, but there was a little more going on from the starting line to the finish line. It’s just that little extra bit that we don’t normally get that’s pretty cool.” This year the NHRA is celebrating its 75th anniversary and as part of the yearlong celebration race winners will be awarded a special diamond Wally trophy. The opportunity to take home some special hardware is another motivating factor for Allegrucci. He knows there will be nearly 20 other drivers looking to get their hands on the trophy as well. “We always wanted a big Wally, and we got it last year at this race,” said Allegrucci. “The 75th anniversary Wally looks awesome. It’d be pretty sweet to get one of those. It will be tough because I think there’s so many good teams out there. It’s anyone’s race any given day. You need to do your job on all ends, as far as the crew, the driver, the car, but you need a little luck to go your way too. Sometimes it’s just luck of the draw, who you’re up against to get through that round. Our KSR team are the best we got going. They work hard and I wouldn’t want to be with anyone else. I’m sure all these other guys would say the same about their teams, because everybody’s working hard but I am super proud of these KSR guys.” While Allegrucci will be looking for his second win in Charlotte, current points leader and Gatornationals winner Ricky Hord will be chasing his second win of the season. The driver from Orlando, Fla., will be looking to race his COPO Camaro to another winner’s circle and hold off the competition that will be looking to grab the $1,000 Flexjet bounty if they can beat him on race day. “I feel good. The car ran good at the end of last season, and it ran good in Gainesville,” said Hord. “We just like to take it one run at a time, and do whatever we can. I always liked the four wide. The way it’s laid out is pretty cool and it’s something different for the racers. It really keeps you on your toes. I got my first win at the Las Vegas 4-wide. I think it makes me focus more, because I must pay attention more right before guys stage. There’s always at least one person that’s laying back and trying to figure out what everyone else is doing.”In addition to Hord and Allegrucci, two-time Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown world champion Mark Pawuk will be focused on getting some early season momentum with his Empaco Dodge Challenger Drag Pak. There are a pair of father-son tandems also competing this weekend as Ford Cobra Jet drivers Taylor and Jason Dietsch will be joined by Lee and rookie Matt Hartman racing their Dodge Challenger Drag Pak and Chevrolet COPO Camaro, respectively. “It excites me whenever there’s new people. It’s always good to have new people in the class because it keeps the class alive,” said Hord. “The Gatornationals Wally is at the shop. It’s definitely cool to look at. It’s a heck of a lot flashier than the previous trophies. It’s good to know the NHRA has been around for 75 years and has a good looking future.” Qualifying will get underway on Friday for the Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown Series at 3 p.m. and 6:05 p.m. On Saturday two more rounds of qualifying will set the all-run field. Four wide elimination rounds will be contested on Saturday evening and throughout the day on Sunday. For information on the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals visit www.nhra.com. This story was originally published on April 21, 2026. The post Wide Open Flexjet Factory Stock Field Takes on NHRA 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Spring Fling at GALOT is LIVE right now with big money bracket racing going on through the weekend! If you want to see great drag racing action from one of the nicest dragstrips in the country, then you need to watch the free livestream below. Darana Motorsports Park, aka Galot, is home to the Spring Fling and this event promises some really hot action this weekend. That’s right, it is Spring Fling time and that means some of the hottest bracket racers in the country are going to be battling it out for big money at Galot where the Spring Fling is going on this weekend. Racing action starts Tuesday, right here and we’ll have all the action for you all the way through Saturday. The post FREE LIVE DRAG RACING: Big Money Bracket Racing From The 2026 Spring Fling at Galot – Time Trial Tuesday appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Ferrari’s first fully electric model hasn’t even been revealed yet, but one detail is already raising eyebrows. According to Bloomberg, the upcoming Luce is expected to carry a preliminary price of around $647,000 (€500,000). It sounds expensive, because it is, and immediately places the Luce above every obvious rival, including Ferrari’s own Purosangue SUV. Priced Above Ferrari’s Own Benchmark Limited Spec Automotive At nearly $650,000, the Luce would sit far above the Purosangue, which starts at roughly $430,000. Many justify the Purosangue’s price because it still delivers a familiar formula with its naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V12, shared by the 12Cilindri. The Luce may share similar proportions, but it takes a completely different approach under the skin. Instead, Ferrari is asking buyers to pay a significant premium to ditch the V12 soundtrack for an electric hum. Furthermore, the Luce tops all other high-performance SUVs on the market. The Lamborghini Urus SE starts at around $250,000, and the Aston Martin DBX S at $400,000, yet the Luce tops them by hundreds of thousands of dollars. Rather than competing directly, Ferrari seems to be positioning the Luce as something more exclusive and experimental. Far Beyond Electric Rivals Lotus The gap becomes even more obvious when you look at electric performance cars. While ludicrously quick electric sedans like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT and Lucid Air Sapphire both cost around $250,000, you can buy each of them and still spare some change. Even mighty electric performance SUVs like the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric and the Lotus Eletre R PHEV cost $165,000 and $230,000, respectively. Compared to the Luce's reported $647,000 price, its contenders seem like absolute bargains. This further reinforces the theory that Ferrari intends for the Luce to be a halo car and isn’t trying to win on value or volume. One Of The Most Expensive SUVs Ever Ferrari/YouTube If the $647,000 starting price tag holds, the Luce will become the most expensive SUV in the world. In second place sits the Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge, which carries an approximate starting price of $510,000. Ultimately, Ferrari is pricing the Luce on its own terms. The Luce is shaping up to sit in a league and segment of its own with a retro interior penned by iPhone designer Jony Ive and more than 1,000 hp on tap. Bloomberg also reports that the price may increase or decrease by 10%. Even if it were to go down to $582,000, it still edges into hypercar pricing territory. View the full article

I love new drag and drive builds, and because I’m going to Sweden this year for Street Week I am really excited that this new drag and drive build is being built at Auto Cut in Stockholm by Martin Lundqvist Racing Fabrication. This is going to be something special. Because they are in Sweden, they aren’t talking much in these videos and what they are say you probably won’t understand. We would crank up the Closed Captioning for the subtitles, but that wasn’t an option. We’re sharing the first two videos right here and we’ll have more coming regularly. We know this was a drag car in it’s former life, and it’s going to be ultra cool when it’s done. While they aren’t scrapping the entire car to start new, they are replacing a whole hell of a lot of this car. We can’t wait to see it coming together, because they are doing some really cool stuff with the Auto Cut cnc machines and water jets. This is some special stuff. Check it out. The post Martin Lundqvist Racing Fabrication Is Building A Bad Ass 1969 Camaro Drag and Drive Car In Sweden! Watch This! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article